The 10 best countries for digital nomads named

Europe is strengthening its position as one of the most attractive regions for remote professionals: according to a recent study, most countries in the top ten for digital nomads are European.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, which radically changed the approach to organising work, remote work became the norm for millions of people. Laptops replaced offices, and flexibility and mobility replaced a fixed place of residence. Governments responded quickly to this trend: dozens of countries introduced specialised visa regimes and residence programmes for remote professionals — economically active, self-sufficient, and not requiring state support.

Ranking of countries for digital nomads in 2025

The analytics platform Global Citizen Solutions assessed 64 countries against a range of criteria: visa duration, financial requirements, and the possibility of obtaining permanent residency and citizenship. The resulting study found that 7 of the top 10 are European countries.

This is explained by European states' drive to develop technological infrastructure, support the digital economy, and simultaneously offer migrants long-term solutions — from permanent residency to citizenship. Combined with a high level of security, stable institutions, and a rich cultural environment, Europe remains one of the most attractive destinations for relocation.

The list of the top 10 countries for digital nomads in 2025:

\n
1. Spain
\n
2. Netherlands
\n
3. Uruguay
\n
4. Canada
\n
5. Czechia
\n
6. Portugal
\n
7. France
\n
8. United Arab Emirates
\n
9. Germany
\n
10. Malta
\n

Why is Spain the ranking leader?

Spain topped the list thanks to its remote work visa, which allows foreigners to legally reside in the country while working for a foreign employer or clients using telecommunications channels exclusively.

A key advantage is that self-employed professionals may also provide services to Spanish companies, as long as such cooperation does not exceed 20% of their total activity.

Other benefits include one of the highest internet speeds in Europe, a high quality of life, and a legal framework for long-term integration.

Spain also offers a clear naturalisation procedure: after 10 years for most foreigners, and after 2 years for citizens of Latin American countries, the Philippines, and Equatorial Guinea.

According to the report, Spain also wins on the economic front: in regional cities the cost of living is lower than in most Northern European countries, while security, healthcare, and services remain at a high level.

To obtain a digital nomad visa, an applicant must confirm a higher education degree (bachelor's or master's from a recognised institution) or at least three years of relevant experience. Proof of income (at least 200% of the minimum wage in Spain), health insurance, and a clean criminal record are also mandatory.

The appeal of the European region

Second place went to the Netherlands, which offers a self-employment permit with a path to permanent residency. The key criterion is the applicant's "economic value" to the country. Despite a less favourable tax regime (the Netherlands applies a system of global taxation), the standard of living, infrastructure, security, and cultural environment remain at a high level.

Czechia, in 5th place, is seen as one of the most promising destinations in Central Europe for remote professionals. It is one of the few countries where a digital nomad programme can lead directly to citizenship. Czechia offers a balanced ratio of living standards to cost of living, especially compared to Western Europe.

Portugal, with its D8 visa, provides two routes: a temporary visa or a residence permit. The country is attractive thanks to affordable prices, fast internet, international academic ties, and tax breaks for certain professions.

France also made the top ten. There is no dedicated digital nomad visa; however, remote professionals can legally reside in France on long-term grounds — for example, under the VLS-TS "visiteur" visa, provided they have sufficient funds and no right to employment with a French employer. Despite relatively high costs, the country scored highly for quality of life, internet speed, and a developed transport network.

Germany ranks ninth. Its Freelance Visa, introduced in 2021, allows residence for up to three years. Although the visa itself cannot be extended, permanent residency can be pursued after five years. Germany stands out for its stable economy, high-quality healthcare, and developed digital infrastructure.

Malta, despite its modest size, rounds out the top ten. The visa is valid for one year and does not lead to citizenship, but the country attracts with stable internet, quality medical services, and social security. An additional advantage is English as an official language.