Forget Paris, Barcelona, London, and the like: if you’re a digital nomad on a European quest for a better quality of life, higher levels of safety, great connectivity––and even culture––your destination may lie further East than you might have suspected at first:
Eastern Europe is brimming with digital nomads, and if Nomad List‘s ranking of Best Places to live in the Old Continent is anything to go by, all your usual Western hotspots are losing momentum as once-overlooked destinations start catching up.
4 Eastern cities in particular seem to be experiencing the biggest surge in visiting nomads, and it’s time we had a look into the why:
Prague, Czechia
The capital of formerly-socialist Czechia, Prague has a monument-packed historic center encompassing an iconic square flanked by Gothic buildings, a 15th-century bridge, ornate Baroque churches, and a hilltop castle that’s among the largest in the world.
It’s called the City of a Hundred Spires, and good luck if you’re climbing up Petrin Hill in an attempt to count all of them (we never got further than maybe 30 ourselves).
Besides its obvious timeless beauty and cultural mightiness that would appeal to Europhiles, Prague is just as enticing a prospect for digital nomads: it’s one of the highest-ranking European cities on Nomad List currently, with near-perfect scores across the board.
Nomads love it for how safe it feels compared to much of Western Europe, where cities like Paris, Barcelona, and London have seen crime increase significantly, lively social scene––Prague’s cosmopolitanism is not to be underestimated––and a myriad of laptop-friendly cafes.
That being said, it’s not one of the cheapest nomad destinations East of the divide, nor the most welcoming:
Monthly expenses total $3,038 to live in (month-long stays on Airbnb cost $1,052 – $1,611, and consumer prices have increased), and based on Nomad List reviews, the perception of racial prejudice is higher among non-European residents, but the good far outweighs the bad.
Skopje, North Macedonia
Capital of a landlocked Balkan state that, much like Czechia, also had a socialist past, Skopje is a surprisingly laid-back city traversed by a scenic river, with your usual cobbled Old Town and castle on a hill––and countless celebratory kitsch statues.
Seriously, we doubt there’s another European city with a higher concentration of sculptures per square mile than Skopje: from Alexander the Great proudly mounting his horse to the pious Mother Teresa (who was born here), there are larger-than-life icons scattered all over the place.
Naturally, taking selfies with Skopje’s infamous rows upon rows of effigies is not the main reason why nomads are coming here: North Macedonia lies both outside the European Union and the eurozone, so needless to say, bureaucracy and prices here are much lower.
1 U.S. dollar equals 56.86 Macedonian denar, and considering the national minimum wage is a mere MKD 22,567, or around $400––as reported by Wage Indicator––you can guess how much further your hard-earned IT dollars will stretch in Skopje.
We’re talking $539 per month for an apartment rental in the city center, within walking distance of all the shops, cafes and main attractions, kebabs for around $6.18 in the Old Bazaar, or $30 for a more luxurious dinner for two in a mid-range restaurant.
Affordability and the absence of strict Schengen rules seem to be the two biggest draws here, as Nomad List respondents have reported ‘fun levels’ are just ‘okay’, and nightlife as being ‘bad’, but if you ever need somewhere cheap enough to lie low for a while, look no further than quirky Skopje.
Warsaw, Poland
One of the most innovative and fastest-growing business centers in the East, Warsaw is not your typical European city with postcardy streets exuding Old World allure and the fairytale castle on a hill, but it has something the others lack:
It’s as cosmopolitan as Europe gets after London, with towering skyscrapers as far as the eyes can see, manmade parks nestled amid the concrete jungle that will evoke your fondest memories of Manhattan, and a thriving social scene only a true global capital can offer.
The visiting nomad may wonder how exactly Warsaw turned out this way when many of its counterparts are, you know, more on the quaint side of things, but the truth is, much of the historical city was destroyed by bombing in World War II.
Boom. Gone. Literally razed to the ground and rebuilt anew from the 50s onwards.
That’s why, in strolling modernism-dominated Warsaw today, you get more ‘America’ vibes than you do ‘Europe’––except it’s kept the walkability, the living standards, and (at least some) of the centuries-old culture.
Old Town Warsaw, a reconstruction of the former medieval center, boasts a high concentration of cafes and pastry shops where nomads are more than welcome to sit and unwind for a while (you may even be able to spot the odd 14th-century structure that survived the bombing).
In Mokotów, however, it’s all about the shopping centers, including one of Warsaw’s busiest at Galeria Mokotów, and the riotous nightlife: Puławska Street is where you’ll find all of the trendiest cocktail bars and brewpubs in town.
Over in Bielany, a more laid-back, calm district on the banks of the scenic Vistula River, nomads get to enjoy peaceful riverside walks and abundant green spaces, and let’s not forget offbeat Powiśle, famous for the quirky art galleries and bistro scene.
As you might have guessed, despite its amazingness that would put it on a par with all of Western Europe’s grandest city breaks, life in Warsaw costs $2,812 per month, as reported by Nomad List, and the big plus is safety:
You’d maybe expect a city as big––1.7 million residents––to be awash with crime and other deep-seated urban problems, but that certainly doesn’t apply to Warsaw, where harm is unlikely to come to you walking alone at night as a woman, and violent crime is (mostly) unheard-of.
Murphy’s law once stated that anything that can go wrong will go wrong, but this doesn’t change the fact that safety levels in Warsaw are higher, and thus your risk of being affected by crime is subsequently lower.
Tbilisi, Georgia
The rising star of Eurasia, Georgia’s Tbilisi is an ancient queen famous for its eclectic architecture, comprising periods of Persian, medieval, Imperial Russian and socialist influence, picturesque Old Town, and most recently, for reinventing itself as a nomad hub:
At present, it’s the highest-charting city in Europe on Nomad List, and to the uninformed onlooker, this might seem a bit surprising considering Georgia’s relative anonymity, but we’re here to shed some light on it:
Unlike the namesake U.S. state, this country is not exactly associated with peaches, as much as it is with wine and centuries-old Orthodox churches.
As for Tbilisi itself, it’s proof that you can have one foot in Europe and another in Asia and get the best of both worlds.
It has a distinctly European feel about it, with wide boulevards lined by stately palatial complexes and ornate building facades, and your usual landmark squares and fairytale castle on a hill, but as nomads have been glad to report, price-wise it’s, well, on a par with Central Asia.
A modest meal in a cheap downtown restaurant will cost you $10, or the equivalent in Georgian lari, whereas a more elaborate dinner for two in a chic restaurant up the high-end Bambis Rigi will probably run you up a reasonable $44.20.
As for Airbnbs, monthly rentals in Tbilisi have definitely become pricier in the last couple of years owing to the influx of nomads––and Russians and Ukrainians fleeing the conflict in Eastern Europe––but there are still apartments for a surprisingly-affordable$665 – $745 per month on Airbnb.
Tbilisi’s unrivaled cafe scene is yet another compelling factor for remote workers. Places like Fabrika, Coffee LAB, and Lui Coffee cater to an international crowd and are well-equipped to host English-speaking guests.
Last but certainly not least, most nomads–and certainly Americans–can stay a whole year in Tbilisi visa-free, thanks to Georgia’s generous open-visa policy.
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
With its lower cost of living, fascinating culture that is unlike anything Westerners have grown up exposed to, and world-class city breaks, Asia is one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads right now, and it would probably be their go-to spot, were it not for one slight caveat:
Across a majority of Asian countries, complex visa regulations continue to discourage digital nomads from traveling and staying longer, be it Bali’s limited 30-day stay policy or Vietnam’s eVisa system that bars Americans from coming unless they’ve obtained authorization in advance.
Luckily for nomads––and more specifically, those who are U.S. passport holders––there are 5 Asian destinations where they’re welcome not only visa-free but for up to 3 whole months:
South Korea
Famous for its K-pop and dorama rom-com exports, a plethora of ancient palaces, flavorful cuisine, and sprawling metropolises, with Seoul and Busan to name a couple, South Korea is one of the trendiest nomad hotspots in Asia right now.
According to Nomad List, you can live in Seoul for around $2,579 a month––cheaper than the average North American and European city––and with the country’s impressive infrastructure and friendliness towards remote workers, you’ll be in no hurry to leave anytime soon.
Thanks to the visa-free agreement with the United States, American nomads can reside in South Korea for 90 days at a time as long as they enter with a valid Korean Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA), which can be obtained online within minutes and lasts for up to 3 years.
For those ready to apply, you can use the official site here at this link.
Japan
Thanks to the weaker yen, which makes your dollars stretch much further, the significant drop in consumer prices, and increased Transpacific connectivity, Japan has become an increasingly popular destination for nomads country-hopping around Asia.
And while it can be pricey to get there, we have some good news. ZIPAIR just introduced nonstop flights from the U.S. to Tokyo from 4 major cities, and tickets are now on sale here.
Living costs across numerous metropolises is now under $3,000, including tried-and-true nomad faves like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and if you’re keen on lingering a while longer and assimilating into the local culture, you’ll be thrilled to learn you can:
Nomads can stay three full months in Japan without applying for a visa beforehand, so long as they fulfill two simple criteria: they must carry a valid biometric U.S. passport and not have been sentenced to one year or more of jail back home.
Taiwan
Taiwan is an independently governed island best known for its vibrant Taipei, where you’ll find night markets and street food galore, dramatic nature, with forested hills occupying over half of its landmass, and, most importantly, Western-leaning policies.
Unlike mainland China, Taipei has upheld democratic values, and Taiwan as a whole is very pro-U.S. This makes it an exciting place to be as an American with a passion for all things China who’s not exactly keen on forfeiting the comforts of living in a freer society.
That’s all nomads who venture into Asia want, essentially, and lucky for U.S. citizens looking to find a temporary home in Taiwan, local authorities grant them a 90-day stay without any sort of pre-entry clearance––all that’s required is presenting a regular passport.
On a day you aren’t cozied up in a coffee shop getting some work done, be sure to explore outside Tapei!
We recommend Northern Taiwan, as it’s mind-blowingly gorgeous. To make it seamless, you can always take a tour like this one.
You’ll have a private day trip from Taipei exploring Northern Taiwan, marveling at the unique rock formations of Yehliu Geopark, and strolling through the historic streets of Jiufen, an inspiration for famous animated films like ‘Spirited Away’.
You’ll wrap up your day by releasing a sky lantern in Pingxi (pictured above), a tradition carrying wishes into the night sky.
Malaysia
Said to be one of the best-developed nations in Southeast Asia, Malaysia occupies a large portion of the lush Malay Peninsula, as well as parts of the island of Borneo, and Muslim-majority state with a surprising openness towards long-term guests:
Owing to its higher standards of living, multicultural scene, and a plethora of laptop-friendly cafés, Kuala Lumpur has become one of the continent’s most prominent digital nomad hotspots, especially when it costs under $1,350 a month to call it home, as noted by Nomad List.
Regarding visa policies, Malaysia is at complete odds with its neighbor and sibling nation Singapore, where the length of a tourist visa is capped at a restrictive 30 days: landing in Kuala Lumpur, Americans get issued a 3-month entry stamp.
Thailand
We’ve saved the best for last.
With established nomad hubs like Bangkok and Chiang Mai to its name, a whopping 1,956 miles of combined, pristine coastline, not to mention the hundreds of paradisiacal islands––does Phuket ring a bell?––Thailand is a safe haven of the sorts for digital nomads in Asia.
Occupying the top two positions on Nomad List‘s ranking of Best Places to Live in the continent, with Bangkok going as far as leading the global chart, it offers affordable month-long stays from as cheap as $1,012, and, most importantly, relaxed visa regulations.
In case you aren’t aware, Thailand has recently eased its tourist visa rules further: previously, Americans could remain in the national territory visa-free for 30 days, in line with a majority of Asian destinations, but as of May 2024, 60 days have been added.
In effect, tourists get issued an automatic 60-day visa, which can be extended for 30 days prior to expiration, at the discretion of immigration officers––this means digital nomads can now settle temporarily in Thailand for 3 months visa-free if they don’t wish to pursue a long-term residence.
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Asia is one of the most in-demand continents for digital nomads globally.
Not only is it inherently fascinating, boasting an immense cultural wealth certain to appeal to Westerners, but it is also, for the most part, far more welcoming towards foreigners andincredibly cheap to live in.
If you don’t exactly fit in with the multi-million Dubai entrepreneurial crew, and Europe’s visa rules are far too complex to navigate, the Far Orient is the perfect home base for working while enjoying a higher quality of life––and spending far less on it.
On that note, here are 4 amazing Asian countries where both living costs can average $2,000 or under, and easy-to-apply Digital Nomad Visas are widely available:
Philippines
An archipelagic nation in Southeast Asia hugged by teal-colored seas, the Philippines is an up-and-coming nomad haven offering affordable options for long-term accommodation, inexpensive food, and great weather for most of the year (minus monsoon season).
Some of its busiest workcation hubs include Manila, a vibrant capital combining Spanish colonial forts and modern skyscrapers, Cebu City, where you’re as likely to find European-inspired Baroque cathedrals as you are Taoist temples, and tropical island getaway Palawan.
Based on Numbeo estimates, it costs roughly $869 per month to live in the Philippines with rent, with particularly-low prices observed for food and transportation: eating out in the Central Market in Manila, you can find a range of Filipino delicacies from only $3.57.
What Are The Requirements For The Philippines Digital Nomad Visa?
Normally, foreigners can only be in the Philippines for up to 30 days visa-free, but as reported by VisaGuide, nomads are eligible to stay for a rather-generous 2 years by applying for the Philippines Digital Nomad Visa.
Essentially, they must meet a certain income requirement, currently estimated to be over $24,000, provide a clean criminal record as well as proof of engagement in remote work, and health insurance covering the 2-year stay is also required.
The best part is nomads in the Philippines are considered non-tax residents, meaning they live in the country, but as they are not employed by a Philippines-based business, and thus not involved in local business activities, they aren’t subject to local income tax.
Thailand
Up next is Thailand, affectionately called The Land of Smiles, with bustling national capital Bangkok, Chiang Mai, a UNESCO-listed, temple-dotted city, and a beach-fringed Phuket Island, with all ranking as popular workcation spots.
Out of those, Bangkok is the definitive winner, owing it to its thriving expat scene, abundance of laptop-friendly eateries, legendary nightlife––probably the best anywhere in Asia––and most importantly, remarkable inexpensiveness.
Living costs will typically total $1,290 in Bangkok, if you’re eating local and your Airbnb rental is a 1-bedroom apartment in a residential zone, and though prices can increase slightly on the islands, Thailand as a whole remains budget-friendly.
What Are The Requirements For The Thailand Digital Nomad Visa?
Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa is pretty straight-forward, though it may not be suitable for middle-income workers: you must hold a passport currently valid for at least 6 months still and your annual income must mount up to over $80,000.
It’s not like relocating to Thailand as a nomad is exactly a breeze, compared to the 2-month visa-free stay as a tourist, but if you have the money for it, it’s entirely doable, and once approved, you may then remain in the country for up to 15 years!
There is yet another appealing benefit: instead of the 35% tax rate applicable to regular residents, nomads are granted a major discount, paying only 17% in taxes, and in some cases, they could be eligible for tax exemption if their income originates from overseas.
Japan
The darling of American in Asia, Japan is best-known for its sprawling urban centers, stunning nature, millennia-old rites and delectable cuisine, and despite not being as cheap as the other entries on this list, it’s been surging in popularity with digital nomads lately.
Whether it’s a neon-lit Tokyo, pagoda-dominated Kyoto, or an electric Osaka, there are co-working spaces galore, and if you’re not the splurging type, there are plenty of cheap eats in restaurants costing from as little as $6.95, not to mention monthly rental starts from $626.66.
Overall, Numbeoreports it costs an approximated $1,641 – $2,215 to live on a budget in a major city––that’s definitely on the pricier end for Asia, but we don’t know a single nomadic American who wouldn’t be happy living in dreamy Japan on under $3,000 a month.
What Are The Requirements For The Japan Digital Nomad Visa?
As an American citizen, you can already enter Japan visa-free for up to 3 months, and there are no known restrictions on carrying out remote work from within the country, so long as your source of income isn’t Japan-based and your primary reason for traveling is tourism.
That being said, you may opt for the just-launched Japan Digital Nomad Visa, granting you a 6-month stay––double the tourist visa––and believe it or not, the financial threshold for eligibility is lower than Thailand’s!
Other than the usual documentation and background checks, like health insurance, a clean criminal record and proof of online job, you must earn a minimum 10 million Japanese yen annually (don’t worry, that translates into a reasonable $69,666 as of October 2024).
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
As a digital nomad based in Europe, I have traveled extensively around the continent, working remotely from every country you can possibly name across the pond, from the tourist hotspots of France and Italy to the lesser-known Baltic states and the multicultural Balkan Peninsula.
Nope, I haven’t skipped the millionaire-owned micro-state of Monaco, war-raging Russia and its neighbors, nor newly-born Kosovo, one of the poorest states in Europe.
With over 40 European countries under my belt, I was bound to have a personal favorite by now.
That one special place that keeps pulling me back, where I could actually see myself staying longer than the usual three months or even putting down roots at some point down the line, and that somehow feels like my home away from home.
When I set out to visit every European country as a digital nomad, never would I have expected an unheard-of, post-communist state most tourists mistakenly believe to be dangerous, and even not worth seeing, to rank at the top of the list by the end of the five-year journey, yet here we are.
It’s beautiful Albania that stole my heart, and this is why I believe it is the strongest contender for European Digital Nomad Capital:
Why Albania Of All Places?
Unless you’ve been country-hopping around Europe as a tourist for a while, having had to come up with ingenious ways to extend your stay beyond the restrictive 90-day Schengen rule, it is unlikely you have passed through Albania, much less heard of it.
We’re here to remedy that together, but first, where even is Albania?
Geography isn’t everyone’s forte, so I won’t dawdle and waste your time going into the specifics of it: all you have to know it is located across the Adratic sea from Italy, and just north of Greece.
We know what you’re thinking: if it borders these two popular vacation spots, could Albania be yet another off-path Mediterranean destination waiting on the sidelines to be discovered?
The short answer is a resounding Yes!, and the shocking part is it’s been deliberately concealed for decades.
What we mean by that is it was actually kept hidden, so we wouldn’t blame you for not having the foggiest idea about Albania beforehand: as customary in Eastern Europe in the 20th century, the country was ruled by an iron-fisted communist regime.
Why Haven’t You Heard Of Albania Before?
Albania’s dictatorship was among the harshest in Europe, with very few people being allowed to leave the territory, and likewise, only a select number of visitors were allowed to enter well into the 90s, meaning this wing of the Mediterranean was virtually off-limits only three decades ago.
In case you’ve been wondering, Albania is now an open, progressive state, having adopted democratic principles since the collapse of communism and being on a firm path to aligning with the Western World: it joined NATO in 2009, and it has applied to become a member of the European Union.
The latter aspiration has not been as successful yet, but we’ll get into that soon enough – the question is, why has this unsung, troubled nation surpassed every other Southern European competitor to become my safe haven as a digital nomad?
I don’t know about you, but like any self-proclaimed Europhile, this continent’s immense cultural wealth was a decisive factor in my decision to stay a whole five years so far, and my dear fellow nomads, sure Albania has a lot going for it on the culture front:
Hospitality Is At The Heart Of Albanian Culture
Albania is a one-of-a-kind-country, in the sense that its language (Albanian) is not closely-related to any other languages on the periphery, like Serbo-Croatian or Bulgarian share similitaries, and its culture is markedly different from the Slavic-dominated Southeastern Europe.
Family is extremely important, and it’s not uncommon to find nuclei of relatives living together in the same neighborhood, or even the same street, and to them, hospitality is not only a long-standing tradition, but a national value.
In the words of renowned Albanian novelist Ismail Kadare, who couldn’t have phrased it better:
‘Of God and the guest, you see. So, before it is the house of its master, it is the house of one’s guest. The guest, in an Albanian’s life, represents the supreme ethical category, more important than blood relations. One may pardon the man who spills the blood of one’s father or of one’s son, but never the blood of a guest.’
There were certainly occasions where Airbnb hosts would invite me to partake in rounds of raki tasting shortly after we’ve made acquaintances, and hospitable locals would invite me back to theirs to share high-spirited conversations and a hot meal.
As a digital nomad traveling solo, actively seeking to distance himself from other expats to fully immerse in the local way of life, it was definitely not a challenge to befriend Albanians, even if the older generations are more proficient in Italian than they are in English.
If anything, my rusty Italian and poor attempts at mouthing basic words in Albanian would get me humorous smiles in response, friendly pats on the shoulder, and more raki invitations: I’m not sure previous writers have coined this already, but Albanians are the Latin Americans of Europe.
The Whole Of Albania Should Be A UNESCO Heritage Site
We know you’re here for some of that Old World flair, the cobbled towns with origins lost to time, and fairytale castles Disney has tried their best to emulate in kitsch theme parks, and you’ll be glad to know Albania has its fair share of manmade wonders.
From the Accursed Mountains in the north, home to the ethnic village of Theth, best known for its rustic cottages and solitary church, to the medieval citadel in Kruje, south towards a UNESCO-listed, Ottoman-built Berat, and the Stone City of Gjirokaster, this country’s beauty is truly boundless.
The 296-mile long Mediterranean coast is littered with historic port cities as well, including Durres, where a 5th-century castle still stands, the charming Vlore, with its Italian-inspired, pastel Old Town, and the hilltop, whitewashed village of Dhermi, overlooking the turquoise sea.
If you’re looking forward to wearing your Indy Jones hat again, Butrint is a vast archaeological zone dating back to the 10th century BC, encompassing flooded Byzantine palaces, partially-preserved colonnaded agoras, and a landmark Greek theater.
The point is, Albania may not be as popular as some of its closest neighbors, for the reasons already outlined above, but it certainly does not suffer from a shortage of heritage sites. In fact, it’s almost as if it’s taken a page from the book of every other Mediterranean hub in the vicinity:
A Potpourri Of Everything That’s Great About Europe
With Its Own Little Albanian Twist
Some of its settlements are as ancient as Italy’s, it is just as warm as Greece, the pebbly beaches as pristine as Croatia’s, the local cuisine rivals Spain’s, and it is as topographically diverse as France, with a territory that comprises both towering alpine peaks and a subtropical coast.
I’m not averse to harsh winters myself, and I’m a firm believer that, in order to truly appreciate the balmy days of summer, you need to experience the changing of the seasons, but if you can live without the occasional snow, coastal Albania will not disappoint.
Temperatures can plummet to negative levels in northern Albania, but much of the coast remains perfectly sunny and a pleasant 64°F. Having visited in February myself, I was surprised to find that the additional wool coats and puffer jackets I packed ‘in case’ were not at all necessary.
If you’re hell-bent on escaping the cold, the laid-back coastal village of Ksamil, a stone’s throw away from the lively harbor city of Saranda, is your best bet at year-round springtime weather, with lemon trees, soft white-sand beaches and teal-colored waters making up the scenery.
Don’t Come To Albania On A Strict Diet
Albania may be isolated in terms of language and culture, but the food served in Albanian homes and restaurants is typically Mediterranean and Eurasian in character, having been heavily influenced by Italy, Slavic gastronomic practices, and even Turkish cuisine.
Its cheese and spinach-filled, flaky-dough byrek pastry is a variation of the Turkish burek, the cold cucumber soup takes direct inspiration from Bulgaria’s tarator, and I could certainly draw parallels between Gjirokaster’s qifqi rice balls and the more mainstream Italian arancini.
That being said, there are a number of native delicacies only Albania can lay claim to, with my personal favorites being the deep-fried petulla fritter, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, typically served with butter and jam, and tavë kosi, lamb baked in yogurt.
Given Albania’s ample selection of dairy and hearty meat-based dishes, not to mention the fresh seafood and fruit growing in abundance in the verdant hinterland, rest assured you’ll never go hungry here, whether you’re staying in a small qytet on the shores of the Adriatic, or the sprawling capital city of Tirana.
How Nomad-Friendly Is Albania?
How about digital nomad infrastructure, a.k.a. long-term rentals, availability of coworking cafes, foreigner-friendly services, and so on?
I’ll be honest with you: outside major urban centers, life as a remote worker can be challenging (at times).
That is particularly true in the off-season, when restaurants and guesthouses on the coast typically close down, and getting around without a car is an adventure you don’t want to embark on.
Albania is nothing short of stunning, but it’s years behind in development compared to the average European country.
For that reason, I would recommend you spend most of your time in a large city like Tirana, where there’s enough of a social scene and nighttime services to keep you entertained, as well as bus connections to the resort zones on the Adriatic coast, unless a quaint village life resonates with you.
Tirana Beyond The Grey Clusters Of Communist Apartment Blocks
Tirana may not be the prettiest of capitals – much of the old city has been razed to the ground in favor of a modernist makeover – but you can’t deny it is intriguing, with communist-era bunker museums, artifical lakes and eccentric high-rises dominating the skyline.
If you’re a regular cafe-goer, you should probably know Albania is a global leader in the number of cafes, with around 654 such establishments per 100,000 inhabitants.
There are no Starbucks, but there are plenty of local-owned and Mulliri Vjeter coffeehouses around.
Mulliri Vjeter is the oldest coffee chain in Albania, and stores are typically rustic in character, offering visiting nomads free WiFi and a cozy nook to work from. Central Tirana is loaded with those, and not a day goes by that I don’t miss their signature Capuccino Chocomel.
It’s truly no wonder Tirana has proudly taken up the mantle of Europe’s center for digital nomadism, hosting a Digital Nomad Conference since 2022 and with an expat community that continues to grow year after year.
The Top 5 Best Digital Nomad Destinations In Albania
The way I see it, the top five best destinations for digital nomads in Albania are:
Tirana: the exciting capital city, packed with quirky cafes, oozing urban art, and full of verdant parks for temporarily escaping the city crowds and crazy traffic
Shkoder: the cultural heart of Northern Albania, famous for its revitalized, restaurant-lined Old Town and an imposing 2,400-year-old Rozafa Castle
Durres: the busiest port, offering ferry connections to Italy and distinguished by its ruined, recently-unearthed Roman amphitheater and Venetian Tower
Saranda: the largest city in the Albanian Riviera, bounded by the teal-colored waters of the Adriatic and within short driving distance of the up-and-coming leisure zone of Ksamil
Elbasan: the fourth-largest city in Albania, and one of its food meccas, where I tried the best jani me fasule on the trip (make sure you add Taverna Kala to your list of restaurants)
Albania Is The Cheapest Country I’ve Been In Europe
It only took me a couple of days of being in Albania to understand, at least in part, why nomads like me are finding an unlikely home in this overlooked Adriatic gem: prices are the cheapest I’ve seen anywhere in Europe.
On average, Albania is 40.6% less expensive than Western Europe, with meals in inexpensive restaurants costing an acceptable $10.43, based on data gathered by Numbeo, and monthly expenses for a single person capping at roughly $700, excluding rent.
Even though accommodation costs aren’t included in this estimate, rent can be up to 69% cheaper than Paris or London, two overpriced cities that will wipe your wallet clean if you’re not careful enough. Luckily, living costs are nowhere near as exorbitant in Albania.
A quick Airbnb search led me to find seafront condos in Vlore for only $617 per month this April, whole apartments with dedicated workspaces in Saranda for a negligible $343, while in Tirana, there are private, centrally-situated flats for as cheap as $520 monthly.
It Is Incredibly Safe For Foreigners
Not only is Albania remarkably cheap to live in, it is just as safe as fellow Southern European states Italy and Spain.
That’s not my own judgment, but the U.S. State Department’s, which officially considers Albania a low-risk destination, as seen here.
Having spent most of my time between Tirana, Shkoder and Durres, never once did I feel unsafe walking the streets during the day, or get ‘jumpy’ in crowded areas, as much as I normally do in busier areas of Barcelona, or sketchy zones of South Dublin.
While I wouldn’t take my chances going for a late evening stroll in Tirana – Albanian cities are not particularly well-lit at night – crime levels are under acceptable levels, and visitors are rarely, if ever, affected by violence.
Your main concern here is pickpocketing, though I never felt the need to hide my phone when out in public, and judging by the amount of jewelry Albanian women wear and the fancy sportscars the men drive, nobody’s visibly worried about petty theft, either.
Naturally, general safety advice applies, but odds are you’ll be fine. Once I was lulled to sleep by the gentle sound of crashing waves at a busy Ksamil beach, with my laptop bag by my side, and I startlingly woke up to find it still untouched where I left it.
I’m not sure this fortunate outcome was an exception to the rule, or whether Albania is really so safe your personal unattended items will be probably left alone, but it doesn’t change the fact I’ve never felt on edge, nor remotely suspicious of the people around me.
Believe it or not, I’ve saved the best for last:
Are You A U.S. Passport Holder?
You Can Stay An Entire Year In Albania
Every digital nomad based in Europe has a love-and-hate relationship with Schengen.
In case you’re not familiar with the term, it corresponds to a 27-country-strong, passport-free zone where customary cross-border checks typically do not apply.
All of Europe’s top destinations are signatories to Schengen. I’m talking France, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Spain, and the list goes on: flying, taking trains, or boarding ferries between any of the Schengen states, you will not be subject to passport control.
The only downside to Schengen? You can only be present in the Schengen territories for 90 days out of any 180-day period. In other words, if you’ve used up your 90 days in Spain, another Schengen country can’t be your next destination for another three months.
In Albania’s case, the strict Schengen policy does not apply, as it is not a member of the European Union (EU), and it is not bound to join the borderless area anytime soon in the future.
Foreign nationals get a whole 90 day-stay in Albania, irrespective of time spent elsewhere in Europe.
If you’re an American citizen, however, you’re issued a whole year-long tourist visa upon arrival, on the basis of being a U.S. passport holder alone, making Albania the perfect long-term destination, if you’re not merely looking for a grey zone to wait for your Schengen clock to reset.
Despite being outside the EU, Albania remains at the heart of Europe, sharing land borders with four other countries, and boasting low-cost flight connections to the entire continent, with fares starting from $19 on Ryanair.
What Are Some Of The Main Downsides About Life As A Nomad In Albania?
What are some of the negative aspects about life in Albania as a digital nomad, you may ask?
I have already touched on some of those throughout this article, but I would say some of the main ones include:
The lack of public transport (good luck getting from point A to B if you’re not renting a car and you have reservations about hitchhiking)
With the exception of the main motorways linking Tirana to the coastal ports and resort towns, the regional road network can be quite precarious, with lots of potholes and missing road signs (if you’re driving, I would advise against hitting the gas, especially after sundown when visibility is lower)
Reception can be poor in remote areas, particularly up in the mountains, so make sure you save your drafts working from your computer during that bumpy ride up the Accursed range, or you might have to write that 1,500-word article from scratch again (not that it’s happened to me…)
This is no spotless, idyllic, First-World European country: basically, as much as you try to turn a blind eye, you can’t easily ignore the poverty-stricken areas
Nomad-friendly facilities, like work-friendly cafes and coworking offices may be harder to come across outside cities like Tirana, Shkoder and Durres (I would add Berat and Gjirokaster, but compared to the capital city, they are not even close to being considered well-equipped)
Social attitudes in Albania are pretty carefree, considering this is one of Europe’s handful of Muslim-majority countries, but I wouldn’t encourage you to show affection with your same-sex partner in public if you don’t want to get grumpy Albanian nonos to curse you lowly, or more rarely, an unfriendly shoulder bump
If you’re flying, your only way into and out of Albania is via Tirana: mind-boggling as it may be, there are no airports yet on the Adriatic Coast, and the country’s only other operational international airport is located in Kukës, near the Kosovo border (with a single seasonal flight route to Basel in Switzerland)*
*The easiest way to get to Southern Albania is actually flying first to the Greek island of Corfu, which lies just offshore, and then take a ferry to Saranda. The journey takes just over half an hour on average.
Needless to say, the good far outweighs the bad, and I can’t wait to be back in Albania myself this summer. I’m now based in Paris, and there’s no way I’m sticking around to see how utterly anarchic this city will get once the Olympics – or should I say Hunger Games? – commence.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
With gentrification having ruined a number of tried-and-true workcation spots worldwide, from a no-longer-peaceful Tulum, all the way over to Tbilisi, in Georgia, where rental prices have shot through the roof since it got ‘discoverd’, I get it if you feel as if you’re running out of options.
Us digital nomads are always looking for the cheaper alternatives, preferably those yet to be ruined by mass tourism––or should we say, mass nomadism in this case––and based on a new report published by Search Logistics, we might just have found them.
The digital marketing agency has listed 3 surprising cities as the best destinations for digital nomads in 2025, and having lived experience in all of them myself, I’m inclined to agree:
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The third-best ranked is Rio de Janeiro (or just Rio), in Brazil: this vibrant coastal metropolis backed by verdant mountains and straddling an azure ocean scores 62.35 out of 100, and it’s the closest Brazil gets to a digital nomad paradise.
I mean, between the postcard-ready beaches––think a world-famous Ipanema or a glityz Copacabana––and the eclectic cultural scene, with colonial buildings and samba bars galore, it’s easy to see how Rio would be stealing the hearts of my fellow long-term travelers.
I particularly love it for its laid-back atmosphere (Praia do Leme and some fresh coconut is all the relaxation you need after a long office day), and plethora of laptop-friendly brunch spots, though my absolute favorite is American-run Gringo Cafe in Ipanema.
As beautiful as Rio may be, however, I’d encourage you to proceed with caution: definitely do not flash valuables in public (this includes your phone), beware of pickpockets, and if you’re going to a favela event or gathering––foreigners love those, for some reason––do not go unaccompanied.
Average cost of living in Rio de Janeiro according to Numbeo
Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $5.77
A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $34.44
Monthly cost of transportation: $49.08
One-bedroom apartment in downtown Rio: $419.58
Estimated monthly expenses: $996
Bucharest, Romania
Taking up the runner-up slot is Bucharest, with a score of 65.62, the fascinating capital of Romania, and an Eastern European gem I called home for just over a month many winters ago, and I am glad it is finally getting the praise it deserves:
Bucharest has incredibly-diverse architecture, with elements of Belle époque and Soviet-style Brutalism, and it’s a hugely-underrated cultural hub playing host to world-class art galleries––if you’re a museum geek like me, I would strongly suggest you pay the National Museum of Art a visit.
I won’t lie to you, the endless clusters of communist-era apartment blocks away from the Paris-coded city center may feel oppressive at times, especially if you’ve grown up as a Western kid, but the good thing about Bucharest is, there’s always a tranquil park to escape to.
Herastrau in spring puts New York’s Central Park to shame, and a peaceful Parcul Tineretului in Sector IV is great for beating the downtown crowds, and the nearby Erbario Coffee is a cozy eatery serving brunch and specialty coffee at local prices.
Average cost of living in Bucharest according to Numbeo
Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $11.66
A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $52.98
Monthly cost of transportation: $16.95
One-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest: $596.14
Estimated monthly expenses: $1,304
Bangkok, Thailand
Taking the lead on a score of 69.98 out of 100, the temple-dotted urban sprawl that is Bangkok, Thailand is officially the best destination for digital nomads next year according to Search Logistics, and in all fairness, I second that:
Not only is this supported by Nomads, which lists Bangkok as the most popular city in the community right now, Bangkok is essentially a Mecca for remote workers thanks to its extensive list of coworking spaces, unmatched social scene, and dirt cheap prices.
You can get dinner for $3, pamper yourself with a foot massage for around $8, and spend as little as $154 in a week––well, you could probably get the same, if not cheaper, in places like Chiang Mai, in Northern Thailand, or Hanoi, in Vietnam, but you get my point.
Last but not least, Bangkok is just unabashed, riotous fun from Monday to Monday, with gay-friendly Silom Soi 4 catering to a libertarian crowd, and a busy Sukhumvit Soi 11 offering a big selection of cocktail bars and laid-back rooftop venues.
Average cost of living in Bangkok according to Numbeo
Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $2.85
A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $28.52
Monthly cost of transportation: $37.07
One-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest: $555.16
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
With its ancient culture, impressive levels of safety, and great infrastructure, Europe seems to be the end goal of a significant percentage of digital nomads.
Cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Split have all become workcation havens in recent years.
The only downside to those? Anti-expat sentiment is growing across the Old Continent, as local markets become saturated and prices shoot up in response, so it’s only natural remote workers would be turning their gaze elsewhere to look for cheaper, more welcoming spots.
If you’re wondering which European gems are trending for 2025, here are 5 top (inexpensive) picks taken fromNomad List‘s fastest-rising list:
Timisoara, Romania
A mid-size city in Northwestern Romania offering an alternative to an all-too-chaotic Bucharest, Timisoara is distinguished by its stately, Vienna-inspired Secessionist buildings, 11-dome Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Orthodox architecture, and scenic riverfront.
The pedestrian-friendly center is flush with cafes and youth hostels that turn into lively bars at night. If you’ve been watching in dismay as crime spirals out of control in Western Europe, Timisoara is very safe in comparison, boasting a ‘very low’ level of crime on Numbeo.
Plus, it’s incredibly affordable to live in, costing $1,808 per month. Romania offers some of the cheapest consumer prices anywhere on the continent, and in Timisoara in particular, you can find meals for as cheap as $8.80 in local restaurants and monthly rentals from $425.55.
Faro, Portugal
In the Westernmost end of Europe, an often overlooked Faro is fast-increasing in popularity with nomads.
It is replacing the usual nomad hotspots of Lisbon and Porto, which (let’s be honest) are pretty much done for, what with the astounding increase in rent.
In Faro, on the other hand, you get the Baroque cathedral, the cobbled Old Town, and the pristine sandy coast at much cheaper rates––$1,987 a month versus Lisbon’s pricey $3,290––not to mention a plethora of laptop-friendly eateries and smaller crowds.
Though it is the capital of the sun-drenched Algarve region, Faro feels more like a small town where life unfolds at a much slower pace, and it feels peaceful even in the peak season, as all those British tourists will be hitting the beach in Portimão and Lagos instead.
Antalya, Türkiye
Over in Türkiye, Antalya boasts a minaret-dotted Old Town, ringed by Roman-era city walls and ornate commemorative archways, endless miles of beaches, and unusually milder temps, making it is the perfect destination for those who love ancient culture, as well as basking in the sun:
Temperatures increase up to 68°F as early as April, and there are numerous beaches lined by casual restaurants to be enjoyed, including a trendy Konyaaltı, backed by the towering Anatolian mountains and lapping turquoise-blue waters.
As for the cost of living, you should set aside some $1,507 per month relocating to Antalya, where dinners can cost a negligible $7.30, or a still-acceptable $43.77 for a three-course meal for two, and the price of basic accommodation averages $648.86.
Podgorica, Montenegro
In the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Podgorica is great for a temporary relocation due to its friendly locals, thriving social scene and economical prices, as well as the fact it lies outside the Schengen Area, allowing nomads to remain longer than the restrictive 90 days in Europe.
Despite being the Montenegrin capital, it’s not the Montenegro you’d expect, and by that we mean, it’s no ocher-colored ancient gem lining a teal-colored Adriatic: it’s known instead for its Ottoman-built Old Town, rebuilt after the World Wars, Yugoslav-era apartment blocks, and verdant city parks.
Similarly to neighboring Croatia, Montenegro has got significantly expensive for nomads in recent years, especially places like Kotor and Budva, but not Podgorica, where having ćevapi for lunch will set you back roughly $8.75, while a centrally-situated one-bedroom apartment is $602.21.
Skopje, North Macedonia
Balkan Europe for the win! One of the greatest traction-gainers for 2025, as well as the cheapest nomad destination on this list, Skopje in North Macedonia should definitely be on your list if medieval castles and Turkish-style bazaars are your thing––and you don’t mind the odd quirky sculpture.
Known as the ‘Kitsch Capital of Europe‘, its skylineis dominated by monumental bronze figures, from Alexander the Great to Mother Teresa, historic stone bridges, and a hilltop fortress overlooking a meandering river: the quintessential European postcard.
The only difference compared to most nomad hubs across the pond? Total expenses are estimated to cap at a much-lower $1,364: ordering some Turkish coffee and a slice of pie in the center of town will have you forking out a mere $6.39, and rent typically starts from $360.45.
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
There are 2 things digital nomads always seem to be drawn to when planning a relocation, either temporarily or permanently: a higher quality of life than their former morose, Stateside suburban existence and great weather.
With so many workcation hotspots to choose from in the Global South, however, you may be wondering which tropical locations offer the best infrastructure (and minimal bureaucracy) to aspiring nomads.
Well, thanks to the experts at Nomad Capitalist, a community helping entrepreneurs build a ‘freedom lifestyle’ anywhere in the globe, now we have the 4 best picks:
Dominica
Not to be mistaken for the Dominican Republic, the home of Punta Cana and La Romana, Dominica is a lesser-known island––still in the Caribbean––except it’s not somewhere you go primarily for all-inclusive resort stays and bachelor parties.
The main reason why the Nomad Capitalist has handpicked Dominica is the fact it’s a tax-free haven where foreigners making money from abroad are essentially exempt from paying contribution––not to mention they can get citizenship by buying state-approved property at over $200,000.
That’s good-enough an incentive already, but we’d argue Dominica’s greatest strength is the fact it’s a wonder of nature: picture a mountainous island dotted with hot springs, criss-crossed with hiking trails that lead to monumental waterfalls, and honey-colored sands lapped by teal-colored seas.
Additionally, rent in Roseau, the colorful capital with timber houses, can be as low as $916 a month, and the cost of living is probably the lowest among the destinations on this list: based on Numbeoestimates, you can live comfortably on the island on $927 (not including rent).
Saint Kitts and Nevis
A dual-island state nestled between the azure Atlantic and the turquoise Caribbean, Saint Kitts and Nevis is the perfect alternative to the jam-packed Jamaica and Dominican Republic, with its unruffled beaches lined by select few hotels, peaceful atmosphere, and lower crime rates.
It is also popular for hiking: in Saint Kitts, the most sought-after climb is a cloud-enveloped Mount Liamuiga, home to a crater lake, whereas in Nevis, the Nevis Peak Trail hike rises 1,200 feet above sea level, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding greenery.
If you’re a culture buff like us, you can’t skip Brimstone Hill Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 17th-century St. Thomas Church, one of the oldest in the Caribbean, and Hamilton House, a plantation where Alexander Hamilton––yes, the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury––was born!
With so much to offer, Saint Kitts and Nevis is definitely not just another long weekend getaway, so we guess it’s a good thing Basseterre, its 17,000-people-strong capital boasting a high concentration of colonial landmarks and museums, has Airbnb stays for as cheap $1,052 monthly.
Antigua and Barbuda
This one’s for the crowd-adverse nomad who’s looking simply to unwind, bask in the balmy sun, and get themselves a cozy nook to work by the beach with ocean vistas: a Caribbean country comprising two namesake islands, Antigua and Barbuda is the answer to all your prayers!
It’s one of the westernmost sovereign states on the sea, right at the point where it meets the open Atlantic.
It’s best distinguished for its reef-fringed beaches, lush rainforests, and yachting clubs for the super-rich.
As a nomad who’s based here for longer than a week, your needs are likely to be met in the small capital of St. John’s, away from the resort zones, where there are fully-furnished Airbnb apartments starting from an acceptable $1,219 a month, and a seafood dish in a no-frills restaurant costs $9.25.
Other than the warm climate and abundant nature, one of the biggest appeals is the fact that U.S. citizens are granted a 6-month stay, with no requirement other than nationality, provided they can prove they have sufficient funds to cover expenses and will be leaving at the end of said period.
Cayman Islands
Elected best beach destination in the world by the Nomad Capitalist, the Cayman Islands are best known for their stunning swimming sites––the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach has powdery white sands and aquamarine waters––colorful reefs, and laid-back resort towns.
Beautiful Caribbean scenery aside, the Caymans have a charming, surprisingly well-equipped capital in George Town, a relic of the British colonial period, where nomads will find a lively social scene and laptop-friendly eateries with reliable WiFi (check out AROMA in Camana Bay).
Cayman Islands are the darling of millionaires who are looking to invest in real estate, and indeed, a USD$ 2.4 million investment in real estate offers an easy pathway to citizenship, but that doesn’t mean small business owners on a tighter budget aren’t welcome.
It’s definitely not the cheapest nomad hub in the Caribbean, but according to Numbeo, you can still eat affordably in local restaurants for around $30, and you don’t need to make millions of dollars to qualify for a long-term stay: all Americans get a six-month leave to enter traveling as tourists.
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and snow will blanket much of the U.S. before we know it.
The good news is that there are still plenty of places to visit for winter sun, and perhaps no type of traveler knows this better than digital nomads.
This newfound travel trend of recent years has quite literally taken over the globe, where remote workers bounce around the world with their laptops in tow.
Chances are not many digital nomads have Iceland, Norway, or Sweden in their sights for the coming months, but the Caribbean is another story.
Why suffer through a frigid winter with such a flexible lifestyle?
While Cancun, Punta Cana, and even Curacao make for great bases, there’s one little-known island welcoming digital nomads for a full year – and the ‘Remote Workers Stamp‘ is a straightforward process to get approved.
Montserrat: A Blip On The Map Ready To Make A Name For Itself
Ever heard of Montserrat? Most people would say no.
This tiny island between St. Kitts & Nevis and Guadeloupe, a pair of other lesser-known gems in their own right, sandwich Montserrat in the open sea.
This British Overseas Territory is a stunner, though. Boasting postcard landscapes from black sand beaches given its volcanic past, along with lush jungles, and vivid blue waters, this place doesn’t sound too shabby of a work environment, does it?
Recently hyped up as one of the world’s ‘top 25 beach destinations for digital nomads’, local publication Montserrat Focus backs the claim that their beloved island is an ‘ideal spot’ and could be your ‘private paradise office’.
Before and after Zoom meetings, you can shut your laptop and swim in crystalline waters, explore numerous hiking trails (including ancient sites), kayak hidden coves, and join local community events like group yoga classes.
Don’t let size be a deciding factor; Monserrat packs a punch and is ready to become a digital nomad hub.
Montserrat’s ‘Remote Worker Stamp’
Sometimes digital nomads find loopholes in certain countries without an official digital nomad visa.
Oftentimes countries allow tourists to stay within their borders 30, 60, or 90 days, but are a little behind the times with the new digital nomad craze.
Montserrat is already with the program, launching their ‘Remote Worker Stamp’ program back in 2021, so no need to try to “sneak in,” so to speak.
Applying is super easy. You simply go to this website and fill out a brief form, submit it, and you’ll hear back within 7 days.
The cost is $500 to apply for a single individual for a 12-month stay. There are some requirements to be considered:
Must prove $70,000 income
Must prove you work for a foreign company*
Must carry valid health insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage
Must provide a police record
Must provide passport and photo (passport size)
*To bypass the requirement of a foreign company, you may also offer freelance/consulting services.
Being on the low end of Caribbean crime statistics, you couldn’t feel more at home with friendly locals and being able to go out and about without feeling like your head is on a swivel.
For those who prioritize speedy wifi for their work tasks, Montserrat’s average speed is 20Mbs.
Affordability
Montserrat ranked 26th on VisaGuide’s 2023 Digital Nomad Index – not too bad for such a microscopic island.
While income requirements are higher than the average digital nomad visa, living in Montserrat is quite doable.
According to the same report just mentioned, cost of living won’t deter you as there are far more popular digital nomad destinations with higher costs across the board.
For example, rent is about $1000 (slightly more for serviced apartments on Airbnb) in the capital, Brades.
Many of which are spacious with designated working spaces, but towns like Brades have great cafes like Saje Cafe, where iced lattes and sandwiches are under $5.
Obviously, rent is the highest expense, but there are so many free things to do outdoors, as Montserrat’s astounding nature is practically begging to be explored—paddleboard through Little Bay, read a book at Spanish Point, or visit the free Montserrat Volcano Observatory.
The only other high-cost option might be a flight since there are no direct connections from the U.S. For a full list of flight options, click here.
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
