The digital nomad lifestyle gives you the freedom to work from anywhere—but with so many incredible destinations around the world, how do you choose the right country to live and work remotely?
The answer depends on a variety of factors, from internet speed and safety to visa policies, cost of living, and personal preferences. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key things to consider so you can confidently pick the best country for your remote work adventure.
1. Internet Speed and Reliability
As a remote worker, fast and stable internet is essential. You’ll need it for video calls, uploading files, collaborating with teams, or managing your business.
Before choosing a country, research:
- Average internet speed
- Availability of coworking spaces
- Mobile data coverage
- Infrastructure in rural vs. urban areas
Top countries with great internet: South Korea, Portugal, Estonia, Singapore, and the Netherlands.
2. Visa Options for Remote Workers
More and more countries are offering digital nomad visas or long-term stay permits for remote workers. These allow you to live and work legally for several months—or even years.
Examples of digital nomad-friendly visa programs:
- Portugal – D7 and Digital Nomad Visa
- Estonia – Digital Nomad Visa
- Croatia – Up to 12 months for remote workers
- Georgia – Remotely From Georgia program
- Mexico – Temporary Resident Visa (up to 4 years)
Tip: Always check visa requirements and limitations before planning your move.
3. Cost of Living
Your budget will play a huge role in choosing your destination. Some countries allow you to live well on $1,000/month, while others can cost three times as much.
Budget-friendly countries for nomads:
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Mexico
- Colombia
- Bulgaria
- Indonesia
Compare the cost of rent, transportation, groceries, dining, and coworking space memberships when planning.
4. Time Zone Compatibility
If you work with a team or clients in a specific region (like North America or Europe), consider how time zones will affect your productivity.
You’ll want to:
- Avoid waking up at 3 a.m. for meetings
- Have overlapping work hours
- Stay available for communication during core business times
Tip: Use tools like Time Zone Buddy or World Time Buddy to find ideal overlaps.
5. Safety and Healthcare
Safety should never be compromised. Research the safety index, political stability, and healthcare quality in any country you’re considering.
Check:
- Crime rates and safety rankings
- Accessibility of hospitals and clinics
- Quality of healthcare for expats
- Whether your travel insurance is accepted
Countries with strong healthcare systems include: Germany, Japan, Australia, Portugal, and Costa Rica.