The ‘digital nomad’ lifestyle has been growing in popularity in the last decade with the rise of remote working. Leveraging technology, digital nomads are able to work from various locations, allowing for flexibility and independence without the need to be tied to a specific office or home. The job categories eligible for a digital nomad lifestyle are ever-expanding as the capability of digital tools enhance further.
Jobs can range from programming and design to writing and consulting. In terms of the lifestyle itself, digital nomads typically own few material possessions, prioritising experiences in order to achieve work-life balance. With the growing access to high-speed internet globally, there are also more nations to choose from. Most frequently, a digital nomad will look for a location with professional opportunities and a good working space, as well as a rich cultural life. Digital nomad ‘residencies’ are extremely diverse, with some staying in one place for a few months in an effort to stabilize their routine and to avoid the resistance that is experienced with constant resettling. Overall, the digital nomad way of life is an effort to balance a desire for freedom, adventure and exploration with the ability to be able to sustain professional commitments.
What makes a good destination for a digital nomad?
When assessing the various locations available for digital nomads, there are many factors to consider. Before diving into our top 10 countries, it’s important to understand the criteria that have informed our rankings.
Some of the most important criteria include:
Affordability
Moving somewhere with a lower cost of living will allow your salary to stretch further, potentially offering lifestyle upgrades or a higher quality of life than in your home country. Costs to consider are accommodation expenses, food and other bills.
Safety
When travelling solo, particularly in possession of expensive equipment, a safe environment is key to avoid becoming a target for robbery. We’ve looked for places with low crime rates and a secure environment.
Climate and Weather
An easy way to enhance every aspect of your experience, favourable weather conditions are a big draw for digital nomads and often vary by personal preference.
Reliable Infrastructure
Essential for performing remote work effectively, a stable internet connection and the availability of co-working spaces is a crucial factor for a successful digital nomad experience. Good transport connections are also key for those wanting to explore, without the need for a car.
Visa Requirements
Countries that offer a straightforward visa process, or a specific digital nomad visa will make the whole process much simpler. We’ve considered the requirements for obtaining and renewing visas in our list.
Community, Culture & Networking
An existing expat community can provide easy social connections and advice, in an established digital nomad destination. Cultural experiences and a lively atmosphere can greatly enhance your quality of life as a solo traveller.
Healthcare
Last but by no means least, quality healthcare can give you assurance of medical service while abroad, that is reliable and easily accessible.
Top 10 countries for digital nomads
Here is the top 10, based on the factors discussed above:
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Portugal
Portugal is a popular destination for digital nomads with a specific one-year digital nomad visa. With its famous coastlines, expat community and affordable living, Portugal takes the top spot on our list. Lisbon and Porto are particularly favored hotspots with lots of coworking spots and work-friendly cafes.
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Spain
With similarly excellent weather conditions, a rich culture and strong infrastructure, cities like Barcelona, Madrid and Valencia cater specifically to digital nomads with coworking spaces and a vibrant community. Spain also offers a 1 year digital nomad visa.
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Thailand
The quintessential digital nomad location, Thailand remains a favourite destination with beautiful beaches and cultural richness, combined with a very low cost of living. Chiang Mai appears to be the main hub for digital nomads, while Bangkok and Phuket offer more cosmopolitan lifestyles. The Smart Visa is available for long-term stays.
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Mexico
Offering a six-month tourist visa, Mexico offers a vibrant culture and diverse landscapes. Tulum, Mexico City and Playa del Carmen spring to mind when remote working is considered.
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Estonia
Estonia is emerging as a leader in digital innovation with the e-Residency program. There is a lively startup scene, encouraged by the aforementioned program. Tallinn offers affordable living, accessible via the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa valid for up to one year.
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Georgia
Georgia offers visa-free residence of up to a year to most nationalities, but do check your own nation to verify entitlement. Georgia is becoming increasingly favored for a growing expat community in Tbilisi, with a very low cost of living.
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Indonesia (Bali)
Bali is highlighted in parentheses, as this is really the premier digital nomad location in Indonesia. Offering a tropical lifestyle and affordable living, Bali has coworking spaces in Canggu and Ubud. The Digital Nomad Visa permits long-term stays, without the need to pay local taxes.
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Vietnam
While typically considered a backpacking destination, Vietnam has gradually been latching onto the digital nomad movement, integrating coworking spaces into the larger cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi.
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United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
The key offering of low tax income and the desire to position itself as the capital of the world has been bolstered by the Dubai Virtual Working Program, supporting remote workers for up to a year. Dubai is constantly evolving infrastructure-wise, catering to its ever-increasing popularity.
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Hungary
Budapest offers all the main benefits of a digital nomad location, with affordable living and coworking spaces etc., whilst being in prime position for excellent transport links across Europe.
Conclusion
As the digital nomad lifestyle continues to thrive and grow, the number of eligible destinations for remote workers is also expanding. The countries on our list offer the key blend of affordability, infrastructure and culture whilst supporting remote working, specifically with the essential visa options. Whether you prefer the tropical beaches of Bali, the bustling cities of Spain or a tech-focussed culture in Estonia, we’ve offered a wealth of destinations to suit every digital nomad. Wherever you choose, the key to being a successful digital nomad is achieving a balance between work and exploration, embracing freedom whilst remaining productive in your chosen environment.
As always, for currency news and insight into the world of currency, make sure to stay up to date with our Expert Analysis, as well as our daily Market Commentary.
Caleb Hinton
Caleb is a writer specialising in financial copy. He has a background in copywriting, banking, digital wallets, and SEO – and enjoys writing in his spare time too, as well as language learning, chess and investing.
