What Is a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is an individual who leverages technology to work remotely from various locations around the world.
These locations can be:
- coffee shops;
- co-working spaces;
- Airbnb working oriented (with comfortable desk / work space);
- etc.
This lifestyle emphasizes freedom from geographical constraints, allowing individuals to explore new cultures and experiences while maintaining their professional roles.
According to this article that I enjoyed a lot, most digital nomads works in hotels (https://passport-photo.online/blog/digital-nomad-statistics-and-trends/):
How Do Digital Nomads Make Money?
Digital nomads typically earn money through various remote work models.
According to my personal experience and according to a reply that I liked a lot on a reddi post about this topic:
“You get the job first, *then* become a digital nomad.”
In my opinion, the most important is to get a remote job first which is stable, in which you have experience and that you’re (of course) able to do fully remotely.
This list that I found here summarize well what kind of jobs are fits well into the digital nomad model.
Many also run their own online businesses, manage e-commerce stores, or develop software and digital products.
How much how much do digital nomads earn?
According to this article most digital nomads (60%) earn between 50 000 and 250 000$ USD / Year.
The earnings of digital nomads can vary widely, ranging from a few thousand dollars to over six figures annually. Factors affecting income include skill set, industry, experience level, and the ability to secure consistent work. Successful digital nomads often combine multiple streams of income to enhance their financial stability.
What Are the Best Countries for Digital Nomads?
I found this map pretty accurate in order to have a quick overview of the places where digital nomads choose to live:
Countries that attract digital nomads often have strong internet connectivity, a low cost of living, and a supportive expat community. Popular destinations include Thailand, Indonesia (especially Bali), Portugal, and Mexico. These countries offer not only the logistical advantages but also scenic landscapes and vibrant cultures that enrich the nomadic experience.
I’ve also write a page that is dedicated to statistics about digital nomads place to live in!
What are the Legal Requirements for Becoming a Digital Nomad?
You need to take into considerations that this topic is complex and : the legal requirements for digital nomads depend on the destination country.
The easiest choice is to take into considerations the countries that are currently offering digital nomads visas.
Common considerations include visas, permits, and local regulations regarding work and residency. Some countries offer specific ‘digital nomad visas’ that facilitate long-term stays for remote workers.
The article that is giving the most amount of information for this topic can be found here.
How Do Digital Nomads Pay Taxes?
Tax obligations for digital nomads can be complex. They must often navigate the tax regulations of their home country and the country they are residing in. Many consult with tax professionals to ensure compliance with international tax laws and take advantage of treaties to avoid double taxation.
Here is an example of taxes that you will pay in the following countries as a digital nomads:
- Cyprus: corporate tax rate of 12.5%, tax residency certificate with just 60 days of stay.
- Dubai: 0% income tax rate and up to 9% corporate tax, tax residency certificate with 90-120 days of stay.
- Estonia: approximately 20% depending on the business type.
- Andorra: 10% tax rate through the andorran digital nomad visa, minimum stay for the certificate is 90 days.
- Spain: around 24% on income and 0% on foreign dividends thanks to the Beckham Law.
- Malta: various tax schemes at 15%. Tax residency certificate with reinforced stay in the country.
More information can be found here.
What Skills Are Needed to Be a Successful Digital Nomad?
Key skills for successful digital nomads include self-discipline, strong communication, and proficiency in digital tools and technologies. Adaptability and cultural sensitivity are also crucial as working across different time zones and cultures is a common challenge.
Those skills can be summarize in the following list:
- Managing time zones
- Remote Communication
- Flexibility
- Financial Savvy
- Self-Discipline
- Tech Proficiency
- Networking
- Problem solving
- Wellness Balance
- Cultural Awareness
- Safety Awareness
- Work-Life Harmony
How Do Digital Nomads Manage Health Care?
Health care management for digital nomads typically involves purchasing international health insurance that provides coverage worldwide. Many also plan for medical emergencies by familiarizing themselves with healthcare facilities in their current or planned destinations.
Writing this article I found this list of Health Care companies that offer digital nomads options:
- Safety Wing
- Medical for Nomads
- World Nomads
- Insured Nomads
- True Traveler
- TCP Insurance
- PassportCard Nomads
- Genki
- Protect you Bubble
- Travel Guard
- IMG
- Travelex
- Faye
More information can be found on this following post.
How Do Digital Nomads Stay Connected While Traveling?
To stay connected, digital nomads rely heavily on technology. Key tools include smartphones, portable Wi-Fi devices, and cloud-based applications. Regular use of communication platforms like Slack, Zoom, and social media helps maintain connections with clients and peers.
According to me, the most important is to have a good e-SIM plan!
If you never hear about e-SIM, feel free to check what is it: https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/what-is-an-esim-card.
TLDR: It’s basically a virtual SIM card that you can add in your smartphone without needed a physical SIM card.
The provider I’m using – there is no sponsorship here – is Maya Mobile.
For example, you have plans for Europe that start for 17$ US for 1 month for 10GB all over Europe. Considering the fact that most of the time will have WiFi in Coffees, Hotels, Airbnbs etc – 10GB is enough for me for one month.
Resources
Finding online communities
I foul several digital nomads communities online:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/digitalnomad/
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/campfirebyfairytrail/
- https://nodesk.co/communities/
- https://nomads.com/
Thanks for your time! Please don’t hesitate to contact me with suggestions or any kind of feedback—I welcome them all!