If you’ve ever wanted to do your desk job from an exotic location, applying for a digital nomad visa could be the answer.
But while being able to combine work with travel may seem like a dream scenario, there are many factors to consider before you buy a one-way ticket.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is a digital nomad visa?
Digital nomad visas are temporary residency permits that
.
The visas vary in length depending on the issuing nation, but they typically last for at least six to 12 months.
While many countries offer you the chance to renew your visa, some do not.
Which countries offer digital nomad visas?
Dozens of nations offer digital nomad visas to Australian citizens.
Among them are:
Source: SBS News
Other nations, like Germany, offer visas that aren’t specifically designed for digital nomads but can be used by foreign nationals to work remotely.
What are the requirements to get a digital nomad visa?
The exact requirements vary between countries, but you typically have to be a foreign national aged 18 or over and be working remotely for a business based in another country to secure a digital nomad visa. In some cases, self-employed freelancers may also be eligible.
Your eligibility will generally depend on your amount of savings and/or income, as well. Japan, for example, will only accept digital nomad visa applicants who earn a minimum income of ¥10 million ($101,450).
Some nations may also require digital nomads to have private health insurance.
How much you have to pay to apply for a digital nomad visa is location-dependent, as well. Norway has one of the most expensive fees in the world at €600 ($988).
What are the challenges digital nomads face?
Logistically, you’ll need reliable access to high-speed internet, amenities, and support services in case your phone or computer suddenly needs to be repaired or replaced.
While some bosses may let you set your own hours, others may require you to be online at the same time as everyone else — meaning you might have to get up in the middle of the night to make your 9am team meeting.
Living and working somewhere that’s likely far away from any of your family, friends, colleagues, and any other support networks can also leave you feeling socially and professionally isolated.
You may also struggle to maintain a healthy work-life balance with the boundaries between the two more easily blurred.
On top of that, you’ll be required to follow local laws, which, depending on where you are, can be miles apart from those you’re used to in Australia.
Those laws include the conditions of your visa, meaning you generally won’t be allowed to work for a business in the country you’re living in.
Do you still have to pay tax as a digital nomad?
Digital nomads are generally only required to pay tax in the country of their employer — but this varies depending on where you’re working from.
Barbados, Croatia, and the United Arab Emirates are among the places that don’t require you to pay income tax while you’re there.
Those that do make digital nomads pay tax typically charge them lower rates than locals.
Many countries don’t require digital nomads to pay local income tax. Source: Getty / Tatiana Meteleva
Can you bring your family on a digital nomad visa?
You can typically apply for a digital nomad visa that includes your spouse or partner, and children aged under 18.
If you’re not married to your partner, you’ll generally need to provide documentation to prove you’re in a relationship.
If you’re planning on heading to Hungary, for example, your partner will need to apply for their own digital nomad visa.
Even if you are married, Hungary requires partners to submit separate digital nomad visa applications.
When it comes to other family members, such as parents or siblings, most countries don’t allow them to be included in your visa application.
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