Required income for a freelance visa

Freelancers and remote employees can live and work in different countries under long-term digital nomad visas. These visas provide tax benefits, social security options, and sometimes a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.

Income requirements for digital nomad visas in Europe

Each country has its own regulations for remote workers. Applicants generally need to submit:

• Proof of collaboration with a foreign company
• Employment contract or business registration certificate
• Financial statements and proof of income for the last three months
• Health insurance
• Cover letter and visa application fee receipt

Entrepreneurs must also provide service agreements and tax documentation. Immigration policies change frequently, so it's best to check the embassy’s website for the latest requirements.

Top destinations for digital nomads

Over 40 countries across Europe, Latin America, and Asia offer freelancer visas lasting from 12 to 24 months. Some Caribbean nations also have similar programs.

Germany

Germany’s Freelancer Visum is open to self-employed professionals and entrepreneurs. IT specialists, lawyers, and researchers can apply for a Freiberufler visa, while business owners need to demonstrate their project’s economic benefits.

• Income requirements: No strict minimum, but applicants need at least two German clients, ensuring no single client provides over 83% of total income.
• Financial proof: €12,000 in savings or a stable monthly income of €2,500.
• Additional pathway: A Blue Card allows applicants to apply for citizenship after 3 years.

Italy

Launched in 2024, Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa provides a one-year residence permit with possible extensions.

• Eligibility: Remote workers with contracts from non-Italian companies.
• Income requirements: €2,700 per month or €30,000 in savings.
• Family reunification: Available for dependents after six months of continuous residence.

Spain

Spain’s Telework Visa was introduced under the 2023 Startup Law to attract foreign talent.

• Income requirements: €2,520 per month. Additional €950 for a spouse and €315 per child.
• Family total: For a family of three, monthly income must be at least €3,970.
• Local employment: Up to 20% of income can come from a Spanish employer.

Portugal

Portugal offers a Digital Nomad Visa for freelancers, investors, and startup entrepreneurs.

• Income requirements: €3,280 per month (4x Portugal’s minimum wage).
• Family costs: €9,920 for a spouse, €2,429 per child.
• Total for a family of three: €17,220 per month.
• Duration: 2 years, extendable for another 3 years.

Greece

Greece grants Digital Nomad Visas for up to 2 years, allowing applicants to bring their families.

• Income requirements: €3,500 per month.
• Family costs: Extra €700 for a spouse and €525 per child.
• Total for a family of four: €5,250 per month.

Montenegro

Montenegro offers a Digital Nomad Visa valid for up to 4 years with tax exemptions.

• Income requirements: €1,350 per month (equal to the national average salary).
• Family benefits: Additional €310 required per child.

Hungary

Hungary’s White Card is available for remote professionals in digital industries.

• Income requirements: €2,000 per month (before tax).
• Limitations: No tax exemptions, family reunification not included.

Romania

Romania’s Digital Nomad Visa allows residence for 12 months, with extensions available.

• Income requirements: €4,287 per month.
• Path to citizenship: Available after 10 years of residence.

France

France has three visa options for freelancers: Profession Libérale, Passeport Talent, and Vacances-Travail.

• Income requirements: €1,747 per month or €21,000 in savings.
• Passeport Talent program: Requires a €30,000 business investment.

Croatia

Croatia’s Digital Nomad Visa is valid for 12 months, with a six-month waiting period before renewal.

• Income requirements: €2,870 per month.
• Family costs: Extra 10% for a spouse and child.
• Total for a family of three: €3,730 per month or €34,400 in savings.

Conclusion

Income requirements vary across countries, ranging from €1,350 in Montenegro to over €4,200 in Romania. Some visas allow family reunification, while others impose strict restrictions. Checking official embassy websites before applying is crucial to stay updated with changing policies.

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