Comparing digital nomad visas: Thailand, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, and Hungary

How do some of the current digital nomad visas compare?

As remote work becomes more popular, countries are responding with specialised visas designed for digital nomads. These visas allow individuals or companies to work legally while enjoying life abroad. With a wide range of options now available, it's important to compare policies to find the right fit.

This article provides a high level review of the digital nomad visa options from Thailand, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, and Hungary, focusing on eligibility, cost, duration, and key features.

Thailand: Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)

Thailand's DTV, introduced in 2024, is a long-stay visa for remote workers and others interested in cultural or medical activities. It is considered a tourist visa with generous stay terms.

• Cost: 10,000 baht (varies by country)

• Validity: 5 years

• Stay duration: 180 days per entry, extendable once

• Eligibility: Digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers; must be over 20 and show 500,000 baht in savings

• Family inclusion: Spouse and children under 20 can apply separately

• Application: Online or in-person in your country of employment

New Zealand: Remote Work Visa

New Zealand’s offering targets freelancers and remote employees, but not job seekers.

• Cost: NZD $200–$500

• Validity: Up to 6 months (no specific long-stay visa for nomads)

• Eligibility: Remote workers or self-employed with proof of income and health insurance

• Tax: No NZ tax if staying under 92 days (or 183 days with a tax treaty)

• Application: Online via Immigration NZ

• Family inclusion: Not specifically mentioned; case-by-case

Portugal: Digital Nomad Visa

Portugal provides both short- and long-term options for remote workers.

• Cost: Varies; requires proof of funds

• Short-Stay: 1 year, not extendable

• Long-Stay: 2 years, renewable for 3; eligible for residency after 5 years

• Income requirement: €3,480/month + savings proof

• Family inclusion: Allowed

• Processing time: ~6 months

Spain: Digital Nomad Visa

Spain's visa has gained popularity after the Golden Visa ended. It allows remote work and leads to permanent residency.

• Cost: Varies

• Validity: 1 year initially, then 3-year permit; eligible for residency after 5 years

• Income requirement: €2,646/month (+ €993 for spouse, €331 per child)

• Tax: 24% flat rate for income up to €600,000 if staying over 183 days

• Family inclusion: Allowed

• Processing time: ~4 months

Hungary: White Card

Hungary's White Card is a simple option, but with restrictions.

• Cost: Varies

• Validity: 1 year, renewable once (2 years total)

• Income requirement: €3,000/month

• Family inclusion: Not permitted

• Processing time: ~6 months

Comparison Summary

Country	Income Req. (Monthly)	Visa Length	Family Inclusion	Cost (Est.)	Processing Time
Thailand	~€1,250 (500,000 THB)	5 years (180 days/stay)	Yes	€260+	Varies
New Zealand	None fixed	Up to 6 months	Case-by-case	€110–260	2–6 weeks
Portugal	€3,480	1–5 years	Yes	Varies	~6 months
Spain	€2,646	1+3 years	Yes	Varies	~4 months
Hungary	€3,000	1+1 years	No	Varies	~6 months

Conclusion

Each country offers something unique for digital nomads. Thailand provides flexibility and cultural access with low financial barriers. Spain and Portugal offer clear paths to residency in the EU. New Zealand is suitable for short stays with a relaxed process. Hungary offers simplicity, but limits family inclusion.

Your choice depends on your priorities—be it tax, duration, lifestyle, or ease of application. Always check the latest requirements before applying. Note that government policies can change rapidly so it is important to make sure you check the policy directly with the country you are considering.