European Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas: A Comprehensive Guide

As remote work continues to reshape the global workforce, many European countries have recognized the potential of attracting digital nomads. These location-independent professionals bring skills, innovation, and economic benefits to their host countries. In response, several European nations have introduced specific visa programs catering to digital nomads. This guide provides an in-depth look at nine European countries offering digital nomad visas, detailing their requirements, eligibility criteria, and application processes.

1. Estonia: Pioneering the Digital Nomad Visa

Estonia, renowned for its e-Residency program and digital-first approach to governance, was among the first countries to introduce a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa.

Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa

Duration: Up to 1 year

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be remote workers for a foreign company or own a location-independent business

• Must be able to perform job duties remotely using telecommunications technology

• Non-EU/EEA citizens

Requirements:

• Minimum income of €3,504 per month (gross) for the 6 months preceding application

• Valid health insurance that covers the duration

• Clean criminal record

• Application fee of €100

Application Process:

1. Gather required documents, including proof of income, employment contract or business ownership, and health insurance

2. Complete the online application form on the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board website

3. Pay the application fee

4. Schedule an appointment at an Estonian embassy or consulate to submit biometric data

5. Wait for the decision (processing time is typically up to 30 days)

Additional Information:

Estonia’s digital nomad visa allows holders to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. The country’s advanced digital infrastructure, including widespread Wi-Fi and e-services, makes it an attractive destination for remote workers. Estonia also offers a vibrant startup ecosystem and a low cost of living compared to many Western European countries.

2. Croatia: Mediterranean Living for Digital Nomads

Croatia introduced its digital nomad visa in 2021, attracting remote workers with its beautiful coastline, historic cities, and relatively low cost of living.

Visa Type: Digital Nomad Temporary Stay

Duration: Up to 1 year, renewable for an additional year after a 6-month break

Eligibility:

• Non-EU/EEA citizens working remotely for foreign companies or their own company registered outside Croatia

• Must not perform work or provide services to Croatian legal entities

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income of €2,300 (or annual equivalent)

• Proof of remote work arrangement (employment contract or proof of own company)

• A Valid health insurance coverage for the entire stay in Croatia

• Clean criminal record

• Rental agreement or property ownership proof in Croatia

• Completed application form

Application Process:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Submit the application to the Croatian Ministry of Interior or at a Croatian diplomatic mission/consular post abroad

3. Pay the administrative fee (approximately €60)

4. Provide biometric data (photograph and fingerprints)

5. Wait for the decision (processing time varies but is typically within 30 days)

Additional Information:

Croatia offers digital nomads a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle and growing tech hubs. Cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik have co-working spaces and strong expat communities. The country’s tax laws are favorable for digital nomads, as they are not required to pay income tax in Croatia on their foreign earnings during their stay.

3. Portugal: The D7 Visa for Remote Workers

While Portugal doesn’t have a specific “digital nomad visa,” its D7 Visa (also known as the Passive Income Visa) has become popular among remote workers and digital nomads.

Visa Type: D7 Visa

Duration: Initial 4 months, extendable to 2 years, renewable for 3 years

Eligibility:

• Non-EU/EEA citizens with stable, regular income from sources outside Portugal

• Suitable for retirees, self-employed individuals, and remote workers

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income of €2,800 (4x the Portuguese minimum wage)

• Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental agreement or property deed)

• Valid health insurance coverage in Portugal

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of income source (employment contract, bank statements, etc.)

• NIF (Portuguese tax number)

• Portuguese bank account

Application Process:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Schedule an appointment at the nearest Portuguese consulate

3. Submit online application and pay the fee (approximately €90)

4. Once approved, enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit within 4 months

5. Register with the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) upon arrival

Additional Information:

Portugal has become increasingly popular among digital nomads due to its high quality of life, relatively low cost of living, and beautiful landscapes. Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer thriving tech scenes and co-working spaces. This visa type have pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship, making it an attractive option for those considering long-term relocation.

4. Greece: Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Greece introduced its Digital Nomad Visa in 2021, aiming to attract remote workers to its picturesque islands and historic mainland.

Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa

Duration: 12 months, extendable for an additional year

Eligibility:

• Non-EU citizens working remotely for employers or clients outside Greece

• Must not engage in any work activity for companies based in Greece

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income of €3,500

• Valid health insurance covering stays in Greece

• Proof of remote work arrangement (employment contract or client agreements)

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover stay (usually a bank statement)

• Completed application form

Application Process:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Submit the application to the Greek consulate in your country of residence

3. Pay the application fee (approximately €75)

4. Attend an interview at the consulate, if required

5. Once approved, enter Greece and register with local authorities within 30 days

Additional Information:

Greece offers digital nomads a unique opportunity to work from iconic locations, from the Aegean islands to historic Athens. The country has been investing in its digital infrastructure, with many islands now offering high-speed internet. Greece also provides a tax incentive: digital nomads can benefit from a 50% tax break on their income for the first seven years of residence.

5. Spain: The Startup Act and Digital Nomad Opportunities

Spain recently passed its Startup Act, which includes provisions for a digital nomad visa. While the specifics are still being finalized, the visa is expected to launch in 2023.

Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa (part of the Startup Act)

Duration: Up to 3 years, renewable for 2 years

Eligibility:

• Non-EU citizens working remotely for non-Spanish companies or clients

• Highly skilled professionals in specific sectors (to be defined)

Requirements:

• Proof of remote work arrangement

• Minimum income requirements not yet specified (law still being implemented)

• Valid health insurance coverage in Spain

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of qualifications or work experience

• Additional requirements may be announced as the law is implemented

Application Process:

The exact process is yet to be announced, but it’s expected to involve:

1. Gathering required documents

2. Submitting an application through Spanish consulates or online platforms

3. Paying an application fee

4. Potentially attending an interview

5. Registering with local authorities upon arrival in Spain

Additional Information:

Spain’s digital nomadic visa is part of a bigger  initiative to attract international talent and boost the country’s tech ecosystem. Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia already have thriving startup scenes and co-working spaces. The visa is expected to come with tax benefits, potentially including a reduced tax rate on income for the first four years.

6. Czech Republic: The Zivno Visa for Freelancers and Digital Nomads

While the Czech Republic doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa, its long-term visa for freelancers (Zivno visa) is often used by remote workers and digital nomads.

Visa Type: Zivno (trade license) visa

Duration: 1 year, renewable

Eligibility:

• Non-EU citizens intending to work as freelancers or self-employed individuals

• Must have qualifications or experience in the field of work

Requirements:

• Proof of accommodation in the Czech Republic

• Minimum annual income of approximately €5,600

• Valid health insurance coverage

• Clean criminal record

• Business plan or proof of freelance work

• Trade license (Zivnostensky list)

Application Process:

1. Obtain a trade license from a Czech trade license office

2. Gather all required documents

3. Submit the visa application at a Czech embassy or consulate in your home country

4. Pay the application fee (approximately €100)

5. Attend an interview, if required

6. Once approved, collect the visa and enter the Czech Republic

7. Register with the Foreign Police within 3 days of arrival

Additional Information:

The Czech Republic, particularly Prague, has become a very popular destination for digital nomads due to its central location in Europe, relatively low cost of living, and vibrant expat community. The country offers a high quality of life with an excellent public transportation, and a rich cultural scene. While the Zivno visa process can be complex, many find it worthwhile for the opportunity to live and work in this beautiful country.

7. Germany: The Freiberufler Visa for Self-Employed Professionals

Germany’s Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa is an excellent visa option for remote workers and digital nomads wish to relocate to  one of Europe’s economic powerhouses.

Visa Type: Freiberufler (Freelance) Visa

Duration: Up to 3 years, renewable

Eligibility:

• Non-EU citizens working as freelancers or self-employed professionals

• Must have qualifications and experience in specific professions (e.g., science, engineering, teaching, artistic occupations, etc.)

Requirements:

• Proof of financial stability (no set minimum, but typically €3,000-€5,000 per month)

• Valid health insurance coverage in Germany

• Proof of qualifications and experience in your field

• Business plan or client contracts demonstrating potential for success

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of accommodation in Germany

Application Process:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Book appointment at the German embassy or consulate in your home country

3. Submit the visa  application and pay the fee (approximately €75)

4. Attend an interview to discuss your business plans

5. Once approved, enter Germany and register your address at the local registration office (Bürgeramt)

6. Apply for your residence permit at the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde)

Additional Information:

Germany offers digital nomads access to a very  robust economy with excellent infrastructure, and a high standard of living. Cities like Berlin have become hubs for startups and creative industries, offering numerous networking opportunities. While the cost of living can be high in major cities, smaller towns offer more affordable options. The German healthcare system is one of the best in the world, providing peace of mind for long-term stays.

8. Iceland: Remote Work in the Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland’s long-term visa for remote workers, introduced in 2020, allows digital nomads to experience the country’s stunning landscapes and unique culture.

Visa Type: Long-term Visa for Remote Workers

Duration: 6 months

Eligibility:

• Non-EU/EEA citizens employed by foreign companies or self-employed

• Must not have the right to work in Iceland through other means

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income of 1,000,000 ISK (approx. €6,500)

• Employment contract or proof of self-employment

• Valid health insurance that covers the duration

• Clean criminal record

• Proof of accommodation in Iceland

Application Process:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Submit the application to the Directorate of Immigration in Iceland

3. Pay the application fee (approximately €80)

4. Wait for the decision (processing time is typically 2-4 weeks)

5. Once approved, enter Iceland and register with local authorities

Additional Information:

Iceland offers digital nomads a unique work environment with its breathtaking natural beauty, geothermal pools, and long summer days. The country has excellent internet infrastructure, even in remote areas. While the cost of living is high, the quality of life and work-life balance are exceptional. Reykjavik, the capital, has a growing startup scene and several co-working spaces.

9. Malta: Mediterranean Island Living for Digital Nomads

Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit, launched in 2021, allows digital nomads to live and work on the picturesque Mediterranean island.

Visa Type: Nomad Residence Permit

Duration: 1 year, renewable

Eligibility:

• Non-EU citizens working remotely for employers or their own company registered outside Malta

• Must not offer goods or services to Maltese residents or companies

Requirements:

• Minimum monthly income of €2,700

• Valid health insurance coverage in Malta

• Proof of accommodation in Malta (property purchase, rental agreement, or hotel booking for the entire stay)

• Employment contract or proof of self-employment

• Clean criminal record

• Valid passport

Application Process:

1. Gather all required documents

2. Submit the application online through the Residency Malta Agency

3. Pay the application fee (€300)

4. Once approved, enter Malta and complete the physical verification process

5. Obtain the residence card

Additional Information:

Malta offers digital nomads a Mediterranean lifestyle with English as an official language, making it easy for international remote workers to integrate. The country boasts a warm climate, rich history, and strategic location for exploring Europe. Malta has a robust digital infrastructure and a growing tech industry. The tax situation is favorable for digital nomads, as they are not taxed on foreign-source income that is not remitted to Malta.

Conclusion

The increase of digital nomad visas in Europe presents exciting opportunities for remote workers seeking new experiences and environments. Each country offers unique benefits, from Estonia’s digital-first approach to Croatia’s coastal living, Portugal’s quality of life, Greece’s historic backdrop, Spain’s vibrant cities, the Czech Republic’s central location, Germany’s economic strength, Iceland’s natural wonders, and Malta’s island charm.

When choosing a destination, consider factors such as cost of living, climate, digital infrastructure, cultural fit, and long-term residency options. It’s crucial to thoroughly research the most current requirements and processes, as visa policies can change. Additionally, consider tax implications and ensure compliance with both your home country and host country regulations.

The digital nomad lifestyle offers unprecedented freedom and flexibility, but it also comes with challenges. Being prepared, staying informed, and embracing the local culture can help ensure a rewarding experience as a digital nomad in Europe.