Looking for a change in life? Are you self-employed or able to work remotely from another country? Have you ever dreamed about becoming a digital nomad? If you said yes to any of these questions, you should consider looking into freelancing abroad!
But which countries offer freelancing visas? Perhaps surprisingly, there are many countries to choose from! When it comes to international freelancing, different countries offer different types of visas that abide by their own rules and regulations. Qualifying for these visas will depend on your home country or which country you have citizenship in.
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What is a freelance visa?
So, what is a freelance visa and what does it mean? A freelance visa allows for individuals that are considered self-employed or own/run their own business to travel to different countries while working remotely. This way, people can travel the world while still working and making an income!
Freelance visas can remain valid from a couple of months to a couple of years, depending on your destination and how long you’re willing to stay. Many different countries offer all sorts of visas, so make sure to thoroughly explore your options if you’re interested in freelancing abroad.
If you need help, Visadb.io can get you started. This (free!) visa database gathers visa information found through most countries’ government or immigration websites, meaning you can easily find all the information you need. Freelancing abroad has never been so simple!
Which countries offer a freelance visa?
1. Germany: Freelancer “Freiberufler” Visa
Germany definitely isn’t the *wurst* choice!
- What to know: With the Freiberufler Visa, you can freelance abroad in Germany, enjoying great food and delicious beer to your heart’s content. This visa is perfect for Non-EEA/non-Swiss citizens wanting to freelance in liberal professions such as healthcare, law, and tech.
- While the visa is valid for three months, it can eventually be converted into a residence permit. After three years of residence, individuals are eligible for a settlement permit under the condition of starting a retail or manual trade business.
2. Belgium: Self-Employed Professional Card Visa
- What to know: When in Belgium, you will find some of the world's best chocolate and waffles! Belgium’s self-employed visa was made for non-EEA individuals seeking settlement and self-employment in Belgium. Individuals must be approved and granted a professional card allowing them to perform their profession over five years.
- Visas are considered by the applicant’s benefit to Belgium’s economy. This includes useful investments, job creation, and economic benefits to companies in Belgium. Applicants must also prove skills and experience.
3. Portugal: D7 Portugal Visa
You’ll have no shortage of sunshine in Portugal.
- What to know: One of Europe’s oldest countries, Portugal is full of life and adventure. Beaches, port wine, and beautiful architecture are just a few of Portugal’s inarguable benefits. Economically self-sufficient, non-EU citizens looking to work from Portugal are encouraged to apply for the D7 international freelance visa.
- The visa is issued for four months and allows the applicant to live in Portugal and apply for a residence permit. A resident permit is valid for two years and then renewable for another three years. After five years of residency, the individual can request Portuguese Citizenship or permanent residence. A spouse or children are eligible to be added.
4. Croatia: Digital Nomad Visa
- What to know: In Croatia, you are going to find some of the most beautiful (and underrated) scenery in the world. The Digital Nomad Visa is perfect for freelancing abroad; it’s open to individuals who are self-employed or employed at companies outside of Croatia. The company must not be registered in the Republic of Croatia and the visa holder cannot be working for employers within the Republic. Applicants must provide proof of means of subsistence during their stay.
- This visa is available to those who intend to spend less than or up to a year in Croatia. Unfortunately, it’s not eligible to be extended. The good news though is that digital nomads may apply for another visa six months after the expiry of their previous visa.
5. Spain: Non-lucrative Visa
We recommend paella for your lunch breaks.
- What to know: Spain is an amazing country that offers it all. Beaches, islands, mountains, tapas, siestas (and fiestas!), wines, and Cava are all reasons to explore this beautiful country.
- Looking to spend a little time working in Spain? This non-lucrative residence visa allows individuals to stay in Spain without engaging in a remunerated activity. In order to be eligible, Spain requires applicants to make around $3520 a month.
6. Brazil: Digital Nomad Visa
- What to know: Brazil, famous for its Carnival festival and stunning rainforests, is an excellent place for international freelancing. Professional workers who can work remotely can apply for the temporary Digital Nomad Visa and residence permit.
- It’s important to check the applicable rules as a visitor in Brazil. Applicants also need proof of means of subsistence, earning $1500+ each month. The duration of the visa lasts one year.
7. Estonia: Digital Nomad Visa
Estonia will leave you pleasantly surprised.
- What to know: One of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, Estonia would be great for someone wanting to run their own start-up or business abroad. The Digital Nomad Visa was created to allow individuals to work and live in Estonia while legally working for their employer or own company that is registered abroad.
- Applicants who are eligible for the visa may stay for up to a year. If an individual is already in Estonia and wants to extend their stay, they can apply for this visa at a Police and Border Guard office. There are both long-term and short-term visas available. Applicants will also need to submit a background check.
8. Cyprus: Immigration Permit Category D – Profession
- What to know: Known as the Jewel of the Mediterranean, Cyprus is a beautiful island and perfect for freelancing abroad. Foreign applicants with academic or professional qualifications can apply for the Immigration Permit Category D - Profession visa.
- This visa is intended for individuals who work in a self-employed profession. Individuals should also provide proof of adequate funds when applying for the visa (at least €30,000 annual income). Spouses and kids are welcome to join.
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Is international freelancing your calling?
This list is just a handful of experiences waiting for you. If you are considering a change of pace in life, freelancing abroad might be a great opportunity. Many freelancing visas give you the chance to make a home abroad in both the short and long term! Where will the digital nomad lifestyle take you next?
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This article was written by Danish Soomro, Addison Doerr, and Paula Vazquez from Visadb.io. For more information on international freelancing, visit Visadb.io to see where you are eligible for a freelance visa abroad.