While not all countries have dedicated visas for digital nomads, a growing number of destinations have recognized the rise of remote working and have created specific programmes to attract remote working professionals.

In recent years, the number of destinations offering visas for digital nomads has increased significantly, with almost half of them now offering visa options for periods of at least one year.

It is essential to remember that each country imposes different requirements and conditions for these visas. Therefore, if you want to leave Bucharest and work remotely in other corners of the world, it's crucial to research each country's requirements in detail and make sure you meet all the criteria before applying!

1. Estonia

Estonia was among the first countries to introduce a dedicated digital nomad visa in 2019. Also known as the D visa, this allows individuals to stay in Estonia for one year while working remotely for their own company or employer based outside Estonia.

A significant benefit of this visa is granting access to the Schengen Area, allowing holders to travel to 26 European countries without additional visas.

Estonian D-Visa cost: The application fee for the Estonian D-Visa is EUR 100, but additional fees may apply for document processing and translation services.

2. Germany

Germany launched its digital nomad visa program in August 2021, making it one of the latest countries to join the trend. The German freelance visa allows self-employed individuals with specialized skills (such as IT experts) or those working in emerging fields (such as AI) to live and work in Germany for up to three years.

Cost of Germany's digital nomad visa: The cost of Germany's digital nomad visa (Freiberufler visa) varies depending on your circumstances and the length of your stay. In general, expect to pay between €75 and €110 for the visa application fee. Additional costs may include health insurance, accommodation and other living expenses.

3. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic offers digital nomads two types of long-term visas: a self-employed visa and an employee card. The self-employed visa is suitable for self-employed persons. At the same time, the employee card is for those working remotely for a company based outside the Czech Republic. Both visas allow stays of up to two years with possible extensions.

The cost of the Czech Republic self-employed visa (Zivnostensky visa): the application fee is about 2,500 CZK (differs depending on the embassy or consulate) - 1000 Euro, and the fee for the residence permit is 1,000 CZK - 40 Euro.

4. Portugal

Portugal originally launched a tech visa in 2019, but recently revamped it under a new name - the Startup Visa Program.

The program now includes not only entrepreneurs but also freelancers, remote workers and investors interested in joining Portuguese tech startups. Successful applicants are granted a one-year residence permit, renewable for another two years.

Portugal digital nomad visa cost: The application fee for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is approximately €80 to €90. In addition, applicants must pay a processing fee of €120 upon visa approval.

5. Barbados

Barbados introduced its "Welcome Stamp" visa in 2020, targeting remote workers who wish to live and work on the island for up to one year. This visa is open to people from all countries and has been popular with digital nomads due to Barbados' beautiful beaches and warm climate.

The cost of the Barbados welcome stamp visa is USD 2,000 for an individual applicant, and for families the fee is USD 3,000, covering the main applicant and up to three dependents.

6. Mexico

Mexico's Digital Nomad Visa, formally known as the Temporary Resident Visa for Remote Workers, is a program specifically designed for people who work remotely and want to live in Mexico for an extended period of time.

It was introduced in 2021 to allow eligible applicants to live and work in Mexico for up to 12 months, with the option to renew for an additional year.

Mexico digital nomad visa cost: Mexico's temporary resident visa for remote workers costs approximately US$208 (4,365 MXN) per applicant. You can apply through your Mexican consulate or embassy or in person at the nearest consulate or embassy.

7. Malaysia

Malaysia's Digital Nomad Visa, formally known as the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, is a long-term visa designed to attract remote workers, entrepreneurs and retirees to live and work in Malaysia.

The MM2H program offers a 10-year renewable visa, allowing participants to reside in Malaysia with their families while receiving various benefits, including tax incentives and healthcare and education services.

Malaysia digital nomad visa cost: The application fee is approximately USD 2,400 (RM 10,000) and the annual renewal fee is USD 22 (RM 90).

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