The dream of swapping a cubicle for a beachfront cafe or a bustling European city is now a reality for many Indian professionals. Thanks to the rise of remote work, a growing number of countries are rolling out “digital nomad visas” specifically designed for those who can work from anywhere. This guide, Onward Free will explore what these visas are, the top destinations offering Digital Nomad Visas for Indian passport holders, and essential tips for starting your journey.

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa, especially the kind of Digital Nomad Visas for Indian travelers we’re discussing, is a specialized, temporary residence permit that allows you to live and work remotely in a foreign country for an extended period, typically from six months to a few years. Unlike a tourist visa, it legally permits you to work. However, it’s different from a traditional work visa because your employment must be with a company or clients located outside of the host country. This arrangement allows you to experience a new culture without taking a local job.

Read more: 70 Countries with Digital Nomad Visa in 2025

15 Best Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas for Indians

Here are some of the best destinations offering Digital Nomad Visas for Indian citizens, welcoming remote workers with open arms.

1. Croatia

With its stunning Adriatic coastline and historic cities, Croatia is a magnet for remote workers. The country offers a Digital Nomad Residence Permit, which functions more like a temporary residency than a traditional visa. It allows you to live and work there for six months to a year, but it is non-renewable. To be eligible, you must work for a non-Croatian company as a salaried employee, freelancer, or self-employed individual. Key requirements include proof of a minimum monthly income of at least €2,870, valid health insurance, a criminal background check, and proof of accommodation in Croatia.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Varies by application location. At Embassy: Approx. €190 (residence and card fees). In Croatia: Approx. €87.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 1 year (non-renewable).
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Automatic confirmation is sent upon submission, followed by communication from a case worker.

2. Germany

Germany’s Freiberufler (freelance) visa is a great option for digital nomads, especially those in creative, technical, or teaching professions. You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and may need to show you have potential clients in Germany. The visa allows you to live in Germany while working for foreign clients.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Approximately €75.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 1 year, extendable for up to 3 years.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None, but address registration in Germany is required.
Processing Time	Typically 1 to 3 months.

3. Greece

Work surrounded by ancient history and sun-drenched islands. Greece offers a visa to non-EU citizens with a minimum monthly income of €3,500. You’ll need to show proof of remote employment, health insurance, and accommodation. This visa is ideal for those wanting a Mediterranean base.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Approximately €75.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 1 year, with the possibility of renewal.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Generally 2 to 4 weeks.

4. Indonesia

While it doesn’t have an official “digital nomad visa,” Indonesia’s E33G visa allows for remote work for up to a year. Famous for its beautiful islands like Bali, it requires applicants to have a minimum bank balance of $2,000 and an annual income of $60,000. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a tropical work environment with a vibrant expat community.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Approximately $150.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 1 year.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	7 to 14 business days.

5. Italy

Imagine working from a Tuscan villa or a Roman apartment. Italy’s digital nomad visa allows for a renewable one-year stay. To qualify, you must demonstrate an annual income of at least €28,000, have comprehensive health insurance that covers you in Italy, and provide proof of accommodation.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Approximately €116.
Length of Permitted Stay	1 year, with the option to renew.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Varies, but can take several weeks to a few months.

6. Mauritius

This idyllic island nation in the Indian Ocean offers the Premium Travel Visa, valid for one year and renewable. The income requirement is a modest $1,500 per month for an individual, making it an accessible tropical paradise. The application is straightforward and can be completed online.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	The application is free.
Length of Permitted Stay	1 year, with the option to renew.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Very fast, often within 48 hours.

7. Portugal

Portugal is a hotspot for those seeking Digital Nomad Visas for Indian travelers due to its vibrant cities, great weather, and affordable cost of living. Its D8 visa requires a monthly income of about €3,280 and allows you to apply for a residence permit after arrival. The visa is a pathway to long-term residency in the EU.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Application fee is approximately €90, with additional residence permit fees.
Length of Permitted Stay	Leads to a 2-year residence permit, renewable for 3 years.
Minimum Stay Requirement	To maintain residency, you cannot be absent for more than 6 consecutive months.
Processing Time	2 to 4 months for the visa, plus additional time for the residence permit.

8. Spain

Spain’s digital nomad visa is a popular choice when it comes to Digital Nomad Visas for Indian applicants, offering a sunny lifestyle and a clear path to long-term residency. It allows you to live and work in the country for one year initially, with the possibility to extend up to five years. Applicants must earn at least €2,520 per month and can bring their families.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Approximately €80 for the visa, plus fees for the residence permit.
Length of Permitted Stay	1 year, leading to a 3-year residence permit, renewable for 2 more years.
Minimum Stay Requirement	You must stay in Spain for at least 6 months per year to renew.
Processing Time	Typically 20-45 days.

9. Seychelles

The Workcation Retreat Programme in Seychelles is perfect for those who want to work from a true paradise of pristine beaches and lush landscapes. The visa is valid for one year. You’ll need to provide proof of employment, income, a valid passport, and health insurance.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	A one-time fee of €45.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 1 year.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	The online application is usually processed within a week.

10. Costa Rica

Known for its Pura Vida (pure life) motto, lush rainforests, and commitment to conservation, Costa Rica is a top destination for nature-loving nomads. The country offers a specific digital nomad visa that allows you to enjoy its biodiversity and adventure activities while you work. The income requirement is $3,000 per month for individuals or $4,000 for families. A major perk is that foreign income is not taxed.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	$100 application fee, plus other government and processing fees.
Length of Permitted Stay	1 year, with the option to renew for another year.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Varies, can take several months for the full process.

11. Thailand

From the bustling street life of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of its many islands, Thailand offers a rich cultural experience and an affordable cost of living. The new Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa is an excellent option for well-established remote professionals. It offers a 10-year renewable visa with numerous tax benefits for those earning at least $80,000 annually.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	50,000 THB (approximately $1,360).
Length of Permitted Stay	10 years (issued for 5 years, renewable for another 5).
Minimum Stay Requirement	None, but you must report your address every 90 days.
Processing Time	Approximately 20 working days after document submission.

12. Estonia

As a leader in digital innovation, Estonia was one of the first countries to launch a digital nomad visa, attracting tech-savvy professionals to its modern and efficient society. It allows you to stay for up to a year and work for a foreign employer or as a freelancer. Applicants need to show a minimum monthly income of €4,500, earned in the six months prior to applying.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	€100 for the long-stay (D) visa application.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 1 year.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Typically 15 to 30 days.

13. Malta

This sunny Mediterranean archipelago offers a Nomad Residence Permit for one year, which is renewable. Applicants must prove they can work remotely and have a gross monthly income of at least €2,700. Malta’s appeal lies in its beautiful coastline, historic sites, and the widespread use of English.

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	€300 application fee per applicant.
Length of Permitted Stay	1 year, renewable upon meeting conditions.
Minimum Stay Requirement	To renew, you must have lived in Malta for at least 5 months.
Processing Time	Approximately 30 business days.

14. Romania

From the mysterious castles of Transylvania to the vibrant capital of Bucharest, Romania is an affordable and exciting option. The country has a dedicated long-stay visa for remote workers. To qualify, you must prove that you have an income of at least three times the Romanian average gross salary for the six months preceding your application (approximately €3,700 per month).

Metric	Details
Cost of the Visa	Approximately €120.
Length of Permitted Stay	1 year (via a residence permit applied for after arrival), renewable.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None for the first year.
Processing Time	10 to 30 days.

15. Philippines

With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is a tropical paradise for budget-conscious nomads, known for its friendly locals and low cost of living. While a formal digital nomad visa has been approved, its full implementation is pending. In the meantime, the most common route is to enter on a tourist visa and apply for regular extensions, which is a straightforward process allowing for a stay of up to 36 months.

Metric	Details (for Tourist Visa Extension)
Cost of the Visa	Varies. Initial entry is low-cost; extensions range from ~$30 – ~$200 each.
Length of Permitted Stay	Up to 36 months through continuous extensions.
Minimum Stay Requirement	None.
Processing Time	Extensions are typically processed on the same day at an immigration office.

Tips for Indian Digital Nomads

When applying for Digital Nomad Visas for Indian citizens, keep these tips in mind:

• Check the Tech: Research internet speeds and co-working space availability in your chosen destination to ensure you can work efficiently.
• Plan Your Finances: Ensure you meet the income requirements and have enough savings. Be aware of tax implications in both your home and host countries.
• Get Comprehensive Insurance: Most visas require health insurance. Get a plan that offers international coverage.
• Understand the Visa Process: Each country’s application process is different. Research thoroughly, prepare your documents, and apply well in advance.
• Stay Connected: Join online communities and local expat groups to connect with other digital nomads and get tips for settling in.
• Respect Local Culture: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language and be mindful of cultural customs and traditions.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between a tourist visa and a digital nomad visa?

A tourist visa does not legally permit you to work, while a digital nomad visa grants you the right to work remotely for foreign-based employers or clients.

2. Can I bring my family with me on a digital nomad visa?

Many countries, including Spain and Costa Rica, have provisions for applicants to bring dependents like spouses and children. Check the specific rules for your chosen destination.

3. Do I have to pay taxes in the host country?

Tax regulations vary. Some countries offer tax exemptions for digital nomads for a certain period, while others may require you to pay taxes. It’s best to consult with a tax advisor.

4. How long does the application process typically take?

Processing times can range from a few weeks to several months, so it’s crucial to start the application process early.

5. Are Digital Nomad Visas for Indian citizens difficult to obtain?

The difficulty varies by country and depends on meeting the specific income, employment, and documentation requirements. Thorough preparation is key.

Conclusion

The world is truly opening up for Indian professionals who dream of a location-independent lifestyle. With a growing list of countries offering Digital Nomad Visas for Indian professionals, careful planning, and a spirit of adventure, you can turn your dream of working from anywhere into a reality.