Remote work became mainstream during the coronavirus pandemic as lockdowns restricted travel. But since countries have reopened and restrictions have been eased, it's never been easier to work from another country.
In fact, traveling and working from different countries, known as digital nomadism, is becoming more and more popular.
According to the MBO Partners 2021 State of Independence study, 15.5 million Americans call themselves digital nomads, and that number is set to grow.
The most common nationalities of digital nomads are American (31%), Portuguese (8%), German (7%), and Brazilian (5%).
Being a location-independent professional has many benefits. As a digital nomad, you're free to work where you want, often, when you want.
You can shape your lifestyle on your own terms and be inspired by new environments. You also have the opportunity to meet new people from all over the world.
There are so many great destinations to work from while you explore what they have to offer.
Here are some of the best ones and a brief look at why they're ideal for slow-traveling remote workers.
Portugal
Portugal ticks almost all the boxes when it comes to being a hub for digital nomads. The geographical location, year-round pleasant weather, friendly people, relatively low cost of living, and high English proficiency are just some of the reasons why the country is so popular with international remote workers.
Portugal is also very welcoming to slow-traveling remote workers. In the autonomous archipelago of Madeira, a digital nomad village initiative was launched in 2021 and has proven to be a great success.
Madeira has hosted more than 15,000 digital nomads to date, with an estimated economic contribution of over €30 million.
Portugal hasn't yet introduced a visa for digital nomads. But the D7 visa is a good option for remote workers from non-visa-exempt countries who plan to stay in the country for an extended period of time. With this visa, you have visa-free access to the entire Schengen area.
Spain
In Spain, Portugal's Iberian neighbor, remote workers can use high-speed Internet to get their work done during the day and enjoy Spanish culture, cuisine, and history in the evenings and on weekends.
With the increase in remote work, the country plans to introduce a digital nomad visa that will allow international remote workers to stay and work for up to 12 months. This period can then be extended up to two times.
The proposal is part of the new Startup Law, which hasn't yet been passed at the time of writing.
The Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is another good choice for location-independent professionals looking for a place where they can work and play comfortably.
The capital city of Prague is one of the most vibrant capitals in Europe and has a great art scene, rich history, and beautiful architecture.
The landlocked country in Central Europe is known for its political stability and social equality and borders Austria, Germany, Poland and Slovakia, all of which are popular destinations for the digital nomad community.
The Czech Republic offers a long-term business visa for freelancers called Zivnostenske opravneni or Zivno for short. This visa isn't specifically for digital nomads but can be a good option for remote freelancers.
Canada
Canada has a high quality of life, a low crime rate, and a good healthcare system. It's an attractive destination for remote workers who want to move there with their families as well as those who want to travel there on vacation or business trips without worrying about their health or safety.
Canada doesn't have a specific program for digital nomads. However, there are other programs for which remote workers can apply, including the Self-Employed Scheme, the Startup Visa Scheme, and the Provincial Nominee Programs, which are available across the country.
New Zealand
New Zealand is a great place to live and work remotely because it has favorable visa requirements, the cost of living is relatively low, and there's an English-speaking population.
The country's natural scenery, laid-back lifestyle, and diverse economy attract many visitors each year. During your stay, you can also enjoy New Zealand's modern infrastructure, which is attractive to many digital nomads.
New Zealand offers a variety of temporary and permanent visa options for foreigners.
The Working Holiday Visa is probably the best option for remote workers. However, there are other programs that may be suitable for you, depending on your digital business.
Romania
Romania is an ideal destination for remote workers who want to live a traditional life. Its many castles will make sure you'll never get bored there on your days off.
There are high quality internet services, the cost of living is relatively low, and you can easily find budget-friendly accommodation.
In addition, the people are very friendly and open-minded, and the crime rate is low. The public transportation system is very efficient and you'll have no problems traveling around the country by train.
The Romanian government has introduced a digital nomad visa, which allows foreigners to live in the country while working for companies abroad.
Estonia
In Estonia you can expect diverse landscapes, rocky beaches, many lakes, and ancient forests. The country is quieter than many other European countries and is very convenient for digital nomads.
Estonia has introduced a digital nomad visa that allows foreigners to work freelance or remotely for a foreign company while enjoying what the northern European country has to offer.
Mauritius
Mauritius is located off the coast of Madagascar and is popular with remote workers who like to spend their free time diving or on the beach.
The island nation is famous for good food, reefs, lagoons, and numerous opportunities for adventure. It's very safe, and the weather is one of the biggest attractions.
Mauritius has begun offering long-term visas to remote workers to boost tourism revenue, which plummeted during the pandemic. The so-called premium visa allows you to work from the island for up to a year.
Malta
The location and natural beauty are some of the main reasons why many remote workers choose to temporarily settle in Malta.
Located south of the Italian island of Sicily and almost 300 kilometers east of Tunisia, Malta has a climate that's better than almost anywhere in mainland Europe.
Its beautiful beaches, islets, and lagoons are perfect for those who want to live a nomadic island life. Also, the fact that English is an official language in Malta makes life much easier.
In late 2021, Malta began accepting applications for its one-year digital nomad visa program, inviting international remote workers to live and work from the Mediterranean archipelago.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica was the happiest country in the world in 2021, according to the Happy Planet Index (HPI).
Living in this stunning place, known for its premium coffee beans and biodiversity, definitely puts a smile on the face of any digital nomad.
The Central American country has created an ideal legal framework to attract remote workers from all over the world, which should boost the tourism sector.
Costa Rica has invested in expanding its Internet infrastructure in recent years. Fiber-optic Internet coverage in the country more than doubled between 2019 and 2020.
Panama
If you like to settle into a tropical work life, consider moving to Panama, Costa Rica's southern neighbor. It's a great place to escape the winter blues.
In the capital, Panama City, towering skyscrapers and nightclubs contrast with the rainforest of Natural Metropolitan Park and the colonial buildings of Casco Viejo.
Panama's new short-stay visa allows digital nomads to stay in the country for at least nine months while working remotely as independent freelancers or for a foreign company. The visa can be extended for another nine months.
Japan
Some people think that Japan is a very expensive destination, but that's not the case. As a digital nomad, you can enjoy the country even on a small budget if you spend your money wisely.
Japan is proud of its rich culture and history, and there are many festivals and events you can attend throughout the year. Modern infrastructure, highly efficient public transport, and polite people are other reasons why the country should be at the top of your list.
Japan doesn't have a special visa for digital nomads, but there are a number of visas you can apply for.
Thailand
The Thai government has announced plans to introduce a visa for digital nomads. However, there are other visa options that might work for you.
The Southeast Asian country is known for its tropical beaches, ancient ruins, royal palaces and temples. In the Thai capital Bangkok, you can explore ornate shrines and experience the vibrant street life.
The United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, may not be known as an ideal destination in the digital nomad community. But it's definitely worth a visit.
The modern skyline, unique architectural buildings, and many entertainment options make the city a real treat for visitors.
It's true that it's a bit expensive, but the quality you experience in return makes it a solid option.
As part of its virtual working program, Dubai offers a one-year visa that allows you to relocate to the UAE while continuing to work for your employer outside the country.
