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In this ultimate guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know about living in Albania as a digital nomad. Albania’s biggest attraction is its beautiful and extensive coastline which attracts most of the country’s tourists. However, there are many other incredible places to see in the country. Albania also has pretty cobblestone towns, a … Read more

The post Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Albania appeared first on Goats On The Road.

In this ultimate guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know about living in Albania as a digital nomad.

Albania’s biggest attraction is its beautiful and extensive coastline which attracts most of the country’s tourists. However, there are many other incredible places to see in the country.

Albania also has pretty cobblestone towns, a wealth of history to discover, and is home to some of the friendliest people. Pair all this with WiFi and affordable living, and you have a digital nomad’s dream.

I recently spent over two months living in Albania and fell in love with this relatively undiscovered country. As a digital nomad, it was a perfect base; read on as I share my experience and findings with you.

About Albania

Albania is a country of nearly 3 million people located in southeastern Europe. It shares a border with Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south.

Albania is an incredibly diverse country. It shares a picturesque coastline with Croatia and Greece with the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas lapping at its shores. Inland, it has beautiful snow-capped mountains and a huge range of flora and fauna.

Its capital is the stunning and modern city of Tirana which retains poignant and important reflections of its communist past. It’s a country of beautiful nature and fascinating history and I believe it offers something for everyone.

Albania for Digital Nomads

As a digital nomad in Albania, you’ll have the choice of varying and diverse cities and landscapes to live and work in.

Throughout the major cities in Albania, the WiFi speeds and reliability are good. This is supported by a great 4G network which makes living in Albania as a digital nomad a great choice.

The cafe culture here is also conducive to being a remote worker in Albania. Most cafes have good WiFi and sitting for hours with a coffee and working on your laptop is common and encouraged.

Along with the infrastructure, the choice between cosmopolitan cities or beachfront towns makes Albania a great choice for digital nomads.

☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Cities for Digital Nomads

Best Places to Live in Albania

There are some amazing places to live in Albania, the location really depends on what you want from your digital nomad base; here are my 5 recommendations.

1. Tirana

Tirana is the capital city of Albania and its most populous area. It’s an excellent base for both digital nomads and expats in Albania.

What are the Best Areas to Live in Tirana?

You’re spoiled for choice with the different neighbourhoods in Tirana. For trendy bars, restaurants, and the best nightlife, head to Blloku. This neighbourhood was once reserved for the Communist elite but is now the place to be seen in Tirana.

If you prefer the traditional cafe culture then I suggest Zona 1 which has the largest fish market in Albania in the New Bazaar. It’s close to the central Skanderbeg Square but away from the crowds, with plenty of cafes and bars for people watching, (and working).

Komuna e Parisit is a great neighbourhood for families or for those that like green space. It’s still close to the bustling centre and is located near the Grand Park of Tirana and the Artificial Lake.

How to Find Apartments in Tirana

The best place to find short to mid-term apartments in Tirana is through Airbnb. There’s a huge range of options across all neighbourhoods of the capital city. Check out my 10 best Airbnbs in Tirana here.

Additionally, I recommend joining the “Expats in Tirana” Facebook group which can assist with accommodation and keep you up to date with everything happening in Tirana.

The more general group “Expats in Albania” is also helpful. Tirana features heavily in the group as the country’s capital city.

Coworking Spaces in Tirana

Tirana has the most, and the best, coworking spaces in the country. The only difficulty is choosing which one to join.

Dutch Hub is perfectly located in the heart of Blloku. So, if you’re staying in this area and want to be in amongst the action, Dutch Hub is a great option. It has plenty of private and semi-private office options for those wanting some seclusion.

Coolab is one of my favourite coworking spaces in the Balkans. It has a great cafe out the front and a coworking space to the rear. There are many hot desks available as well as private meeting and conference rooms. The tennis tables also create a great blend of work and play.

As well as the formal spaces, nearly every cafe in the city offers WiFi and a great, cool place to sit and work away from the heat. The chains of Mulliri Vjeter and Sophie are great, reliable options. For something quirkier, head to Komiteti, an incredible cafe museum. Stay after your work is complete to enjoy a cocktail or two.

Things to Do in Tirana

Tirana is packed full of culture, history, and nature. You’ll never be bored as a digital nomad in Albania whilst here.

One of my favourite things to do in Tirana is to take a walking tour around the city. I love a walking tour but the Tirana option really is excellent. It’s helpful to learn your way around the city and teaches you about the recent Communist history of the city and the country as a whole.

I highly recommend taking the cable car, (The Dajti Expres), up to the Dajti mountains. Here, you’ll find lots of activities such as horse riding and ATV tours, as well as a panoramic restaurant with incredible views over the city.

If you’re a foodie like me, I advise you to explore the restaurants in Blloku. There seems to be a new bar and restaurant opening in Blloku every week which makes the food scene really exciting.

Head to Komiteti cafe and museum for a stunning blend of communist artefacts and excellent food and drinks. If you’re looking to try some interesting local dishes,  Era is an excellent restaurant to try some traditional Albanian cuisine with a modern twist.

For some more inspiration for living in the city, take a look at my best things to do in Tirana blog.

2. Durres

Durres is the second largest city in Albania and is located on the western coastline of the Adriatic Sea.

It’s an important port city in Albania and is a great base for digital nomads in Albania due to its modern infrastructure and coastal location. It also has a great nightlife scene and a lot of fun things to do when you’re not working.

Where are the Best Areas to Live in Durres?

If you want to be in a central location in the heart of the action then head to the central square on Rruga Aleksander Goga. It’s a recently renovated public square surrounded on all sides by bars and restaurants; both international and local.

For sea views within the city itself then you can find lots of accommodation options along Rruga Taunlantia which overlooks the Adriatic Sea. It’s an easy walk to the centre and has a beautiful promenade for relaxing evening walks along the seafront.

If you want to be by the beach, then you’ll have to head slightly east out of the city towards Durres beach on the other side of the port. This long stretch of beach offers plenty of apartment options with easy transport links back into the centre.

How to Find Apartments in Durres

There are a lot of Airbnb options in Durres as you may expect of the second largest city. Airbnb is increasingly popular in Albania and Durres is no exception.

Aside from Airbnb, check the “Expats in Albania” group mentioned above which often shares some good options for Durres.

For a more specific Durres focused Facebook group, I recommend joining “Expats, Immigrants & Albanians in Durres“. Despite its slightly lengthy name, it has lots of advice and options from those already based in Durres.

Coworking Spaces in Durres

Despite its size, there aren’t any formal coworking spaces in Durres. However, what it lacks in office space, it makes up for in cafes and bars for coworking.

Oborri Lounge Bar is a really cool cafe during the day and a bar by night, with a laid-back feel and colourful décor. The tables are a good size to work at and the WiFi is reliable. They have snacks and pastries during the day for that much-needed fuel whilst your work.

The Wall is another good bar option for working during the day. It has plenty of seating both inside and out. It has good WiFi and the drinks and food options are well-priced. It’s conveniently located close to the central square so is simple to reach.

Things to Do in Durres

For fans of ancient history then a trip to Durres wouldn’t be complete without a visit

If you’ve ever dreamt of running your own online business, you’re not alone. Countless people have the same aspiration, but many put it off, assuming it’s too difficult or too much of a risk. But do you know what? I believe it’s always better to get a plan into place and give it a try … Read more

The post 6 Signs You’re Ready to Start Your Own Online Business appeared first on Goats On The Road.

If you’ve ever dreamt of running your own online business, you’re not alone. Countless people have the same aspiration, but many put it off, assuming it’s too difficult or too much of a risk. But do you know what? I believe it’s always better to get a plan into place and give it a try anyway; rather than always wondering ‘what if’.

6 Signs You’re Ready to Start Your Own Online Business

There are good and bad times to start a business, but when it comes to the online world, the opportunities are truly endless. If you’re keen to get your idea up and running but are looking for the right sign to get going, this post will help you decide if the time is ripe.

SEE ALSO: 15 Pros and Cons of Building Your Own Online Business

1. Working for someone else doesn’t fill you with joy

Let’s be honest, working for someone else isn’t the best experience sometimes. On the plus side, you don’t have to worry about the day-to-day running and organizing; you simply pick up your paycheck and go home. However, you also quite often have to put up with being micromanaged or having a nightmare boss.

Even if your boss isn’t too bad, the truth is that you’re putting your blood, sweat, tears, and most importantly – time – into making someone else rich. When you run your own business, 100% of your effort is for your business and your dream. The fact that you don’t have to answer to anyone else is just the cherry on top!

If you’re tired of working hard for another person, perhaps it’s a big sign that you’re ready to start a business of your own. While the buck stops with you, you can enjoy the fulfilling feeling of all the rewards heading your way too.

2. You have a plan, and small risks don’t scare you

Starting an online business does come with a certain amount of risk attached to it. There’s no denying that. If you’re not ready to get your idea off the ground the risks will likely scare you more than the potential success. That’s a sign that you may still have some work to do before taking the leap.

On the other hand, if it feels as though the risks fade into the background whenever you think of your business idea, you’re ready. All you need is a solid business plan and a good concept of who your target audience is. While you shouldn’t throw caution to the wind and just go for it without any backup, a plan will see you through most potential hurdles and keep you on the right track.

The bottom line is this: can you live with the idea of never knowing, always wondering ‘what if’? Perhaps not…

3. Your idea is your passion

Have you ever heard the saying, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life”? While you might argue that not every day can be full of sunshine and rainbows, when your idea truly fills you with passion and motivation, the majority of your days are much more likely to be a lot brighter.

If your business idea excites and motivates you, you can assume you’re set for a pretty good start. You’re sure to put more effort into an idea you feel positive about and it’s easier to push through the bad days when they inevitably arrive. If a challenge does come your way, you’re more determined to find a way around it.

On the other hand, if your idea doesn’t give you an injection of adrenaline, you’re more likely to give up. A passionate idea means you have the best foundation to launch your online business.

SEE ALSO: Top 10 Reasons To Start an Online Business

4. You have some savings in place

You can’t start an online business out of thin air; even though we’re not talking about starting a brick-and-mortar business, you’ll need a little capital to get things going. If you have an idea that fills you with excitement and you have some savings in place, you’re already ticking some key boxes.

You could call it a safety net or cushion to help you on your way. There are bound to be some costs associated with setting up and launching your business, such as creating a website or hiring people to help you with tasks you’re not familiar with. Your savings will allow you to live comfortably during this time, without having to take money from the business in the early stages.

Once your business starts making a profit, you can reinvest some cash into your idea or add to your savings to build an even bigger cushion. The point is that it’s favorable not to worry about money when your mind could be focused on your idea and how to best push it further.

5. You’re self-disciplined and can organize your time

When you run your own business, everything falls on your shoulders. If you don’t do the work, your business won’t survive. If you feel that you’re pretty self-disciplined and organized, perhaps now is the time to go for it. As long as you can find the balance between your home and working lives, you’re good to go.

Remember, all work and no play isn’t a good thing either. Starting a business can seem like an all-encompassing deal that leaves little time for anything else; keep in mind that this new path is supposed to be fun too! Self-discipline and time management are great skills that will set you up from the start and keep your efforts on track.

6. There’s demand for your idea

One of the single most important signs that it’s time to start your online business is that there’s demand for what you’re proposing. Do people want what you have to offer? Is there a profit to be made? If the answer to these questions is yes, it’s time to get started.

Carry out some market research and examine whether people want your idea in the first place. Are you able to prove a need for it? The combination of a passionate idea, a desire to pursue it despite the risks, a strong plan, and demand for your idea is pretty potent and leads to a much stronger chance of success.

Remember to examine your competition, explore what they’re doing, and consider how you would do it differently. Don’t try to copy anyone else; be authentic, and you’ll stand out from the crowd. Allowing your passion and personality to shine through your ideas will give you a better chance of grabbing attention for your business.

In Conclusion

Your dream doesn’t have to stay that way; you can take steps to make your idea a reality as long as you do the groundwork first. Knowing if you’re ready is a key step to establish before setting off. With the right foundation in place, you’ll work around any issues and keep going, rather than allowing your efforts to be derailed.

How many of these signs do you agree with? I’d suggest that if you have more than half, it’s time to take that idea of yours, create a strong plan, research your target audience, and go for it – best of luck!

The post 6 Signs You’re Ready to Start Your Own Online Business appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Here is a list of the 10 best coworking spaces in Hanoi. Vietnam’s capital city is a hub for remote working and has plenty of excellent facilities and amenities for digital nomads to take advantage of and enjoy. I traveled extensively around Vietnam and loved my time in Hanoi. It’s one of the top cities … Read more

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Here is a list of the 10 best coworking spaces in Hanoi. Vietnam’s capital city is a hub for remote working and has plenty of excellent facilities and amenities for digital nomads to take advantage of and enjoy.

I traveled extensively around Vietnam and loved my time in Hanoi. It’s one of the top cities in the world for international tourists and has an electric pulse and a cultural allure unlike anywhere else I have visited.

SEE ALSO: Vietnam Travel Guide

Best Coworking Spaces in Hanoi

After spending a month living in the city I got to know some of the best working spaces in Hanoi. As a digital nomad, I’m always on the lookout for new and convenient places to base myself for a day’s work. I find working in new environments motivating and inspiring; thankfully there’s no shortage of great options available in Hanoi.

Whether you’re looking for free coworking spaces in Hanoi or a dedicated private office to base yourself in for a month or more, I’ve got you covered in this list.

1. COGO

One of the best coworking spaces in Hanoi is COGO Coworking. I opted to work here numerous times during my stay and always enjoyed myself and found it easy to be productive. Digital nomads can pay an affordable day rate with no long-term subscription required.

It’s one of the few Hanoi coworking spaces that’s open 24/7, which is ideal if you’ve just arrived and are suffering from jet lag like I was the first time! There’s even a convenient nap room and free coffee to help get you through any energy lulls.

The space is open-plan with modern furniture and comfortable lighting. It has the feel of a professional office environment and comes with all the fixtures of a modern workspace.

Address: 1 P. Thai Ha, Trung Liet, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam

Membership Options and Costs

A day pass costs just $4 and secures you a desk for the day with full access to the facility. Monthly packages start at $80/month for hot-desking and go up to $133/month for a private office space.

Amenities at COGO

• 24/7 Access: Even daily hot desk packages allow a true day’s access to the facility.
• Free Beverages: Tea, coffee, and purified water are available to COGO users.
• High-Speed WiFi: Strong and reliable WiFi – suitable for downloading documents, hosting international online meetings, and everything in between.

Pros of COGO

• Unlimited Timeframe: A great bonus for remote workers who operate on different global time zones.
• Cost-Effective: Very competitive rates and free drinks make it an affordable daily or monthly option.
• Added Features: Social events, a friendly bar, and even a nap room are additional perks, uncommon to most Hanoi coworking spaces.

Cons of COGO

• Extra Costs: Printing and meeting rooms are available at an added cost.
• Size: COGO isn’t the biggest coworking space in Hanoi and can fill up and feel busy quickly.
• Limited Food Options: No cafe onsite means heading out for food or bringing your own.

2. Space

If you’re going to be coworking in Hanoi for at least a month, eSpace Coworking is a great option.

It’s a modern and excellent facility with great deals on month-long hot desking. The bright and comfortable space has many seating and desk options from big and open desks to cozy and comfortable nooks.

Additionally, you’ll get the benefit of the regular networking events and on-site seminars held at eSpace. There’s also access to a pantry with free tea and coffee and the occasional selection of cakes and sweet treats.

Address: 1 P. Dinh Le, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam

Membership Options and Costs

24/7 access is available from $80/month, or you can pay an extra $30 and get a dedicated desk. A private office starts at $440/month and would better suit anyone planning to work or run a business from Hanoi on a long-term basis.

Amenities at eSpace

• Premium Business Address: Get an official and professional business address in Hanoi.
• 24/7 Access: Perfect for crisscrossing time zones, early birds, and those who like to burn the midnight oil.
• Included Benefits: Access to meeting rooms, printing facilities, and tech support are available to all users.

Pros of eSpace

• No Time Limits: Work to your schedule with 24/7 access.
• Freebies: Free tea and coffee, access to a pantry, and printing credits all help save on expenditure.
• Great Location: eSpace Coworking is ideally located for all of Hanoi’s attractions and has great restaurants and cafes close by.

Cons of eSpace

• Opening Times: Despite selling 24/7 access eSpace is officially open 8 am – 8 pm Monday through Saturday. Clarification on this is unclear but may mean restrictive access for those without dedicated offices and hot desks.
• Shakey WiFi: It was never my experience, but there are some reports of slow and inconsistent WiFi at times.
• Noise: As a popular coworking location, it can become fairly noisy during busy spells.

3. HanoiHub

A simple and no-fuss coworking space in Hanoi is HanoiHub. This well-designed and centrally located hub has all you need for a day’s work and offers custom packages depending on your circumstances.

I only needed a desk for a few hours during my visit here and it cost less than a cup of coffee. It was very quiet during the afternoon and I was able to connect and get cracking within a minute of arriving.

HanoiHub has a more personal feel to it than some of the other coworking spaces in Hanoi I’ve tried out. The simplicity and ease of access make it a great option for digital nomads seeking a temporary base.

Address: 112 Lane 260 P. Đội Cấn, Liễu Giai, Ba Dinh, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam

Membership Options and Costs

Bespoke plans are available to suit your individual remote working needs. I paid $2.50 for a day pass but could have paid as little as $1 for 2 hours access to a desk. Contact HanoiHub directly to discuss prices.

Amenities at HanoiHub

• Office Environment: Comfortable seating, spacious desks, and bright lighting make for a conducive working space.
• Meeting Rooms: A sizeable meeting room capable of hosting up to 12 people comfortably is available onsite.
• Excellent WiFi: HanoiHub offers super quick and easy-to-connect WiFi.

Pros of HanoiHub

• Bespoke Deals: Contact HanoiHub directly to discuss individual prices specific to your working requirements.
• Affordable: Prices from $1 make HanoiHub one of the most affordable coworking spaces in Hanoi.
• Freebies and Discounts: Free tea, coffee, and parking, plus discounts on bottled water and food items are also available to HanoiHub users.

Cons of HanoiHub

• Size: It’s not a huge space and can feel crowded during busy spells.
• Limited Facilities: Although a great option for hot-desking, remote workers looking for additional amenities will likely find HanoiHub quite limiting.
• No Dedicated Desks: Seating is only available on a first-come first-serve basis.

4. Tranquil Books & Coffee

The best places to cowork in Hanoi are found in some of the city’s awesome laptop-friendly cafes. If good coffee, a nice atmosphere, and reliable free WiFi are all you require for a solid day’s work, then a visit to Tranquil Books & Coffee should be high on your list.

Anywhere that combines coffee with the chance to get my hands on some new books is a winner for me! I discovered Tranquil Books & Coffee during my first day in Hanoi and made several return trips with my laptop.

It’s a popular cafe and the slight feel of a university library has a calming effect on the clientele. It’s a nice location to spend a few hours working away with great coffee options.

Address: 5 P. Nguyễn Quang Bích, Cửa Đông, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam

Membership Options and Costs

As this is a cafe, there aren’t any membership options. The amenities are free to all patrons, a decent cup of coffee costs around $1.60, and food options are $2-$3.

Amenities at Tranquil Books & Coffee

• WiFi: Free WiFi is available to all customers.
• Comfortable Seating: Ample seating is available to work from and there are plenty of power supplies if you’re rocking an ancient laptop (like I am).
• Food and Drink: A me

Being a digital nomad in Thailand feels like you’ve won the lottery or you’re royalty – seriously! I spent two glorious years in the Land of Smiles while working online, and those memories will forever be etched in my brain – and my heart. Not only is Thailand a breathtakingly gorgeous place to base yourself, … Read more

The post 15 Reasons Why Thailand is a Digital Nomad’s Dream Destination appeared first on Goats On The Road.

Being a digital nomad in Thailand feels like you’ve won the lottery or you’re royalty – seriously! I spent two glorious years in the Land of Smiles while working online, and those memories will forever be etched in my brain – and my heart.

Not only is Thailand a breathtakingly gorgeous place to base yourself, but it’s extremely affordable, has a rich culture, fantastic food, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. There are many reasons to visit Thailand as a digital nomad – it’s a no-brainer!

Top Reasons Why Thailand is a Digital Nomad’s Dream Destination

The benefits of living in Thailand as a digital nomad are endless. After spending a significant amount of time there, and speaking with other travelers and expats, there are the top reasons you should consider making Thailand “home” for a while.

1. Affordable Cost of Living

For me, one of the biggest benefits of living in Thailand as a digital nomad is the cost of living. You just can’t beat it. Your dollars stretch so much further in Thailand when compared to places like the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, or other parts of Europe.

Whether it’s rent, food, or entertainment, you get way more for much less – and you don’t have to compromise on quality either. The value for money is excellent. For example, one-bedroom apartments in the city cost an average of just $460 per month.

This allows you so much more freedom to find a place to live that you love, eat amazing food every day, and experience the best of life during your downtime. It’s the perfect place for budding nomads who want to maintain a high standard of living while building their online empire.

2. Great Connectivity

During my stint in Thailand, I lived the majority of my time on the island of Koh Samui. And even though it’s a small island, I rarely had issues with finding a solid internet connection. I found that to be true no matter where I was in the country – especially in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

Cafes and coworking spaces offer super reliable WiFi, which is a lifeline for anyone whose office is wherever their laptop sits. You won’t have to worry about missing a Zoom call or a deadline because of spotty service. The only time I found this to be an issue was during major storms (the peak storm season is from May through October).

3. Great Community Vibes

It’s no secret that Thailand is irresistible to digital nomads. So, you certainly won’t have any problems making friends, networking, and meeting fantastic people – both locals and travelers alike. I still have friends today that I met while working from random coworking spaces or rooftop bars.

No matter where you are in Thailand, you can find meetup groups and digital nomad groups that are great for connecting to like-minded people. Many coworking spaces also offer events and workshops that can help you expand your social circle and skills at the same time.

4. Tropical Weather

I don’t know about you, but being in tropical weather makes all my “feel-good” chemicals fire in my brain. Yes, I even love the humidity. And for all those tropical weather-loving people out there, Thailand will be your haven.

The warm, tropical climate allows you to work from a hammock on the beaches of Koh Phi Phi or from a mountain-view cafe in Chiang Rai. This constant dose of Vitamin D is a serious mood enhancer, and the ability to take work outside encourages a flexible working style that many nomads crave.

Just remember, tropical doesn’t always mean sunny – expect heavy downpours (or even multiple days straight of solid rain) from May through October.

5. Incredible Cuisine

Another fantastic reason Thailand is great for digital nomads is that you can find delicious food around every corner. Honestly, some of the best meals I’ve eaten so far came from local vendors at the night markets. My favorite order is Khao Man Gai (chicken and rice, for around $2) with fresh papaya salad ($1) – how can you beat that?!

Aside from seriously tasty local cuisine, you can find just about every type of food from across the globe. In fact, as of 2024, there are seven two-Michelin-star restaurants and 28 one-Michelin-star restaurants in Thailand – clearly, they take their food very seriously.

So, whether you’re a digital nomad with a strict budget, or like to live a little on the luxurious side, you can find a meal in Thailand that will make your tastebuds very happy. Trust me.

6. Rich Culture and Heritage

When you’re in Thailand, you can “feel” that you’re in Thailand. The energy is palpable somehow – it’s just different. From the moment you step off the plane, out of a taxi, or disembark from the train, you’re surrounded by gorgeous architecture, smiling faces, and a multitude of sensory stimuli.

While living in Thailand, my favorite things to do during my downtime from work were to explore the many temples (located across the country), participate in local festivals, or take local cooking classes. Some can’t-miss festivals I highly suggest being a part of are Loy Krathong (a stunning lantern festival) and Songkran (an insanely fun water-centric festival).

7. Ease of Communication

Although English isn’t the native language of Thailand, I found it very easy to communicate with locals and get around without issue. Sure, you might have to resort to charades every now and again, but the Thais are so friendly and welcoming, that they’re always happy to help. As well as locals, plenty of travelers and nomads often speak fluent, or at least a little, English around too.

When you go to major tourist spots, coworking spaces, and business areas, you can expect a high level of English proficiency. This makes it easier for you to negotiate contracts, handle day-to-day projects, and interact with clients or colleagues from around the globe.

8. Centrally Located

Another major perk about Thailand is its prime location. Bangkok is essentially the “hub” of Southeast Asia and you can travel, just about anywhere, at an affordable price – both in and out of the country.

One of the absolute best things about living in Thailand as a digital nomad is being able to take quick getaways to an island or a neighboring country. Weekend trips to places like Singapore, Bali, or Hong Kong are very real ideas. Plus, unless you have a long-term visa (more on visas below), you’ll need to leave the country every 90 to 180 days, and from Thailand, you can easily get anywhere in the world.

9. Natural Beauty

You know that picturesque beach you see on postcards and screensavers? Yeah, there’s a strong chance that the photo was taken here. Thailand is home to some of the most pristine, beautiful beaches in the world – some of my favorites being Silver Beach (aka Crystal Beach) on Koh Samui, Patong Beach on Phuket, and Bottle Beach on Ko Pha-Ngan.

Once you’re sick of the beach (yeah, right), you can always head to the mountains. Northern Thailand boasts incredible mountain landscapes covered in lush, dense jungle –with lots of waterfalls. Two stunning waterfalls that I highly recommend are Bua Tong “Sticky Waterfalls” outside of Chiang Mai (you can walk UP the waterfall!) and Na Mueang Waterfall on Koh Samui.

If you’re a digital nomad who’s also an outdoor enthusiast – be prepared to fall head over heels in love with Thailand.

10. Flexible Visa Options

The Thai government has been working on extending options for long-term stays, such as the SMART Visa targeted at skilled professionals and digital nomads, which allows for up to a four-year stay without the need for “visa runs.” However, during

One of the many things I love about Mexico is how easy it is to visit and stay for extended periods of time, especially if you’re an online worker. The digital nomad visa in Mexico is surprisingly simple to acquire, and the length of visiting time on offer is generous. During my travels, I lived … Read more

The post Mexico Digital Nomad Visa: Requirements & How to Apply appeared first on Goats On The Road.

One of the many things I love about Mexico is how easy it is to visit and stay for extended periods of time, especially if you’re an online worker. The digital nomad visa in Mexico is surprisingly simple to acquire, and the length of visiting time on offer is generous.

During my travels, I lived in Mexico for approximately five months with no issues whatsoever. It’s a great place to base yourself as a digital nomad or expat, and this article will help explain the basic ins and outs of the digital nomad visa for Mexico.

Note: this article is for information purposes only. Always contact professionals, such as an immigration lawyer or tax accountant for the current requirements regarding your personal tax situation, and the current digital nomad residency situation in Mexico.

SEE ALSO: 7 Reasons Why Digital Nomads Choose Mexico as Their Home Base

Why Choose Mexico?

Mexico is a go-to destination for digital nomads – and for good reason. With its gorgeous beaches, lively cities, and warm climate, it really offers the perfect blend of relaxation and inspiration. Not to mention, the cost of living is relatively low, which means you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on most budgets.

Of course, internet connectivity is crucial for digital nomads. Thankfully, Mexico boasts a rapidly improving infrastructure with reliable and fast WiFi available in most urban and popular tourist areas. This makes it super easy to work from a beachfront cafe or a trendy coworking space.

My favorite thing about Mexico, however, is the culture. The country has a rich history, delicious cuisine, and super-friendly locals, which makes it incredibly appealing for digital nomads. There’s always a new dish to try, a historic site to explore, or a beach to discover.

Who Can Apply for the Mexico Digital Nomad Visa?

If you’re thinking about getting a Mexico digital nomad visa, (technically called a temporary residence visa), you’ll be pleased to know that it’s open to everyone, and there are no banned countries. Essentially, if you can show you’re making decent money (for example, having a bank balance of around $43k or a monthly income of around $2,595), you’re good to go.

Regarding age – there isn’t really a strict limit, but you should be of legal working age, typically 18 or older. This visa is meant for working professionals who can prove a steady remote income.

If you’re wondering whether your family can join you, you’re in luck here too. Dependents, like your spouse or kids, can usually tag along under your visa. However, remember that each case can be different, and you might need to prove you make more money than mentioned above. It’s important to always check the current guidelines before applying.

Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa in Mexico

Applying for a digital nomad visa in Mexico comes with plenty of incredible perks. From being able to stay long-term and enjoying the cost of living, having access to healthcare, and experiencing the culture – the perks are unbeatable.

Long-Term Stay

Unlike a tourist visa which caps your stay at 180 days (which is still pretty great!), the Mexico digital nomad visa lets you remain in the country for one year, and up to four years with renewal. It gives you a chance to establish yourself, immerse yourself in the culture, and even learn the language.

Plus, with the option to renew and potentially upgrade to permanent residency, it’s perfect for digital nomads looking to put down some roots without having to fully commit upfront.

Get to Know the Culture

As I mentioned above, with the privilege of being able to stay long-term, you can truly get to know Mexico. You’re not just here for a vacation – you’re here to work and to live.

When you have the opportunity to stay for months and even years at a time, you can experience local festivals, taste all the street food, and discover the core of Mexico and its people. It’s truly a priceless benefit.

Access to Healthcare

Once you have your digital nomad visa, you can join Mexico’s Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) for low-cost medical care. This is huge because not only are you living in Mexico, but the country takes care of you as its own. From emergency services to prescriptions and regular check-ups – you’re covered. That’s pretty incredible.

Affordable Cost of Living

Mexico is known for its low cost of living, particularly when compared to the U.S. or Europe. Rent, food, transportation, and entertainment—all at a fraction of what you’d pay back home. Since your dollar stretches further, you can enjoy a higher standard of living or build up your savings account.

Culture and Nature Everywhere

When you’re all done with work for the day, Mexico is an absolute wonderland for exploration and fun. Head to the beaches of the Mayan Riviera or wander around the historical streets of Oaxaca. You’ll seriously never be bored. And the best part? With your digital nomad visa in Mexico, you won’t feel the need to rush. You’ve got all the time in the world to see it all – the pace of life here is something I love.

Thriving Digital Nomad Community

Mexico is no stranger to the digital nomad scene. Cities like Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are hubs with coworking spaces, coffee shops, and tons of expats and nomads. It’s the perfect environment for networking, collaborating, or just meeting new friends.

Cost of the Mexico Digital Nomad Visa

Thankfully, there’s a clear structure to navigate when it comes to initially applying for the Mexico digital nomad visa. All you’ll need to do is pay a $53 application fee at the Mexican Consulate during your visa interview. It’s very straightforward – this essentially gets you into Mexico​.

Once you land in Mexico, you’ll need to get your temporary residency card which can cost around $317. After that, you have the option to renew your visa up to three times (totaling 4 years), costing another $317 the first year, $476 the second year, and $603 the third year.

Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa in Mexico

The requirements for obtaining your digital nomad visa in Mexico are pretty simple. Once you have the below necessities organized and ready to go, the application should be a breeze.

• Valid Passport: Make sure your passport is up-to-date and valid for at least the next six months. This rule is fairly standard for all international travel.
• Minimum Monthly Income: The country wants to make sure you can pay for yourself while living there. So, they generally look for proof of around $4,350 monthly, which is usually verified through bank statements or pay stubs.
• Criminal Background Check: Understandably, they want to make sure they aren’t harboring any criminals. So, an official criminal background check needs to be presented.
• Proof of Remote Income: In addition to showing your income on your bank statements, you’ll also need to prove you’re actually working online. This can be through a contract or even a letter from your employer.
• Completed Visa Application: An application can be obtained through the Embassy and needs to be filled out in full.
• Passport-Size Photo: You’ll need to submit a recent 3.9cm x 3.1cm photo.
• Payment of Fees: Show receipt of your fees.
• Proof of Medical Insurance: You’ll need to show that you’re currently covered with your own health insurance.

How to Apply for the Mexico Digital Nomad Visa

To begin your application process for the Mexico digital nomad visa, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at the Embassy and organize your documents. First up, get an application form from the Consulate or Embassy’s website. Then, make sure your passport has enough time