Top Remote Work Destinations for Employees

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda, an island nation in the Caribbean, has introduced a new remote work visa in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The visa, which is called the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR), allows remote workers and their accompanying family members to join them in the country. The visa has a maximum two-year validity, and visitors must have sufficient health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. An annual income of USD $50,000 is required, and individuals must either own a location-independent business or work remotely for a company located outside of Antigua and Barbuda. The application can be completed electronically. Applicants must provide proof of employment and pass a police background check.

On 21 May 2022, Argentina will become the second country in South America to offer a remote work visa. Qualified applicants include entry visa-exempt foreign nationals who can provide proof of employment outside of Argentina. Applicants can apply to the National Immigration office of Argentina, providing proof of a work contract, evidence of income, a resume and any other information on their professional and educational experience. This permit can be extended once for an additional six-month period.

Aruba

Aruba’s remote work visa is called “One Happy Workation.” Sandy beaches are just the start of Aruba’s appeal as a remote office! The work visa allows stays of up to three months, the application requirements are fairly simple and no proof of income is required. Conditions include a 90-day limit on stays in Aruba and applicants must be self-employed or employed outside of the country. Work is not permitted for an Aruban citizen or legal entity that would necessitate permits. Applicants must have a passport from a specific list of countries to be eligible.

Australia

Australia is a top destination for remote workers for its sunny climate, great co-working spaces and vibrant cities. Individuals who want to work remotely in Australia will first need to acquire a First Working Holiday Visa, which permits stays of up to one year. Remote workers may then apply for a Second Working Holiday Visa to extend their stay if they meet certain criteria. Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35, and they must not have any dependents traveling with them. A valid passport is required, and individuals must be employed during their stay. Applications are accepted online and must be completed outside of the country. The application fee is 485 AUD for a one-year visa.

 

Bahamas

The Government of the Bahamas has introduced a new remote work option for students and foreign remote workers. The new permit, called the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) permit, is offered for workers and students. Qualified individuals may spend up to 12 months in the country, and the permit can be extended for up to three years. The average application processing time is just five days, and the application can be completed electronically. Certain conditions apply, including a requirement to show sufficient amounts of income.

Barbados

While many countries are shutting their borders during the COVID-19 pandemic, Barbados is welcoming visitors with open arms. The Government of Barbados has launched a new program called the Barbados Welcome Stamp. This initiative gives foreign work visitors the ability to work remotely from Barbados for up to 12 months.

To qualify, applicants must earn at least USD $50,000 per year and must demonstrate adequate health insurance coverage. Upon a successful security screening and application payment of USD $2,000 (or USD $3,000 for families), workers wait about seven days for their application’s approval. Along with its sandy shores, Barbados is an appealing work destination for its increasing ease of starting a business, with information technology, healthcare and international financial services among its strongest sectors.

Bermuda

Bermuda offers a win-win scenario for companies and their employees. While their workers are lured by sunny skies and beaches, employers are attracted to Bermuda for its stable currency and government, and its strategic proximity to the U.S.

The Government of Bermuda has introduced a new Work from Bermuda Certificate that allows certain students and business professionals to work or study remotely in Bermuda. Currently, the certificate permits a 12-month maximum stay, with extensions available on a case-by-case basis. The application fee is only USD $263, and applicants typically receive notice of their application’s acceptance status within one week. Foreign workers must be at least 18-years old, show proof of employment or self-employment, and have a clean criminal record to qualify.

Brazil 

On Jan. 24, 2022, the government Brazil introduced temporary visas and residence permits for foreign nationals to remain in the country without formal employment registered in the country. These visas and permits will initially be valid for a period of one year and may be renewed for an additional year.  

Foreign nationals will be able to apply for this visa type at a Brazilian consular facility in their home country or country of residence. Required documents, including proof of valid health insurance and proof of a work or service contract that will allow the foreign national to work as a digital nomad, must be presented.

 

Colombia

Bordering the Caribbean Sea in the north and the Pacific Ocean in the west, Colombia makes for a unique remote work location. A new remote work visa is expected to be launched on 22 October 2022 and will be valid for a maximum period of two years. Dependents will be permitted to accompany the primary visa holder. Eligible applicants will need:

• A passport valid for up to three months before the expiration of the visa;
• A letter from the sending company or company where the foreign national provides services. The letter must be translated into Spanish or English and provide details on the position and the type of remuneration received;
• Copies of bank statements that prove their income is at least equivalent to the current minimum monthly wages in Colombia; and
• Hold insurance that will cover their stay in Colombia for illness, maternity, disability, hospitalization and other considerations.

Foreign nationals who intend to travel to Colombia will be permitted to enter the country so long as they have the proper entry permissions, including an entry permit. After entering the country, foreign nationals will have 90 days to apply for remote work status.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica makes a perfect remote work destination for individuals interested in exploring a rainforest and beautiful coastlines. On July 4, 2022, the country appeared to approve regulations for a short-term remote work visa. The short-term digital nomad work visa can be granted for a maximum period of one year and is renewable for eligible extensions.

Eligible applicants will need to be employed outside of Costa Rica or work as an independent contractor for entities and persons located outside of the country. Applicants must have an average monthly salary of at least USD $3,000. However, applicants who will be accompanied by a dependent must have an average monthly salary of USD $4,000. Eligible applicants will also be required to hold proof of health insurance that will remain valid throughout the duration of stay in Costa Rica.

The processing time of the application is estimated to take 15 business days from the date of filling and eligible applicants will be permitted to begin the application process once the law has been officially published in the government’s official Gazette.

Croatia

Croatia launched a digital work visa in Jan. 2021, with a maximum validity of 12 months. Individuals must already be located in Croatia to apply—applications from abroad will not be accepted. Individuals must be self-employed or have the capacity to work remotely, and they must provide proof of either situation through a client contract, employment agreement, or similar documentation.

Successful applicants must pass a criminal background check and provide proof of accommodation while in the country. Health insurance must be obtained for the duration of the individual’s stay, and applicants must earn at least € 2,500 per month to qualify. Applicants must obtain an OIB identification number and apply online.

Czech Republic

With its marvelous architecture and rich history, the Czech Republic is quickly becoming one of the top destinations in Europe for remote work. The digital work visa in the Czech Republic is called the Zivno. Applicants must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the visa, including proof of accommodation for the duration of stay (at least 12 months) and proof of a trade license. Applicants must have at least € 5,587 in their bank account to be eligible for the Zivno, and the application fee is 1,800 CZK, or $80 USD. There is also a visa processing fee of € 100. Individuals can make an appointment at the nearest Czech Embassy to apply.

Estonia

 Estonia was the first country to create an e-residency program allowing foreign national entrepreneurs to license a business based in the European Union (EU) online. In June 2020, the country created its first remote work visa for freelancers and remote workers. To qualify for the remote work visa, individuals must own a location-independent business or work remotely for a company located outside of Estonia. Applicants must have an income of at least € 3,504 per month, and they must have had that income level for at least the past six months.

To apply, individuals must complete an application form online and sign electronically. They must then schedule an appointment at the closest Estonian Embassy or Consulate to apply in person. Estonia offers two visa categories: Type C (short stay) that costs € 80 and Type D, which is a longer-stay visa that costs € 100.

Ecuador

With its diverse landscape, jungles, wildlife and mountains, Ecuador makes a great destination for remote workers. On 27 September 2022, the government of Ecuador introduced a new two-year residence visa for remote workers. Eligible applicants include foreign nationals who are employed by or intend to provide services to a company located outside of Ecuador. Applicants will be permitted to apply for the remote temporary residence visa without requiring sponsorship from a local employer in Ecuador. Currently, the visa will be available from applicants from 183 countries and regions.

Georgia

Georgia developed a remote work visa designed to attract skilled foreign workers and boost the country’s economy in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. To qualify, individuals must own their own location-independent business. Additionally, or alternatively, they must work for a company based outside of Georgia. Qualified individuals must prove that they can pay taxes while living in Georgia, and they must have a minimum income of USD $2,000 per month. While COVID-19 restrictions are in place, a 14-day quarantine is required upon arrival. All travelers must have travel insurance with a six-month minimum duration. Interested individuals can complete an application online.

Germany

Germany is an attractive destination for remote workers because of its history, culture and dining scene. It also has one of the best wifi networks in Europe. Individuals who want to work remotely from Germany must meet certain conditions, including reporting their address in Germany and showing proof of medical coverage during their stay. They must also show proof of financial self-sustainability, which can be achieved through an employee contract, bank statements or similar documents. Workers must also provide services that will help the local economy. After establishing residency in Germany, remote workers should schedule a visa appointment with their local immigration office. Note that there is a fee of € 100 for the visa.

Hungary

In Jan. 2022, Hungary introduced a new digital nomad visa called the White Card, which allows foreign nationals from countries outside of the European Union, European Economic Area, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to live and work remotely in Hungary. The White Card has an initial maximum validity of one year, but it can be renewed for one additional year.

To qualify, applicants must hold a work contract or own a share in a company with a verified profit in a country other than Hungary. The applicant cannot pursue any gainful activity from a company or related based in Hungary and cannot hold a share in a Hungarian company. Applications can be submitted through the country’s online immigration portal.

 

Iceland

Iceland is an increasingly attractive destination for both U.S. and European employers and their workers. The technology sector has been one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country’s economy. Overall, Iceland’s economy has grown steadily since 2012.

To expand opportunities for talented foreign workers, Iceland recently launched a remote work visa that allows foreign nationals to work in the country for six months. The visa program allows qualified employees to bypass normal residency requirements, which allows them to start work in Iceland sooner.

To qualify for Iceland’s new program, individuals must have a minimum monthly income of ISK 1,000,000 (USD $7,722), or ISK 1,300,000 (USD $10,037) for workers who are traveling with dependents. Proof of employment outside of Iceland and proof of health insurance are required.

 

Italy

Known for its ancient ruins and location on the Mediterranean Sea, Italy is likely to become a popular destination for foreign nationals who apply for Italy’s new digital nomad visa.

Introduced on 29 March 2022, this visa type will allow applicants to travel to Italy for work without needing to obtain work authorization, or a Nulla Osta, prior to arrival. Instead, eligible applicants will be required to apply for an entry visa that will be valid for a period of 365 days. After arrival, the applicant will need to apply for the digital nomad visa, which will be valid for one year.

According to the conditions of this visa, the foreign national must be considered a highly qualified worker and be employed by a company based outside of Italy with no representative offices in the country or be self-employed.

 

Jamaica

Currently, Jamaica offers a remote work visa for individuals in the U.S. Applicants must meet several conditions to apply for a Jamaican work visa, including proving that they are either self-employed or work for a company located outside of Jamaica. A U.S. passport is required, and there are no minimum income requirements. A visa registration fee of $60 USD is mandatory for stays up to 90 days. The fee increases to $140 USD for stays between 90 days and one year.

Latvia 

Located on the Baltic Sea, Latvia serves as a unique remote work location and as of 1 Feb. 2022, foreign nationals can apply for a digital nomad visa. The visa will initially be granted for a period of one year, with the possibility to renew for an additional year.

To qualify, applicants must be able to provide proof of having worked with the employer registered abroad that is established in one of the 37 member states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), or be self-employed and established in one of these countries and be able to prove they can perform their duties remotely while staying in Latvia.

Employees of an organization in an OECD member state must have been employed for at least six months. All eligible applicants must earn a minimum average salary of EUR 3,192.50 per month. For more information on qualification requirements and application documents, check here.

 

Malaysia

On 1 October 2022, Malaysia will become one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to offer a remote work visa. The new visa, known as the DE Rantau programme pass, will provide travelers with a professional visit pass, which will serve as the entry permission into the country.

The pass will permit a stay between three months to a maximum period of 12 months. The pass will be renewable for an additional 12-month period. Applicants will be permitted to bring their spouse and children. According to the government, the pass fee will be MYR 1,000 for primary pass holders and MYR 500 for dependents.

Eligible applicants will also need to have a minimum yearly income of at least USD $24,000 and proof of holding an active three-month work contract with a company. The company can be based within Malaysia or outside of the country.

 

Malta

Malta, an island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea, is another remote work destination for foreign nationals whose current employment is based in another country. Launched in June 2021, the Nomad Residence Permit (NRP) allows foreign nationals from countries outside of the European Union, European Economic Area, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway to live and work remotely in Malta for a maximum period of one year. The NRP can also be renewed for an additional year if the applicant continues to meet qualifications. The government of Malta also offers a National Visa for third-country foreign nationals who wish to work in Malta for a stay less than one year. 

To qualify, applicants must have a work contract with a foreign company and meet the monthly salary requirement of € 2,700. If family members of the applicant choose to accompany the applicant, additional salary requirements must be met. In addition, those looking to work remotely in Malta must have a valid entry document, health insurance coverage, plans of the intended place of stay and pass a background check. Applications are filed electronically and require a filing fee of € 300.

Mexico

Mexico is an ideal location for workers seeking employment in a warmer climate. It is also close to the U.S. and located in the same time zone. Additionally, the World Bank reports that Mexico is an increasingly good place to start a business. Mexico has a temporary resident visa that allows foreign nationals to work in the country for up to one year and can be renewed every year after that for three more years. The temporary visa has a four-year maximum validity.

Prospective remote workers who want to work in Mexico must prove earnings of at least USD $1,620 per month for the past six months. Alternatively, they must have no less than USD $27,000 in their bank account to be issued the temporary resident visa.

Additional information is available from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico for individuals who want to explore opportunities working in the country, including a list of required documentation.

Montenegro 

Situated on the western coast of the Balkan Peninsula, Montenegro is seeking to open its borders to foreign nationals pursuing long-term residence by laying out a roadmap for a new digital nomad program that is to be launched over the next three years. Foreign nationals granted this new temporary residence permit for digital nomads will be permitted to remain in Montenegro and work remotely for up to a year with the possibility of extensions.  The first stages will include creating amendments that will regulate the status of digital nomads in Montenegro and creating a central government online platform for the new program.

Namibia

Located in southwest Africa, Namibia is one of the newest countries in Africa to over a remote work visa option for foreign nationals. The government of Namibia launched a new six-month remote work visa for applicants who can provide proof of having a monthly average income of USD 2,000. Generally, proof must be shown through a pay slip or employment contract.

Proof of an average income of USD 1,000 per month in addition to the average income of USD 2,000 must also be demonstrated for all accompanying spouses and an additional USD 500 per month for every accompanying child.

Applications can be submitted via email along with all other supporting documents.

Norway

Norway offers a remote work visa and is a popular destination for remote and freelance workers for its excellent social services. To work remotely in Norway, individuals must own their own (remote) business or work for a company located outside of Norway. Remote workers must have relevant skills and qualifications to work in the country, and they must provide proof of accommodation upon arrival. A minimum income of € 35,719 (~$43,000 USD) is required. Applications can be filed at the closest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate. Applicants must also demonstrate residency in Norway.

 

Portugal

Known for its coastal towns and food, Portugal is a scenic destination for digital nomads. On 26 August 2022, the government of Portugal introduced plans for a new visa option for remote workers. Under the new bill, foreign nationals would be able to apply for an employment-based visa in order to perform remote work or for self-employment purposes.  The government is expected to release additional information on eligibility requirements and the application process in the coming months of 2022.

6 October 2022 Update: The government of Portugal will implement new changes to the Law on Foreign Nationals on 30 October 2022. Under these changes, the government will introduce the following document requirements for temporary stay visas and residence permits for digital nomads:

• Document certifying tax residence
• Average monthly income over the last three months (must be at least the equivalent of four times the national minimum wage)
• Work contract
• Promise of an employment contract
• Statement from the employer proving the employment relationship between the employee and the employer

In cases of independent activity, the request must also be accompanied by the following documents:

• Documents proving tax residence
• A company contract
• A contract or proposal of service contract
• Proof of services rendered to one or more entities

Romania 

Romania is another location for foreign nationals interested in remote work options. Introduced on Jan. 17, 2022, the digital nomad visa allows foreign nationals to work and live in Romania without requiring work sponsorship from a local employer in the country. The digital nomad visa has a validity period of six months and can be renewed as long as the applicant meets certain criteria.

Qualified applicants must have an average income at least three times larger than the national average gross salary of Romania (RON 6,095) and must have been employed for a company registered abroad for a period of at least three years prior to submitting the visa application. The applicant must also provide proof of an employment contract with a company outside of Romania, identification documents, and other related documents. For additional information on requirements and eligibility criteria, click here.

Spain

The government of Spain officially approved the Start-Up law that will allow third-country nationals to work remotely in Spain for a company based outside the country. Foreign nationals will be permitted to apply for a remote work visa if they work remotely in Spain for an entity based outside of the country.

Generally, the visa will permit a maximum stay of one year and can be renewed for an additional two-year period so long as the applicant continues to meet all requirements. Applicants will be required to hold certain academic and professional background requirements.

Thailand

Known for its tropical beaches, historic landmarks, and ancient temples and ruins, Thailand offers a breathtaking and unique remote work destination in Southeast Asia. The government of Thailand will launch a 10-year long-term resident (LTR) visa on 1 September 2022. The visa will have four categories, including a work-from-Thailand option.

Eligible applicants can work remotely in Thailand for a well-established overseas company. Spouses and children under 20 years of age will be permitted to travel and remain with the primary LTR visa holder throughout the validity period of the LTR visa. The LTR visa will be granted for a maximum period of 10 years and can be renewed. Additional requirements are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

 

United Arab Emirates

The Government of Dubai has announced a new initiative to attract foreign workers and stimulate the country’s economic growth. Dubai’s economy is considered one of the most diverse in the world. Technology and research-based firms are key drivers of the country’s economy.

Developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dubai has unveiled the first remote work visa in the Middle East for foreign nationals. Qualified individuals can now work in Dubai for up to one year through the program while remaining employed by a company based overseas. Certain requirements must be met to qualify, and dependents and family members are permitted to join remote workers under the visa program.

Successful applicants must have a minimum monthly salary of USD $5,000 and proof of employment with a minimum work contract of 12 months. Proof of income is also required. Business owners can show proof of company ownership instead of an employment contract.

Uruguay

Uruguay is the second smallest country in South America and is best known for its scenic and sprawling coastline. The country is also the most recent country in the region to introduce a remote work option for foreign nationals. The Provisional Identity Card was introduced as a modification to a past decree. The Card will permit a maximum period of stay of 180 days and can be renewed once for an additional 180-day period.

Qualified applicants must be employed by a company that has no registered entity in Uruguay. Foreign national remote workers will not require sponsorship in Uruguay to obtain the Provisional Identity Card.

In addition, remote workers will not be required to register with the social security service of Uruguay, which is required for all other foreign nationals employed in the country.

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Envoy is pleased to provide you this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Brendan Coggan, who is the Head of Global Immigration at Envoy Global.

Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.