Freedom and Comfort: Top 10 Countries for Freelancers in 2025

The number of freelancers and digital nomads in the world has grown Especially last years years. Data shows that by 2024, the number of digital nomads will exceed 40 million worldwide, including 17.3 million in the US. Most of them are millennials with an average annual income of about $122,859.

This lifestyle is attractive because of allowing to work wherever in the world, combining professional activity with traveling and exploring new cultures. However, in order to choose the right country to live and work in, there are many factors to consider: visa availability, cost of living, quality of internet, tax policy and overall quality of life.

Based on the latest research and reports, we have compiled a list of the top ten countries for freelancers and digital nomads in 2025.

1. Spain

In December 2022, Spain launched a special visa for digital nomads - a visa for remote work. This applies to non-EU nationals who work remotely for companies outside Spain or as freelancers, provided that no more than 20% of income comes from Spanish clients. The visa is valid for one year and can be extended for up to five years if a residence permit (TRC) is obtained. After five years of residence, it is possible to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit (PRC). Applicants may include family members in their application. You can apply either in Spain or at the Spanish Embassy in your country. Barcelona and Valencia are extra popular among remote workers due to their well-developed infrastructure and freelance communities.

2. Portugal

Portugal, especially Lisbon and Porto, has become a magnet for digital nomads due to its flexible visa policy and high quality of life. The D8 visa is for digital nomads and is valid for four months. Once you have been granted a temporary residence permit, you must apply for a two-year renewable temporary residence permit. After five years of residency, you can apply for citizenship. Application can include all family members of the main applicant, but income requirements increase by 30-50% for each additional family member.

3. Poland With its strategic location in the center of Europe, affordable cost of living and modern infrastructure, Poland is becoming one of the most attractive destinations for freelancers. Cities such as Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw offer a well-developed network of co-working spaces, stable internet connections and diverse career opportunities.

Freelancers in Poland can apply for a visa program that allows them to legally work and live in the country. For example, national visas allow employment and free movement within Schengen countries. Poland also supports freelancers through legislation that simplifies tax conditions and promotes remote work.

4. Estonia

Estonia was one of the first countries to offer visas for digital nomads. The country is known for its advanced digital technologies and convenient online business services. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, combines medieval architecture with modern infrastructure, making it attractive to freelancers. Estonia offers an e-Residency e-Residency program that allows entrepreneurs to register and manage their business online from anywhere in the world.

5. Germany

Germany offers freelancers the opportunity to obtain a self-employment visa called the Freiberufler-Visum. This visa allows you to live and work in the country and engage in certain activities that are considered freelancing. Berlin is especially known for its vibrant startup scene and creative atmosphere, which attracts many freelancers from all over the world. To obtain a visa, you must submit a business plan, proof of financial solvency and proof of clients in Germany. The visa is valid for up to three years and can be extended.However, the higher cost of living and strict tax requirements have to be considered.

6. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE, especially Dubai, offers annual visas for remote workers that can be extended. This visa allows foreign nationals to live in the country and work for their foreign employer. The country is attractive due to its lack of income tax, modern amenities and strategic location between Europe and Asia. To obtain a visa, you must provide proof of employment, minimum income and health insurance. Dubai also offers advanced business infrastructure and high-speed internet. However, the high cost of living may not be affordable for some freelancers.

7. Georgia

Georgia offers the "Remotely from Georgia" program, which allows citizens of more than 95 countries to live and work in the country for up to one year without a visa. Tbilisi is Georgia's capital city, known for its rich culture, hospitality and affordable cost of living. Proof of remote work, minimum income and health insurance are required to participate in the program. Georgia also attracts with its cuisine, natural landscapes and warm climate.

8.Thailand

Thailand offers a smart visa program for highly skilled professionals, including digital nomads. This visa is valid for up to four years and allows you to work in the country without obtaining a work permit. To qualify for the visa, you must meet certain requirements, including proof of qualifications and work experience.

Thailand attracts digital nomads with its low cost of living, warm climate and rich culture. Cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer extensive infrastructure, high-speed internet and vibrant freelance communities.

9.Mexico

Mexico offers a temporary resident visa for remote workers, allowing you to live in the country for up to four years. To qualify for the visa, you must demonstrate a monthly income of $2,595 or more or savings of $43,000. The cost of the visa is US$48. The visa is valid for one year and can be extended for up to four years.?

Mexico attracts digital nomads with its warm climate, rich culture and diverse cuisine. Cities such as Mexico City and Playa del Carmen offer extensive infrastructure, high-speed internet and vibrant freelance communities.

10. Croatia

As of 2021, Croatia offers a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to live in the country for up to a year, during which time they cannot leave Croatia for more than a month or the visa will be revoked, but there is a silver lining, nomads do not pay taxes.

To get a visa, you must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $2,700 or savings of $32,000. Visa fees range from $87 to $150. The visa cannot be extended, but you can apply for another type of residency permit when it expires. Croatia attracts digital nomads with its picturesque Adriatic coastline, rich history and culture, and well-developed infrastructure. Cities like Zagreb and Split offer modern co-working spaces and vibrant freelance communities.

Freelancing and digital nomadism continue to transform the labor market, giving you the freedom to choose where to work and lifestyle. Choosing a country to work and live in always depends on your goals, expectations and professional objectives. Whether you plan to immerse yourself in the dynamic life of European cities, enjoy the tranquility of the tropics, or explore new horizons, the world offers many options for remote workers. It's important to choose a location that not only inspires but also supports you on your path to success.

Which country do you dream of living and working in? Share your ideas and experiences in the comments! Perhaps your choice will inspire others and become a worthy addition to our list of the best countries for freelancers.