If you’re a digital nomad, the world is your oyster. But choosing the perfect country for your next adventure can be quite challenging when you have so many options…
Thailand and Indonesia are classic digital nomad destinations. Costa Rica is great for those who need to stay in the same time zone; Georgia is perfect if you’re looking for a destination that is not too popular, and the Czech Republic is for the ones who dreamed about living in the heart of Europe.
Let’s take a closer look at these gems and what they have to offer.
5 Best Countries To Be A Digital Nomad
Thailand Digital Nomad
Overview
If you’re one of the digital nomads who want to live and work in a tropical climate, then Thailand might be the right choice for you. Once you get tired of the beaches and palms, head to Bangkok for that extra boost of energy and motivation, or you can easily book a flight (for cheap) to neighboring Cambodia, Malaysia, or Indonesia.
Thailand is a peaceful Asian country and Thai people are, in general, very welcoming to foreigners. There are plenty of digital nomads who feel pretty great in Thailand while spending only around $680 per month.
By the way, the kingdom is among the top 10 countries with the fastest broadband Internet speed.
Visa & Taxes*
Remote workers who spend less than 6 months per year in Thailand wouldn’t need to pay any tax. Bear in mind that you have to obtain a visa to remain in the country for more than 30 days.
*The US is one of the few countries in the world that has a citizenship-based taxation system. This means that no matter where on this planet you are, you would have to file annual US income tax returns.
Indonesia Digital Nomad
Overview
Moving to Bali might seem like an obvious choice, but there are quite a few reasons why so many digital nomads are convinced that the island is heaven on earth.
It is practically impossible to find such a well-entrenched expat community anywhere else in the world. Moreover, throughout the years, Bali has ‘adapted’ to the flow of remote workers – new cafes and awesome coworking spaces with extra fast Wi-Fi are opening practically every single day.
Visa & Taxes
The good news is that the tourism ministry is planning on introducing a new ‘digital nomad visa’ that allows you to live in the country for 5 years without having to pay taxes (as long as you are not earning your income within Indonesia).
Costa Rica Digital Nomad
Overview
If it is extremely important for you to stay in a more or less same time zone, then you might want to consider Costa Rica – one of the happiest and most sustainable countries in the world.
This destination is not the cheapest though (the cost of living will depend greatly on where exactly you decide to settle). When it comes to the Internet, it is getting much better. However, you might have to take care of the connection in your apartment yourself.
Visa & Taxes
The Costa Rica digital nomad visa was approved but has not gone into effect just yet. If your monthly income is over $3,000 and it’s all foreign-earned, then you will be exempt from Costa Rican taxes.
Georgia Digital Nomad
Overview
Georgia is a spectacular country that has practically anything you can think of – beaches, a trendy capital, a rich history, delicious cuisine, and the world’s oldest wine culture.
It is not very popular with digital nomads at the moment, but this might change soon. Georgia is as cheap as Southeast Asia and safer than Switzerland. Moreover, the Wi-Fi is solid and you can shop on Amazon USA (check out USA2Georgia).
Visa & Taxes
You can apply for a digital nomad visa for free online if your monthly income is over $2,000. The visa allows you to live in the country for 1 year and pay 1% tax.
Czech Republic Digital Nomad
Overview
Sandy beaches and exotic animals are not for everyone. If you are dreaming about good-old Europe with its castles, rivers, and beer, then consider the Czech Republic.
It is among the safest countries in the world with an average cost of living between $350 and $750.
Visa & Taxes
Zivno is a visa program that is great for digital nomads – with such a visa, you will be allowed to work in the country for up to 1 year (with the possibility of extension). To qualify, you would have to have at least $6,500 in your bank account and be able to pay $80 in monthly taxes.
Final Thoughts
These were the 5 best countries to be a digital nomad.
Whether you are looking for an exotic destination, a place not too far away from home, or a country with an interesting history – there is a wonderful option for everyone.
