For many digital nomads, traveling the world while working remotely is a dream lifestyle. However, as time goes on, some nomads begin to look for long-term residency options—and even citizenship—in a country that aligns with their lifestyle and goals. While most digital nomad visas are designed for temporary stays, some can open the door to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship.
If you’re a remote worker looking for a country where you can set down roots, here are some of the best digital nomad visa programs that can lead to citizenship.
1. Portugal – D8 Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal is one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads, offering a straightforward path to permanent residency and citizenship.
Why It’s Great for Citizenship Seekers:
- The D8 digital nomad visa allows remote workers to stay in Portugal legally and apply for a residence permit.
- After five years of residency, visa holders can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
- Portugal has one of the easiest naturalization processes in Europe, requiring basic Portuguese language proficiency and cultural integration.
With its mild climate, low cost of living, and access to the Schengen Zone, Portugal is a top choice for digital nomads looking to settle down.
2. Spain – Digital Nomad Visa
Spain offers a digital nomad visa that serves as a gateway to permanent residency and citizenship.
Path to Citizenship:
- The visa is initially valid for one year but can be renewed for up to five years.
- After five years of legal residency, holders can apply for permanent residency.
- After ten years, digital nomads can apply for Spanish citizenship, provided they have integrated into Spanish society and learned the language.
Spain is a great option for those who want to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle while working remotely and eventually securing European citizenship.
3. Italy – Digital Nomad Visa (Coming Soon)
Italy has announced plans for a digital nomad visa that will allow remote workers to live and work in the country legally.
Future Citizenship Opportunities:
- Although details are still emerging, Italy’s immigration system allows foreigners to apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous legal residence.
- After ten years, residents can apply for Italian citizenship.
- Italy’s elective residency visa already provides a pathway to long-term stay and naturalization, making it likely that the digital nomad visa will offer similar benefits.
For nomads who love Italian culture, history, and cuisine, this visa could be an excellent way to build a future in Italy.
4. Greece – Digital Nomad Visa
Greece offers a digital nomad visa that provides a route to long-term residency and citizenship.
How to Become a Citizen:
- The digital nomad visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to two years.
- After five years, remote workers can apply for permanent residency.
- Citizenship can be granted after seven years of legal residency, making it one of the fastest paths to naturalization in Europe.
Greece is an ideal option for digital nomads who want access to the EU while enjoying island life and historical surroundings.
5. Mexico – Temporary Resident Visa
Mexico doesn’t have an official digital nomad visa, but the temporary resident visa is a fantastic alternative for remote workers.
Pathway to Citizenship:
- The temporary resident visa is valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years.
- After four years, holders can apply for permanent residency.
- After five years of permanent residency, individuals can apply for Mexican citizenship.
Mexico’s visa policies are flexible, and the country offers a low cost of living, beautiful landscapes, and a welcoming culture.
6. Brazil – Digital Nomad Visa
Brazil introduced a digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to stay for an extended period, with an opportunity to apply for citizenship later.
Steps to Naturalization:
- The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for an additional year.
- After four years, digital nomads may apply for permanent residency.
- Brazilian citizenship is possible after four years of permanent residency, or one year if married to a Brazilian citizen or having a Brazilian child.
Brazil is an excellent choice for digital nomads looking for a warm climate, vibrant culture, and relatively quick access to citizenship.
7. Argentina – Digital Nomad Visa (Coming Soon)
Argentina is planning to introduce a digital nomad visa, but even without it, remote workers can take advantage of the country’s temporary residency program.
Path to Citizenship:
- Argentina allows foreigners to apply for permanent residency after two years of legal residence.
- Citizenship can be obtained after only two years of residency, one of the shortest timelines in the world.
Argentina offers an affordable cost of living, a rich cultural scene, and a well-established expat community.
8. Uruguay – Permanent Residency Path
Uruguay does not have a specific digital nomad visa, but its residency program is one of the most straightforward in Latin America.
How to Get Citizenship:
- Nomads can apply for temporary residency and, after a short period, convert it into permanent residency.
- After three to five years of continuous residence, individuals can apply for Uruguayan citizenship.
Uruguay is a stable, safe country with a high quality of life, making it an attractive option for nomads considering long-term settlement.
Best Choices for Long-Term Digital Nomads
While many countries offer digital nomad visas, only a few provide a clear path to citizenship. If you’re looking for a country where you can eventually obtain a second passport, Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Mexico are some of the best options. Latin American destinations like Argentina and Brazil also provide relatively fast routes to citizenship, making them great choices for those who want a long-term home.
When selecting a destination, consider factors like tax policies, cost of living, lifestyle preferences, and language requirements. For digital nomads thinking beyond short-term stays, these countries offer excellent opportunities to build a future while continuing to work remotely.