Destinations Allowing Digital Nomads To Stay For 6 Months Or More Without A Visa
The world has changed significantly thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. This can be seen in the travel and tourism industry and how people work.
From the Americas to the Easternmost reaches of Asia, more and more countries are issuing Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs). The only downside to this trend is that applying for a visa can be very expensive, not to mention a long and extremely complex process.
Albania (Stay permitted for up to a year)
An under-visited Mediterranean country and is famous for its pristine beaches, dreamy cobblestone villages, and budget-friendly prices. Albania allows US passport holders to remain in the national territory for up to a whole year without applying for any sort of permit in advance. You can relocate to Albania completely bureaucracy-free.
There are no other entry requirements in place, health or non-health related: vaccination is not mandatory, and nomads are usually not required to present proof of funds crossing the border, nor take out mandatory insurance, though we still advise you to. Entry to Albania is a breeze: the only issue is you may never want to leave.
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United Kingdom (6 months following each entry)
Believe it or not, in spite of the recent Brexit imbroglio, The United Kingdom (UK) is one of the most ‘open’ nations in Europe for nomads. Unlike the Schengen Area, where American nomads can only travel for 90 days every 180 days without residency, British authorities allow them to remain for six full, continuous months following every entry.
This means you can base yourself in the UK for prolonged periods of time – of course, at the discretion of the border officer in charge of stamping you in – as long as you never overstay the permitted six-month period. With its four constituent nations, world-class cities, and stunning natural scenery, Britain truly has a lot going for it (especially outside London):
Mexico (6 months on a visitor visa)
Mexico’s greatest strengths lie in the friendliness of locals, a fast-developing wellness culture centred in coastal areas, particularly the Pacific, year-round sunny weather, and rich Mesoamerican-Hispanic tradition.
Thanks to a new pilot program launched in Cancun last year, nomads are now guaranteed up to 180 days of visiting the Mexican Caribbean visa-free. Nevertheless, overstayers and those breaking immigration law, such as working for a Mexico-based company without applying for an appropriate visa in advance, still risk being issued fines or even entry bans.
Georgia (Visa-free entry for 365 days0
Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus, a transcontinental region linking Europe and Asia, Georgia is a seriously underrated nation the world should be more thankful for. Well, for the most part. It may have given us Stalin, but it is also the birthplace of wine, and where some of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities on Earth are located.
Whether they’re basing themselves in vibrant Tbilisi, steaming down the Black Sea coast, or taking a mental health break in mediaeval Orthodox monasteries up in the Stepantsminda mountains, nomads will never run out of love for Georgia. It is, after all, one of the easiest countries to move to Americans are granted visa-free entry for 365 days at a time.
Colombia (6 months within any calendar year, subject to approval)
Colombia already has the most accessible DNV available in the market: eligibility is broad, and applicants benefit from comparatively low financial requirements and expedited checks. However, even those who are in a hurry to begin their journey, and unwilling to undergo application will find the lack of a long-term visa is not an impediment:
They may reside in Colombia as digital nomads without first applying for a permit for up to 6 months in any calendar year (subject to an extension approval of the initial 3-month stamp). Colombia’s immigration policy is much laxer than its South American neighbours, and as long as they follow certain rules, American nomads shall be received with open arms.
It is worth noting entry rules defined in this article concern only U.S. citizens. They do not necessarily apply to Canadian, British, European, or other non-American nomads. If you’re currently working remotely as you travel, or looking for somewhere to set up camp for a while, don’t forget to check out our list of the Top 5 Easiest Digital Nomad Visas to get in 2023.
Depending on your nationality, you may be able to travel to a number of countries without getting a visa. We detail some information for UK and American citizens. Similarly, citizens of EU countries have access to the European Union and its member states, where they can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period and even settle there without much paperwork.
Where can American Travellers travel for 180 days or more?
There are several destinations that American citizens can travel to for 180 days or more without a visa.
Here are a few examples:
Ecuador: American citizens can enter Ecuador for 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Peru: American citizens can enter Peru for 183 days without a visa.
Uruguay: American citizens can enter Uruguay for up to 180 days without a visa.
Thailand: American citizens can enter Thailand for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 30 days.
Cambodia: American citizens can enter Cambodia for up to 30 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 30 days.
Philippines: American citizens can enter Philippines for up to 30 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 29 days.
Hong Kong: American citizens can enter Hong Kong for up to 180 days without a visa.
Taiwan : American citizens can enter Taiwan for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 30 days.
Where can UK citizens travel to for 180 days or more?
As a UK citizen, you have access to the European Union and its member states, where you can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Apart from that, here are a few examples of destinations where UK citizens can travel to for 180 days or more without a visa:
Argentina: UK citizens can enter Argentina for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Bolivia: UK citizens can enter Bolivia for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days. Brazil: UK citizens can enter Brazil for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Chile: UK citizens can enter Chile for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Costa Rica: UK citizens can enter Costa Rica for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Ecuador: UK citizens can enter Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
El Salvador: UK citizens can enter El Salvador for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Guatemala: UK citizens can enter Guatemala for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Honduras: UK citizens can enter Honduras for up to 90 days without a visa, and can apply for an extension for an additional 90 days.
Peru: UK citizens can enter Peru for up to 183 days without a visa
Uruguay: UK citizens can enter Uruguay for up to 180 days without a visa
It's important to note that these entry policies can change over time, so it's always a good idea to before travelling. Also, it's important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, some countries may have other conditions for long-term stays like proof of income or having a local sponsor, so it's always a good idea to research and plan accordingly.
If you're planning to travel to a country as a digital nomad, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure that your stay is legal and compliant with local laws and regulations.
Here are a few things to consider:
Visa requirements: Even if you don't need a visa to enter a country, you may still need to apply for a work permit or other type of visa depending on your work plan while you're there.
Tax obligations: Are there taxes that you will need to pay whilst you are there? Clearly you will be paying taxes like VAT on goods you buy there but will you be subject to income tax or other residents taxes?
Health insurance: Make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage for your trip, as medical care can be expensive in some countries.
Internet accessibility: Internet connectivity can vary greatly by country and region, so it's important to research the internet speeds and reliability in the areas you plan to visit.
Working hours and cultural differences: It's also important to research the working hours, business customs, and cultural differences of the country you plan to visit. Being aware of these factors can help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth working experience.
Local laws: Be familiar with the local laws and regulations and ensure to comply with them.
In summary, travelling as a digital nomad can be a great way to experience new cultures and expand your professional horizons, but it's important to be well-informed and prepared in order to ensure a successful and legal stay.
That's where our immigration law firm can help. We have a team of experienced lawyers that specialise in helping clients obtain the necessary visas and permits to work and live abroad.
What are your thoughts on these options for digital nomads? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.
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If you need help with a US visa, a UK Visa, or a visa to Europe, including help with appointment booking obligations, IaM can help. For more information and advice on US immigration, UK immigration law and US visa applications or if you need any help or assistance please, reach out to your Visa Coordinator at IaM.
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