If all you need for work is a laptop and a stable Internet connection, then you can explore the world and combine your career with traveling. This modern trend is called digital nomads and is about working and staying in the country without being its citizens and sometimes even without paying taxes.
This opportunity became especially popular after the pandemic and spread over the EU region. Almost every country has its own program and conditions for those who wish to try this type of stay. Explore Digital Nomad residences in Europe and the best options for them.
Exploring Malta Digital Nomad Residence Program
As stated by immigrantinvest.com, Malta and Portuguese freelancer visa belong to the most popular options in this sphere. Both countries are located in the EU and provide beneficial conditions for working remotely.
As for Malta, it attracts nomads with rich traditions, a pleasant climate, and the sea. There is a variety of outdoor activities and interesting places to explore after work.
Those who get Malta Nomad Residence can stay here for a period of one year. Then, it is possible to prolong this permit.
The application at a local embassy or consulate is open for:
- citizens of non-EU and non-EEA areas;
- with a minimum income of 3500 euros per month;
- with an official employment by a foreign enterprise;
- with valid health insurance and a place to live.
There were some changes in the program in 2024. Zlata Erlach, an expert in Immigrant investment, explains that the country changed its requirements related to income and duration of stay.
If previously 2,700 euros per month were enough, starting from April 1, 2024, the sum was increased up to 3500 euros per month or 42,000 annually. This rule will work for those applicants who submit the request after this date. If the request was made earlier and is under consideration, it will not be applicable. Current residents also do not need to worry.
In addition, earlier, the residency could have been renewed for three years. Now, one can apply a third time and enjoy Malta for 4 years.
Given the facts of a great nomad community, safety, and the presence of the necessary infrastructure, this is a perfect choice for this lifestyle. The majority of them stay in such cities as Sliema and Valletta. One can take affordable flights from here and also explore Europe without borders and problems.
Discovering Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Another hotspot for digital nomads is Portugal. Just imagine having over 300 sunny days per year in a perfect combination with beautiful beaches, fascinating islands, and a high overall quality of living.
The country’s program is named D8 visa and has two options:
- A temporary stay is given for one year and can be renewed for six months more. The owner of this permit continues to pay taxes in the country of his main residence.
- A residence visa is valid for two years and can be prolonged for another three years. After this period, the holder can apply for full citizenship. One needs to pay the taxes to the local authorities after 183 days of the first stay.
The minimum requirements for the applicants include the following:
- residency outside the EU and EEA regions;
- 3280 euros of minimum income per month;
- current employment outside Portugal.
Portuguese consulates and embassies deal with both types of visas, so one can always get a consultation there.
As for the country, here you will find bustling cities like Lisbon and Porto and a resort vibe of Lagos. The communities of nomads are quite big. There are many cozy coworking spaces and fast and reliable Internet connections. This not only sounds like a perfect solution for remote work, it is a reality for everyone.
Eligibility Criteria for Digital Nomad Residency in Malta and Portugal
Both countries have similar rules for those who wish to join this program, namely:
- Full of age.
- Citizenship outside the EU and EEA.
- Official remote work or freelance with a contract.
- The presence of minimum income.
- Health insurance.
- Accommodation for a planned period of stay.
The authorities need to understand that the applicant is a person with a stable income, remote work, and the ability to take care of his or her basic needs.
Benefits of Choosing Europe for Digital Nomad
The visa of a digital nomad stays somewhere in between traveling and working options. On the one hand, it gives more rights than a visiting one. On the other hand, the criteria for obtaining it are less strict than for work in the selected country.
Being a digital nomad in Malta, Portugal, or another EU country is about opening up the whole region. One can travel without borders and feel free to enjoy lots of awesome places. As the requirements are quite easy to compile, many nomads start their pathway here and enjoy a life full of exciting traveling, bright emotions, and unforgettable experiences.
