It’s 2025, and the world is officially your office.
With more people choosing to work remotely for good, countries are racing to attract digital nomads by offering long-term visas tailored just for them. These aren’t your average tourist visas—they’re real-deal permits that let you live, work, and thrive abroad (sometimes even tax-free).
If you’re dreaming of typing away on a terrace in Lisbon or sipping coffee between Zoom calls in Bali, this guide will walk you through the top countries with digital nomad visas in 2025—and how to get one, step by step.
Table of Contents
What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa is a residence permit that allows you to work remotely while living in a foreign country legally. These visas are often:
- Valid for 6 months to 5 years
- Tailored to remote workers, freelancers, or entrepreneurs
- Separate from tourist or work visas
- Require proof of income, remote employment, and health insurance
Now let’s dive into the best spots in 2025 rolling out the digital welcome mat.
Portugal – The OG Nomad Hub
Portugal’s D7 visa has long been a favorite among freelancers and remote workers, and in 2025, it’s even more streamlined.
- Visa Type: D7 Passive Income Visa / Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
- Income Requirement: Around €3,280/month
- Stay Duration: 1 year (renewable up to 5 years)
- Perks: Access to EU, great internet, expat-friendly, tax benefits via NHR regime
Apply via VFS Global
Spain – ¡Hola, Work-Life Balance!
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa launched recently, and it’s already drawing freelancers to sunny coasts and historic cities.
- Visa Type: Spain Digital Nomad Visa
- Income Requirement: €2,600+/month
- Stay Duration: 1 year (renewable up to 5 years)
- Perks: Access to Schengen, 15-24% tax rate (vs 45% normal), coastal lifestyle
Apply via Spain’s Consular Services
Estonia – Europe’s Remote-First Powerhouse
Estonia was first to launch a digital nomad visa back in 2020, and they’ve refined it since.
- Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa
- Income Requirement: €4,500/month gross
- Stay Duration: 1 year
- Perks: Digitally native government, no tax on foreign income unless you stay 183+ days
Application guide via e-Residency Estonia
Costa Rica – “Pura Vida” for Remote Workers
Tropical beaches + relaxed lifestyle = a remote worker’s dream.
- Visa Type: Rentista / Digital Nomad Visa
- Income Requirement: $3,000/month or $4,000 for families
- Stay Duration: 1 year (renewable)
- Perks: Tax-free income, U.S. friendly, nature galore
Start at Costa Rica Immigration
Croatia – Adriatic Charm + EU Access
Croatia now has one of the simplest nomad visa applications in the EU.
- Visa Type: Digital Nomad Residence Permit
- Income Requirement: €2,300/month
- Stay Duration: 1 year (non-renewable, but you can reapply)
- Perks: No local tax, dreamy seaside towns, low cost of living
Apply via Croatia’s Ministry of Interior
Indonesia (Bali) – Spiritual Meets Digital
Bali now offers a Second Home Visa with a twist—digital nomads who work remotely can stay up to 5 years, and yes, the beach is included.
- Visa Type: Second Home Visa
- Income Requirement: ~$2,000/month or proof of savings
- Stay Duration: 5 years
- Perks: No Indonesian income tax for foreign-sourced earnings
More at Indonesia Immigration
Mexico – Diverse, Affordable, Accessible
Mexico offers a Temporary Resident Visa that remote workers love for its simplicity and affordability.
- Visa Type: Temporary Resident Visa
- Income Requirement: ~$2,600/month or $43,000 savings
- Stay Duration: 1 year (up to 4)
- Perks: Low cost of living, large digital nomad communities, 6-month tourist visa fallback
Apply via Mexican Consulates
United Arab Emirates (Dubai) – High-Tech, High-Style
Dubai’s “Work Remotely from Dubai” program is for those who want city buzz with beach views.
- Visa Type: Virtual Working Program
- Income Requirement: $5,000/month
- Stay Duration: 1 year
- Perks: Tax-free income, coworking spaces, ultra-modern infrastructure
Apply at Dubai Remote
Thailand – Visa for Wealthy Global Citizens (And Nomads)
Thailand’s Long-Term Residency Visa has a new freelancer-friendly tier in 2025.
- Visa Type: Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
- Income Requirement: $80,000/year
- Stay Duration: 10 years
- Perks: 17% flat tax, easy travel, tropical paradise
More at BOI Thailand
Mauritius – African Island With No Income Tax
Mauritius is calling—and it’s not just the white sands.
- Visa Type: Premium Visa
- Income Requirement: Proof of funds to support stay
- Stay Duration: 1 year (renewable)
- Perks: No tax on foreign income, English-speaking, peaceful lifestyle
Apply via Mauritius Now
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa (Step-by-Step)
- Choose your country – Based on your income, goals, and lifestyle preferences
- Gather documents – Typically includes:
- Proof of remote income
- Employment contract or freelance clients
- Health insurance
- Background check
- Valid passport
- Submit application – Usually via consulate or online
- Wait for approval – Ranges from 2 weeks to 3 months
- Plan your move – Book your flight, find housing, and get ready to explore
Pro tip: Use platforms like Nomad List, VisaGuide.World, and Boundless to compare and track requirements.
What About Taxes While Living Abroad?
Most digital nomad visas let you avoid paying local income tax if your income is from abroad. However, if you stay in a country for more than 183 days, you may become a tax resident, and that’s where things get interesting.
Speak to a global tax advisor or check platforms like TaxScouts and KPMG’s Global Tax Guide to avoid surprises.
Conclusion: The World Wants You to Work Remotely
2025 is the golden era for digital nomads. With countries competing to offer the best lifestyle perks, tax breaks, and visa paths, remote workers have more choices than ever before.
Whether you’re after island living, European elegance, or city hustle, there’s a long-term visa waiting with your name on it. Just pick your paradise, gather your docs, and take the leap.
Your dream life isn’t miles away—it’s a few clicks and a passport stamp from reality.
