Is a New Wave of Digital Nomadism Coming? Interest in Moving Abroad Is on the Rise.
2 min read
Google searches for “best countries to move to” peaked immediately after the election. Here’s what you need to know about digital nomad visas.
In the wake of the U.S. election, Americans’ interest in digital nomad visas and moving abroad is on the rise.
When it became apparent early on Wednesday that Donald J. Trump won a second term as president, Google searches for terms like “best countries to move to” and “how to move to Canada” peaked.
Digital nomadism boomed during the pandemic, when many people were no longer restricted to the workplace and could travel freely to faraway, often cheaper, destinations to live and work remotely.
Since then, most employers have mandated that workers return to the office, but many companies continue to offer flexibility around remote work, allowing employees to travel for extended periods. Freelance workers seeking lower living costs have also caught on to the trend.
If you’re thinking of relocating, here’s what you need to know.
Which countries offer digital nomad visas?
Digital nomad visas are permits that allow remote people to reside and work in a foreign country for extended periods ranging from several months to five years. More than 50 countries offer digital nomad visas, including New Zealand, Japan, Kenya and Thailand, but conditions and fees differ.
Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands and Norway are among the most popular digital nomad destinations in Europe. Spain invites a range of remote workers, from freelancers to company employees who earn twice the national minimum wage, around $2,450 per month. The application fee costs $80 and the visa is valid for one year with an option to renew. In Portugal, the minimum monthly income is higher, at $3,500. Once the one-year visa is granted, applicants have the option to renew four times.
