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In today's post-pandemic world, remote work has become increasingly popular among professionals. Besides flexibility, this option also allows people to pursue their dream of travelling and experiencing new cultures while managing their careers. In 2020, Estonia became the first country to introduce the digital nomad visa for remote workers. Also termed remote work visas and freelance visas, this visa concept has been adopted by several other countries. While our country may not offer this visa yet, there are a few countries that provide digital nomad visas to Indian passport holders.
9 countries that offer digital nomad visas to Indian passport holders
Similar to a digital nomad visa, Mauritius offers a free Mauritius Premium Travel Visa that allows remote workers to stay and work in the country for a period of six months, which can be extended up to one year. The applicant must fulfil the minimum criteria to receive the visa, which includes proof of income, a minimum monthly income of $1,500 (around Rs 1,24,936), health insurance, accommodation documents, and proof of employment (outside of Mauritius).
Greece, also known as the cradle of Western civilization, offers a digital nomad visa to all non-EU residents. To apply for the visa, the applicant must show proof of employment, financial stability documents, proof of accommodation (in Greece), a cover letter, a medical certificate, health insurance, and a return flight ticket, among other documents. The cost of the digital nomad visa for Greece is around €75 (approximately Rs 6,700).
Bahamas is a popular destination for remote workers due to its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and picturesque views. The country offers a digital nomad visa, known as Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS). The visa costs $25 (approximately 2,082) with additional fees for dependents. To obtain this visa, the applicant is required to submit proof of financial sufficiency, a valid passport, employment documentation, and medical insurance. Important note: Applicants holding an Indian passport are also required to apply for a visitor's visa.
Indonesia allows Indian passport holders to apply for an E33G visa, which costs around $150 (approximately Rs 12,493) and is valid for one year. To apply for the E33G visa, the applicant must submit proof of employment outside Indonesia, proof of an annual income of a minimum of $60,000 (Rs 49,97,766), and a minimum bank balance of $2,000 (approximately Rs 1,66,592).
Costa Rica offers digital nomad visas to individuals of all nationalities, provided they can prove their monthly income of $3,000 (approximately Rs 2,49,902), along with a valid passport. In addition to bank statements, applicants must also complete an online application for the digital nomad visa, allowing them to travel and work from Costa Rica. The visa costs $100 (approximately Rs 8,300).
An archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles, is home to several stunning beaches, natural reserves, and coral reefs. The country offers a digital nomad visa, officially called the Workcation Retreat Program, for remote workers. Professionals who wish to work from this beautiful island country must submit proof of employment, accommodation, income documents, and health insurance, among other requirements. Additionally, applicants must also apply for a visitor's permit 60 days before entering the country. The visa costs around €10 (approximately Rs 900).
Germany offers a freelance visa as an alternative to the digital nomad visa for remote workers. However, applicants must be self-employed professionals who can prove sufficient financial resources for at least one year, provide proof of qualifications, and health insurance, among other requirements. The visa costs around €75 (approximately Rs 6,700) and allows for a one-year stay, which can be extended to three years.
Portugal is a country well known for its food and wine. It offers a digital nomad visa to all non-EU/EEA residents with a one-year validity. After receiving a digital nomad visa, the holder can apply for a two-year residence permit upon arrival. Just like other countries, Portugal has eligibility criteria for all applicants — proof of remote/individual work, a clean criminal record, accommodation documents, and proof of a minimum salary of €3,280 (approximately Rs 2,95,823). The visa costs around €90 (approximately Rs 8,100).
Spain also offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers. The application fee is €73.27 (approximately Rs 6,608). Applicants are required to provide proof of their undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or three years of work experience, in addition to health insurance, relevant documents of permanent residence in their home country, a clean criminal record, and a valid passport.
