Best countries for digital nomads 2023

Digital nomads are people who use technology to work remotely and often travel the world. They typically work online, such as in freelance writing, web design, or software development. They often stay in one place for a short period, then move on to the next destination. To live and work comfortably, they need a country with reliable and affordable internet access, beneficial taxes for digital nomads, a welcoming and supportive digital nomad community, a lower cost of living, good public transportation, safe and secure housing options, and various co-working spaces. A country that provides these needs will make it easier for digital nomads to balance their work and nomadic lifestyle. Here are the best countries for digital nomads:

Best Countries for digital nomads in Europe

Remote workers can live in Europe. Most of them take advantage of the Schengen visa, which allows them to stay in many European countries for up to 90 days. Several countries offer tourist or longer-term residency visas, such as Portugal and Spain, which allow digital nomads to stay for up to a year.

These are the best countries for digital nomads in Europe:

Spain

Spain is an excellent choice for digital nomads looking to live abroad. It offers an exceptional quality of life with a warm climate, excellent healthcare, affordable living cost, and a vibrant cultural scene. In addition, Spain is well connected with the rest of Europe, making it easy to travel and explore the continent. With its relaxed lifestyle and the availability of high-speed internet, living in Spain as a digital nomad is an excellent option if you are looking for a change of pace.

Here you can find the cheapest cities in Spain to live near the sea.

Portugal

Portugal is a perfect destination for digital nomads. Its great infrastructure and strong internet connection make it easy to do business online. The country also has various attractions, from stunning beaches to historic cities. The living cost is lower compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for digital nomads. You will also enjoy the climate, which is generally mild and sunny, making it a pleasant place to live. It also has a vibrant culture, with many festivals, events and activities to enjoy. Being one of the best countries for digital nomads, Portugal has a large expat community, making it easy for you to meet like-minded people.

Greece

Greece offers a unique combination of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot to work remotely. The country has an excellent infrastructure, with reliable internet and transport links, as well as a large number of co-working spaces to choose from. Plus, there are plenty of ways to stay connected with the world while living in Greece. While living here, you’ll enjoy vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and an abundance of stunning beaches to explore. This makes Greece a great place to stay and work as a digital nomad.

Czech Republic

Czech Republic offers digital nomads various benefits. For starters, the living cost is relatively low, making it a good option for those looking to save money. The country’s infrastructure is also highly developed, with excellent public transportation and high-speed internet. Additionally, the Czech Republic is known for its vibrant culture, with plenty of opportunities to explore the local culture. It is also home to many historical sites and natural attractions, making it an ideal place to live. Lastly, the Czech Republic has a friendly and welcoming attitude towards digital nomads, so if you choose to work remotely in the country, you will be welcomed with open arms.

Germany

Germany is a great place to be a digital nomad for a variety of reasons. It offers a high quality of life, a strong economy, excellent infrastructure, and efficient public transport systems. It is also a great country to work in, with a well-developed digital ecosystem, plenty of opportunities for freelancers and startups, and competitive salaries. Plus, it has a vibrant cultural scene and plenty of places to explore and enjoy. If you are moving to Germany, consider living in cities like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Cologne, and Frankfurt. These cities offer great infrastructure, high-speed internet, co-working spaces, and plenty of other amenities to support digital nomads.

Austria

Austria is also on the list of the best countries for digital nomads due to its excellent infrastructure, strong economy, friendly people, and vibrant cultural scene. It is a safe and secure environment, with many cities offering quality accommodation and reliable internet access, making it an ideal choice for those looking to work remotely. Vienna is Austria’s most popular city for digital nomads, thanks to its excellent infrastructure, vibrant culture and high quality of life. You can also consider other cities like Graz, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Linz. Each of these cities offers a unique experience, with plenty of opportunities for work and leisure activities. Austria also provides a plethora of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the Alps to hiking and biking in the countryside. With its stunning landscapes and charming cities, Austria is a beautiful place to explore and call home.

Switzerland

Switzerland is another excellent country for digital nomads in Europe because it has excellent infrastructure and extremely high quality of life. It is well-connected by public transportation, offers high-speed internet, and is an ideal location for freelancers and entrepreneurs. Switzerland also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from skiing and hiking to shopping and nightlife. Moreover, you’ll be pleased to learn that the country is known for its financial stability and low taxes, making it an attractive option for digital nomads.

Best Countries for digital nomads in Asia

It’s the place you see when you watch digital nomad movies. Like Europe, many countries offer a great quality of life, with an affordable lifestyle and excellent infrastructure. For example, Thailand and Vietnam have become very popular places for digital nomads, while other countries such as Malaysia, Japan and South Korea offer a more traditional lifestyle for expats. These are the best countries for digital nomads in Asia:

Thailand

Thailand starts off the list as the most popular destinations for digital nomads in Southeast Asia due to its low living costs, excellent infrastructure, fantastic food, great weather, and friendly locals. It’s also home to some of the most attractive beaches, stunning jungles, and ancient historical sites. It’s also an incredibly safe and welcoming place for digital nomads, offering a strong and reliable internet connection, a range of co-working spaces, and a thriving expat community. The best areas for digital nomads in Thailand vary depending on your preferred nomadic lifestyle and preferences. Popular locations for digital nomads include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, and Pai. Bangkok is great for those who prefer the safety and convenience of a big city, while Chiang Mai is popular because it is one of the cheapest places for digital nomads to live. To experience the beauty of Thailand’s natural landscape, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, and Pai are all excellent choices.

South Korea

Life in South Korea as a digital nomad can be quite rewarding. It is among the most technologically advanced countries in the world, so you have access to a wide variety of digital tools and resources to help you work remotely. South Korea also offers a unique cultural experience with a vibrant food, arts, and entertainment scene. There is a strong expat community, making it easy to connect with others and feel at home. The most popular cities for nomads in South Korea are Seoul and Busan. In Seoul, popular neighbourhoods include Gangnam, Jongno, and Hongdae. Busan is known for its beaches and mountainous terrain, making it an ideal spot for those looking to get away from the city. Other cities worth considering are Daegu, Incheon, and Ulsan. Each city offers its own unique culture, attractions, and amenities.

Indonesia

Indonesia gives a great opportunity for those looking for a unique experience. It is an incredibly diverse country with beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant cities. The living cost is relatively low, and with many co-working spaces and cafes, there are plenty of workplaces. Plus, the country is incredibly welcoming to digital nomads, with various visas and programs available to make the process easier. Such permits include the Social Cultural Visa, Retirement Visa, Business Visa and Tourist Visa.

The Philippines

The country offers tropical weather, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and a low living cost. The main cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao are well connected with a variety of transportation options, making it easy to get around. There are also plenty of co-working spaces, cafes, and other places to work from. The country also offers a vibrant digital nomad scene, with plenty of networking events and meetups. Some popular meetup spots in Manila include BeerHere, The Fort Strip, and The Grid. In Cebu, the popular meetups take place at Cebu IT Park, Ayala Center Cebu, and Fuente Osmeña. Davao also hosts a variety of digital nomad meetups at Abreeza Mall and SM Lanang Premier.

Cambodia

Cambodia is a favourite because the living cost is low, and the country offers a great quality of life in terms of culture, food and outdoor activities. The infrastructure is improving, and most major cities have reliable internet connections. The climate and scenery are also quite pleasant. There are plenty of co-working spaces and many expats living in Cambodia, so it is easy to find a community of like-minded people to connect with. Finally, the visa process is relatively straightforward, making Cambodia a great option for digital nomads.

Best Countries for digital nomads in America

While there are restrictions on the length of time a digital nomad can stay in the US, it is still possible to stay and work in the US as a digital nomad. Popular cities and regions like San Francisco, Austin, and New York offer great opportunities for digital nomads. Additionally, certain visa programs, such as the J-1 visa or the TN visa, offer a digital nomad the opportunity to stay in the US for an extended period. Let’s look at the best countries for digital nomads in America:

Mexico

Mexico offers an affordable cost of living, friendly people and beautiful landscapes with spectacular nature such as the waterfalls of Chiapas. While you’re here, you’ll enjoy a wide variety of activities and attractions, from beaches like Tulum to mountain ranges. With a warm, tropical climate and plenty of sunny days, Mexico is ideal for telecommuting while still enjoying the outdoors. And with a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, you can enjoy the cheapest place to live in Mexico while working as a nomad. Mexico also has an excellent infrastructure and a solid telecommunications network, which makes staying connected to the world easy.

Costa Rica

Living in Costa Rica as a digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. With rich natural beauty, a low living cost, and a relatively high quality of life, Costa Rica is an attractive destination if you seek a more relaxed lifestyle. In addition, it is a very safe country with a welcoming culture, great infrastructure, and reliable internet access, making it an ideal place for remote workers. The best digital nomad cities are San Jose, Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Tamarindo, and Puerto Viejo. San Jose is the capital city and offers a vibrant city life with plenty of attractions and great cafes. Here is a list of the cheapest places to live in Costa Rica.

On the other hand, Manuel Antonio has a beautiful beach and is a popular spot for surfers. Jaco is a lively beach town with a wide variety of activities and great nightlife. Tamarindo is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers alike. Puerto Viejo is a laid-back village with a unique Caribbean vibe and plenty of outdoor activities.

Colombia

Moving to Colombia as a digital nomad offers several advantages. Colombia is an attractive destination for digital nomads, with its affordable living cost, excellent internet speeds and infrastructure, and vibrant culture. There is a variety of accommodation options available, ranging from beachside apartments to budget-friendly hostels. The country’s rich history and diverse natural beauty make it a great place to explore and enjoy. Colombia also offers a range of activities for digital nomads, such as yoga, surfing, and trekking in the Andes. The cities boast vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and a wide range of cultural events, so you’ll never run out of things to do.

Panama

Living in Panama as a digital nomad can be a great experience. Panama is one of the most popular digital nomad destinations for its low living cost and great amenities. The country is also known for its beautiful beaches and tropical climate. Its modern infrastructure and vibrant culture offer digital nomads a great lifestyle. Additionally, it provides a great selection of co-working spaces and cafes to accommodate digital nomads. There are also plenty of activities in Panama, from exploring the rainforest to learning salsa dancing. In general, living in Panama as a digital nomad is an amazing experience that you won’t regret.

Ecuador

Ecuador is an amazing country, full of diverse cultures and natural beauty. The living cost is affordable, making it an attractive option for digital nomads. The country has reliable Internet connections and many co-working spaces to work from. The weather is warm and sunny year-round, so you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities. The culture is welcoming and friendly, so you ought to make friends easily and explore the country. Ecuador is also a great place to experience different cuisines and explore the local markets, like the Mercado Artesanal in Quito and the Otavalo Market in Otavalo.

Peru

Life as a digital nomad in Peru is generally very good. The country offers a lot, from stunning and diverse landscapes to vibrant cities and delicious cuisine. Peru is home to a rich culture and has a great climate, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. The living cost is relatively lower than in many places worldwide if you want to save money while working remotely. The country also offers a wide range of activities, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on its stunning beaches. With reliable internet access and a growing number of co-working spaces, Peru is an excellent destination for digital nomads.

Other Countries that Offer a Digital Nomad Lifestyle

Australia

Australia is another ideal place for a digital nomad lifestyle because of its low living cost, quality infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity. Its cities are well-connected, with good public transport, and offer plenty of co-working spaces, cafes and restaurants. Its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and well-established legal system are also attractive to digital nomads. Additionally, it is a safe, secure and very welcoming country, making it perfect for digital nomads who want an exciting and comfortable living experience.

New Zealand

A great destination for digital nomads due to its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, excellent infrastructure, and friendly people. It has a modern telecommunications system, reliable Internet and Wi-Fi access, and numerous co-working spaces. It also offers incredible outdoor activities, from skiing and hiking to kayaking and surfing, allowing digital nomads to take advantage of the great outdoors. New Zealand is a safe and secure place to live and work, with a low crime rate and a strong healthcare system. All in all, New Zealand is an ideal destination for digital nomads who want an amazing lifestyle while having access to all the necessary resources to work remotely.

South Africa

South Africa is an ideal destination for digital nomads due to its great infrastructure, affordable living cost, and welcoming culture. South Africa has a well-developed telecoms sector, making it easy for digital nomads to stay connected to their home countries. The living cost is relatively low, allowing you to stretch your budget further. South Africa is also known for its diversity and friendly people, which makes it easy for digital nomads to feel at home. Finally, South Africa has some of the best nature and wildlife in the world, making it a great place to explore and relax on the weekends.

Chile

Chile is an excellent destination for digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and modern infrastructure. Chile offers fast internet speeds, making it ideal for digital nomads to stay connected and get work done. Additionally, Chile’s living cost is relatively low, allowing digital nomads to save money while they work. Chile is also home to various climatic sceneries, from the desert in the north to the snow-capped mountains in the south, providing digital nomads with a range of potential places to stay and explore. With its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and modern infrastructure, Chile is definitely one of the best countries for digital nomads.

What Countries Have Digital Nomad Visas?

A digital nomad visa is designed specifically for people who work remotely and travel frequently. To travel, you need a permit. Some countries that offer digital nomad visas include Portugal, Barbados, Georgia, Mexico, Portugal, Serbia, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates.

Documents Required to Travel as a Digital Nomad

As a digital nomad, you must have the right documents when travelling abroad. This includes a valid passport, health insurance, travel insurance, visa, proof of funds, working permit, vaccinations, and copies of important documents. Additionally, having a laptop is essential for remote work and staying connected. Ensure all documents are up to date and you have the necessary permits to travel legally.

FAQs About Countries for Digital Nomads