Digital nomad visas in Europe: where to start if you want to work remotely
Remote work has reshaped the way we live. Many professionals now dream of working from a café in Paris, a co-working hub in Berlin, or a sunny coastal town in Portugal — all while keeping their existing job or freelance career.
But before packing your bags, it’s important to understand one thing: working remotely in Europe usually requires a visa. And depending on your plans, the right visa may not be a “digital nomad visa” straight away.
This guide explains the main digital nomad visa options in Europe, what they mean for remote workers, and how you can start your journey with the right visa type.
What is a digital nomad visa?
A digital nomad visa is a residence permit designed for people who work remotely for a foreign employer or run their own online business. It lets you live in a country legally while continuing to earn income from abroad — without taking a local job.
Each country sets its own rules. Most require proof of income, private health insurance, and evidence that you work independently or for a company outside their borders. Some have created dedicated “digital nomad” schemes, while others rely on existing long-stay or freelance visas.
Digital nomad vs tourist or business visa
A digital nomad visa is a type of residence permit that allows remote workers to live in a country while working for an employer or clients based abroad.
It’s meant for professionals who earn their income outside the country they’re living in — so you can experience life in another destination without taking a local job.
Each country sets its own rules around eligibility, income requirements, tax registration, and duration of stay. Some countries now offer an official “digital nomad visa,” while others rely on existing freelance, business or long-stay residence permits.
Digital nomad visa or tourist visa: which one do you need?
If you’re planning a short-term stay while working remotely, a tourist or business visa is often the simplest and fastest option to start with — especially if you’re not yet ready to establish tax residency or register a business abroad.
For longer stays (usually 6–12 months or more), some European countries allow digital nomads or freelancers to apply for residence-based permits. These usually require proof of steady income, accommodation, and private health insurance.
In short:
- Tourist visa – best for short stays while exploring a destination
- Business visa – for attending meetings, events, or exploring partnerships
- Digital nomad visa – for living and working remotely long-term
- Study visa – for remote professionals looking to take short or full-time courses abroad
Country guides for digital nomad visas in Europe
Every European country has its own visa options, requirements, and processes. Some have official digital nomad visas; others rely on long-stay or freelance permits.
Explore our dedicated country guides below:
- Germany – structured, freelancer-friendly, and ideal for long-term stays.
Read the full guide to Germany’s digital nomad visa options. - France – great lifestyle, flexible routes through long-stay and tech visas.
Read the full guide to digital nomad visas in France. - Portugal – officially offers a digital nomad visa (coming soon)
- Italy – new digital nomad visa available (coming soon)
- Spain – attractive tax benefits for remote workers (coming soon)
Planning your remote work journey in Europe
Many remote workers begin their European adventure on a tourist visa or while attending short business trips or study programmes — and later decide whether to stay longer under a digital nomad or residence permit.
Whichever stage you’re at, the first step is preparing your visa application accurately. That’s where Travelisa helps.