Ranking of countries for digital nomads 2023

Remote work is already the norm in many companies, and while at first it was inconvenient and unappealing, the ability to work from anywhere in the world has made it quite popular. Moreover, today 70% of candidates are ready to consider precisely such offers – positions that allow them to work from anywhere.

Therefore, tourism experts conducted a study and compiled a list of the best European countries for digital nomads. The findings were unexpected – Romania tops the ranking. And the “happiest,” picturesque, and tranquil Iceland took the last position. Perhaps not everyone likes the beautiful, yet monotonous, harsh landscapes, and the high cost of rent in this country.

Conditions for digital nomads in different countries

Let's consider some facts that will help you choose the best country for yourself, based on your preferences and capabilities:

1. Visa cost. The most expensive digital nomad visa is in Malta (300 euros). In other countries, the cost is usually no more than 80 euros.
2. Wi-Fi quality. The highest is in Cyprus and Spain. Plus - sunny and warm weather all year round, fairly democratic requirements for applicants and a friendly atmosphere.
3. The most affordable housing. This is traditionally a problem in Europe, but in Hungary, Romania, Greece - the lowest prices, from 500 euros for a month's rent for a one-bedroom apartment. For comparison, in Portugal and Iceland you can’t find housing for less than 1000 euros.
4. Minimum income requirement. Portugal is the leader in this criterion - applicants are required to have an income of 750 euros per month. But given the cost of rent, the income should be clearly higher; 750 euros is not enough even for an apartment. In other countries, the threshold is higher, from 2300 euros.
5. Cost of living. Romania leads the rankings, offering low rent, food, and other expenses, as well as reliable internet access. This is based on a mandatory monthly income of €3,700.

As for the EU's "powerhouses"—Germany, France, and Italy—they didn't make the list because they don't offer visas for digital nomads. Spain, however, introduced such visas relatively recently, but has already taken silver in the rankings.

A Cruise Ship as an Alternative

Why choose a country and live in a house when you can take a cruise and work while traveling on a huge ocean liner? More and more digital nomads who don't suffer from seasickness are thinking this way. Moreover, many large liners offer even more suitable conditions:

• comfortable cabins;
• high-speed stable Internet;
• conference facilities;
• business centers;
• all the necessary infrastructure for relaxation and entertainment.

Our Telegram channel about various types of Greek residence permits, digital nomad programs, and the Greek Golden Visa: @digitalnomadgr