One of the things that many people wonder when they enter the digital nomad lifestyle is where they can find information on the best coliving packages that will take account of their needs. Most co-living properties are expressly provided with the specific needs of digital nomads in mind and will have fast and reliable internet as well as excellent community-building opportunities. 

Rise of Coworking and Coliving for Remote Workers

Since the pandemic, coworking and coliving have had a massive spike in popularity. This is largely due to the increased flexibility that many people have for working remotely. 

This is something that had never been something that most people saw as possible before. Some might have been able to work from home but they hadn’t realised that this could offer the chance to work from anywhere. 

Top Coliving Coworking Programs for Digital Nomads

There are many excellent Coliving and coworking locations aimed at digital nomads and one of the best (even if we do say so ourselves) is Evolve Coliving in Malta.

As well as excellent facilities such as a pool, gym and rooftop jacuzzi, there is also fast internet throughout the property, excellent desks in all of the rooms and a dedicated coworking space. 

There are also coworking and coliving programmes such as HackerParadise, WifiTribe or Remote Year who spend up to a month at a time in different locations, with the same group of people living and working together in cities around the world. 

Coworking and coliving can be a great way to create friendships with others k. A similar situation to you and carry them forward as you visit different locations in the future. 

Combining Coworking and Coliving: Pros and Cons

There are many separate Coliving and Coworking spaces, but some locations choose to combine both options under one roof, and this can have pros and cons for people using them. 

Benefits of Integrated Packages

One of the largest benefits of being able to live and work at the same location is that you have all of your personal belongings nearby. You don’t have to worry about forgetting your laptop charger, as you can typically retrieve it from your room on-site. 

There are also cost-related benefits, and it is usually very good value to live at a coworking and coliving location. You are also likely to form much deeper relationships with the people you encounter every day as you will be in the same location both inside and outside the working day. 

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Most of the challenges you are likely to face will be based on the relationships that you will form with your co-living colleagues. 

Some of them might be working only specific days or hours, depending on their line of work and level of employment, and they may be spending more time on excursions. 

This can lead to a fear of missing out while you are working diligently from a desk at the coworking space. It can also lead to feelings of resentment that they are able to get more from their trip than you. 

The other issue is that when you live in and share a space with people, they may not be as tidy as you or make too much noise for your liking. They may snore extremely loudly and have it reverberating through the building. Being confident in your ability to manage interpersonal relationships responsibly is a prerequisite. 

Networking and Building Connections in Malta

Malta is a wonderful location for remote workers to relocate to as there are many people involved in the gaming industry based there and there is a vibrant community of business startups. 

Some of the best places to encounter such people are at coworking and coliving spaces, particularly when there have been networking opportunities arranged. There are frequent activities all over Malta for networking and you can find information about these on websites like meetup.com, or even create one yourself if there isn’t something already organised that meets your interests or niche. 

Popular Locations to Live and Work in Malta

Malta is a stunning island with very diverse locations that will appeal to different people. We take a look at a few of these below. 

Valletta: A Hub for Culture and Convenience

The beautiful capital city of Malta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a veritable treasure trove of living, breathing history. If you value the opportunity to live in a cultural hub with stunning buildings, as well as all of the modern amenities you would expect from a city then Valletta could be perfect for you. 

Sliema: Modern Living with Stunning Sea Views

If you are looking for the vibrant, party heart of Malta, look no further than Sliema. There are bars, casinos and clubs aplenty as well as restaurants to suit any dining budget. 

When you factor in the amazing sea views, it is easy to understand why Sliema is a favourite for many of the younger demographic. 

Gozo: A Quiet Retreat for Focused Work

The island of Gozo offers a peaceful and serene location for those who want to get away from the world for a bit and focus on themselves and their work. 

Set in a stunningly beautiful environment, you may not get distracted by hordes of other people, but the scenery will definitely catch your eye. 

Conclusion

There are several ways to find coworking and coliving spaces, many of them have a very good social media presence on sites like Instagram and TikTok. 

You can also search for comici g or coworking in your desired location and their website should hopefully come up in the search rankings. 

If you think Malta sounds like an excellent fit for you, reach out to Evolve Coliving with your availability, and we will do what we can to accommodate you.

FAQs

How much does coworking and coliving in Malta cost?

Coworking and Coliving can be an excellent way to live somewhere and work on a budget. The cost will depend on the facilities that are available to you. A Coliving place with a coworking space attached will usually cost more than a simple Coliving place. Coworking can cost from 5-20 euros per day, and coliving can range from 800 - 1600 euros per month, depending on the facilities. 

Are there coworking spaces with 24/7 access in Malta?

Coworking spaces with 24-hour access are more commonly found attached to coliving spaces. Still, there are also plentiful standalone coworking spaces that are open 24/7 for those who work at uncommon hours, or who have to work in a different time zone as they are working for a foreign company. Malta is a hub for many gaming companies and startups so it’s unsurprising that this is well catered for. 

Can I find Coliving spaces with private rooms?

Yes, many coliving spaces recognise that not everyone wants to share a bedroom with other people and have private rooms rather than just the basic dormitory accommodation, and all of the rooms at Evolve Coliving are either single or double occupancy, depending on whether you are there as part of a couple or on your own.  

Do coworking and coliving spaces offer visa support?

Most coworking and coliving spaces don’t officially offer visa support, but they may have people on hand who are very knowledgeable about these matters. Most coliving spaces are generally very helpful and can at least point you in the correct direction to find the information you are seeking. Some, such as Evolve Coliving, will help you to use your lease with them as proof of accommodation for your visa application. 

What’s the best time of year to work remotely in Malta?

Malta is a beautiful island that has a lot to recommend it at any time of the year. Many people come to visit during the “shoulder seasons” of April-May and September-October when the Summer tourist frenzy is either not yet begun or is tapering off. This allows a better chance to see the sights that you want to in this wonderful country, away from the busiest times. 

There are some excellent coworking spaces all across Europe where people can share space with other remote workers, meet people who are involved in different projects, and potentially make friends and new colleagues. 

What Are Coworking Spaces?

Coworking spaces are essentially hot-desking office environments with high-speed wifi and plentiful power outlets where people can plug in their laptops. They often have extra screens for coders to use as well. They are designed to help people get their work done from a different location to their home or local office and are often used by digital nomads.

Coworking spaces often act as a hub for remote workers to meet other transient workers and to make new friends and they often host events so that people who take out a membership can meet each other socially. They tend to have flexible pricing structures and offer good value for the workers.

There is often free coffee and / or snacks offered as part of the package to use the coworking space and this can help to increase productivity, as well as sociability amongst the patrons. 

The Rise of Coworking Culture Among Digital Nomads

The availability of coworking spaces has been a large contributing factor in enticing digital nomads to certain locations for some time now. The mountain village of Bansko in Bulgaria is a prime example of this. Some enterprising people decided that this off-season ski resort would be the perfect place for a digital nomad paradise in the summer and started Coworking Bansko. 

It has been successful to the point that there are now several competing coworking places, including Altspace and Nest Coworking in Bansko, and they are all busy during the summer when the weather is sunny and around 30C most days.

The coworking model is one that appeals to many more sociable digital nomads, and others are happy to just work from a comfortable cafe or apartment while sometimes attending events at the coworking spaces that are open to anyone.    

Why Europe Is a Top Destination for Work and Travel

Europe is a great destination for both work and travel because of the sheer range of countries within it. You can go from the white sandy beaches of the Greek islands to the historic beauty of Rome or the chic dining experiences of Paris. You can be clubbing in Ibiza one week and sipping a pint of Guinness in Dublin the next, or watching Barcelona playing football in the Nou Camp stadium. The variety of landscapes, cultural experiences, culinary adventures, languages and people to meet is unparalleled. That all this is stretched into a single continent with freedom of movement between countries is even more incredible. A Schengen visa will cover the whole of Europe for 90 days out of 180, so you can travel Europe for 3 months on a single visa.

Cost Break Down of Coworking Spaces in Europe

Most Coworking spaces in Europe will offer daily access anywhere from 5 euros per day to 20 euros per day and most monthly passes are somewhere between 150 euros and 300 euros. Most of the independent colivings are relatively inexpensive but there are some that brand themselves as premium who may ask for more than the prices above.

Top 5 Coworking Spaces in Europe 2025

There are many excellent coworking spaces throughout Europe and our pick for the top five in Europe in 2025 is as follows: 

1. AltSpace Bansko, Bulgaria

Although it was not the first of the Coworking spaces in Bansko, it has firmly established itself in the town, with several different locations that digital nomads can choose to work from. They are all stylishly laid out and have an excellent, friendly vibe that is conducive to both making new friends and working productively.

2. Zen Den, Costa Adeje, Tenerife

A strong community focus sees Zen Den in Tenerife take second place. It is both a coworking and a coliving space and has a boutique style, with just 15 hot desks at this location. This means that spaces are at a premium and it is usually essential o book in advance. They offer many perks such as free coffee, water and fruit, as well as a strong events calendar outside of working hours.

3. Volumes Coworking, Paris, France

At Volumes Coworking in Paris, it is more than just your standard coworking setup on offer. There are 3d printers, laser cutters and many different creative tools for those whose work is more artistic and creatively minded in nature. They have 50 spaces for people to work and are very focused on community building as well. 

4. 230 Works, Mosta, Malta

At 230 Works, you can use the facilities on offer for a relatively cheap price and this can benefit students and those on a budget more generally. Unlimited coffee, tea, water and snacks are available when you book for one hour or more. There are a range of professional services on offer including meeting rooms, copying and printing of documents and monthly passes are excellent value.

5. Betahaus, Barcelona

Offering high-quality ergonomic chairs and idyllic outdoor spaces, despite being in the heart of the city, Betahaus meets all of your hotdesking needs. They have six terraces and a communal dining room as well as access to community events and wellness activities such as yoga and tai chi. There are 20 videoconferencing rooms that are part of the package and there is also a community directory where you can advertise your services or search for others whose skills would complement your own.  

Tips to Find Coworking Spaces in Europe

Many of the best coworking spaces in Europe have excellent social media accounts that draw attention to what they have to offer. If you are active on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok etc, you should be able to find a good number of european coworkings by just searching for coworking and browsing through the results. 

Another excellent way to find out about high quality coworking experiences is through word of mouth. Speak to your fellow travellers and ask them about the coworking places they have used throughout Europe. This can help you to find good information from people who have bee6n in a similar position to you. 

Top Three Countries Offering Nomad-Friendly Policies

Malta is one of the best countries for digital nomads because of the Malta Digital Nomad Visa which offers preferential tax rates. Malta charges 0% tax for the first year of the visa and 10% in the subsequent 4 years, which is one of the best tax settlements anywhere. 

Bulgaria can be very tempting for digital nomads who wish to reside in Europe as it has major modern cities such as Sofia and Plovdiv and digital nomad hubs like Bansko, while also having a flat rate of 10% tax for people who are tax resident. This makes it an extremely attractive option for European freelancers in particular. The cost of living is also low compared to much of Europe.

Spain is always attractive for digital nomads due to the sheer range offered by the country. A Spanish digital nomad visa allows access to the Canary Islands, a haven of warmth in the Winter months, while still being in the EU, and the Spanish digital nomad visa is popular as a result. They have tax agreements with many countries so you will not be double-taxed on earnings.  

Conclusion

As someone who has tried many coworking spaces that are standalone, as opposed to being attached to a coliving space, I particularly enjoyed Altspace in Bansko, but it lacked the immediacy of living in the Evolve Coliving House and being able to go and work from a well set up office environment whenever the mood struck me. As someone who can be quite impulsive when it comes to my working hours, this definitely suited me better.

It can be tempting to lose track of time when working in a beautiful country like Malta, having secured a digital nomad visa for a year, but that time will go past quickly, as it always does when we are enjoying ourselves. 

Be sure to remember to look into visa renewals and when you should be thinking about applying. Ideally, you will want the new visa to be in place by the time your previous visa has expired, ensuring a seamless stay in Malta. 

Malta tries to maximise the number of remote workers and digital nomads who come to the country, as it is aware of the positive impact this can have on the economy. 

Visa Renewal Options, Timescales and Processes

Renewing the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, or Nomad Residence Permit, to give it the official name, is generally desirable. The visa allows remote workers to benefit from a favourable 10% tax rate in their second year after spending the first year at a zero-tax rate. Subsequent years will feature a 10% tax rate, up to a maximum of four years. 

There is currently no route to permanent residency through the digital nomad visa, so this is something that can lead to some people not renewing their Nomad Residence Permit. This is designed to be a temporary permit rather than one that leads to a more permanent settlement, and this is why there is no available route to making it permanent. It is meant to allow people to take advantage of the ability to work remotely in Malta for a few years and potentially qualify for other visa categories. 

Timescale for Renewal

You can apply for renewal of your digital nomad visa no later than one month before the nomad residence permit expires. Please bear in mind that it can take up to 60 days for the renewal to go through, so it may be worth applying for the renewal closer to 60 days from the expiry date of the previous one. 

Factors Influencing Renewal Time

There are many factors that can influence how long the renewal time for the nomad residence permit can be. It is important to ensure that your application is as complete as it can possibly be so that they have all of the information necessary to process and approve the application successfully. 

One of the other factors that can have an effect on the length of time that an application for renewal can take is the volume of applications that need to be processed at the same time.

Most people apply during the “shoulder” seasons, so avoid March to May and September to October when applying if you are looking to have your application processed more quickly.

Background checks can also take some extra time, depending on which country you are applying from and your personal history, so be aware of this if your country of origin is one that generally gets flagged. 

Renewing the Malta Digital Nomad Visa

You are able to apply online to the Residence Malta Agency website. You will need to ensure that you have all of the supporting documents and can prove that you have spent five months of the year residing in Malta before your current permit’s expiration date. 

You will need to prove that you still meet the income requirements for the digital nomad visa, even if they have been uprated from the year before. You will also need to provide proof of your accommodation in Malta. Guests at Evolve Coliving will receive help with this aspect of the application from the team there. 

You will also need to prove that you have adequate health insurance that will cover you in the event of a serious accident or medical emergency. This is so that you are never a burden on the Maltese state and taxpayers. 

In addition to this, you will have to prove that you are still able to work remotely for a foreign company or that you have freelance contracts in place that enable remote working.  

Tips for Maintaining Legal Status in Malta

The easiest way to ensure that you are able to stay in Malta for the maximum duration of a digital nomad visa is to keep up with current events and any changes in the visa requirements and ensure that all of your documentation is up to date. It is easy to keep updated, thanks to the wonders of modern technology. The Residence Malta Agency is the best place to find updated information on the Nomad Residence Permit.

It is important that you don’t overstay your welcome in Malta. If you stay longer than your visa permits you to, seek legal advice immediately, as you may be subject to fines, deportation and being banned from not just Malta but potentially Europe or the Schengen Zone as well. 

Long-Term Stay Options Beyond the Nomad Visa

There are a few options for those who want to stay longer than the Nomad Residence Permit allows and one of these is the “Golden Ticket” visa. This is available if you can invest 500,000 euros or more in Maltese property or businesses. You can also choose to become a student at Malta’s university.

Conclusion

Malta is a wonderful country to live in, and the prospect of moving there for a few years can be very tempting for a number of reasons, not least the tax incentives of not paying any tax for the first year and only paying 10% in subsequent years. This is as good as anything you will find in mainland Europe, and you have the added advantage of 300 days of sun per year. 

It is hard to see past Malta as a digital nomad destination already. As long as you are careful to stay within the rules and keep up to date with any changes to the visa, you should be able to stay for up to 4 years without any problems. 

When remote workers are looking for somewhere to act as their base for a while, it is easy to see why Portugal may be near the top of their lists. When deciding, however, it is also important to look at the amount of tax that they may be eligible to pay, as even within the EU, countries can vary markedly in the amounts of tax that they levy. The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa has special tax rates and we will look at these more below.

Portugal for Digital Nomads

Sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Spain, Andorra and Gibraltar, Portugal is a beautiful country with a climate that is the envy of much of the world. You can choose between world-class beach and island living or life in some of the country's more rural areas. 

Lisbon and Porto are two of the largest settlements, and the island of Madeira is a popular destination 430 miles off the West coast of Morocco and just 250 miles North of the Canary Islands.

Lisbon is a very beautiful and vibrant city with colourful houses and trams that meander down picturesque streets to the sea. It is definitely worth seeing and spending some time in, though some locals are getting more annoyed that digital nomads are causing the prices for private lets in the City to rise. There is increasingly pushback in many countries and cities against the gentrification that comes with increasingly mobile remote workers.  

The cost of living in Portugal is another factor that makes it a popular destination for remote workers, with the cost of living being over a third cheaper than in the USA. The modern internet infrastructure also helps to make it an ideal place for digital nomads to spend some time. It isn’t great in some more rural parts of the country but in the major towns and cities, you shouldn’t have any complaints.

There is culture and history aplenty, with some amazing museums and art galleries in the major cities. Lisbon is an ancient city which has plenty of historical sites that are ripe for satisfying curious minds, and for getting some truly memorable photos. Portuguese cuisine is also top-notch, particularly when it comes to pastries such as pasteles de nata, krapfen and pasteles de Belem.  

Portuguese Remote Work Visa

The Portugal digital nomad visa, sometimes referred to as the D8 visa, is specifically designed for people who are able to work remotely, whether for a foreign company or on a freelance basis, who can live in Portugal for a sustained period of time.  

The D7 visa is only for people who have investments, receive regular rent or have some other form of passive income which means they don’t actually have to work every day. 

To qualify for the D8 visa, you must not be resident in any country that is in the European Economic Area. This includes all of the EU, Switzerland and some others, including Iceland, Lichtenstein and Norway.

The amount that digital nomads have to earn each month in order to qualify for the D8 visa is 3480 euros per month or 41,260 euros per year. This visa is renewable for up to five years and after that period of time, it is possible to apply for permanent residency in Portugal. If this is something that you are genuinely considering, you may wish to look into the tax situation for people on the digital nomad visa as well.  

Portuguese Tax Rate for Digital Nomads

The tax rate for digital nomads in Portugal will depend on how long they have been in the country at any one time and whether they are considered residents for taxation purposes. Anyone who has been in Portugal for 183 days in a calendar year is automatically considered to be a tax resident and is required to pay into Portugal’s tax regime. 

Portugal has treaties with many other countries which means that if you become a tax resident in Portugal, you will then be unlikely to have to pay tax on that same income in a different country. This is known as double taxation and the treaties should allow Portugal to be your sole source of taxation if you become tax resident there. 

Portugal has a progressive tax rate for people who are tax residents and the people who meet the earning requirements for the digital nomad visa will typically start at the 35.5% tax rate that is available for incomes between 27,146 and 39,791. This is obviously dependent on how much money they make and can rise to 48% if they make more than 80,000 eur per calendar year.   

Portugal Digital Nomad Tax Rates vs Other Countries

Portugal has one of the higher rates of taxation compared to some of the other potential options. The taxation bands are higher even than those in Scotland, part of the UK, where a 48% tax band comes into play but not until someone is earning over £125,140 per year.

By contrast, Malta offers one of the best rates of taxation for digital nomads and one of the best environments to conduct business, having become very popular with startups and founders in recent years. The tax rate for the Malta digital nomad visa is 0% for the first year, and in subsequent years it is only 10%. This is an excellent offer and makes Malta a prime destination when it comes to tax concerns. The amount that you need to earn to qualify for the visa is also very similar to the Portuguese digital nomad visa. 

The top tax rate in Italy is 43%, and this is incurred when an individual makes 50,000 euros or more in a year, Although not as favourable as the Maltese digital nomad visa, it is still a lot better than the tax take for the Portuguese one.

When considering where to spend time as a digital nomad, looking at the tax rates offered in different countries is essential. This can help you to choose the best place to conduct your business activities and whether the digital nomad visa for the country is a good fit for you. We will look at the Italian digital nomad visa and the tax rates that are available for remote workers in Italy. 

Italy as a Digital Nomad Destination

As one of the most beautiful countries in the world, it is easy to see why Italy is a popular destination for people who can choose to work from anywhere. 

The lovely climate, combined with a wealth of historical ruins and cultural marvels, means that Italy is a top-tier destination. There is so much to see in Italy, from the faded glory of Rome, once the centre of the Roman Empire that spanned half of the globe, to the incredible artistic works and frescoes of Florence and the canals and waterways of Venice. 

There is truly something for everyone, and that is without even mentioning the stunningly beautiful Vatican City, the centre of the Catholic Church, which is a city and a nation state in its own right, which is located in the centre of Rome. The Sistine Chapel has a ceiling adorned by the works of Michaelangelo and is a must-see for anyone who has an eye for High Renaissance art.

This is before we even mention the cuisine, which is one of the most sought-after and highly regarded in the world. Italian staples include beloved dishes such as Pizza and Pasta and desserts such as Tiramisu and Panna Cotta so it is easy to see why digital nomads would like to spend some time eating like a local in Italy. .

Italian Remote Work Visa

The Italian digital nomad visa allows remote workers to relocate to Italy for a year and also permits them to extend the length of the visa for up to a further two years. This depends upon the applicant meeting some stringent criteria in order to qualify for the visa in the first place.  

The Italian digital nomad visa is one of the more difficult digital nomad visas to qualify for because it asks for professional qualifications and experience in working remotely. A university degree level qualification is needed, or proven experience working in your chosen field for not less than five years. You must also work in a field that allows you to complete your wrork using a computer remotely. This allows you to fulfil the “highly qualified” criteria. 

The financial requirement for obtaining the visa is relatively low compared to many other European digital nomad visas, with the current limit being set at 25,000 euros per annum.  

Italian Tax Rate for Digital Nomads

If digital nomads are resident in Italy for 183 days in a calendar year, or if the Italian Government determines that their primary social ties are there, they will be subject to Italian taxation. They will also have to charge Italian VAT rates on all of their worldwide business. 

If they are considered to be tax resident in their country of origin, they are not likely to have any additional taxes in Italy on the same earnings. This is because of the numerous treaties that Italy has with other countries, which make specific reference to double taxation. 

Where digital nomads are tax residents in Italy, they will be taxed on a scale of between 23% and 43%, depending on how much they make per year. Like many European countries, Italy has a progressive taxation scale, with people being asked to pay more if they make more money.  

The taxation bands are as follows:
23% - Up to 15,000

25% - 15,001 to 28,000

35% - 28,001 to 50,000

43% - 50,000 and above.

There are some exceptions available and it is possible for some digital nomads and people returning to Italy who were previously resident there to apply for tax relief of up to 30% of their tax burden. This is not something that is automatically applied and is something that interested parties must enquire about. The best way to pursue this would be through a financial adviser or accountant.

Taxation for US Citizens

The USA has a different relationship to most countries with their residents and considers everyone who is a US citizen to be tax resident in the USA. There are some limited exceptions to this but if you are a US citizen, you must file a US tax return every year, regardless of whether or not you currently live there. It is possible that some American ex-pats will still have to be taxed doubly on the same income as a result of this.

Italian Digital Nomad Tax Rate vs Other Countries

The tax rate for digital nomads in Italy is not as favourable as many of the other options that are available around the world and this is something to take into account when deciding whether to apply. The route to the visa is more complicated than most, with more bureaucratic hoops to jump through as well, so this is something to consider as well. Many will decide that it is worth paying slightly higher taxes for the chance to live in such a beautiful and historic country but others may not. 

Malta, which is just off the coast of Italy, has a far more preferential tax rate for digital nomads, with a 0% tax rate for the first year being offered to digital nomads, followed by 10% in each subsequent year. 

Spain’s digital nomad visa offers a tax rate of 24% on any amount up to 600,000, which is an excellent rate for higher earners and is about half what someone would pay on a similar amount in the UK.  

Indonesia is an incredibly popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers because of its spectacular white sand beaches and verdant interior. Many also enjoy the tropical climate and the fast internet speeds in much of the country, which lend themselves to digital nomad life. 

The low cost of living also appeals to this demographic, which often prizes the ability to stretch money further and get more bang for their buck. If you are planning to spend some time in Indonesia, it is essential to understand the visa requirements.

Key Requirements to Meet

The list below contains key requirements that all digital nomads applying for an annual E33G remote worker visa must meet.

Proof of Employment - An important way to prove that you have permission to work remotely from Indonesia is to show a copy of your employment contract. The stipulation that you can work from anywhere in the world is important. 

It is also essential to be able to show that your work comes from outside Indonesia and that you are not depriving local people of work opportunities.

Income Requirements - If you are on the E33G remote worker visa, you must prove that you make at least $60,000 per year. You can use bank statements or pay slips from your employer to do this. 

If you are applying for the shorter-term 211A visa, the requirement is that you have $2,000 in your bank account.   

Health Insurance - You do not need specific health insurance but it is expected that your travel insurance will be of an appropriate level to cover any problems you may have while in Indonesia. This includes emergency repatriation to your own country on health grounds. 

Background Check - Many countries require that people who plan to stay for more than a couple of weeks provide information about their criminal records. No country wants to invite dangerous people into their country because they want to keep their own nationals safe. You can ask for your criminal records check in most countries and use this as part of the application process.  

Proof of Accommodation - Indonesian immigration will want to know that you have booked accommodation rather than just turning up speculatively and perhaps not finding somewhere suitable. This also gives the police somewhere to contact you if there are any problems with your documents. A rental agreement or a booking acceptance from a website will suffice for this purpose. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Indonesia Visa Application

Step 1 - Prepare your documents - Ensure that you have all the documents you will need for your digital nomad visa Bali application before you apply. Collecting them before you begin the process will help it go smoothly. 

Step 2 - Filling Out the Application Form - Carefully complete the application form, making sure to complete it in full and include all of the information in the correct areas. If you are really struggling to do this, you may want to pay for a service to do the paperwork for you. 

Step 3 - Submitting Your Application - You can submit your application online or in person at your nearest Indonesian Consulate or Embassy. 

Step 4 - Wait for Approval - This may take seven to fourteen working days. You shouldn’t book your travel until you have been successfully approved, as it may take longer than you anticipated, depending on the backlog.

Step 5 - Arrive in Indonesia - Once you have arrived, you can fill out any additional forms you need. Sometimes, people fill out tax forms or forms to open a bank account. These things are best done once you are on location in Indonesia.

Indonesia Digital Nomad Visa Cost

The Remote Worker Visa E33G application costs $150 USD plus IDR 2,700,000, which is just under $170 USD at the time of writing this article in December 2024.

The shorter 60-day B211a visa costs $110, and then it costs an additional IDR 3,200,000, or almost $200 USD, to renew each time, up to two times for a total of 180 days.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

The language barrier can be difficult to overcome, as English is not as widely spoken in Indonesia as in many other parts of the world. Try having someone who speaks more of the local language accompany you and act as a translator if you have any important meetings with the authorities. This will help to avoid misunderstandings and confusion.  

Some people have experienced problems authenticating documents in Indonesia, but if you use a reputable notary public or an accountant, you should be okay with that. 

Additional Tips for a Smooth Process

One of the best pieces of advice for anyone looking to be a digital nomad in Indonesia is to keep up to date with changes to the visa process, as these are constantly ongoing. You should also take the time to engage with the digital nomad and expat communities on social media. 

There are some excellent groups on Facebook, Slack, DIscord and most other social media platforms for destinations worldwide aimed at helping remote workers find accommodation and community. 

They will be a source of support and assistance while you are going through the visa application process and also when you actually arrive. Being able to ask a dedicated group who have faced the same difficulties as you for help is a real advantage to anyone starting out in a new country.  

Conclusion

Indonesia is a brilliant country for digital nomads. The beautiful beaches and landscapes, the spiritual retreats, and the friendliness of the local people are all a big draw for the remote work community, but it is not without its bureaucracy and red tape. 

The local languages can prove to be difficult, but learning a few words in the local language will ease a lot of your interactions with locals and make for a much more positive stay. Indonesia is a popular destination for a reason, and the culture and the people are a large part of this, as well as the glorious beaches and scenery.

Portugal has an enduring appeal as a beautiful European country with vibrant cities and islands that make life and work a pleasure. Portugal has a climate that is never truly cold and has extremely good internet infrastructure, which makes it ideal as a base for remote workers.

Exploring the Two Key Visa Options: Digital Nomad Visa vs D7 Visa

The Portuguese digital nomad visa has been in existence since 2022 and is Portugal’s answer to attracting new talent and workers to the country. Remote workers make up an attractive demographic due to their larger-than-average disposable incomes that they can spend in the country. Many countries including Malta, Spain and Indonesia are all looking at how best to win over this group and encourage them to stay..

Two visas may be of interest to digital nomads: the D7 passive income visa, which is for those with a retirement income or people renting out properties in their home country, and the D8 Digital Nomad visa.

The D8 digital nomad visa has more stringent income requirements than the D7 passive income visa, and this is because people who are digital nomads are generally expected to be making a higher monthly income than an older demographic. There are no restrictions on working in Portugal on either visa type.

Why Portugal is a popular destination for remote workers?

Portugal is a beautiful and diverse country with a stunning array of landscapes to captivate even the most seasoned of travellers and opportunities to enjoy music, culture and local cuisine abound. 

There is the opportunity to experience island life in picturesque Madeira, a vibrant city in stunning Lisbon, or top-notch beach life in Albufeira or the Algarve. There are also quieter villages and towns inland that can give a high standard of living for less money. The digital nomad visa route also provides a path to permanent residency in Portugal after 5 years.

On the digital nomad visa, once you have been there for more than 183 consecutive days, you qualify for Non-Habitual Resident status and a tax rate of 20% on any income earned within Portugal. There is 0% tax on any income earned outside Portugal, which can make this a very attractive option. 

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

The Portuguese digital nomad visa is only available to people who are not already citizens of the EU, EEA or Switzerland, as the right to freedom of movement exists between the EU member states already.

Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

To qualify for the digital nomad visa, you must either prove employment with a company that permits remote working or prove that you are working on a self-employed basis for a company or companies based outside Portugal. 

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Income Requirements

To qualify for this visa type, you must be able to demonstrate a monthly average income of €3,280 that covers the three months prior to applying for the visa. In addition to this, you must be able to deposit €9,840 in a Portugese bank account prior to submitting the application.

Portugal D7 Visa Requirements

To be eligible for the D7 passive income visa, applicants need to be able to prove that they receive more than €820 per month in passive income. This can be in the form of dividends, rent, pension or copyright payments but cannot include a salary.  It is specified that the requirement is for passive income only. 

The minimum monthly income is €820 for a single person and €410 for an additional adult in the household, with €246 each month for minors. As with the digital nomad visa, €9,840 must be deposited in a Portuguese bank account before the application is made.

Required Documentation

A valid passport with at least as much time left as the visa duration.
A criminal record certificate to prove you hold no convictions.
Proof of address in your home country. Utility bills and bank statements tend to be ideal.
Proof of address in Portugal. A lease agreement.
Travel insurance documents.
A statement from a Portuguese Bank showing adequate funds.
Proof of salary or passive income, depending on which visa you’ve applied for. These can be rental agreements, pension statements, pay slips, etc.
Documents for any family, members, so marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc.  

Application Process

The application process is relatively simple for both visas. The process starts outside Portugal, and you should contact the local Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in your home country to begin the process.

Checklist for the Visa Applications

There are a number of steps you should follow to successfully obtain a D7 visa or a digital nomad visa. These steps are the same for the Portugal D7 visa checklist and the digital nomad visa checklist.

Step 1: Ask Your Local Portuguese Embassy or Consulate for an Application Form. It may be on their website for downloading. If it is, print it out to fill in a physical copy.

Step 2: Ensure that you have all of the required documentation. This includes proof of money in a bank in Portugal, so you will need to open a bank account there and deposit the necessary amount of money. 

Step 3: Submit the application at the Embassy or Consulate. You will need to make an appointment and you will need to bring all of the necessary documents with you. 

Step 4: Visa Issued. Await the visa being issued to you and then you can make plans to make the move to Portugal. 

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Processing Time

Due to the sheer volume of applications, it can take up to 9 months for applications to be approved, though it is usually significantly quicker than this.

Minimum Stay Requirements as a Digital Nomad in Portugal

For both of the visa options, including the Portugal D7 visa minimum stay is six consecutive months within a calendar year, and eight months in total during the visa period. This may have implications for your taxation status as Portugal may consider you a tax resident after six months of time uninterrupted in their country. The Non-Habitual Resident status is available after six months and can be a real benefit to digital nomads.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Italy's Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

Italy launched its digital nomad visa in April 2024, and many remote workers are enthused by the opportunities it offers those from outside the EU. People who are already residents within the European Union can live and work in any other EU country, but this visa is specifically aimed at those from outside the EU and allows them to live in Italy for its duration.

Italy Digital Nomad Visa as an Opportunity for Remote Workers

Italy is a modern country in the heart of Europe. It has fast and stable internet connections throughout the country and has many areas of significant cultural, architectural, and historical interest. Home to one of the greatest empires that ever existed, Italy is filled with relics of the Roman Empire's glory, including the towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were preserved under volcanic ash and are still standing today. 

Some of the greatest artists, poets, and inventors of all time have hailed from Italy, which is a very beautiful country for art lovers to visit, as well as those who want to base themselves somewhere warm and with exquisite cuisine.

Italy Nomad Visa Requirements

To apply for a remote work visa for Italy, you need to demonstrate that you are either a freelancer or have an income with a remote work company that brings in 28,0000 Euros annually or more. Demonstrating a consistent source of income is a requirement for this type of visa. You should have worked as a digital nomad for at least six months before applying. 

Being a non-EU national is also a requirement, as there would be no point in someone who is already resident in the EU applying due to existing freedom of movement regulations. 

Required Documents

The documents required to apply for an Italian digital nomad visa are as follows:

• The application form. This can be found on the website of the Italian consulate or embassy in your home country. 
• A valid passport, typically with enough time to outlast the digital nomad visa.
• Proof of your income. This can be employment contracts, bank statements, invoices, or tax returns.
• Proof of Accommodation in Italy. This can be a hotel booking or a rental agreement between you and a landlord. It can also be an invitation from someone who will be hosting you.
• Health Insurance Documents. Comprehensive health insurance is necessary to cover your time in Italy. It should cover all aspects of health, including medical expenses, potential hospitalisation, and repatriation.
• Proof of Remote Work. This can be freelance contracts, employment contracts with a company or any other documents supporting your ability to work remotely.
• Clean Criminal Record. You will need a document from your home country stating that you have a clean criminal record. If you are a UK citizen, you can apply for a police certificate online. 
• Passport Photographs. You should have two passport-sized photographs on a white background.

Italy Digital Nomad Visa Application Process

Many looking for an Italy work visa apply online through their local consulate or embassy website. 

Step-by-step guide on how to apply:

1. Prepare the Documents. Ensure you have all the documents you will require to submit your application. This means taking the time to ensure you have already bought health insurance and that there is enough time left on your passport. You should also have acquired proof of a clean criminal record already.
2. Complete the Application Form. Please complete the application form and ensure all the information is up-to-date and valid.
3. Schedule a Consulate or Embassy Appointment. Depending on your location, you may have to apply to a consulate or an embassy for an appointment. There may be a wait for appointments. Be sure to arrive early on your scheduled day and bring all your documents.
4. Submit the Application. You can submit your application at the embassy or consulate, and they may require your fingerprints or other biometric data to proceed.
5. Pay the Fee. The Italian government adjusts the fee quarterly, and as of November 2024, it is €116. The fee is non-refundable and can be paid by cashier’s cheque or money order at your appointment.
6. Receive Your Visa. It may take a while to receive your visa, depending on the processing times and how busy it is at a particular time of year. It can take up to 120 days at the more extreme end, so consider this when planning your trip.

Where to Apply

Most Italian Embassies and Consulates will take applications, but they may not have any availability for appointments right away.

Application fees and processing times.

The application fees are currently €116, and they are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.

Tips for a successful application

Preparation is the key. Ensure that you ave all of the documents that you need before asking for an appointment. This way, you miss the last-minute scramble to get the documents you need ready in time. 

Italy Remote Visa Duration and Renewal

The Italian digital nomad visa is valid for a year and can be renewed repeatedly for up to three years in the country. 

Understand Challenges and Solutions

Once granted a visa, you must register for Italian VAT within eight days if you are a sole trader. This is a rapid timescale, but it is an excellent way to ensure all your documents are in order at the trip's start. Taxation can be challenging, as you must complete an Italian tax form. Italy has a reciprocal agreement with many countries so that you will not pay twice, but if you have an annual turnover under €85,000, you can opt for a tax rate of 5%. 

Conclusion

Italy is a fantastic location with many fabulous coastlines and beautiful cities to explore. The variety of life in Italy is a large part of its charm. Iconic cities and one of the world's fashion capitals, Milan ensures that Italy remains a beautiful and vibrant country in which to spend time. This new visa makes it a lot easier for digital nomads to come and stay for more extended periods of time. 

Overview of Living in Malta

Malta is a very popular place to live, and there are many reasons for this. It is a beautiful, small, independent country in a fortunate location near Italy, which means it has a temperate climate for most of the year. It has the benefit of having had an extraordinary history of invasion by many different nationalities over the centuries, and this has left its mark culturally. 

In modern times, Malta has become a technological hub, and the Malta digital nomad visa is helping to attract many young people and startup businesses.  

Malta as a destination for digital nomads

Capitalising on the recent increase in digital nomadism, Malta has incentivised remote workers and businesses to relocate by offering fast and reliable internet, excellent coworking and coliving facilities, and a fantastic lifestyle. 

The tax rate offered by the digital nomad visa is one of the most attractive anywhere in the world. The first year of the visa is tax-free, and subsequent years will only see you pay tax at a rate of 10%. 

As one of the main languages spoken in Malta is English, the traffic drives on the left, and even the plug sockets conform to the UK’s standards, Malta is perfectly suited for people from the UK who would like to move there.

Best Areas to Live in Malta

For an island with just over half a million inhabitants, Malta has a surprisingly diverse range of places to live. From the UNESCO world-heritage city of Valletta to the lively ports of St Julian’s and Sliema to the rugged beauty of Gozo. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages which we will outline below.

Valletta

Valletta is the capital of Malta and a truly stunning city with impressive architecture and landscapes. It has UNESCO World Heritage Site status, and it is very easy to see why. The impressive cannon batteries overlooking the harbour are a reminder of Malta’s martial past, and the brilliant fireworks festivals paint the skies in colours. 

For all of its antiquity, Valletta is a vibrant city that is full of life. It has fantastic bars, restaurants, and nightlife to suit all budgets. There are long shopping streets filled with an intriguing mixture of small local boutiques and well-known international brands, and side streets lined with popular bars that spill out onto the pavement. 

 Sliema

There is a long promenade by the sea, and Sliema is popular with joggers and people who value fitness. It is a resort town that is known for its architecture and is a great place to spend some time people-watching and chilling.  There are many international shops, cafes and restaurants, which makes it a popular haunt for ex-pats from all over the world.

St. Julian’s

This is the heart of the nightlife scene for the younger crowd who frequent Malta, and most of the major clubs are based in the Paceville district. It’s not the place to come if you are looking for a quiet time, but if you are prepared for the potential noise, it is a tremendous tourist-friendly place to stay for a while. There is no shortage of local amenities, including a casino, cinema and even a bowling alley and laser tag, should you fancy a different challenge. 

Gozo

Gozo is a stunning, rugged island a short ferry trip from St Julian’s. It is well worth a visit. There are walks around the 75km island that vary in difficulty and intensity. This area has great archeological interest, and the Ta’ Pinu National Shrine is well worth a visit while you are there. Accommodation is cheaper on Gozo than in much of Malta, and this should be a consideration when choosing where to base yourself. 

Cost of Living in Malta

Many people want to investigate the cost of living in Malta before committing to move there for at least six months, and this is a sensible precaution. The monthly cost of living in Malta is not considered high, especially compared with many destinations in central Europe. In comparison to Ireland, it is 17.5% less expensive.

The most expensive places to stay are also the most tourist-focused, with a one-bedroom apartment in Sliema or St Julian’s costing anywhere from 500 to 600 euros per month and larger or more comfortable apartments costing more, sometimes up to 1,000 Euros per month. 

Most locals in Malta shop at one of the large supermarkets, which helps keep costs down considerably. Supermarkets such as Carrefour and Lidl abound in most of the major centres of population.

Breakdown of expenses

Rental can cost between 500 Euros to 1,000 Euros per person per month in many areas, depending on the location and type of accommodation. 

This may or may not include electricity and utilities, which can be a further 100 Euros per month.

Grocery costs can be estimated at 200 Euros to 250 Euros per month per person.

Monthly transport passes can cost as little as 15 Euros. 

A monthly gym pass can range from 60 to 100 euros.

Transportation options

Malta offers many transportation options, including regular bus services, taxis, bikes, ferries, and car hire. Most locals make use of the plentiful public transport options, which are relatively inexpensive. 

Malta Lifestyle and Community

Having become a technology hub and home to many business startups, Malta has many ex-pats who have moved there from all around the world, and it is easy to get to know people. One of the best ways to get involved in the community is to stay at a coliving facility such as Evolve, where you will meet like-minded people and have the chance to bond with them over the course of your stay.

Working in Malta as a Digital Nomad

Malta is an easy place to work, with a good cafe culture and a temperate year-round climate offering many chances to work al fresco. There will be many networking opportunities as Malta feels very connected, with a great many people either working on a side-hustle or for one of the many startups that have based themselves there due to the excellent taxation options.

It is easy to see why Spain consistently makes it onto the top destination lists for digital nomads. Many fantastic destinations within Spain lend themselves well to the remote working lifestyle. Spain is a diverse country with many cities and towns and even fabulous island living options, making the Spain Digital Nomad Visa a popular choice.

What is the Spain Digital Nomad Visa?

The Digital Nomad Visa for Spain allows remote workers to live in Spain for a year and can be extended for up to six years. It is aimed at people who aren’t already citizens of the EEC or Switzerland. It was established in 2023 to capitalise on the increasing number of location-independent workers searching for a base of operations.  

Why is Spain a Top Choice for Digital Nomads?

One reason Spain is such an enduringly popular destination for digital nomads is its temperate climate all year round. Many digital nomads look for destinations that are warm for most of the year, and Spain definitely fits the bill on this front. 

Most of mainland Spain doesn’t get very cold in the winter. Suppose you want to avoid the cold altogether. In that case, the Canary Islands, sometimes called the “Islands of eternal spring” would be ideal for you. The temperature rarely drops below 70C for a sustained period at any point in the year. 

Requirements for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Eligibility Criteria for the Visa

There are a number of eligibility requirements for the Spanish digital nomad visa and these include not being an EEC or Swiss citizen. You should also be earning no less than twice the Spanish minimum wage. This amount breaks down to €2,520 per month and is subject to change annually.

In order to apply for the telework visa, you must be able to prove that you are either employed by a company from outside Spain or that you are self-employed. This is necessary to ensure that you aren’t taking a job that could otherwise be done by another worker who originated in Spain. It is a form of protectionism that prioritises keeping local jobs and prioritising them ahead of immigration interests.

In keeping with many visas which are aimed at remote workers, the Spanish telework visa makes it clear that you must have a comprehensive level of travel insurance. This is because you will be spending a significant amount of time in Spain, and they need to be sure that the ex-pat community won't swamp their health services and make services worse for locals. 

 Required Documents

There are a number of documents that you must supply when applying for a remote work visa in Spain and these are detailed below. You must be in possession of a valid passport and this must have at least six months left on it when the visa expires. You must be able to provide proof of your employment or self-employment and these can be a contract of employment or documents that prove the existence of your own business. 

Income verification can be done via bank statements or pay slips. Your health insurance documents are also required, as is a certificate of good conduct from your home country or anywhere else you have lived during the previous five years. Proof of accommodation will also be requested, and this can take the form of a lease or a booking via an accommodation provider. 

 Application Process for the Digital Nomad Visa

 Step-by-step guide on how to apply for the visa.

1. Ensure that you have all of the documents that you need to apply.
2. Approach a consulate or embassy to arrange an appointment.
3. Attend the appointment and bring all relevant documents.
4. Pay for the Visa. This will be anywhere from €60 to €100.
5. Track your progress online and collect the visa when it is ready. This can take anywhere from 20-60 days.
6. Once in the country, you should apply for a national insurance and tax number and open a bank account.

 Tips for completing the application form

The application form is relatively straightforward. Be sure to answer truthfully and in full. If you need assistance understanding any of the questions, you can ask a relative or friend who has experience or choose to pay an agency to do it for you. 

 Common pitfalls to avoid during the application process.

Some people who apply for the digital nomad visa do so from within Spain when they are there under a tourist visa. If the tourist visa expires before the digital nomad visa has been obtained, this can involve a costly fine.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

Understanding the Remote Work Landscape in Spain

S[ain in an excellent place to work remotely from, though many cafes are now actively discouraging remote working from their premises. There is now an active push back against remote workers in many popular destinations as locals are seeing prices rising and are being priced out of housing by this new influx. 

Cost of Living Considerations

The cost of living varies wildly throughout Spain depending on where you are. A coffee and croissant for breakfast in a predominantly residential urban area in a city will cost far less than the same meal beside a beach in the Canary Islands.

Work-Life Balance in Spain

Because of the excellent weather, some remote workers struggle to give enough focus to their job and spend too much time sunbathing or enjoying themselves, risking a loss of employment. Others struggle to disengage enough from their work to properly enjoy their surroundings.

Connectivity and Technology

Internet connectivity tends to be good in most urban areas but it may be lacking in some more rural areas. If you require video calls on a regular basis, this should be a consideration when it comes to deciding where you are based.

Networking and Community Building

Many areas in Spain offer immense opportunities for networking and community building, though this will often be predominantly through other digital nomad groups. It may be harder to integrate with more local communities.