Demystifying Digital Nomad Visas: Why You Need One in 2024
Researching and applying for digital nomad visas is something that brings me joy…
NOT!!
If you're a nomad, or a ‘slomad’, like me, you'll understand the pain of having to sift through hundreds of sites, communities and chats to get a grasp of how you will be able to legally live in a certain country for an extended period.
In recent years, the digital nomad lifestyle has surged in popularity, driven by the growing desire for flexibility, adventure, and a better work-life balance. As remote work becomes increasingly common, more and more countries are recognising the need to accommodate this new breed of worker.
As of today, there are 44 proper Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) worldwide, and in the last six months alone, new DNVs have been released or announced in Italy, Thailand, Indonesia, South Africa, Japan, and Turkey. This trend highlights the increasing accessibility of these visas, yet misconceptions persist about their necessity and benefits.
Misconception #1: I don't need a digital nomad visa if I'm not planning to stay in the country for a year or longer
Reality: Most tourist visas or visa-free entries last up to 60 or 90 days. If you plan to stay in a country longer, a digital nomad visa not only extends your stay but also legalizes it, moving you out of the legal grey area that many remote workers find themselves in.
Visa runs—leaving a country briefly to reset your tourist status— are a common go-to for a lot of digital nomads. But be aware that countries can change their policies without notice and you might suddenly face hurdles such as being questioned by immigration or even denied re-entry. Not to mention the additional hassle of having to leave the country every other month and the added travel expenses.
For those eyeing the Schengen Area, visa runs are essentially impossible. The Schengen rules allow for only a 90-day stay within any 180-day period. A digital nomad visa offers a solution to this. For instance, with a DNV for Spain, you can live there as long as your visa is valid (and extendable) and travel around the rest of the Schengen Area as a tourist.
An example itinerary could be:
3 months in Spain
3 months visiting other Schengen countries
3 months back in Spain
3 months visiting different Schengen countries.
To maintain your DNV, you must spend at least 6 months per year in the issuing country. Extending your visa requires proof of residence, such as rental agreements, utility bills, or even a local gym subscription, demonstrating that the country is your primary residence.
Misconception #2: DNVs have high income requirements
Reality: Out of the 44 digital nomad visas available worldwide, 35 do have an income requirement, however the average annual income requirement is $39,405.
This figure is taking into account both the highest requirement ($93,000 for Iceland) and the lowest ($15,300 for Ecuador). On top of that, the income requirement is usually in line with the cost of living in the country, so if your remote income is on the lower end, you can always choose to travel to a destination with a lower cost of living.
Misconception #3: DNVs require a lot of paperwork and take months to obtain
Reality: While applying for a visa is not always straightforward, it is not as daunting as it seems. The biggest challenge often lies in finding reliable information, communicating with authorities, and preparing the correct paperwork.
The application process isn’t always incredibly long, either! Depending on the country, it can take from a few weeks to a few months, with an average processing time of around one month. The key is to determine your eligibility, understand the specific document requirements, and apply well in advance to avoid stress!
Other Benefits of Digital Nomad Visas
Digital nomad visas offer more than just the ability to stay in a country longer; they come with additional perks that can enhance your experience and lifestyle abroad.
For instance, certain countries (such as Croatia) provide tax breaks and advantages to digital nomads, making it financially beneficial to reside there. Additionally, having a long-term visa can unlock access to services typically reserved for residents, such as specific rental agreements, national health insurance plans, and more.
Moreover, for digital nomads who might fall in love with a country and wish to stay long-term, digital nomad visas can be a pathway to permanent residency. In countries like Spain and Portugal, after residing for five years as a digital nomad, you become eligible for permanent residency. Beyond that, these countries even offer the possibility of citizenship after a number of years spent living there legally as a digital nomad. This can open up a whole new range of opportunities and allow you to fully integrate into your chosen community.
In Conclusion
Digital nomad visas are becoming more prevalent and accessible, offering DNs and remote workers a legal and convenient way to live and work abroad. They allow for extended stays, ensure compliance with local laws, and provide a sense of stability that visa runs simply cannot offer.
If navigating the visa application process seems overwhelming, services like Wandra can assist with visa support, helping you streamline the process and focus on what truly matters—your work and your adventure.
Embrace the digital nomad lifestyle with confidence, knowing that the right visa can open up a world of possibilities.
But before you can become a digital nomad… You'll need a remote job, right? 😉
HELP ME GET REMOTE WORK!
Stay rebellious,
Michelle
*This week’s article is credited to Wandra—a platform that simplifies international travel with clear visa guidance, essential travel products, and destination insights. Need help with your visa? Explore Wandra today!
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