SPOTAHOME

What Is A Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is a document that allows you to temporarily stay in a particular country to live and work typically. A general requirement for this visa is that the visa holder has an employer outside of the country or a self-employed person that they can maintain remotely and generate income to support their life.

We will give you some insights on the different countries that have digital nomad visas and give you information on how to apply for a digital nomad visa for all the remote workers interested in changing their working environment.

Who Should Apply For A Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is perfect for individuals who have free movement and can perform their work duties remotely on a laptop or mobile devices and receive an income that can support their lifestyle while they travel and explore the country they are located in.

A digital nomad visa allows the explorer to stay in the country for longer than the typical 60 - 90 days that the EU visa or travelers stay is allowed. If you love to travel, integrate within new cultures this is a visa you should look into!

Location: Guttannen, Switzerland Source: Fabio Comparelli

What Countries In Europe Have Digital Nomad Visas?

There are officially 12 European countries that you can apply for a digital nomads visa. There are a few countries in the continent where you can find visas and loopholes to stay in the country longer but we want to give you the official visas that are available so that you will have no difficulties or confusion!

Croatia

Croatia is known as the crossroads between central Europe and Southeast Europe. Next to the Adriatic Sea the country has many beautiful sandy and pebbled beaches for those chasing the sun and those who were into Game of Thrones and became exposed to one of the country's amazing cities of Dubrovnik.

In order to qualify for the Croatian digital nomad visa here are the requirements:

The country you work for must be located outside of Croatia.
You have to meet the requirements and prove you have an income of 2,300 euros or more to support yourself.
Prove that you are not a citizen of the EU or EEA
Have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months (we recommend your passport is valid for at least another 1 year before applying).
Fill out the digital nomad application form to completion. This can be found at your closest embassy, the Croatian government website or the Croatian Ministry of Interior.
Valid health insurance for the duration you intend to stay.
Sufficient income (pay slips or bank statements as proof).
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).
Have a temporary address in Croatia. A contract, confirmed booking or rental agreement will suffice.

Applying for the visa can be done online or at a Croatian embassy. To get the visa admin fees are 45 euros while the temporary residence permit is 30 euros.

Family members are allowed to accompany you but, you must be able to prove their relationship to you with a marriage or birth certificate.

The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed after this time for another year and you do not have to pay taxes on the income you obtain with your remote job.

Location: Dubrovnik Source: Matthias Mullie

Cyprus

Located in the Mediterranean Sea Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite and many bronze age tombs. The friendly island is very safe and welcoming that has coasts, mountains and beaches to explore.

Here are the Cypriot digital nomad visa requirements:

You are a non-EU or EEA citizen.
You work for an employer outside of Cyprus.
You can work using remote devices such as a laptop, phone, tablet etc.
You have a monthly income of at least 3,500 euros or more.
You have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months.
Two recent passport sized photos.
Proof of remote work (a work contract or business contract can be shown as proof).
Proof of income through bank statements or pay slips.
Your CV that shows your previous working experience.
A letter of intent explaining your purpose of entering Croatia.
Proof of health insurance for the duration of your stay covering 30,000 euros.
Proof of a clean criminal record from your home country.
A rental contract or document for accommodation you intend to stay in within Cyprus.

You will be required to make an appointment at your nearest Cypriot embassy or consulate taking with you all the necessary documentation.

The process costs 70 euros for the resident permit and a one time fee of 70 euros. The visa is valid for one year after which you can apply for a renewal and if approved will be valid for two years.

Family members are allowed to accompany you but, you must be able to prove their relationship to you with a marriage or children under 18 with a birth certificate.

Location: Akamas Source: Datingscout

Estonia

Located next to the Baltic Sea in northern Europe Estonia is a preserved beauty. The country as a whole has a lot of dense forest with just over 50% of the land covered in Forest! If you love to go for hikes or rock climbing regularly you will have plenty of trails and climbs you can do while you are there.

Estonia offers two types of visas. Type C that allows a short stay of up to 90 days and Type D a long stay visa that allows you to stay for up to 1 year.

Here is everything you will need to qualify for a Estonian digital nomad visa:

You work for an employer outside of Estonia
You can work using remote devices such as a laptop, phone, tablet etc.
You have a monthly income of at least 3,504 euros or more.
You have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months.
You have to prove that you have a remote income from a company in your home country through your work contract and a letter from your employer that approved you to work remotely. If you are self-employed you need to prove it with business documentation.
Fill out the necessary application form to completion.
Two recent passport size images.
Proof of valid health insurance that covers at least 30,000 euros.
Proof of a clean criminal record from your home country.
Proof of accommodation in Estonia with a rental contract or reservation agreement.

In order to apply for the visa this can be done at your nearest Estonian embassy by appointment or a VFS (Visa Facilitation Services Global) office.

The visa process costs 80 euros for a Type C visa and 100 euros for a Type D visa.

Family members are allowed to accompany you but, you must be able to prove their relationship to you with a marriage or children under 18 with a birth certificate. Or, adult children who are financially or medically dependent on you.

Renewal of the digital nomad visa in Estonia is not possible once expired.

Location: Old Town Tallinn Source: Ilya Orehov

Greece

The Balkan nation located in Southeastern Europe. One of the most influential countries in ancient times, also known as the birthplace of democracy and the inventor of the Olympic games, the city has many locations that will leave you mesmerised.

Here is everything you need to know in order to qualify for a Greek digital nomad visa:

You are a non-EU or EEA citizen.
You work for an employer outside of Greece.
You can work using remote devices such as a laptop, phone, tablet etc.
You have a monthly income of at least 3,500 euros or more.
You have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months.
Two recent passport sized photos.
Proof of remote work (a work contract or business contract can be shown as proof).
Proof of income through bank statements or pay slips.
You need a cover letter declaring why you intend to go to Greece including why you are applying, the company you work for, that you will meet financial requirements and any other information regarding employment that you see as necessary and helpful to your application.
Proof of health insurance for the duration of your stay.
Proof of a clean criminal record from your home country.
A rental contract or document for accommodation you intend to stay in within Greece.
A return ticket to your home country to prove you will not overstay.
A medical certificate to show you are not a danger to the population.
You can apply for the visa online or at your nearest Greek consulate or embassy by appointment.

The fees related to this process are 75 euros for the application fee and 150 euros for the admin fee.

The visa is valid for two years and you can apply for renewal for another two years.

Location: Oia Source: Ryan Spencer

Hungary

This landlocked country in Central Europe which is one of Europe's oldest countries! Known for its spa’s, these thermal baths are located where the healing waters are the perfect way to end a stressful week.

Known as the white card here is how you can try and obtain a digital nomad visa for Hungary:

You are a non-EU or EEA citizen.
You work for an employer outside of Hungary.
If you're self-employed or own a company you must be able to show proof that you are registered to a company in your home country.
You can work using remote devices such as a laptop, phone, tablet etc.
You have a monthly income of at least 2,000 euros or more.
Two recent passport sized photos.
Have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months (we recommend your passport is valid for at least another 1 year before applying).
Valid health insurance for the duration you intend to stay.
Sufficient income (payslips or bank statements as proof).
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).
Have a temporary address in Hungary. A contract, confirmed booking or rental agreement will suffice.
You can apply for the visa online or at your nearest Hungary consulate or embassy by appointment.

The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for another year. Unlike the other visas family members are not permitted to join you.

The fees for the Hungary digital nomad visa are as follows, if you apply outside of the country it is 110 euros, if you apply in Hungary it is 123 euros. To extend the visa costs 110 euros in person or 73 euros through the online portal.

Location: Budapest Source: Henrique Ferreira

Iceland

Iceland had a majestic landscape with volcanoes, hot springs and amazing national parks. Known for the beautiful northern lights and endless natural beauty.

Here are the requirements for the Icelandic digital nomad visa:

You are a citizen of a non-EU, EEA, EFTA country.
You have not acquired another Iceland long-term visa in the last year.
You must prove that you can work remotely with mobile devices.
You must prove that you have a monthly income of 7,300 euros.
Your valid passport. The copy of your passport must be valid for at least three months after your visa expires.
You must fill in the application to completion which can be found on Iceland's official website this will cost 88 euros.
A recent passport size image.
Sufficient income (pay slips or bank statements as proof).
Your employer must provide a letter stating that you can work remotely.
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).

Health insurance. The medical insurance must cover you for the entire length of your stay in Iceland.

Family members are allowed to accompany you but, you must be able to prove their relationship to you with a marriage or children under 18 with a birth certificate.

Partners have to prove that they have lived together previously for at least one year and if you want to bring a spouse or children you will have to pay an additional 2,000 euros.

The visa is valid for 180 days if you apply from your home country or 90 days if you apply within the Schengen area.

You can not renew the visa once it has expired. You must wait another 12 months to reapply if you desire to live a little longer in Iceland.

Location: Seljalandsfoss Waterfall Source: Robert Lukeman

Latvia

Latvia is home to dense forest and known as one of Europe's greenest nations where green areas cover up to 45% of the country. The abundant nature, history filled streets and beaches are one of many reasons you would want to live in the beautiful country.

In order to apply for a digital nomad visa in Latvia your employer home country must be registered by the OECD.

Here are the requirements for the Latvian digital nomad visa:

Proof of employment in an OECD country. If you are self employed your business must be registered in an OECD country.
Two recent passport sized photos.
Have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months (we recommend your passport is valid for at least another 1 year before applying).
A contract that shows you are employed and are allowed to work remotely.
You must show proof of income through bank statements or pay slips.
A monthly income of at least 2,857 euros.
Valid health insurance for the duration you intend to stay.
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).

In order to apply for the Latvian digital nomad visa this can be done at your closest embassy or consulate or, applications can be done online through the Latvian official government website.

The fees for the visa are 60 euros. The visa is valid for 1 year and you can apply for a renewal of another year following the expiry of the first. Unfortunately the visa does not allow for spouses or family members to join.

Location: Turaida Castle Source: Kristaps Ungurs

Malta

Between Italy and the north of Africa is Malta in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. The mix of history and culture draws many to explore this country. With a history of different nations ruling over the lands from the French, English, Moors and a few other nations. This history shows up in the forts that are on the island and shows up in the architecture of the country.

Here are the requirements in order to apply for a Maltese digital nomad visa:

You must be a non EU citizen.
Have a monthly income of at least 2,700 euros.
Your employer must be located outside of Malta.
You must be able to work with mobile devices such as a laptop, mobile, phone etc.
Two recent passport sized photos.
Have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months (we recommend your passport is valid for at least another 1 year before applying).
A cover letter stating your intentions of staying in Malta and where you would like to stay and what you will be doing during your time there.
Your updated CV with your previous work experience.
Proof of accommodation. Have a temporary address in Hungary. A contract, confirmed booking or rental agreement will suffice.
Bank statements of the last 6 months will be needed as evidence.
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).
A medical certificate to show you are not a danger to the population.

In order to apply for the visa it must be done through the Residency Malta Agency that processes all applications for Malta. Once approved the visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed for another year once eligible.

Location: Valletta Source: Ferenc Horvath

Portugal

Endless sunny days, warm natured people and the most amazing wine. The country located on the Iberian Peninsula differs depending on where you go within the country. With sandy warm beaches to the south to the picturesque coastal towns and wine vineyards up north.

Here are the requirements for the D7 digital nomad visa in Portugal:

You must show that you have an income of at least 705 euros a month.
Obtain a NIF (tax number).
Have a Portuguese bank account.
Live in Portugal for at least 16 months out of 24 months.
You must have a valid passport that will not expire in the next 6 months.
Complete the necessary information in the D7 application form that can be found on the official Portuguese website.
Have bank statements of income or a work contract to show proof of funds.
Proof of accommodation in Portugal, this can be done with a rental contract or property that you have purchased in the country.
Recent passport size images.
A cover letter stating your intent in Portugal and your financial situation and any relevant information pertaining to your employment.
Proof of valid health insurance that covers at least 30,000 euros.
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).

For the resident permit it the fee is 320 euros. If you want to bring family members with you You will need to provide documentation to prove the relationship. For a spouse this will be the marriage certificate, for children, siblings or parents this will be their birth certificate. For additional applicants you must prove you have at least 1060 euros in order to support yourself.

The visa is valid for 2 years and you can apply for a renewal of another 2 years and following this, once 5 years has passed you can apply for permanent residence if you wish.

Location: Lagos Source: Julie Aagaard

Romania

Located in southeastern Europe in the area known as Transylvania the natural landscape filled with ancient churches, monasteries and castles is an amazing location many decide to call home.

Here are the requirements for the digital nomad visa in Romania:

You work for an employer outside of Romania.
You must be a non EU citizen.
You can work using remote devices such as a laptop, phone, tablet etc.
You have a monthly income of at least 3,700 euros or more.
You must be able to prove employment outside of Romania with an employment contract in its original language and translated to Romanian.
A document that shows the company you work for information regarding legal representatives.
A letter of intent for your time in Romania.
A document that shows you are up to date with your taxes in your home country and not trying to commit tax evasion.
Show that you have a valid plane ticket purchased to enter Romania.
Proof of valid health insurance that covers at least 30,000 euros.
A clean criminal record in your home country (you can request this document in your native country and show the original document as proof).
Completion of the application form that can be accessed online on the official Romanian Ministry of Foreign affairs website or by appointment at your closest Romanian consulate or embassy.
Sufficient income (pay slips or bank statements as proof). A medical certificate to show you are not a danger to the population.
A rental contract or document for accommodation you intend to stay in within Romania.

The visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed for another year if you meet the necessary requirements.

Location: Peles Castle Source: Majkl Velner

Spain

The Iberian Peninsula is home to flamenco, food and Moor history. The country has 17 autonomous regions that each have their own culture different from one another. Spain very recently launched their own digital nomad scheme at the beginning of 2023.

Here are the requirements for the digital nomad visa in Spain:

You must be a non EU citizen.
You can not have lived in Spain in the last 5 years.
You must have worked for your employer for over 3 months.
Your employer must be located outside of Spain.
You must be able to work with mobile devices such as a laptop, mobile, phone etc.
The company you work for must have been operational for over 1 year.
You have to have been working in your field for over 3 years.
You must have an income of 2,334 euros a month minimum and be able to prove this with a contract or bank statements.
You must have health insurance to cover the period of your stay.
You must have a clean criminal record in Spain and your home country.

The Spanish digital nomad visa can be renewed after expiry for up to 5 years if applicable. In order to retain the visa in Spain you must only be absent from the country for 6 months of the year.

If you want to bring your spouse you must prove an additional 875 euros per month and for children 292 euros per month.

In order to apply for Spain’s digital nomad visa you must apply outside of the country at the Spanish embassy or consulate by appointment.

Location: Valldemossa Source: Patrick Baum

Norway (Svalbard)

Norway's digital nomad visa only applies to one section of the country called Svalbard. The archipelago is between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Svalbard is the world's most northern point inhabited.

Here are the requirement for the Svalbard digital nomad visa:

You must work for a company registered outside of the region.
You must show that you can support yourself financially. You can show your work contract or bank statements to prove this. There is no fixed number and this is decided case by case.
You must be able to work with mobile devices such as a laptop, mobile, phone etc.
Valid passport issued within the last 10 years.
Documents to show your intention of visiting whether you have a rental contract or accommodation booked.
Two recent passport images.
If you have held a visa previously for Norway, other areas of the world or the Schengen area have copies ready to show.
You must have travel insurance for the duration of your stay that covers at least 30,000 euros for Norway and the Schengen area.
A cover letter stating your intention in Norway and what you plan to do during your time there.

If you are employed be ready to show your employment contract, bank statements that go 6 months back and permission from your employer to work remotely.

If you are self-employed you must show copies of your business license, company bank statements dating 6 months back and income tax returns.

Location: Svalbard Source: Dylan Shaw

And that's a wrap! We hope this has helped you get a bit more information on the various digital nomad visas in Europe you can apply for. If you are looking for a home in one of these beautiful countries where you can feel at home try Spotahome!