Digital Nomads
Working remotely has never been easier. Whether you're looking for a temporary change of scenery or a long getaway abroad, these five destinations are some of the best places to work.
By Kate Everett-Allen, Head of European Residential Research de Knight Frank
The concept of the digital nomad is not new, although it has certainly been gaining acceptance in recent years, driven by the telecommuting that many were forced into during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Today, according to MBO Partners, the number of U.S. citizens who define themselves as digital nomads has grown since 2019 by 131% to 16.9 million. In the face of antiquated visa systems, which made telecommuting complicated before the pandemic, several countries have been taking positions to offer legitimate ways to attract new, well-prepared workers to settle outside their countries for a time.
Initially, countries suffering from the loss of tourism revenue were the first to introduce visas to allow telecommuting, but even now, even after the time of confinement, the popularity of telecommuting has not waned. According to a survey by the Harvard Business Review, 46 countries now offer a visa program for digital nomads. "These immigration programs are uncharted territory," says Isobel Neilson of Fragomen's Private Client Practice area who specializes in immigration law. "They have been created at full speed, so that countries can remain competitive in the race for global talent in a world where telecommuting is a booming trend."
It's not just tech workers and creatives who are benefiting from these programs. Multi-property owners are finding it advantageous in the current economic climate to rent out their homes and be able to live and receive rent elsewhere. Similarly, those who are in partial retirement and still working are enjoying these new travel visas and trying to reduce costs in new locations.
Of course, certain conditions must be met, but these new visa programs offer the flexibility and freedom to adapt to varying circumstances. Here are five of the most interesting ones
"They have been created at full speed, so that countries can remain competitive in the race for global talent in a world where telecommuting is a booming trend"
Dubai for people with an international outlook
In October 2020, the Dubai government, in a first for the Middle East, launched a Virtual Work Program for foreign nationals employed in their home countries to work remotely for up to one year, provided their minimum salary is USD 3,500 net per month and they can apply for family leave.
Barbados for semi-retirees
Barbados was one of the first Caribbean countries to launch a telework visa during the pandemic, and its Welcome Stamp Visa program allows foreign nationals to move to the country for a period of up to twelve months, provided they expect to earn at least US$50,000 in that period or have the resources to support themselves and their family for the duration of their stay.
Portugal for those passionate about remote experiences
Lisbon and its ideal coastline for surfing in Portugal has become increasingly popular with those wishing to work away from home. The D8 Nomad visa is a visa valid for two years for applicants earning a minimum of 3,040 euros per month with a signed employment contract outside Portugal. This visa can be renewed for another three consecutive years.
Thailand for those opting for 10-year stays
For those seeking a more durable telecommuting option, Thailand has launched a 10-year residency visa program for high-potential foreign nationals, including telecommuters from well-established foreign companies. Among the advantages offered are exemptions from obtaining a re-entry permit and fast-track service at international airports.
Spain for the long-stay visitor
Spain is the most recent European country to implement an International Telework Visa for professionals who wish to work remotely from Spain for foreign companies. This visa can be granted initially for the duration of your foreign employment contract (a maximum of three years), and can be extended every two years thereafter, provided that the necessary conditions continue to be met. This is an accelerated system that takes only twenty days to process.
Photos: Rodrigo Cardoso, Joan Costa, Patric Lalonde, Diego F. Parra, Ben Roberts, Jutisa S.