The start of a new year brings a fresh slate, and with it some begin dreaming of starting a new life somewhere else, with fresh sights, novel foods, and the intangible benefit of the way you learn about yourself when immersed in a different culture. Not every company has international offices that employees with wanderlust can transfer to, but more and more workers are taking advantage of digital nomad programs. With countries around the world recognizing the economic benefits these workers bring, the number of options is ever-growing.
In 2024, Living Abroad added information on becoming a digital nomad in the Czech Republic, Canada, Korea, and South Africa, and we’ve got our eye on what’s in the works in countries with programs in progress, such as The Philippines. We now have articles for 33 countries in total.
If your workers are showing interest in becoming digital nomads, or if they have an accompanying spouse who will be using the digital nomad visa as a simpler way to be with their partner than a traditional working visa, they may have questions. In some cases, applications can be made online, and in others applicants must come in person to their nearest embassy and consulate. In many countries, your company will have to provide a letter stating that you are aware that your employee will be working abroad, that their job can be done remotely, and that you will guarantee a salary at or above the minimum income requirement.
While there can be extra paperwork involved, allowing employees to take advantage of digital nomad programs can have benefits. Forbes reports that 80% of digital nomads report a high level of satisfaction and happiness with their working situation, as opposed to 59% of traditional workers. This flexibility is especially important in retaining younger workers, with 60% of digital nomads comprised of millennial and Gen Z workers who place a great degree of importance on being able to work from anywhere.
Even if you haven’t been approached by an employee yet, it would be worth having a look through the information on what requirements there are, potential tax breaks and issues, and length of visa terms for the countries welcoming foreign workers. With Living Abroad’s overviews, you can feel confident if an employee broaches the topic and be a partner in the conversation.
Written by Kate Havas, GMS-T, Content Manager
