If you’re ready to hit the road and embrace the digital nomad lifestyle—or simply looking to switch countries while working remotely—this guide is for you. These countries from different continents currently offer some of the fastest visa processing times.
Choosing the perfect next destination as a digital nomad is no small task. It means weighing critical factors like reliable internet connectivity and access to venues that support a comfortable remote work setup.
Long or unpredictable visa processing times only add to the challenge. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of countries with impressively short processing times—as fast as 48 hours to just 20 days. Let’s get started!
6. Spain
Visa processing time: 20 days
Spain is undoubtedly one of the top international hotspots for digital nomads. Cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, or Seville attract hundreds of remote workers each year.
Successful applicants must provide their three most recent bank statements showing monthly earnings of at least €2400, a clean criminal record, and proof that their companies have been operational for at least one year.
Keep in mind that the length of the visa depends on where you apply. If you apply from your home country, you’ll receive a 1-year visa, but applying from within Spain grants you a 3-year visa.
5. Costa Rica
Visa processing time: 14 days
Costa Rica is one of the top Latin American destinations for digital nomads, thanks to its breathtaking nature that favors great work-life balance and its attractive tax-free scheme for entrepreneurs.
While processing times are shorter than in Spain, the application process is a bit more complex since you’ll need to apply for an additional residence permit upon arrival.
The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for an additional one.
4. Greece
Visa processing time: 10 days
The Hellenic country offers the fastest visa processing times in Europe.
Eligible candidates must submit their application at the Greek consulate in their country of residence and hand over their passports to authorities during the processing period.
One of the best features of this digital nomad visa is its 5-year validity, with the option to apply for European citizenship if eligibility requirements are met.
3. Dubai
Visa processing time: 7 days
Dubai boasts one of the fastest visa processing times in the digital nomad world.
To obtain a visa, applicants must present proof of monthly earnings of at least $3500. Other requirements include evidence of employment with international clients or ownership of a company outside Dubai, along with comprehensive health insurance that covers the UAE.
Successful applicants can stay in Dubai for up to one year.
2. Bermuda
Visa processing time: 5 business days
This Caribbean paradise not only offers one of the fastest processing times but also doesn’t require proof of minimum monthly earnings, a requirement that sometimes prevents remote workers from applying.
This is great news for new digital nomads who are just starting their businesses and can’t yet guarantee a steady monthly income.
In this country, simply demonstrating that you can finance your lifestyle is enough.
1. Mauritius
Visa processing time: 48 hours
This stunning African island offers the fastest digital nomad visa processing time on this list.
Another advantage of applying for a visa in Mauritius is that it doesn’t charge you for the process. Just make sure that you earn at least $1500 per month, and you’ll be eligible.
While processing times can be a determining factor when you choose your next destination, other factors—such as weather, internet connectivity, and living costs—may hold greater importance for remote workers making such a significant decision.