These are the best countries in Europe to work in as a digital nomad

The World Economic Forum forecasts that by 2030, around 1,1% of the world’s population, or 92 million people, will be working remotely. Most will occupy high-income positions, following a shift towards flexible and well-paid digital careers.

Many expats from outside the EU are already looking for legal pathways to live and work in Europe. Digital Nomad visas have emerged as the most practical solution for many. Immigrant Invest, an international consulting company, has analysed the trend and highlights why digital nomad visas are becoming increasingly appealing.

Understanding Digital Nomad visas

Getting a Digital Nomad visa is usually pretty straightforward. You’ll need to show a steady remote income, usually between €2.000 and €5.000 a month and secure housing. Compared to regular work permits, the rules are primarily about showing that you will be able to support yourself.

A further benefit is that most Digital Nomad visas let you bring your family along. Your spouse, kids, and sometimes parents can live with you legally, use local healthcare and schools, and move around freely.

Most Digital Nomad visas last one to two years, depending on where you apply, and you can often renew them if you want to stay longer.

The best places to work remotely in Europe

Europe is a popular destination for digital nomads, with the most attractive locations being Portugal, Italy, and Spain. One key reason is the introduction of Digital Nomad visas, which make relocation simple and convenient, while allowing visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.

Portugal, Italy and Spain also stand out for their appealing tax regimes, excellent quality of life, and warm climate. Portugal offers a clear path to citizenship after five years, while Spain attracts remote workers with one of the lowest income requirements in the EU.

Here's a breakdown of the main criteria for these three most popular countries:

• A Digital Nomad visa for Portugal requires proof of a stable remote income of at least €3.480 per month. The visa is issued for two years and can be extended.
• An Italian Digital Nomad visa requires an annual income of at least €32.400 plus savings of €30.000 or more. It is valid for one year and can be renewed for an additional two years.
• A Digital Nomad visa for Spain is available to professionals earning at least €2.762 per month. The residence permit is initially valid for three years and is renewable for another two.

Alongside Portugal, Italy and Spain, 14 other European countries offer specific visas for digital nomads.

Tax incentives for digital nomads in Portugal, Spain and Italy

Portugal’s Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) regime means that highly qualified professionals in fields such as IT, engineering, or medicine incur only a flat 20% tax rate, compared to the standard progressive rates of up to 48%.

In Italy, the Impatriate Regime allows qualifying expats to exempt 50% of their income from tax, or 60% if they have dependent children, up to a total of €600.000 annually. Otherwise, progressive rates reach 43%.

Meanwhile, the Beckham Law in Spain allows eligible expats to pay a 24% flat rate on an income of up to €600.000 per year, while higher earnings are taxed at up to 47%.

These favourable tax regimes draw foreigners from around the world, particularly from high-tax countries, to relocate to Portugal, Italy, and Spain on Digital Nomad visas

How Immigrant Invest makes the process easier

Digital Nomad visas have made working remotely more straightforward than ever, but they still require accurate paperwork and clear communication with authorities. With 20 years of experience, Immigrant Invest offers personalised advice to match each client’s income and goals to the best option. Its legal expertise ensures a smooth and reliable relocation. To start your journey, call Célia Castilho on +356 2033 0178 or email her at [email protected].