8 Best Countries for Digital Nomads (Especially if You Speak Spanish)

Portugal is one of the best countries for digital nomads, especially those seeking access to the European Union.

The country offers the D7 visa, which is ideal for remote workers with a stable passive or foreign income. With world-class internet speed, vibrant coworking scenes in Lisbon and Porto, and a relatively low cost of living, it’s a strong digital nomad hotspot.

Portugal’s tax regime was previously even more appealing due to the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program, which offered tax breaks on foreign income. However, this NHR scheme ended for new applicants as of 2024.

Mexico is a top digital nomad destination thanks to its laid-back lifestyle, good infrastructure, and accessible tourist visa that allows stays up to 180 days. Mexico City, Playa del Carmen and Oaxaca are favorites among remote workers.

There’s no dedicated digital nomad visa, but you can apply for a temporary resident visa if you meet the income requirements. Mexico also has abundant coworking spaces, strong communities, and excellent food.

Thailand, especially Chiang Mai, has long been associated with the digital nomad lifestyle. The cost of living is low, coworking spaces are everywhere, and internet quality is excellent.

Thailand launched a digital nomad visa in 2024 (the Destination Thailand Visa), which allows stays of up to 180 days per visit on a multiple-entry basis within a five-year period. Most nomads still enter on a tourist visa and do border runs to extend their stay.

The new Long-Term Resident Visa may appeal to some, though it requires a minimum annual income and even a master's degree in some cases.

Spain’s digital nomad visa launched recently, giving remote workers from outside the European Union a legal path to stay for up to five years. To qualify, you’ll need to show proof of foreign companies employing you, meet a minimum monthly income, and have a clean criminal record.

Barcelona, Valencia, and Madrid offer great work-life balance, a rich cultural life and thriving nomad communities. Spain also has one of the better internet speeds in Europe and is part of the Schengen area, making travel easy.

Costa Rica’s Rentista visa and newer digital nomad visa options make it one of the most attractive countries for digital nomads in Central America. It requires proof of stable income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Known for its nature, friendly locals and low cost of living in rural areas, Costa Rica combines adventure and productivity. You can apply online and enjoy a nomad lifestyle among rainforests and beaches.

South Korea recently launched a digital nomad visa, aimed at attracting remote workers who want a tech-savvy lifestyle. With blazing-fast internet speed, a rich culture, and the urban pull of Seoul, it’s ideal for those wanting a modern digital nomad destination in Asia.

To be eligible, applicants must meet income requirements, prove employment with foreign companies, and provide health insurance. The country’s safety, efficient infrastructure, and lively coworking culture make it stand out.

Malaysia’s DE Rantau Nomad Pass is one of Asia’s most forward-thinking visas for digital nomads. It allows remote work for foreign clients or companies while living in the country for up to a year.

Kuala Lumpur and Penang have strong coworking ecosystems and vibrant expat scenes. Malaysia offers good infrastructure, low cost of living, and no local income tax on earnings from abroad.

The Dubai digital nomad visa allows remote workers to live in one of the world’s most connected cities for up to a year. To qualify, you need to meet the minimum monthly income criteria, have health insurance, and work for a company outside the UAE.

Dubai attracts digital nomads with its high-end amenities, strong expat community, and business-friendly environment. It’s especially popular among those who want to blend work and travel with a touch of luxury.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.