Digital nomad

What is a digital nomad?

Digital nomads are individuals who work remotely whilst travelling the globe. They rarely settle in one location for an extended period. Often referred to as digital nomads or digital travellers, they complete their work tasks online, similar to traditional remote workers. However, they continuously relocate to different countries, choosing destinations based on appealing factors like climate, culture, and geography.

The term "digital nomad" was first coined in 1997 by physicist Tsugio Makimoto and writer David Manners in their book of the same name. They described a revolutionary lifestyle enabled by advancements in technology and the Internet, allowing people to live and work from anywhere in the world without being tied to a single location, thanks to the Internet and the emergence of portable devices. However, this concept dates back even further to 1983, when American programmer Steven Roberts left his job, equipped a bicycle with a solar-powered laptop, embarked on a 27,000 km journey, and dedicated himself to writing.

It's important to note that the definition of "digital nomad" gained widespread recognition primarily due to the coronavirus pandemic, which led to the global adoption of remote work due to quarantine restrictions. By 2022, the number of digital nomads had reached 35 million, although this figure is unofficial and could be higher. Official statistics from MBO Partners show significant growth: in 2019, there were only 7 million digital nomads, while by 2024, this number had increased to 17 million.

The digital nomad lifestyle

The life of a digital nomad differs significantly from that of a typical employee, not just because they aren't confined to an office and their surroundings are always changing. This lifestyle comes with a unique set of both positive and negative views.

Living as a digital nomad certainly comes with its advantages, such as:

• Freedom and flexibility. Typically, digital nomads have the liberty to choose not only their workplace but also their working hours. They can fulfil their daily work requirements without adhering to a fixed schedule, or they can work on a project basis where the focus is on the result rather than the time spent. The benefits of freedom of movement are also a clear advantage.

• Reduced risk of professional burnout. Digital nomadism lets you change your environment whenever you wish, helping to lessen stress and combat feelings of stagnation, as well as lack of inspiration and motivation. Simply changing your location can bring a fresh perspective to your work! This lifestyle also often reduces the need for vacations, as it's easier to blend work with relaxation.

• Valuable contacts (including business connections). Numerous relocations mean constantly meeting new people. This not only enhances your communication skills and broadens your knowledge but also opens up opportunities to connect with potential partners, colleagues, and even future employers.

However, this lifestyle does come with its challenges:

• Work-life imbalance. Remote professionals often struggle with this due to the lack of clear boundaries between their workspace and living space, as they frequently work where they sleep. This can lead to unintentional overtime or, on the flip side, procrastination unless they learn to effectively "switch" between work and personal time.

• The high cost of a nomadic lifestyle. Constantly moving comes with extra expenses, such as airfare, packing, housing rentals, insurance, and switching mobile operators. Additionally, all these things demand a significant amount of mental energy, which can lead to emotional burnout and negatively impact productivity.

• Possibly feeling lonely. Travelling alone without family can lead to feelings of isolation, as you are constantly adapting to new cultures and societies. The nomadic lifestyle often doesn't support permanent, strong, long-term connections or attachments. However, if you consider yourself an introvert, digital nomadism might be perfect for you!

• The reality often does not match expectations. Social media has turned digital nomadism into a trend. Still, many overlook that this lifestyle isn't suitable for everyone, especially considering personal and mental traits. Likewise, the reality of living in "dream countries" may differ hugely from how it is portrayed in blogs and films. What works for one person might be a nightmare for another. For instance, can you maintain discipline without outside supervision? Live in a tent in the middle of a forest without amenities? Take care of a camper van, including repairs? Constantly switch between time zones? Sometimes, it's best to keep fantasies as just that-fantasies.

• Legislative nuances. Each country has its own tax and visa requirements for digital nomads. With every move, you'll need to re-familiarise yourself with entry rules, navigate various bureaucratic procedures, and understand the consequences of non-compliance with local laws. This includes everything from ethical norms to baggage dimensions and more.

Typically, digital nomads don't stay in one place for more than three months, though some may remain for six months or even a year. Some opt for mobile homes, while others sleep in hotels or tents. Work environments vary widely: some work directly from planes, others carry folding tables and chairs, rent coworking spaces, or work from cafes. The key trait of digital nomads is their lack of strict frameworks or templates, making this lifestyle unique to each individual.

How to become a digital nomad

There isn't a definitive guide on how to be a digital nomad, as conditions vary across different industries. However, there are tips to help you transition smoothly and cautiously into this lifestyle.

Find a remote job

This is a crucial requirement for becoming a digital nomad, as it enables you to sustain continuous travel. This lifestyle isn't just about moving from country to country; it's about working and earning a stable income. Therefore, you need to secure opportunities that allow you to work remotely from anywhere in the world, ideally at any time. If your current job or profession doesn't offer remote work options, explore alternatives that do. Consider training for a new profession, networking to make valuable contacts, or changing your field or employment organisation. You might need to switch to freelancing or project-based work instead of a permanent position. Additionally, ensure you have a source of passive income and travel insurance in case something goes wrong with your work.

Dedicate ample time to planning

Preparing for any trip takes time, and this is especially true for a series of moves. Join a digital nomad community to connect with like-minded individuals, read about common challenges and FAQs, plan your routes and stops, and identify coffee shops and coworking spaces in advance. Make sure you have all the necessary tools for remote work, such as a powerful laptop and other essentials. Ensure you're prepared for all the surprises and nuances! It's best to spend at least three months preparing. During this time, you can gather all the necessary information, confirm your readiness for this lifestyle, make sure you will not change your mind, and ensure you haven't forgotten anything. Digital nomadism isn't about spontaneity. Remember, you'll still need to work and stay productive throughout the process.

Allocate your budget wisely

The most common problem many nomads face is running out of money during their travels, often spending more than they earn. To avoid this, plan in advance by forming:

• A cash reserve for unexpected expenses, such as car repairs (if you're travelling by car), dental emergencies (insurance might cover these, but not immediately), a new laptop, theft of belongings, and more.

• Funds for returning home. Many nomads overlook this because they don't plan to return but trust me, the need will arise eventually. Outside circumstances might require you to return home at any moment.

• A cash cushion for at least 2-3 months. This should be separate from your reserve for unforeseen expenses. This cushion will support you if you suddenly find yourself without a job, giving you time to find new remote work or if you're freelancing or doing project-based work with breaks in between.

Additionally, plan ahead for:

• How much, on average, do you need for food per day?

• How much do you spend each month on non-essential items you can't part with, like a daily morning cup of coffee?

• How much do you spend on other expenses like hygiene, repairs, personal care (haircuts, manicures), accommodation, transportation, and similar items?

• Are there any essential items not covered in these categories that are very important to you? If so, how much do they cost? For example, medications, therapy sessions, or pet care if you take your pet with you, etc.)

It's crucial to base your budget on your current habits, focusing on average daily expenses rather than the bare minimum. This way, you won't have to reduce your quality of life when moving noticeably. Sacrificing enjoyable and familiar things, like switching from a healthy diet with red meat and fish to instant noodles, can increase the stress of adapting to a new place and pose additional risks to your physical health.

Choose the ideal location for your first stop

Your success as a digital nomad greatly depends on how well you have chosen your first destination. Each country has its own unique features, advantages, and disadvantages. It's important to base your decision not on romantic notions or fantasies of picturesque mornings with a steaming mug of coffee but on practical considerations like the climate, economy, traditions, and geography of the place. For instance, not all Chinese provinces showcase authentic architecture, and issues like unsanitary conditions, crowds, and strange food are common.

In summary, consider factors such as:

• How well can this country comfortably accommodate the lifestyle you desire?

• Are there coworking spaces, cafes, parks, and shops within walking distance of your chosen accommodation?

• What is the climate and weather like there? Are there any risks of typhoons, earthquakes, or annual summer fires?

• Are there communities of digital nomads and remote workers in this country that you can connect with if you encounter any issues?

• Who can you turn to for help in these places if something goes wrong?

• And most importantly, what are the legal and visa requirements for this country?

Don't forget to get the necessary vaccinations if you're heading to an exotic country! We'll also discuss visas and the best countries for a stopover separately.

Pack only the essentials

Plan ahead and make a list of essential items to take with you. Remember, you should be able to move around easily, so try to limit your belongings to just two suitcases, which might incur extra charges on the plane. When preparing for a month-long vacation, pack as you would for any extended trip. Bring essential medicines that aren't easily available abroad, weather-appropriate clothing, and necessary devices like a tablet and a spare phone, chargers, important documents, etc. Try to limit the number of books and hobby items you bring. Even if you think you'll need them, you'll likely be too busy enjoying new places to use them!

Prepare yourself for occasional discomfort

Travel often comes with its share of inconveniences, from long flights to accommodations that may not live up to their descriptions. If you struggle with being uncomfortable and can only sleep on the softest royal feather bed, consider bringing it with you or reconsidering a nomadic lifestyle.

Also, practice working in less-than-ideal conditions. If you need complete silence to focus, how will you manage on the road or if a noisy group of teenagers is nearby? Start by changing your normal environment and adapting to it before you move. For instance, try working in a café. How does it feel? Can you do it regularly? What if you have to work from a hotel bed instead of your favourite comfortable office desk?

Important! If you have no travel experience, consider reaching out to a digital nomad institute. These educational centres teach everything digital nomads need to know, from planning moves to understanding legal and financial details.

Organise your household chores

Before you leave, ensure you don't have any unfinished business at home. Make sure to take care of the following:

• Grant power of attorney to a relative or friend to receive your parcels.

• Settle all utility bills, invoices, and loans to ensure you leave the country debt-free.

• Ensure the alarm system, heating, smoke alarm batteries, and plumbing are all in good condition to avoid false alarms or floods while you're away.

• Get some spare keys cut and give them to a trusted person.

• Sort out all perishable food, close the windows, and consider protecting items from dust if you won't be returning for a long time (e.g., using special furniture covers).

Important details! Verify if your bank cards are nearing expiration and renew them in advance if necessary. Additionally, purchase particular insurance for digital nomads (e.g., SafetyWing), select the best mobile and internet plan for your destination country and set up an account with PayPal or Binance to easily withdraw funds after completing orders if you're a freelancer.

Top jobs for digital nomads

A study by the popular digital nomad community Nomad List reveals that the typical digital nomad is a male programmer aged 27-40 (rarely over 50) with a bachelor's degree, earning $80,000 per year. He enjoys active recreation, coffee, and eating meat and typically stays in one place for no longer than 2.5 months. Consequently, IT-related professions, from software developers to application testers, are the most popular and suitable jobs for this lifestyle. However, digital nomads also frequently work in occupations such as:

• Blogger (primarily on YouTube, as many digital nomads vlog their travel experiences)

• Consulting (services provided via online video calls)

• Marketing (including SEO)

• Online sales (e.g. on Amazon)

• Online course creation and development

• Language teaching

• Web design

• Copywriting, editing, and custom writing

• Research and analytics (including for scientific purposes)

• Social media manager

• Coaching and teaching

Many professions and careers today can be digitalised or slightly adjusted to fit a remote work model. However, these shouldn't be jobs for beginners. To be a confident digital nomad, it's important to have experience in your chosen field to avoid unexpected problems, such as a lack of knowledge or a mismatch between your interests and your job.

A digital nomad visa

Digital nomads are always on the move, exploring the vast world and its many destinations. Many visit up to 12 countries a year, though there's no set limit. However, frequent travel isn't mandatory-the key is to adhere to the visa terms of the country you're in. Therefore, your choice of destinations is mainly restricted by whether they permit entry to digital nomads or individuals with medium to long-term plans.

Often, there are visa-free agreements between countries, allowing citizens to visit without obtaining a visa due to friendly relations. For instance, US citizens can visit over 140 countries without a visa. However, this doesn't mean you can stay indefinitely. There are specific periods after which you must leave and return home, or in some cases, leave and re-enter the country after just a day to reset the stay duration. For instance, in Turkey, you can stay for up to 90 days within six months, while in Thailand, the limit is 60 days. The specific conditions depend on the passport you hold, but they are generally similar for most foreigners.

However, some countries offer digital nomad visas, a special visa for freelancers and remote workers who prefer to stay in one place for an extended period rather than travel back and forth. As of 2024, around 40 countries, including Spain, Brazil, Greece, Montenegro, Costa Rica, and Hungary, offer digital nomad visas. Digital nomad visas allow you to stay in a country for six months to a year or even longer, which is perfect if you're tired of frequent moves. However, obtaining such a visa can be challenging; you'll need to demonstrate a stable source of income and the financial means to support an extended stay.

Top countries for digital nomads

Many countries with digital nomad visas are popular among nomads, but these are the top choices.

Georgia

Georgia is a top choice for digital nomads due to its welcoming policy for foreigners. Citizens of 95 countries can visit without a visa and stay for up to a year. After that, you can easily become a tax resident, though you'll need to pay 20% of your income. Georgia boasts a mild climate, globally popular cuisine, a European-like mentality, and many resort cities with sea access, making it an ideal destination!

Portugal

Since 2007, Portugal has offered the D7 visa for individuals with confirmed passive income. This visa allows you to live in the country if you can prove you have a steady income and can support yourself. Your "digital nomad salary" should be at least €10,000 per year. Additionally, you need to have savings in a bank account, a rental agreement for at least 12 months, and paid health insurance. This visa is ideal if you plan to settle in Portugal in the long term. For shorter stays, you might want to consider other countries, as Portugal does not provide this.

Bali

Nowadays, the Indonesian island offers everything needed for remote work, branding itself as a "hub for digital nomads." It boasts air-conditioned coworking spaces, ultra-fast Wi-Fi, large nomadic communities, and specially designed comfortable housing. All this, combined with stunning natural beauty, surfing for entertainment, and a visa program that lets you live in Bali for up to five years without paying taxes. However, you must provide proof of a permanent income source from outside Indonesia.

Chiang Mai

This city in Thailand, known as the "world capital of SEO," regularly hosts marketing conferences and attracts digital nomads in this area. Once a quiet and religious town, Chiang Mai is now bustling with hostels and cafes offering free Internet. Interestingly, it's considered the safest city in Asia! Plus, Thailand provides a digital nomad visa that is valid for up to 10 years.

Caribbean countries

Some countries offer special, very accommodating programs for digital nomads. For instance, Bermuda doesn't require income confirmation. In Mexico, the "temporary resident visa" allows you to live in the country for a year, with the option to extend it for another three years. To qualify, you must prove financial stability with an income of over $1,620 per month for at least six months or have $27,000 in your account.

Certain European countries

As with other places, proving your financial stability is crucial when travelling as a digital nomad. In Croatia, you need to earn at least €2,320 per month. For Greece, the requirement is €3,500, while in Romania, it's €3,300. In Hungary, a monthly income of €2,000 is sufficient, but this follows the 'per one person in a family' rule.

Additionally, the following places are popular amongst digital nomads:

• Ecuador

• Dubai

• Sri Lanka

• Mauritius

• Malaysia

• Namibia

• Malta

• Estonia

• Dominican Republic

• Germany

Every country has its own particular rules for the entry of digital nomads and more!

Conclusion

The digital nomad lifestyle might seem like a dream come true, but it's actually quite attainable. However, it's not for everyone! Becoming a digital nomad demands significant effort, money, time, and patience. Additionally, it's crucial to understand that being a digital nomad means not being tied to one place and, consequently, not being tied to certain people if you travel alone. It also inherently involves remote work, irregular working hours, and dealing with discomfort and stress from changing environments and less-than-ideal working conditions. However, being a digital nomad also means enjoying complete freedom and the chance to explore the world. So, if this lifestyle resonates with you, don't hesitate! There are millions of opportunities to embrace this way of life!