A digital nomad visa allows remote workers to legally live and work in a foreign country while maintaining employment or freelance work with clients outside that country. While requirements vary by destination, most countries offering digital nomad visas require a set of essential documents to process the application. Preparing these documents in advance can help streamline the process and increase the chances of a successful application.
Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly required documents for a digital nomad visa application.
1. Valid Passport
A valid passport is a must-have for any visa application. Most countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 to 12 months beyond your intended stay. Some applications also require copies of previous visas or entry stamps to verify travel history.
- Tip: Check your passport’s expiration date before applying and renew it if needed to avoid delays.
2. Proof of Remote Employment or Freelance Work
Since digital nomad visas are designed for remote workers, freelancers, and business owners, applicants must prove they are employed or have a stable source of remote income.
- For remote employees: A letter from your employer confirming your job position, salary, and the ability to work remotely.
- For freelancers and business owners: Invoices, client contracts, or business registration documents to show active work.
Some countries may also require proof that your income is generated from outside their borders to ensure you are not taking local jobs.
3. Proof of Income or Financial Stability
Most digital nomad visas have a minimum income requirement to ensure applicants can support themselves without relying on local employment. The amount varies by country, but it typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 per month.
Commonly accepted documents include:
- Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
- Pay stubs or invoices
- Tax returns
Some countries may also require an official letter from your bank verifying your account balance and financial stability.
4. Health Insurance Policy
Many digital nomad visas require applicants to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical expenses, emergencies, and sometimes COVID-19 treatment.
- The insurance must be valid in the destination country and cover the entire duration of your stay.
- Some countries specify a minimum coverage amount, such as €30,000 in the EU.
Tip: Check if the insurance policy meets visa requirements before purchasing a plan. Some providers specialize in insurance for digital nomads, such as SafetyWing and World Nomads.
5. Clean Criminal Record Certificate
Many countries require a police clearance certificate or background check from your home country (or any country where you’ve lived in the past few years). This ensures that applicants have no serious criminal offenses.
- In the U.S., this can be obtained from the FBI or local police departments.
- In the UK, you may need a DBS check.
- Some countries request an apostilled or notarized version of this document.
Processing times vary, so apply early to avoid delays.
6. Proof of Accommodation
Many digital nomad visas require proof of where you will be staying during your initial months in the country. This can be:
- A rental agreement or lease contract
- A hotel or Airbnb reservation
- An invitation letter from a host (if staying with friends or family)
Some countries allow flexibility, requiring only a temporary address until you find long-term accommodation.
7. Visa Application Form and Fees
Every country has a specific visa application form that must be completed and submitted either online or at an embassy/consulate. Along with the application form, a visa processing fee is usually required.
- Fees range from $100 to $2,000, depending on the country.
- Some applications may require an in-person interview at an embassy.
8. Passport-Sized Photos
Most visa applications require recent passport-sized photos that meet specific size and background color requirements. It’s a good idea to have multiple copies available in case different countries require variations.
9. Travel Itinerary or Flight Reservation
Some digital nomad visa applications require proof of onward or return travel. If a return ticket is not required, you may need to provide a flight reservation or travel itinerary that outlines your plans.
Tip: If unsure about your travel dates, consider using a refundable or temporary flight booking service.
10. Additional Country-Specific Requirements
Depending on the country, there may be additional documents required, such as:
- Tax residency declaration (to prove you don’t intend to pay taxes locally)
- Business license (if you are self-employed)
- Letter of intent explaining why you want to live in the country as a digital nomad
Final Thoughts
Applying for a digital nomad visa can be a smooth process if you prepare your documents in advance. Each country has specific requirements, so it’s important to check the official immigration website before applying. Having a well-organized application increases your chances of approval and helps you transition seamlessly into your new location.