We know that traveling is especially difficult right now. However, we want to continue inspiring new trips. So when the world opens its doors again, you are ready.
Everything indicates that remote work is here to stay even after the pandemic.
Think carefully, if you could extend your vacation for an extra week, where would you like to go? If you could live for a few months in another country while working remotely, where would you go? It’s a tempting idea, isn't it !?
These questions can be the starting point for you to start thinking about your next workation and a remote work visa for the post-pandemic.
What is workation?
A workation is a working vacation. Combining work and vacation, it involves working while away from the office, blending leisure time with productive time. So you can extend the vacation period or that longing visit to your hometown. And, in a more ambitious version of the workation, living abroad for a few months with all the legal guarantees. Since technology offers us so many facilities, it is good to take advantage of it. It can be inspiring!
Why did workation become so popular in 2020?
This was the year that thousands of people had no other choice other than to work from home. For many, the dynamic has worked so well that continuing this way, even partially, is already a possibility.
There are so many professionals adopting this new lifestyle that some countries are issuing remote work visas as another way to attract visitors, move the economy and respect labor and tax issues.
Does workation make me a digital nomad?
The digital nomad is basically the professional who only needs a computer to work and, therefore, chooses to live while traveling. Due to the pandemic, many of us had to work remotely, which certainly opened the door to digital nomadism. However, workation is understood as something temporary. If the combination of remote work + living anywhere means more than a brief experience and becomes a lifestyle, you can consider yourself a digital nomad.
What are the main tips for a good workation?
It is a delicate time to make a life change like this. Pay attention to government recommendations and remember that safety and health should be your primary focus. Carefully consider your options and always check the current conditions for entering the country before travelling. Other valuable tips to keep in mind, regardless of your chosen destination:
- Look for a fully furnished and equipped accommodation: you are not on vacation, so you need a comfortable, ready to move in and calm apartment or house to work. Platforms like Flatio are specially designed for mid-term rentals offering hundreds of options for rentals starting from 14 days up to 12 months. All rentals already include the bills, the wifi connection and so you don’t have to worry about paying deposits or going over your budget with some unexpected expenses and charges.
- Maintain a routine: it will be essential for you to be able to separate work and rest time in a new environment.
While some countries have developed specific workation policies due to the pandemic, others have already offered some type of visa that can also be used by remote workers.
To inspire you, we suggest here some destinations where a workation would be possible, each with their own security measures and entry restrictions.
If you are interested, we recommend that you search for more information on the official websites - in times of a pandemic, it is important to constantly double check information as things are changing almost on a daily basis 🙂
1. Czech Republic
For those interested in living in one of the cheapest destinations in Europe, it is advisable to inquire about the visa for freelancers in the Czech Republic. Among the necessary paperwork, company registration or commercial license, financial resources and proof of housing already in the country. You can choose a fully furnished apartment in Prague for your midterm stay through Flatio.
2. Portugal
The so-called D2 visa in Portugal is aimed at freelancers in general. There’s also the start up visa option which is specific to the technology sector and requires that you, as an entrepreneur, can generate jobs. If the Portuguese capital is your choice for your workation Flatio can help you to find the perfect accommodation from 14 days to 6+ months.
3. Germany
Professionals, according to the local distinction, can apply for a German freelance visa. Among several measures, it is necessary to present a letter of recommendation and portfolio, obtain travel insurance and prove sufficient funds to support yourself there. Housing options in Berlin can also be found on Flatio, and if you are staying for less than 6 months you don't have to pay a deposit.
How much does a workation cost?
It will depend on the chosen country. Before making any decision, consider all the costs involved in this mix of travel + work. To get a general idea about other expenses, start with the information about the cost of living in the city (use the websites Numbeo and Expatistan).
Rent, food, transportation and leisure costs will make it clear if it is worth investing in the visa application paperwork for the intended workation. Always consult official government resources for the most up-to-date information before planning or booking a trip.
