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BUSINESS NEWS - Several special visas allow immigration for digital nomads in the EU. Many come with benefits, such as family inclusion, or even path to citizenship. Alina Mishurenko, an expert and the editor-in-chief at Immigrant Invest, presents seven reasons to move to Europe as a digital nomad.
Special digital nomad programs:
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Also known as Portugal Nomad Visa for self-employed persons, this visa is available to freelancers, remote employees, and entrepreneurs. The Visa is one of the most popular ways to move to the European Union as a digital nomad.
Applicants demonstrate a work contract or agreements that confirm remote work for non-Portuguese entities. They must also prove a monthly income of at least €3,280.
Additionally, digital nomads need to:
- Demonstrate sufficient savings equal to a year of minimum income in Portugal, which is €9,840;
- Have proof of accommodation through either a rental agreement or property ownership in Portugal.
The digital nomad visa serves as a national visa that permits long-term residency in Portugal. Upon arrival, holders apply for a residence permit. The permit is typically valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional three years, depending on continued eligibility.
Family members, including spouses and children, can also get the visa with additional income proof requirements. Each family member will need their own residence permit.
Malta Digital Nomad Visa
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit is intended for remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed individuals. Applicants provide employment contracts or service agreements demonstrating an income of €3,500 or more for at least five months.
Applicants are required to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €3,500 (or €42,000 annually). This income must stem from professional activities such as remote employment or freelancing.
Proof of accommodation, such as a rental agreement or Airbnb booking, must be provided. Applicants also secure health insurance that covers the entire duration of their stay.
The Nomad Residence Permit allows digital nomads to reside in Malta for up to one year, with the option to renew.
The initial residence permit is valid for one year and can be renewed as long as the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
Spouses, partners (including same-sex couples), and dependent children can be included in the application. The number of family members does not affect the minimum income requirement.
Italy Digital Nomad Visa
This program was set for highly skilled professionals who work remotely for companies or clients outside Italy. The evidence of remote work or freelance contracts is required, including a signed statement from the employer or clients confirming the applicant’s remote work arrangement.
Applicants must earn at least €32,400 a year, find an accommodation in Italy, and buy health insurance. They must also have at least €30,000 in savings.
After getting their visa, digital nomads arrive in Italy and apply for a 1-year residence permit. After the first year, it can be renewed for two years, and then for three years, as long as the visa’s eligibility requirements are met.
Family inclusion is supported for the immediate family members, including spouses, minor children, and dependent parents. They can apply for visas linked to the primary applicant's status.
Spain Nomad Visa
The visa is designed for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies or freelancers with international clients. Up to 20% of income can be derived from Spanish sources.
Applicants must show an income of at least €2,646 per month. If including a spouse, an additional €993 per month is required, plus €331 for each child. Proof of accommodation, such as a rental agreement, is required for visa approval, as well as health insurance.
The visa allows holders to apply for a residence permit valid for three years, extendable for another two years. The initial permit is valid for three years and can be renewed for an additional two years. After five years of residency, applicants may apply for permanent residence.
Citizenship is possible after ten years of continuous residence. Spain does not allow dual citizenship with many countries, though exceptions exist.
Family members, including spouses and dependent children, can be included, provided additional income requirements are met.
Hungary White Card
The White Card is designed for remote workers and managers employed by foreign companies. Applicants prove employment and income from non-Hungarian sources.
Applicants are also required to demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,000 and have at least €10,000 in savings. Proof of a rental or purchase agreement covering the entire residence permit duration is required, typically at least 12 months.
The White Card serves as a residence permit for digital nomads, allowing them to stay in Hungary for up to one year. It can be extended for an additional year, provided the applicant continues to meet the income and employment criteria.
The Hungary White Card does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship. To qualify for permanent residency or citizenship, applicants must reside in Hungary under a different type of residence permit, such as by employment or investment, for several years.
The White Card does not automatically extend to family members, but separate applications can be made for spouses and dependent children.
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