How to Relocate Abroad Without a Job: The Best Countries for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers
If you're longing to break free from your expensive city apartment, escape the daily routine, and settle in an exotic destination while working remotely, you're in good company. More people than ever are packing up, taking their laptops, and embracing life abroad without a conventional job—just a reliable Wi-Fi connection and a dream.
But where should you go? Not all countries are equally welcoming to remote workers. Some have frustrating visa policies, spotty internet, or a cost of living that’ll drain your bank account faster than you can say “work-life balance.” That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best destinations for digital nomads—places with affordable living, great expat communities, reliable Wi-Fi, and friendly visa policies. Let’s dive in.
1. Thailand – The OG Digital Nomad Hotspot
Why It Works:
Low Cost of Living: You can live comfortably on $1,000–$1,500 per month, including rent, food, and an occasional beachside cocktail.
Great Expat Community: Cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok are packed with remote workers.
Excellent Internet & Co-Working Spaces: Fast Wi-Fi and modern co-working spaces like Punspace in Chiang Mai make working easy.
Incredible Food & Culture: Who wouldn’t want to take a break with $2 pad Thai and a mango smoothie?
Visa Situation:
Thailand doesn’t have an official digital nomad visa (yet), but you can:
Stay for 60 days on a tourist visa, extend for another 30 days, then do a visa run.
Apply for the Smart Visa if you qualify (though it’s tricky).
Use the new 10-year Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa if you meet income requirements.
Pro Tip:
A VPN like NordVPN can help keep your internet secure when working from Thai cafés or co-working spaces.
2. Estonia – The Digital Nomad Pioneer
Why It Works:
First Country to Offer a Digital Nomad Visa: Estonia is literally built for remote workers.
E-Residency Program: Start an EU-based business remotely with ease.
Affordable Compared to Western Europe: Rent in Tallinn costs about $600–$900 per month.
Fast, Reliable Internet: Estonia ranks among the best in Europe for connectivity.
Visa Situation:
Estonia’s Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) allows remote workers to stay for up to a year.
You need proof of earning at least €4,500 per month from a remote job.
Pro Tip:
Estonia’s e-Residency program is a game-changer if you want to start an online business while living anywhere in the world.
3. Panama – A Tax-Friendly Haven for Remote Workers
Why It Works:
Easy Visa Policies: The Friendly Nations Visa lets citizens of 50+ countries get residency.
No Tax on Foreign Income: Work remotely? No Panama taxes for you.
Affordable Cost of Living: Live well for $1,500–$2,000 per month.
Gorgeous Beaches & City Life: Panama City is modern and vibrant, while Bocas del Toro offers island living.
Visa Situation:
The Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers lets you live tax-free for 9 months (extendable to 18 months).
The Friendly Nations Visa leads to permanent residency in 2 years.
Pro Tip:
Use Wise or Revolut for hassle-free banking and international money transfers.
4. Spain – The European Dream (on a Budget)
Why It Works:
Great Weather, Food & Culture: Tapas, siestas, and historic cities.
Low Cost Compared to Other EU Countries: Madrid and Barcelona can be pricey, but smaller cities like Valencia and Seville are affordable ($1,800–$2,500 per month).
Strong Expat Community: Plenty of co-working spaces and networking events.
Amazing Healthcare System: One of the best in the world.
Visa Situation:
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to stay for 1–5 years.
You need to prove you work remotely and earn at least €2,520 per month.
Pro Tip:
A co-working space like Betahaus Barcelona is perfect for networking while sipping an espresso.
5. Taiwan – The Underrated Digital Nomad Paradise
Why It Works:
Super Fast Internet: Taiwan has one of the best broadband speeds in Asia.
Incredible Street Food: Night markets offer delicious meals for $3–$5.
Safe & Easy to Navigate: Taipei is extremely foreigner-friendly.
Public Transport is Cheap & Efficient: Get around for less than $1 per ride.
Visa Situation:
Taiwan’s Gold Card Visa allows remote workers to stay for up to 3 years.
You need to earn at least $5,500 per month, but perks include tax benefits and healthcare access.
Pro Tip:
Use ExpressVPN to access global streaming services while in Taiwan.
How to Choose the Best Country for You
Every country has different pros and cons. Ask yourself:
Do you need a long-term visa, or are you okay with visa runs?
How much do you want to spend per month?
Do you prefer a tropical beach, a historic city, or a tech-friendly hub?
If you want cheap living & community → Thailand
If you want an easy EU visa & e-residency → Estonia
If you want tax-free foreign income → Panama
If you want Europe but on a budget → Spain
If you want fast Wi-Fi & safety in Asia → Taiwan
Final Thoughts: You Can Move Abroad Without a Job
Relocating abroad as a digital nomad is easier than ever, as long as you plan ahead. Countries are actively competing to attract remote workers, which means more visa options, better infrastructure, and growing expat communities. The key is choosing a place that fits your budget, work style, and lifestyle preferences.
So, where are you headed first? If you’re ready to make the leap, start by securing a remote job, setting up your banking, and checking out visa options. And don’t forget a VPN for safe browsing in foreign countries.
