The term “nomad” has been around, for quite some time describing a way of working. However it has gained popularity as a lifestyle choice in the wake of the pandemic. Digital nomads have the flexibility to earn a living from anywhere in the world. This lifestyle, also known as living offers an advantage; individuals can travel and see the world while still working. Additionally countries like Estonia provide e opportunities that allow digital nomads to conduct their businesses and enjoy benefits. Lets delve into what it means to be a nomad and what steps you can take to become a digital nomad.

What Does Being a Digital Nomad Mean?

Digital nomads are individuals who work as entrepreneurs, freelancers or remote workers without being tied to any location. They have the freedom to work from anywhere in the world and don’t need a residence. As professionals who primarily conduct their work online all they require is a computer and an internet connection wherever they choose to work. This type of work is increasingly favored due, to its ability to facilitate travel and exploration.

There are types of nomads

Some individuals who embrace the nomad lifestyle may choose to take on projects while others opt for remote work, with established companies. For instance there is a number of nomads who run their own online businesses such as web stores or marketing agencies. Despite these variations what all digital nomads have in common is their ability to work independently from any location and their reliance on technology to fulfill their work obligations. Hence having a computer and a fast internet connection is always a priority for any digital nomad.

Who Can Embrace the Digital Nomad Lifestyle?

In order to lead the life of a nomad it’s crucial to possess the skills to work autonomously regardless of your physical location. Thus prior to embarking on your adventures armed with your laptop you must first identify what kind of work you can effectively carry out remotely. It’s important at this stage to engage in a profession that brings you satisfaction or allows you to utilize your expertise. Digital nomadism goes beyond being an occupation; it becomes a way of life.

There are jobs that lend themselves well to combining travel and work seamlessly. These include roles:

In addition you have the option to explore creating courses, publishing ebooks and finding avenues, for generating passive income.

Professions like copywriters, graphic designers, developers and online marketers are well suited for nomadism. However due to the increasing digitalization in years many other occupations have also become suitable for work. PR consultants, bloggers and educators in fields related to sports or hobbies can also embrace the nomad lifestyle. Moreover you can take advantage of opportunities provided by countries that offer nomad visas and e residency programs such as Estonia.

Advantages of Being a Digital Nomad

The key benefits of embracing the nomad lifestyle typically include freedom, the opportunity to travel frequently and the autonomy to choose where you work. As a nomad you have the flexibility to earn a living from any location tropical destinations, like Bali. Additionally being a nomad opens up possibilities to reside in countries with costs of living making it more feasible to enjoy a budget friendly lifestyle. For instance you can savor weather. Experience greater comfort while living in countries like Thailand.

Working and traveling hand in hand provides a way for digital nomads to blend work and leisure. Moreover since you have control, over your working hours you can relish independence. This type of work arrangement helps alleviate work related stress and contributes positively towards a lifestyle. If you run your business as a nomad you are liberated from the obligations tied to a physical workspace. This allows for management of your income and expenses while potentially generating higher profits.

Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas

You have the freedom to work from, with an internet connection and access to electricity, which is easily available in numerous places worldwide. Your choice of work location depends entirely on your preferences and financial situation. Many digital nomads opt for countries where the cost of living’s relatively low enabling them to lead a life even with a lower income. This provides opportunities for business growth. Allows for working hours. Additionally obtaining a nomad visa can offer advantages such as improved working conditions, convenient accommodations and diverse job prospects.

Several countries provide the option of a nomad visa or remote work visa, including Portugal, Estonia, Dubai, Germany, Croatia, Georgia, Mexico Norway Spain Thailand, among others. While specific requirements may vary for each country there are typically documents that are commonly requested.

Portugal

Since October 2022, Portugal has implemented a new law allowing foreigners to work remotely for one year. The digital nomad visa in Portugal is specifically targeted towards non-European Union (EU) and European Economic Area citizens. To apply for the digital nomad visa in Portugal, you need to follow the legal procedures instructed by the Ministry of Economy and the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). Here are the requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa in Portugal:

  • Proof of income from property, business ownership, or funds.
  • Monthly income at least four times the minimum wage in Portugal (760 x 4 = 3,040 euros).
  • Proof of private travel/health insurance.
  • Acceptance of a criminal background check.

Dubai

Dubai is a connected city with a strong digital infrastructure. It offers a one-year virtual working program that allows digital nomads and remote workers to live and work in the city. Dubai does not levy personal income tax and provides access to all necessary services, including telecommunications, public utilities, and education. The one-year digital nomad visa in Dubai is advantageous for anyone, regardless of their nationality, as it grants access to daily services and the option to send your children to schools in Dubai. Here are the requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa in Dubai:

  • Proof of current employment with a one-year contract or proof of company ownership.
  • Monthly income of at least $5,000.
  • Health insurance coverage in the UAE.
  • Valid passport with a validity period of at least six months.
  • Bank statements for the last three months.

Croatia

When applying for residency in Croatia, it is important to note that the digital nomad visa is not an actual visa, but a residence permit. The digital nomad policy clarifies that a visa represents short-term stays for tourists. Based on functionality, a tourist can stay in the country for up to 90 days. However, if you are a digital nomad seeking temporary residence in Croatia, you need to apply for a residence permit rather than a visa. Here are the requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa in Croatia:

  • Proof of working remotely in the field of communication technology outside the European Union.
  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Sufficient funds for your stay.

Germany

Freelancers and entrepreneurs can apply for the Freiberufler Visa, which is valid for three months in Germany. A residence permit allows freelancers and self-employed professionals to live in Germany for a period of six months up to three years. Here are the requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa in Germany:

  • Proof of project funding if you have a project.
  • Possession of a license to practice the profession you plan to pursue as a freelancer.
  • Health and travel insurance in Germany.
  • A passport with a validity period of at least six months.
  • Bank statements for the last six months.

Estonia

Estonia offers digital nomads the opportunity to legally live and work in the country with its digital nomad visas. As a digital nomad, you can apply for a visa that allows you to work legally and stay in Estonia for up to one year. Estonia also has an e-Residency program that allows people from anywhere in the world to establish and run an online-based business within the EU. Through e-Residency, you can enjoy benefits such as voting rights, the ability to buy and sell property, and the ability to establish a company. Just like Estonian citizens, you can take advantage of digital citizenship services and operate in international markets. Here are the requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa in Estonia:

  • Proof of a minimum monthly income of $4,130 for the past six months.
  • An active employment contract with a registered company outside Estonia or proof of being a freelancer.
  • Health and travel insurance coverage for your stay.

When it comes to digital nomad visas, Estonia often comes to mind due to its e-Residency program, which is not only a digital visa but also provides services like e-Citizenship. Estonia is one of the countries that easily adapts to digitalization and offers ideal business and living opportunities to non-citizens. It provides an easy application process for visas and offers many benefits to improve your working conditions. By applying for an Estonian digital nomad visa, you can take advantage of all the benefits and enjoy the freedom of working independently.