11 European Countries Offering Remote Work Visas for Americans

The number of digital nomads from the U.S. has surged in recent years, growing from 7.7 million in 2019 to 18.1 million by 2024, according to the MBO Partners 2024 State of Independence report. With more jobs becoming remote, more people are considering working while traveling around the world.

While I wouldn’t consider myself a true nomad, I moved to Europe in 2016 for similar reasons: to be part of an international community far from my Kansas roots. Back then, Germany was one of the few countries where U.S. citizens could reside as self-employed workers. So, I moved to Berlin, applied for Germany's freelance artist residence permit, and have been based here ever since. As a travel writer, it’s been perfect to have a stable base in Berlin while being able to travel frequently and on short notice.

Today, many European countries offer relatively easy paths for remote workers and expats to stay longer than a typical tourist visa would allow. Many have introduced special residence programs for digital nomads, and some countries, like Germany, have eased permit regulations for self-employed individuals and remote job seekers. These permits allow for extended stays and the added benefit of easy travel to other destinations for work. (A tip: always check the official government websites for the most current application processes and document requirements, as they can change.)

Thanks to digital nomad visas and residence permits, these 11 European countries make it simple to secure remote work and establish a base for longer stays. It’s time to update your résumé and start hunting for remote job openings on LinkedIn.

1. Germany

• Why Germany: Generous social programs for families, abundant natural spaces, and cities featuring plenty of green areas.
• Cost: 100 euros (approximately US$107)

If you're self-employed in fields such as education, journalism, the arts, or music, you may qualify for Germany's freelancer residence permit. There are other visa options as well. Keep in mind, this process requires careful planning: appointments at the immigration office often book up months in advance, and due to Germany's famously bureaucratic procedures, the paperwork can be extensive.

The advantage of having a residence permit is the flexibility to travel as much as you want, all while being based in the heart of Europe.

Who is eligible to apply?

Anyone who fits the required professions and can fulfill the application criteria. The permit can be renewed indefinitely, or you can apply for permanent residency after five years.

How to apply for Germany’s digital visa

Visit your local city government website to download the application form for the relevant permit. To apply, you’ll need to submit documentation in person at the visa office, including proof of your main residence in Germany (an apartment lease, not an Airbnb), valid health insurance, and proof of income and employment, such as contracts or letters of intent from clients who plan to hire you.

2. Portugal

• Why Portugal: A lively urban experience, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed pace of life
• Cost: 90 euros (around US$99)

In recent years, Portugal has become a magnet for digital nomads, drawing artists, startup professionals, and freelancers to cities like Lisbon and Porto. It’s easy to see why: Portugal is considered one of the best places to retire abroad by International Living. The vibrant arts scenes, amazing cuisine, and thriving expat communities add to its appeal. Surfers with remote work opportunities also head to the Algarve region, home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches along its southern coastline.

Portugal offers a renewable Temporary Stay Visa for digital nomads, which is initially valid for one year and can be extended up to four times, allowing a maximum stay of five years.

Who is eligible to apply?

Remote workers must earn at least four times the national minimum wage in Portugal (currently 3,280 euros per month, or about US$3,600) and provide proof of their income.

How to apply for Portugal’s digital visa

To apply for the Temporary Stay Visa, you’ll need to gather passport photos, proof of employment, a criminal record check, travel insurance, and other documents. Download the application form, complete it, and submit the entire application in person at a Portuguese consulate or embassy along with your supporting materials.

3. Croatia

• Why Croatia: Gorgeous beaches, historic towns, and outstanding local cuisine and wines
• Cost: Pricing varies depending on the application method, but starts around US$180.

Croatia launched its digital nomad residency program in January 2021, attracting remote workers with its stunning natural beauty and Adriatic coastlines. It's a paradise for nature lovers and sea enthusiasts—and a must-visit for Game of Thrones fans, with cities like Dubrovnik and Split featuring ancient ruins, castles, and cobblestone streets that served as iconic settings for the series.

Croatia offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers and freelancers, allowing stays of up to 12 months. However, employment must be with a foreign company, not a Croatian one.

Who is eligible?

Applicants must be self-employed or working remotely for a foreign company, meeting a monthly income requirement. The current threshold is equivalent to 2.5 times the average monthly net salary from the previous year, which is 2,870 euros (around US$3,150) per month.

How to apply for Croatia’s digital nomad visa

You can submit your application either online or in person. If applying online, the local police station near your Croatian residence will evaluate your application. If you're from the U.S. or a visa-exempt country, you can apply at a Croatian embassy or consulate abroad, or at the nearest police station once you’re in Croatia.

Once your application is approved, be sure to register your address and temporary stay promptly after arriving. These processes have tight deadlines—failure to register your temporary address within 30 days will result in revocation of your approval. You’ll also need to collect your biometric residence permit in person at a police station.

4. Iceland

• Why Iceland: Majestic natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and an ideal location between the U.S. and Europe.
• Cost: 12,200 ISK (approximately US$90).

Iceland offers a dreamlike landscape for outdoor lovers, with the capital city, Reykjavík, adding its own charm. The country introduced the Long-Term Visa for non-EU/EEA remote workers in 2020, allowing remote professionals to live in Iceland for up to 180 days.

Who qualifies to apply?

You can apply if you work for a foreign employer or are self-employed in your home country. Applicants must be from outside the EU/EEA/EFTA, must not require a visa to enter Iceland, and must not have held the visa in the past year. Additionally, you need to meet a minimum income threshold: 1,000,000 ISK (around US$7,400) for single applicants, or 1,300,000 ISK (approximately US$9,600) if bringing a partner or spouse.

How to apply for Iceland’s remote worker visa

Complete the application form and gather necessary documents, such as proof of income, health insurance, and passport photos. After paying the fee, submit your application by mail, or drop it off at the Directorate of Immigration’s lobby in Reykjavík. If you're outside the capital, you can submit your application at local District Commissioners’ offices.

5. Greece

• Why Greece: Rich in history, vibrant cities, countless beaches, and over 6,000 islands – did we mention the beaches?
• Cost: 75 euros for the application (around US$85)

Greece is an enticing destination for remote workers, with its stunning islands and cultural cities. Launched in 2021, the digital nomad visa allows freelancers, self-employed individuals, and remote employees for foreign companies to live and work in Greece. The visa is valid for one year, with an option to extend for another year.

Who qualifies to apply?

To be eligible, you need to work remotely and earn a net monthly income of at least 3,500 euros (about US$3,850). If you're bringing family members, additional income adjustments apply.

How to apply for Greece’s digital nomad visa

In addition to documents like proof of work and income, you'll also need to submit evidence of an address in Greece, a clean criminal record, health insurance, and confirmation of good health. Be sure to contact your nearest Greek consulate for the most up-to-date requirements. After submitting your paperwork in person, you'll be notified of your application status within 10 days. Don't forget to register for your residence permit once you arrive in Greece.

6. Malta

• Why Malta: Enjoy mild winters, rich cultural heritage, a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, and stunning natural scenery
• Cost: 300 euros (roughly US$340) per applicant

Living in Malta offers a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle combined with a wealth of things to see and do, all within the country’s compact size. The Nomad Resident Permit is available to freelancers and remote workers employed by foreign companies. This visa is valid for one year, with the option to renew for up to four years, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Who is eligible to apply?

Freelancers, self-employed professionals, or employees working for foreign companies or clients are eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum gross annual income of 42,000 euros (approximately US$46,000). For applications submitted before April 1, 2024, the required income threshold was 32,400 euros (around US$35,600).

How to apply for Malta’s digital nomad visa

Applications must be submitted online. (Refer to the Malta government’s guide for a detailed list of required documents.) If your application is approved, you will receive a Letter of Approval in Principle. Afterward, you must submit proof of accommodation and valid health insurance within 30 days to complete the process.

7. Estonia

• Why Estonia: Affordable living, a trendy atmosphere in Tallinn, thriving startup culture, and a government that’s at the forefront of digital innovation
• Cost: 100 euros (about US$113)

Estonia is known for its vibrant startup ecosystem, innovative art scene, and affordable living, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. In 2020, the country launched a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to live and work there for up to one year.

The country is highly digitalized, offering free Wi-Fi in public spaces and making almost all government services—such as obtaining birth certificates, accessing medical records, and even signing contracts—available online.

Who is eligible to apply?

To qualify, you must work remotely using technology, with a non-Estonian employer or clients. You must also demonstrate that you earned a minimum of 3,504 euros (approximately US$3,988) in the six months preceding your application.

How to apply for Estonia's digital nomad visa

Complete the online application form, then print it out and gather all necessary supporting documents. Take these documents to your nearest Estonian embassy or consulate, and be prepared to wait up to 30 days for your application to be processed. If you're already in Estonia legally, you can apply at a local Police and Border Guard office before your current tourist visa expires.

8. Romania

• Why Romania: Enjoy breathtaking hiking trails, mountains, and the dynamic urban life of Bucharest.
• Cost: Details yet to be confirmed.

Romania’s digital nomad visa launched in January 2022, is part of the country’s strategy to attract high-earning professionals. With its remarkable natural beauty, including the Carpathian Mountains, Danube Delta, and the Transylvanian forest (often dubbed “Europe’s Yellowstone”), Romania offers an appealing environment for digital nomads. When combined with the country’s affordable cost of living, it’s a top choice for remote workers.

Who qualifies?

Applicants must provide medical insurance, proof of employment, and a monthly income at least three times the national average gross salary of 6,095 lei, which is about US$4,170.

How to apply for Romania’s digital nomad visa

You can apply either online or at a Romanian embassy near you.

9. Spain

• Why Spain: Efficient train networks, rich history, and a perfect mix of lively cities and serene countryside
• Cost: Around $85. Upon arrival, you will also need to pay for an NIE (foreign identity number) and a residence permit card, which costs approximately US$22.

In 2022, Spain introduced its digital nomad visa as part of the country’s Startup Act, designed to stimulate innovation in the tech sector. The visa is now open for applications, attracting remote workers from all over, offering them the chance to live in a country with one of the highest standards of living—and indulge in late-night tapas while they’re at it.

Who can apply?

Any foreigner who works remotely for an employer based outside Spain and wants to establish residency in Spain is eligible to apply. Individuals employed by Spanish companies can also apply, provided their income from the Spanish employer does not exceed 20 percent of their total earnings.

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, along with at least three years of relevant work experience in their current field. The visa can also be extended to spouses, partners, and dependent children or relatives.

How to apply for Spain’s digital nomad visa

To apply, candidates must complete a national visa application form, submit a passport photo, a copy of a valid passport, criminal record certificates, proof of residency in their home country, identity verification documents, health insurance details, and evidence of employment (at least three months).

10. Montenegro

• Why Montenegro: Endless natural beauty combined with modern facilities and comfortable living options.
• Cost: 67 euros (around US$72).

Renowned for its striking coastlines and majestic mountains, Montenegro joined the growing list of European nations offering digital nomad programs. In December 2021, the government launched a program that may also include tax benefits, with visas valid for up to two years.

Who is eligible to apply?

Only applicants from outside the EU are eligible for this extended visa. You must demonstrate proof of a monthly income of at least US$1,440 to qualify.

How to apply for Montenegro’s digital nomad visa

To apply, you must visit a Montenegrin embassy, or if one is not nearby, a Serbian embassy. Be prepared for some paperwork in Montenegrin, as all documents will need to be translated.

11. Italy

Why Italy: Renowned for its delicious cuisine, breathtaking architecture, and the enchanting lifestyle of la dolce vita.

Italy’s picturesque villages, serene islands, and beautiful ski resorts make it one of the world’s most beloved countries. In April 2024, Italy launched its new digital nomad visa, giving you ample time to discover iconic cities like Rome and Florence. You can also enjoy the country's quieter off-seasons and avoid the tourist crowds in the most popular spots.

Who is eligible to apply?

Italy’s digital nomad visa caters to two types of applicants: independent workers such as freelancers and consultants, as well as remote employees. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they will earn at least 24,789 euros annually (roughly US$27,200).

How to apply for Italy's digital nomad visa

To begin your application for Italy's digital nomad visa, you must schedule an in-person appointment at an Italian consulate. You’ll also need to submit your application, along with proof of accommodation for the visa's duration and valid health insurance coverage.

Applicants must provide evidence of being a remote worker for at least six months prior to applying. Acceptable documentation includes tax returns and client invoices. Additionally, you must present either a university degree, a professional certification, or demonstrable professional experience.

This article was first published in 2023 and last updated on October 8, 2024, with the latest information available.