Everything You Need to Know About Being a Digital Nomad in Europe in 2022

The invention of the World Wide Web profoundly changed how we work and travel. Now, more than ever, it is easier to work from anywhere in the world.

Europe is an ideal destination for those who dream of working online and traveling. This continent has favorable visas, excellent remote workspaces, and accessible transportation for digital nomads.

If this lifestyle is something you’re interested in, stay tuned. Here is everything you need to know about being a digital nomad in Europe in 2022.

Things To Think About Before Traveling Europe While Working Online

There are numerous ways to work abroad while traveling in Europe. Still, it isn’t always as easy as packing your suitcase and laptop and relocating to another country.

Most people can get away with casually working while on vacation abroad. However, if you want to live in another country while working online, there are a few things you need to consider first.

One of those considerations is – does your current employer offer remote work options, or will you have to find a job that lets you work online?

More and more, employers are letting their employees work from another place. Still, you will need to consider time zone differences, wifi and workspace availability, and visa requirements. Additionally, you will need to consider logistical issues, such as where your mail will go, etc.

Taxes are also something you will need to be aware of while working abroad. You may need to pay your home country’s taxes in addition to local taxes, even if you’re not living there.

While there are a few more things to consider, it is still a worthwhile experience!

Ways to Work Abroad in Europe in 2022

Formal Programs

Suppose everything mentioned above sounds overwhelming to you. In that case, some companies will arrange your work abroad trip in Europe for you.

These organizations offer curated work retreats in various European countries. Often, these programs include accommodations, meals, local support, workspaces, classes, workshops, excursions, health and safety, and networking opportunities.

It can be more costly than going on your own, ranging from approximately 1,800 to 2,500 USD per month. However, it can save you a ton of time and energy planning out the logistics of trying to be a digital nomad in Europe on your own. It is also an excellent option for people who want a sense of community abroad and a network after the experience.

Two of the most popular programs to work abroad in Europe in 2022 are Remote Year and Hacker Paradise.

Jobs to apply for if you want to be a Digital Nomad

Another option is to become a digital nomad on your own. There are a few more logistical considerations when going this route, but you have more independence. We have our own jobs page for people who want to do this here.

The rest of the article will cover the easiest places to freely travel whilst you work in jobs like these.

Visas to Work Abroad in Europe in 2022

If you would like to work abroad in Europe in 2022, you will likely need a visa.

A visa is a validation in your passport that allows you to enter, stay in, or leave a specific country.

Every country has a different visa process for remote guest workers. It is essential to double-check before moving there.

Many countries offer a “digital nomad visa” or “freelancer visa.” However, not every European country has friendly visa policies for foreign digital workers. Some allow people to work in that country for more time than others.

Best Countries to Work Abroad in Europe in 2022

So, which countries are most favorable for being a digital nomad in Europe? Here is our list:

Germany

Germany is a notoriously friendly location for self-employed individuals and freelancers. Not only does it have favorable visa options, but it also has ample multilingual coworking spaces.

The type of visa you’ll need in Germany depends on the type of online work you’re conducting. Technically, being a digital nomad and earning a foreign currency is considered a grey area. Therefore, you can spend up to 90 days on a tourist visa. However, if you are doing any business outside of your computer in the country, you may need a business visa.

If you want to have what Germany considers a liberal profession, you may need a freelancer visa.

You can learn more about each type of German visa here.

Hungary

Hungary is an affordable and attractive destination for a digital nomad in Europe. Recently, the government announced a new one-year “White Card” visa program.

Digital nomads who hold this visa can stay in the country for up to one year. Hungary is a part of the Schengen area, so you can visit 26 countries.

You must make at least 2,000 euros monthly and cannot work for a Hungarian company on this visa.

There are no official application details for this visa yet, so make sure to keep an eye on it.

Malta

Malta has long been a favorite destination for digital nomads in Europe. This island nation is multilingual, has a strong national internet connection, and has nomad residency permits.

Their nomad residence permit allows guests to maintain employment in another country while living in Malta. It is for location-independent individuals who work remotely.

With this permit, you can work in the country for up to a year and renew annually if you still meet the criteria.

The process is much more streamlined and easy-to-follow than in other countries in Europe.

Requirements can shift due to COVID, so you can find the latest information on their public health department’s website.

Portugal

If you want to live in Europe long-term, Portugal is one of the most favorable countries. This stunning coastal nation offers some of the friendliest policies for remote workers in Europe.

Working online falls under Portugal’s residence permit. This allows visitors to live full-time in Portugal. There are two types of permits – temporary and permanent.

A temporary residence visa is typically valid for up to a year, and you can renew for two-year periods. After five years, residents can apply for permanent residency.

Before applying for these permits, you will first need a temporary stay visa.

You can learn more about these visas and permits on Portugal Confidential.

Spain

Spain is an exciting prospect for digital nomads. It has a culture with outstanding work-life balance and coworking spaces.

During COVID-19, Spain entered into the digital nomad game by offering a visa for remote workers.

This new permit allows people working for foreign companies to live in Spain without a full work visa.

The details for this new visa are not yet clear. However, those living there from outside the European Union or Schengen Zone will need to be employed by a non-Spanish company or earn less than 20% of their income from Spanish companies.

You can stay updated on the latest Spain digital nomad visa developments on the Spain Visa website.

Bottom Line

Hopefully, the tips from this article have inspired you to work abroad in Europe in 2022.

While COVID-19 has put a damper on many things, it has opened many opportunities for digital work worldwide.

Europe offers many possibilities for people worldwide who want to work online and travel.

If you’re interested in articles like this one or other travel tips, read our other blog posts!