While most European countries are very welcoming of remote workers from the US, some countries are much better than others. Europe is still grappling with the rise in remote workers and digital nomads and only recently has there been legislation in a few countries that defines remote work, digital nomads, giving them some advantages and protections. With that said, here are the top countries in Europe for American remote workers.
Germany
Germany is a great pick because it offers a residence permit for freelance artists. Anyone who is self-employed and works in the fields of art, music, acting, journalism or even education is eligible for this permit. A residence permit is even better than a tourist visa since it allows you to enter other countries within the European Union and Schengen without a hassle even if your passport is from outside the EU. Germany itself is a wonderful country with gorgeous natural beauty as well as lively cities full of opportunities.
The Czech Republic
Czechia has a great program for getting into and staying in the country, but it is a bit more complicated than elsewhere. The crux of the visa is called Zivnost and it’s a form of trade licence that recognizes you as self-employed. The process of getting Zivnost is complicated, so much so that many people hire professionals to help them with getting it months before they plan to relocate. However, the Czech Republic is worth it. With its relatively low cost of living, beautiful natural sights, and an endless supply of historical castles, it is full to bursting with small wonders just waiting for you to explore it.
Find the perfect accommodation in Prague
Malta
Malta has been a long-time favourite among digital nomads. With English as the official language and a Nomad Residence Permit, the small island is full of people from all over the world. The permit is aimed at freelancers and remote workers who use telecommunications to do their work. This is great because you don’t even need to be self-employed to get the permit. It lasts up to a year and is renewable for up to three years if you continue to be eligible for it. Throw in a 5G internet connection and you have yourself a digital nomad paradise.
Portugal
Portugal is kind of like Germany in that it offers a special type of visa to remote workers, artists, and even amateur sportspeople. The Temporary Stay Visa grants you stay for less than a year but is renewable and lets you travel out of the country several times. And after five years, you are eligible for a residence permit. Portugal has been a great magnet for digital nomads and remote workers of all kinds so you can be sure that there are both great opportunities and wonderful communities for you to enjoy.
Find the perfect accommodation in Portugal
Spain and Montenegro
These two countries are, so far, just honourable mentions. The Spanish government announced a bill called the Startup Act, which would, among other things, greatly ease the working conditions for digital nomads and remote workers. However, the bill is yet to be passed. Montenegro is in a similar position. Its cabinet announced a digital nomad program that should greatly reduce the legal hurdles for remote workers. This program will be going up until 2025 and it is presumed that it might get extended if it’s successful. But the details are not in yet so keep an eye on both countries.
Find the perfect accommodation in Spain
