by Interstride
Popular remote work visas available in Europe, including length of stay, visa application fees, and income requirements.
Remote work is popular around the world because of the freedom and flexibility that it provides. As the popularity of remote work increases, so has the number of countries offering digital nomad visas. Digital nomad visas allow people to live in another country while continuing to do their current jobs remotely.
Living abroad offers you the opportunity to gain international experience, expand your network, and create lasting memories. If you want to move to Europe and travel the Schengen Area, a digital nomad visa might be perfect for you.
In this blog, we share popular destinations that offer digital nomad visas in Europe. The specific requirements for and length of each visa will vary by country.
10 European countries offering digital nomad visas
European countries are a popular choice for digital nomads due to reliable Wi-Fi coverage, metropolitan cities, excellent public transportation systems, and a high standard of living.
Living in Europe can be an exciting adventure that offers the promise of new experiences and opportunities. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, explore stunning landscapes and cities, and create unforgettable memories.
These are the top destinations in Europe that digital nomads are eager to move to, along with key details about visa duration, fees, and income requirements. Please note that this information is current as of September 2024 but may change.
Albania
Visa length: One year, possible to renew up to five years
Application fee: Varies by country
Minimum income requirement: €9,800/year
Other requirements: Qualifying health insurance, criminal background check, and proof of accommodation
In early 2022, Albania introduced the “Unique Permit,” a residence permit for digital nomads. This visa lets you live and work in Albania for up to a year, with the option to renew it up to five times in a row.
To qualify, you need to show proof of employment with a company outside of Albania that allows remote work. You will also need to have a housing contract, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of funds to support yourself.
Croatia
Visa length: 1 year
Application fee: €60
Minimum income requirements: €2,500/month
Other requirements: Qualifying health insurance, criminal background check, proof of accommodation, proof of remote work
Croatia is a great option for digital nomads who want to live in Europe. The country has a lower cost of living compared to the rest of Europe and is rich in culture, history, and nature.
You can easily apply for a visa online. The best part about being a digital nomad in Croatia is that you won’t have to pay Croatian income tax! To renew your visa after one year, you must leave the country for a specified period before reapplying.
Czech Republic
Visa length: 1 year
Application fee: €200
Minimum income requirements: €5,000 in your bank account
Other requirements: Be a citizen of an eligible country and hold a university degree in a STEM field or have at least 3 years of work experience in the IT industry
The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, lies between Austria, Germany, and Poland. It’s becoming a popular country for digital nomads, particularly in the nation’s vibrant capital of Prague. Only citizens of Australia, Japan, Canada, Korea, New Zealand, Taiwan, the US, and the UK can apply for the country’s digital nomad program.
Estonia
Visa length: one year, possible to apply for an additional six-month visa after your initial one year expires
Application fee: €100
Minimum income requirements: €4,500/month
Other requirements: Maintain the minimum income for at least 6 months before applying, pay local taxes after 6 months, and have health insurance
Estonia was the first country to introduce a digital nomad visa. Living and working in Estonia offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with its thriving tech scene and charming medieval architecture. It is a great destination for remote workers due to a high standard of living, low cost of living, and low crime rates.
Applicants must earn a minimum of €3,500 per month in the six months prior to applying. If you stay in Estonia for more than six months, you will become a tax resident and be subject to local income taxes.
Greece
Visa length: One year, with possibility to extend
Application fee: €75
Minimum income requirements: €3,500/month
Other requirements: Qualifying health insurance, criminal background check, proof of accommodation, proof of remote work
Imagine spending your workdays in charming cafes with views of ancient ruins, crystal-clear seas, and beautiful sunsets. Greece’s digital nomad visa is like a golden ticket to work from paradise!
Launched in 2021, it lets remote workers live and work in Greece for up to a year, with the option to renew. Digital nomads cannot work or freelance for Greek companies under the scheme.
Hungary
Visa length: One year, with possibility to extend
Application fee: €110
Minimum income requirements: €3,000/month
Other requirements: Qualifying health insurance, criminal background check, proof of accommodation, proof of remote work
Living in Hungary on a digital nomad visa means stunning architecture, delicious goulash, and a lively arts scene. Hungary offers a unique blend of work and play for digital nomads.
Under the visa, you cannot work or freelance for a Hungarian-based company. You must also stay in Hungary for at least 90 days within any 180-day period to maintain your residency status.
Italy
Visa length: One year, with possibility to renew
Application fee: €116
Minimum income requirements: €28,000/year
Other requirements: Qualifying health insurance, criminal background check, proof of accommodation, proof of remote work
Dreaming of living in Italy full-time? As of April 4, 2024, you can now make it a reality.
Italy is a treasure trove of cultural delights and vibrant lifestyle. Explore ancient ruins in Rome, admire Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, and wander through picturesque medieval villages. Move to Italy with the new digital nomad visa.
Portugal
Visa length: One year, with possibility to renew
Application fee: $132.25
Minimum income requirements: €3,280/month
Other requirements: Maintaining savings of at least $39,546; qualifying health insurance; criminal background check
Portugal offers a captivating mix of stunning coastal scenery, charming historic cities, and a warm, relaxed lifestyle. Its rich culture, low cost of living, and friendly locals make it a delightful place to live and explore.
In 2022, Portugal established a new visa for international remote workers. The visa lasts up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. To renew your visa, you’ll need to prove that you can continue to maintain the required income level. After five years, you can apply for permanent residency if you wish to remain in Portugal.
Spain
Visa length: One year, with possibility to renew up to five years
Application fee: Varies by country, usually around €80
Minimum income requirements: €2,334/month
Other requirements: Qualifying degree and/or work experience, criminal background check, Spanish public health insurance
Spain sits between Portugal and the South of France. The country has a low cost of living and temperate weather. Imagine exploring stunning natural landscapes by day and diving into vibrant city life by night—Spain has it all!
Spain’s digital nomad launched in late 2022 with the goal of attracting more qualified tech workers to the country. The visa is available to individuals who work remotely for companies outside Spain, including self-employed freelancers. Self-employed digital nomads can also earn up to 20% of their income from Spanish clients. Applicants must be able to prove that they are qualified in their field.Close relatives including children and spouses can even accompany the visa holder, with proof of sufficient funds.
Ready to move to Europe?
Digital nomad visas, popularized during the COVID-19 pandemic, remain in high demand, with many countries now offering them. Freelancers and self-employed remote workers can explore additional visa options in countries like Norway, Iceland, Malta, and Germany. For the latest details on visa options, check the official embassy websites of these countries.
