If you’re ready to hit the road and embrace the digital nomad lifestyle, or simply want to switch countries while working remotely, then this guide is for you. These countries from different continents currently offer some of the fastest visa processing times.
Choosing the perfect next destination as a digital nomad is no easy task. It means balancing critical factors such as a reliable internet connection and access to locations that support a comfortable remote working setup.
Long or unpredictable visa processing times only add to the challenge. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of countries with impressively short processing times: from 48 hours to just 20 days. Let’s get started!
6. Spain
Visa processing time: 20 days
Spain is undoubtedly one of the main international hotspots for digital nomads. Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia or Seville attract hundreds of remote workers every year.
Successful applicants must provide their three most recent bank statements showing a monthly income of at least €2,400, a clean criminal record and proof that their business has been operational for at least one year.
Please note that the length of the visa depends on where you apply. If you apply from your home country you will receive a 1 year visa, but if you apply from Spain you will receive a 3 year visa.
5. Costa Rica
Visa processing time: 14 days
Costa Rica is one of the top Latin American destinations for digital nomads, thanks to its breathtaking nature that promotes a good work-life balance and its attractive tax-free scheme for entrepreneurs.
Although processing times are shorter than in Spain, the application process is slightly more complicated as you must apply for an additional residence permit upon arrival.
The visa is valid for one year and can be extended for another year.
4. Greece
Visa processing time: 10 days
The Hellenic country offers the fastest visa processing times in Europe.
Eligible candidates must submit their application to the Greek Consulate in their country of residence and present their passport to the authorities during the processing period.
One of the best features of this digital nomad visa is its five-year validity, with the option to apply for European citizenship if eligibility requirements are met.
3. Dubai
Visa processing time: 7 days
Dubai boasts one of the fastest visa processing times in the digital nomad world.
To obtain a visa, applicants must provide proof of a monthly income of at least $3,500. Other requirements include proof of employment with international clients or ownership of a company outside Dubai, along with comprehensive health insurance covering the UAE.
Successful applicants can stay in Dubai for up to one year.
2. Bermuda
Visa processing time: 5 working days
This Caribbean paradise not only offers one of the fastest processing times, but also does not require proof of minimum monthly income, a requirement that sometimes deters remote workers from applying.
This is great news for new digital nomads who are just starting their business and cannot yet guarantee a steady monthly income.
In this country, simply demonstrating that you can finance your lifestyle is enough.
1. Mauritius
Visa processing time: 48 hours
This beautiful African island offers the fastest digital nomad visa processing time on this list.
Another advantage of applying for a visa in Mauritius is that you will not be charged any fees. Make sure you earn at least $1,500 per month and you’ll qualify.
While processing times may be a determining factor in choosing your next destination, other factors (such as weather, internet connection and cost of living) may be more important for remote workers making such an important decision.
