Digital Nomad Paradise: The 7 Best Countries to Work Remote

Want to unlock your digital nomad dreams? Check out our ultimate guide to the best countries to work remote.

Living the digital nomad lifestyle has its perks. As a remote worker, you can work from anywhere, anytime, and you have the freedom to pick up and go whenever the mood strikes. That said, things can get tricky when it comes to choosing a place to settle down for a bit.

But deciding on a base city doesn’t have to be tough. To help you with that, we’ve created this straightforward guide that breaks down the best countries to work remote.

Whether you’re looking for affordable living costs, sunny weather, or just a change of scenery, we’ve got you covered.

1. Spain

Average rent: $659 - $802 per month
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa

With its sunny climate and diverse terrain, Spain is a haven for remote workers seeking work and play. One of the country’s major draws is its thriving digital nomad community, making it easy to connect with like-minded individuals from various industries.

With the recent introduction of a digital nomad visa, moving to Spain has become even more accessible, allowing non-EU nationals to stay up to 5 years.

For Americans, Spain offers a significantly lower cost of living, with affordable groceries and rent. On average, a one-bedroom apartment is about $659 in smaller cities, while a one-bedroom apartment in the city center will set you back around $802 monthly.

While big cities like Barcelona and Madrid are definitely worth checking out, the cost of living is sometimes considerably more affordable in smaller places like Las Palmas, Galicia, and Tenerife.

With hundreds of co-working spaces scattered across the country, you’ll have no trouble finding a productive workspace as a remote employee.

2. Mexico

Average rent: $400 - $830 per month
Visa: Not required for stays less than 6 months

Mexico is a top pick for digital nomads looking to live and work hassle-free. You can stay up to 180 days without a visa, and there’s no need for a work permit.

The cost of living in Mexico is nothing short of a steal, especially compared to the United States. Renting an apartment here is around 160% cheaper than in the US, with one-bedroom apartments typically costing between $400 and $500 in Mexico City’s average areas and rising to around $680 to $830 in nicer neighborhoods.

Just remember that some areas may not be safe for tourists, but there are plenty of other safe and vibrant spots to explore.

Whether you’re enchanted by the world-class surfing in Puerto Escondido or the serene beaches of Troncones, you’ll discover an ideal setting to focus on your work while enjoying the laid-back lifestyle Mexico has to offer.

3. Portugal

Average rent: $450 - $1,100 per month
Visa: Temporary Stay Visa/Long-Term Residency Permit

Over the years, Portugal has established itself as a top destination for digital nomads, offering a combination of breathtaking scenery, low cost of living, and reliable internet.

Here, you can count on the network coverage, plus an excellent transport system ― little wonder the country is hailed as a haven for remote workers.

Portugal’s major cities, Porto and Lisbon, have become bustling startup hubs with big digital nomad communities. In these places, you’re sure to find all the modern amenities you’ll need while enjoying a blend of culture and history.

The recent introduction of a Temporary Stay Visa allows you to work legally in Portugal as a digital nomad for up to a year. And you can apply for a two-year residency permit to extend your stay.

In addition to its natural beauty and favorable living conditions, Portugal’s affordability makes it an attractive option for digital nomads. The relatively low cost of living means you can expect to pay around $1,100 for an apartment in Lisbon.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more outdoor-centric lifestyle, you might want to consider co-living spaces in smaller areas like Sagres and Baleal.

4. Indonesia

Average rent: $250 - $460 per month
Visa: Second Home Visa

Indonesia captures the hearts of digital nomads worldwide with its chill island vibes, breathtaking scenery, and wallet-friendly living. Bali is a hotspot for remote work, offering dreamy seaside villages, lush nature trails, and tons of cool co-working spots.

One of the perks of working remotely in Indonesia is the availability of the Second Home Visa. With this visa, you can stay and work in the country for up to five years.

Here’s something to keep in mind, though.

If you need to work on US time, Bali’s significant time difference with the United States ― ranging between 11 to 15 hours ― may pose some inconveniences. Other than that, Indonesia’s array of attractions and amenities make it one of the best countries to work remote.

5. Ecuador

Average rent: $400 - $600 per month
Visa: Rentista for Remote Work Visa

Ecuador certainly doesn’t boast the same level of fame as Mexico or Portugal, yet it is a hidden gem for digital nomads seeking adventure off the beaten track.

If you’re currently in the US and looking to balance work across time zones, Ecuador’s Eastern Time Zone makes it an ideal destination for syncing up with US hours.

The most straightforward path to moving to Ecuador is through its digital nomad Visa known as Rentista for Remote Work Visa. This visa gives expats the freedom to work in the country for up to two years before requiring renewal.

And when it comes to the cost of living, Ecuador is one of the most budget-friendly countries in South America, allowing you to stretch your dollars further.

The average monthly rent here ranges between $400 and $600 for a one-bedroom apartment in big cities. And if you prefer living in smaller towns and rural areas like Mompiche and Montañita, you’ll likely find lower rates.

6. Thailand

Average rent: $250 to $565 per month
Visa: Thai Work Visa

Ever wondered why Chaing Mai in Thailand is commonly referred to as the digital nomad capital of the world? That’s because Chiang Mai, the third largest city in the country, has an attractive combo of factors such as a strong digital professional community, favorable day-to-day living conditions, and, of course, a low cost of living.

Plus, Thailand’s pleasant weather and natural beauty, including its stunning beaches and lush jungles, make it a digital nomad paradise, especially if you seek an escape from the ordinary.

Whether you’re unwinding on picturesque beaches or working from cozy cafes, having a good laptop is essential for staying productive and connected.

If you’re considering a move to Thailand, the Thai work visa is the easiest and safest way to start working in the country. It is valid for one year and can be easily renewed before expiration.

While the living standards may not always reach first-world levels, Thailand’s good infrastructure ensures easy travel and comfortable living for expats.

7. Argentina

Average rent: $228 - $339 per month
Visa: Digital Nomad Visa

Argentina is, no doubt, one of the best countries to work remote, especially for digital nomads seeking to experience a rich cultural heritage. In Argentina, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in a vibrant social scene where warm and open locals embrace an active lifestyle.

While Argentina’s laid back atmosphere fosters a sense of relaxation and enjoyment, it also means that bureaucratic processes, healthcare systems, and other services may move at a slower pace. This makes it all the more important to consider investing in a global travel medical insurance for digital nomads.

An enticing aspect of the country for digital nomads is its low cost of living. Argentina offers exceptional value if you earn in US dollars, allowing your income to stretch further.

Recently, Argentina has introduced a digital nomad visa, allowing foreign workers to operate remotely within the country. This visa lets you stay for up to 180 days, with the option for renewal for an additional 180 days.

It’s tailored for digital nomads and available to passport holders from countries that do not require an Argentine tourist visa for entry.

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