Best Digital Nomad Visa Options in Europe

Last Updated on 30 December 2024

Finding the perfect visa for your digital nomad lifestyle is crucial if you want to make the most of your time in the European Union.

While different countries offer various opportunities for long-term travelers, Spain, Portugal, and Estonia are among the top choices for digital nomads from around the world.

Spain

If you’re a non-EU traveler, you can apply for a Spanish Digital Nomad Visa that initially lasts for 12 months and can be renewed for up to five years.

This visa allows you to work remotely for a non-Spanish company and earn up to 20 percent of your income by working for a local business, giving you a chance to fully immerse yourself in the local experience.

To be eligible for this visa, you need to have worked for your current company for at least three months and prove that you make a minimum of €28k per year. If you apply for a full 12-month visa, you’ll need to spend at least six months in Spain to maintain your eligibility.

Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Spain

Barcelona: With its great weather, well-connected airport, and the biggest nomad community in Spain, Barcelona is a top choice for digital nomads.
Madrid: Known for its rich culture and vibrant food scene, Madrid is another excellent city for digital nomads. It also has a well-connected airport.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: This city boasts a large nomad community and enjoys eternal spring weather, making it an attractive destination for remote workers.
Palma de Mallorca: With its well-connected airport, great weather, and tourist-friendly atmosphere, Palma de Mallorca offers a unique experience for digital nomads.
Marbella: If you’re looking for a city with a vibrant nightlife, great weather, and a wealthy community, Marbella is the place to be.

Portugal

While it’s no longer as easy for digital nomads in Portugal to claim non-habitual resident status and avoid paying local taxes as it was before 2023, the country still offers a visa program that is relatively accessible for many visitors.

To qualify, you need to make a minimum of €36,480 per year. The new version of this program, called NHR 2.0, was launched on January 1.

NHR 2.0 provides similar benefits to digital nomads but focuses on attracting applicants who work in specific fields that bring the most value to businesses and organizations in Portugal.

Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Portugal

Lisbon: With the world’s biggest digital nomad community, Lisbon offers great weather, affordability, and a vibrant atmosphere for remote workers.
Porto: Known for its affordability, rich culture, and walkable city center, Porto is an attractive destination for digital nomads.
Ericeira: If you’re seeking a laid-back vibe, a large digital nomad community, and pleasant weather, Ericeira is worth considering.

Estonia

Estonia’s digital nomad visa program allows visitors from any country to spend up to 12 months in the country as long as they earn a minimum of €3,504 per month and are employed, self-employed, or freelancers working outside of Estonia.

Visitors will only need to pay Estonian taxes if they spend more than 183 consecutive days in the country within that time frame.

Unlike many other countries’ visa options, the Estonian digital nomad visa is valid for only 12 months and cannot be renewed. However, once you finish your year in Estonia, there are plenty of other exciting places to explore across the EU and the world!

Best City for Digital Nomads in Estonia

Tallinn: As the capital city, Tallinn is the main hub for digital nomads in Estonia. It offers a rich history, a thriving startup and entrepreneur community, and plenty of opportunities for remote work.