Digital Nomads and Millionaires: New Visa Trends in Thailand, UAE, Portugal, Indonesia, and Beyond
Over the past few years, a growing number of countries have rolled out special visa programs to attract both digital nomads (remote workers seeking flexible living options) and high-net-worth individuals (investors or wealthy retirees). From tropical retreats to urban tech hubs, these destinations are competing to offer the most appealing blend of long-term visas, tax incentives, and lifestyle perks. This article examines recent visa policy changes in key countries – with a focus on Thailand – and compares them with the UAE (Dubai), Portugal, Indonesia (Bali), and a few emerging hotspots. We’ll explore the visa types (digital nomad visas, “golden” investment visas, etc.), their duration and renewal conditions, tax benefits, and the overall lifestyle, infrastructure, and cost-of-living appeal for remote workers and wealthy expats.
The Global Race to Attract Nomads and Investors
Countries worldwide have recognized the economic potential of attracting remote workers and affluent foreigners. In the wake of the pandemic-induced remote work boom, “digital nomad visas” have proliferated – over 60 countries now offer some form of remote work visa. Simultaneously, “golden visas” (residence permits in exchange for investment) and other long-term residency options target retirees or investors seeking lifestyle or financial benefits abroad. These programs are often win-win: nomads and investors get a change of scenery, often with tax breaks or easier residency, while host countries receive an influx of talent and capital.
Recent policy changes reflect both competition and public pressures. For example, Portugal – once the poster child of golden visas – has ended real-estate investment as a residency route to address housing affordability. Thailand, eager to reboot its tourism and economy, launched new long-term visas in 2022–2024 to entice professionals and wealthy retirees. Indonesia floated a headline-grabbing “5-year digital nomad visa” with tax-free perks, eventually implementing a scaled-down version. As we’ll see, each country’s approach balances visa duration, entry criteria, and incentives to attract these desirable residents.
Below, we dive into each destination’s offerings and how they stack up on crucial factors: the types of visas available, how long you can stay, renewal conditions, tax obligations (or lack thereof), and what life is like on the ground for expats. A summary table follows to highlight key visa features side by side.
Thailand – Long Stays in the Land of Smiles
Thailand has positioned itself as a top contender for both digital nomads and wealthy expats, thanks to new visa programs and attractive perks. Recent changes signal Thailand’s determination to welcome longer-staying foreigners:
• Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa: Launched in September 2022, the LTR visa offers up to 10 years of residency (initial 5-year visa + 5-year renewal). It is aimed at four groups: “Wealthy Global Citizens” (high-net-worth individuals with $1M+ in assets), “Wealthy Pensioners” (retirees over 50 with pensions), “Work-From-Thailand Professionals” (remote workers employed by overseas companies), and “Highly-Skilled Professionals”. Each category has specific eligibility (for instance, remote professionals must earn $80,000/year or $40,000 with advanced qualifications ). The benefits are generous: LTR holders get fast-track airport service, a work permit, and tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income- meaning if you earn money abroad, Thailand won’t tax it. Recent adjustments in 2025 have eased the income and investment requirements to make LTR more accessible.
• “Digital Nomad” Visas: In mid-2024, Thailand introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) – essentially a digital nomad visa – to encourage “workations” and long stays by remote workers and other long-term visitors. The DTV is a 5-year multiple-entry visa. Notably, you can stay up to 180 days per entry and then extend for another 180 days each year without leaving, allowing essentially up to 360 days continuous stay annually. To qualify, applicants must be 20+ years old, show proof of a non-Thai employer or business, and have at least ฿500,000 (~USD $15k) in bank savings to support themselves. The visa costs around ฿10,000 (~$275) per year. This new option complements Thailand’s earlier initiatives like the Smart Visa (up to 4-year visa for investors, startups, and tech talent) and the Thailand Elite Visa (a paid membership visa offering 5–20 years of residency for a fee). The Thai Elite Visa, now rebranded as Thailand Privilege, remains popular among high-net-worth individuals because it requires no minimum income or assets – just a membership payment (starting around 600,000 THB for 5 years) – granting hassle-free long stays and VIP services.
Duration & Renewal: Thailand’s visas clearly cater to long-term stays. The LTR’s 10-year span is among the longest offered anywhere, and the new 5-year DTV is also generous compared to typical 1-year nomad visas elsewhere. LTR visas don’t require frequent border runs or re-entry permits (you still must report your address yearly, as with any long stay). The DTV effectively lets you live year-round (with a simple extension) and just a brief exit/re-entry once a year. For shorter stays, many nomads still use tourist or 6-month special tourist visas, but the DTV provides a more stable solution.
Tax Incentives: A big selling point for Thailand is the favorable tax setup for foreign earners. The LTR explicitly exempts foreign income from Thai tax, so long as the work is for an overseas employer. Even DTV or Elite visa holders benefit from Thailand’s territorial tax system – income earned abroad is taxable in Thailand only if remitted the same year, a loophole many expats use to avoid local tax altogether. This means a digital nomad working for a US or European company can legally pay zero Thai income tax if they manage their funds correctly. By contrast, local Thai-source income is taxed normally, and LTR holders working for Thai companies would pay tax on that employment. Overall, for remote workers who earn abroad, Thailand can be a tax haven.
Lifestyle and Infrastructure: Thailand has long been a favorite of expats for its low cost of living, warm climate, and rich culture. For nomads on a budget, cities like Chiang Mai offer comfortable living under $1,000 per month, with affordable apartments, street food, and co-working spaces. Bangkok and Phuket are pricier but still cheaper than Western cities. High-speed internet is widely available (Thailand consistently ranks well in internet speed tests), and there are numerous co-working cafes in hotspots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands. Healthcare is excellent, with international-standard hospitals in major cities – a significant draw for retirees and foreigners seeking medical tourism. Many expats opt for private health insurance, which LTR and other long-term visa holders are required to have. English is moderately spoken in tourist areas and among young Thais, which helps; bureaucracy can be a bit daunting, but the new visa schemes aim to streamline processes (e.g., the BOI’s one-stop service for LTR).
Expat Community & Appeal: Thailand boasts a large, diverse expat and nomad community. You’ll find networking events, meetups, and co-living spaces especially in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, which have been dubbed a “digital nomad capital” for years. The country’s mix of modern conveniences and tropical getaway vibes is hard to beat. One can work from a skyscraper in Bangkok or a beach café in Koh Samui. There are, of course, some trade-offs: visa rules have historically been strict (e.g. 90-day reporting), and political changes or air pollution (smoky season up north) are occasional concerns. But with the new flexible visas, Thailand is clearly signaling that it wants long-term nomads and wealthy investors to feel at home in the Land of Smiles.
United Arab Emirates (Dubai) – Tax-Free Haven for Remote Workers and Investors
The United Arab Emirates, and Dubai in particular, has rapidly emerged as an elite destination for both high-flying professionals and wealthy individuals seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle with zero income tax. In recent years, the UAE government introduced and expanded visa programs to cement this status:
• Dubai Virtual Working Program (Remote Work Visa): Dubai was one of the first to launch a dedicated one-year remote work visa in 2020, allowing foreign professionals to live in Dubai while working for an overseas employer. This one-year visa can be renewed annually by reapplying. To qualify, applicants must show proof of employment (or business ownership) outside the UAE and meet an income threshold (originally around $5,000 per month, though some sources note it has been adjusted to $3,500). You also need health insurance and to pay the visa processing fee ($600). Successful applicants receive UAE resident IDs, meaning they can rent apartments, send kids to school, etc., just like other residents. Crucially, no local sponsor is required – a big break from the usual Gulf visa norms. Dubai’s remote work visa has drawn freelancers, entrepreneurs, and even corporate employees on “work from anywhere” arrangements, all enticed by the idea of enjoying Dubai’s amenities without paying income tax.
• UAE Golden Visa: The UAE introduced the Golden Visa in 2019 as a long-term residency program for investors, entrepreneurs, talented professionals, and outstanding students. It grants 5 or 10-year residency (most categories now get 10 years) which is renewable without needing an Emirati sponsor. Over the past couple of years, the Golden Visa was significantly expanded. Eligibility was broadened in 2022 to include highly skilled employees, real estate investors (who invest at least AED 2 million, approx $545,000), PhD holders, doctors, and even exceptionally talented artists. Most recently, in 2025 a new category was launched for digital content creators, inviting top online creators to make the UAE their home. The goal is to attract tech-savvy talent and bolster the “creator economy” in the UAE. In all cases, Golden Visa holders enjoy perks like the ability to sponsor family members, longer absences from the UAE without voiding the visa, and, of course, long-term security.
• Green Visa and Other Options: In late 2022, the UAE introduced the Green Visa, a 5-year self-sponsored residence visa for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors. The Green Visa requires proof of employment (or business) in a skilled field and a salary above a certain level (e.g., AED 15,000/month for employees). It’s essentially a middle path – longer than the 1-year remote visa, but not as stringent as the Golden Visa investment. Additionally, Dubai offers a Retire in Dubai visa (5-year renewable) for those over 55 who meet wealth/income criteria, and various business startup visas for entrepreneurs (often linked with incubators or free zones).
Duration & Renewal: The UAE’s strategy provides tiers of residency length. Digital nomads get 1 year at a time in Dubai, while investors/talents get 5 or 10 years. Importantly, both Golden and Green visas are self-sponsored, meaning you don’t need a local employer or family sponsor; this flexibility is a game-changer in a region where work visas were traditionally tied to employers. The Golden Visa is renewed as long as you maintain the qualifying investment or status, and you can be outside the UAE for extended periods without cancellation (up to the entire duration, unlike regular residency which lapses if you’re out 6+ months). The 1-year nomad visa needs a simple renewal application each year (with updated proof of income/job). In all cases, the UAE has moved toward online application portals and fast processing to make the experience relatively smooth.
Tax Incentives: One of the UAE’s biggest draws is its tax environment. The UAE levies no personal income tax on salaries, investment income, or capital gains for individuals. This means whether you’re a remote employee on Dubai’s nomad visa or a millionaire investor on a Golden Visa, your foreign-earned income can remain entirely tax-free locally. Many entrepreneurs actually establish companies in Dubai to take advantage of the 0% tax (note: the UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax in 2023, but it mainly affects large company profits; small businesses and personal income remain untaxed). There is no tax reporting hassle for individuals, making life simpler. Do keep in mind your home country’s tax rules though – some nomads might still owe taxes back home if they don’t break residency there. But from the UAE side, the absence of income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax is a huge incentive, especially for high earners and investors. Dubai also has no foreign exchange controls – you can freely move money in and out.
Lifestyle and Infrastructure: Dubai offers a world-class infrastructure and a luxury lifestyle. This city is known for its skyscrapers, modern apartments, high-end shopping malls, and excellent connectivity. Internet speeds are top-notch (5G and widespread fiber), which remote workers appreciate for video calls and cloud work. Co-working spaces and startup hubs are plentiful, given Dubai’s push to be a tech and innovation center. In terms of day-to-day life, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are extremely safe, clean, and efficient. You’ll find international supermarkets, restaurants of every cuisine, and a busy social scene. The expat community is massive – nearly 90% of Dubai’s population are expatriates, meaning English is commonly spoken and there are communities from all over (networking events for entrepreneurs, professional associations, etc.). Culturally, it’s a mix: on one hand, the UAE is a conservative Islamic country, but Dubai is quite liberal by regional standards, with beaches, nightlife, and cultural tolerance (within limits defined by local laws).
Cost of Living and Appeal: The main downside of the UAE can be the cost of living. Dubai’s cost of living is significantly higher than Thailand or Indonesia – think in the ballpark of Western capitals. For example, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a good area can easily be $1,500–$2,500+ per month. However, there is a range: some peripheral neighborhoods or other Emirates (like Ras Al Khaimah) are cheaper. Day-to-day expenses (groceries, eating out) are moderate to high depending on lifestyle – you can eat street shawarma cheaply or dine at a five-star restaurant. The government often bundles incentives (like discounts or incubator support) for certain visa holders, but generally nomads and retirees should budget amply. The no-tax factor somewhat offsets this for high earners: a remote worker making, say, $100k a year might find they still save more in Dubai with zero tax, even if rent is pricey. Quality of life is high – top-notch healthcare (private hospitals with internationally trained doctors), smooth roads and transport, and endless recreation options from desert adventures to beach clubs. The UAE’s new visa offerings, coupled with its business-friendly and tax-free environment, firmly establish it as a prime destination for the ambitious remote professional or investor seeking a base in the Middle East.
Portugal – Golden Visas, Digital Nomads, and European Quality of Life
Portugal has gained a reputation as one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for expats, whether they are entrepreneurs, retirees, or remote workers. With its sunny climate, historic cities, and relatively low cost in Western Europe, Portugal offers an attractive package. Recognizing this, the government rolled out a Digital Nomad visa in 2022 and maintained (though recently reformed) its famous Golden Visa program for investors.
• Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Residency Permit): In October 2022, Portugal introduced a visa specifically for non-EU remote workers, often referred to as the “D8” digital nomad visa. This visa allows you to live and work in Portugal for up to one year initially, and it can be converted into a residency permit for longer stays. In practice, applicants often get a four-month visa to enter, then obtain a 1- to 2-year residence permit, renewable, which counts toward permanent residency or citizenship eligibility after five years. To qualify, you must show remote work employment or self-employment with an entity outside Portugal, and meet a monthly income threshold of about 4× Portugal’s minimum wage. Initially this was around €2,820 per month, and as of 2024 it’s about €3,280 per month (≈ $3,500), plus higher if you bring family. You also need evidence of savings (around €36,000), a clean criminal record, and health insurance. This program has been popular, as it provides a clear pathway to eventually settle in Portugal permanently if desired. Prior to the D8 visa, many remote-income expats used the D7 “passive income” visa – which is still available – but the D8 specifically caters to salaried or freelance remote workers with no local employer.
• Golden Visa (Residence by Investment): Portugal’s Golden Visa (officially the ARI – Authorization for Residency by Investment) was launched in 2012 and became one of the world’s most famous golden visa programs. Traditionally, the easiest route was buying Portuguese real estate (min. €500,000, or €350,000 for renovation properties), which granted a residency permit. However, in late 2023, Portugal made a landmark change: real estate investment is no longer an eligible route to a golden visa. This reform, under the Mais Habitação (More Housing) law, was driven by a desire to cool the property market and increase housing availability. The Golden Visa program itself is not dead – it’s been restructured rather than abolished. As of 2024, the remaining investment options include: investing €500,000 in a Portuguese venture capital or investment fund (with no real estate component), donating €250,000 to arts or heritage projects, contributing ~€500,000 to scientific research, or creating a company with 10+ jobs. These routes are more niche, so demand for the golden visa has cooled compared to the property boom days. The golden visa grants a two-year residency (initially), which can then be renewed in two-year increments, allowing the investor and immediate family to live in Portugal (with minimal stay requirement, just ~7 days per year) and eventually apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years. It’s important to note that because golden visa holders never had to spend much time in Portugal, many treated it as a “backup plan” or EU travel access – but that also meant not becoming tax resident unless they moved full-time.
• Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime: A key incentive that attracted both wealthy individuals and working professionals to Portugal in the last decade was the NHR tax scheme. Under NHR, new residents could enjoy special tax breaks for 10 years – notably, a flat 20% tax on Portugal-sourced salary for qualifying professions (instead of higher progressive rates), and potentially zero tax on many foreign income sources (pensions were taxed at 10%, and some foreign employment income could be exempt if taxed abroad). However, Portugal has recently ended the NHR program for new applicants from 2024 onward as part of tax reforms. Those who obtained NHR status by end of 2023 can keep it for their 10-year period, but newcomers in 2024 are no longer eligible, except under certain grandfathering conditions. A proposed replacement (unofficially “NHR 2.0”) may offer a 20% flat tax for certain high-skilled jobs and still exempt foreign income in those categories, but it is narrower in scope (e.g. targeting scientists, IT, and excluding passive income/pensions). What does this mean? If you move to Portugal on a digital nomad or golden visa now, you will generally be subject to normal Portuguese tax residency rules – i.e., potentially taxed on your worldwide income at progressive rates up to 48%. The silver lining is that Portugal has many tax treaties to prevent double taxation, and certain foreign income types might be excluded or credited. It’s wise for anyone planning a move to consult a tax advisor, but the heyday of an almost tax-free decade in Portugal is winding down for most. (Still, compared to say, being taxed heavily in your home country, Portugal’s tax might be moderate especially if you can categorize income in treaty-favored ways.)
Duration & Renewal: Portugal’s digital nomad visa essentially gives you a path to long-term residency. After 5 years of legal residence, whether via the D8, D7, or Golden Visa, you can apply for permanent residency or even citizenship (and a Portuguese/EU passport) in year 6. The digital nomad residency permits are usually issued for 2 years at a time (after the initial entry visa), then renewed for another 3 years, totaling 5 – at which point you “graduate” to permanent status. The Golden Visa’s appeal was that you didn’t need to reside much at all, but you still could naturalize at 5 years if you met the basic language test and other criteria – many investors took advantage of that. With the changes, golden visa investors now might actually need to engage more with their investment (e.g., ensure a fund investment for 5+ years). Overall, Portugal offers stability – once you have a residence permit, renewals are straightforward if you maintained the conditions (income for D8, investment for ARI).
Lifestyle and Infrastructure: Portugal consistently ranks high for quality of life. It offers a blend of European modernity and Old World charm. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have excellent internet infrastructure (Lisbon averages ~1200 Mbps in city centers), reliable public transportation, and increasing co-working spaces catering to the international crowd. English proficiency is good in urban areas and among younger Portuguese, though learning a bit of Portuguese helps, especially when dealing with bureaucracy or living in smaller towns. Healthcare is strong – Portugal has a public national health service and also private clinics; expats with residency can access public healthcare (often very affordably), and many supplement with private insurance for faster service. Safety is a highlight: Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates.
Expat Communities & Cost of Living: Portugal has seen a surge of expats from North America, Europe, and beyond. Lisbon is a vibrant capital with meetup groups for tech workers, digital nomad communities, and plenty of events. The cost of living in Portugal is moderate – more than Thailand or Bali, but less than most of Western Europe. A single nomad in Lisbon might spend around $1,200 a month for a comfortable lifestyle, including a room in a shared flat, groceries, and going out occasionally. Smaller cities or towns (like Porto, or Lagos in the Algarve) can be even cheaper. Renting has become pricier due to demand – expect perhaps €800-€1200 for a one-bedroom in central Lisbon – but many remote workers find it worth it for the culture and convenience. For the wealthy individual, Portugal’s appeal lies in its relaxed pace of life, beautiful landscapes (from beaches in the Algarve to vineyards in the Douro Valley), and relative affordability of luxury (e.g., hiring home staff or enjoying fine dining is cheaper than in London or Paris). Plus, as part of the EU Schengen zone, residency in Portugal allows travel across Europe freely, which is a huge bonus for globe-trotters.
In summary, Portugal offers a balanced proposition: decent visa options for both nomads and investors, a high quality of life with European standards, and a friendly, safe environment. The recent tightening of the golden visa and tax rules indicate Portugal is recalibrating to ensure it remains sustainable and beneficial for locals and expats alike. It remains an “emerging hotspot” turned established favorite for those who want a foothold in Europe.
Indonesia (Bali) – “Work from Paradise” Visas and Second Homes in Bali
Indonesia – and Bali in particular – has long been a mecca for digital nomads, drawn by its tropical climate, spiritual culture, surfing beaches, and affordable living. After seeing the influx of remote workers during Covid, the Indonesian government sought to formalize its offerings. Bali is spearheading these efforts, positioning itself as an ideal “work-vacation” destination. Here’s how Indonesia is courting both nomads and the wealthy:
• Bali “Remote Worker” Visa (1-Year): After much anticipation, Indonesia launched a Remote Worker Visa (index code “E-visa 33” or E33) in April 2024. This visa allows foreign remote workers to stay in Indonesia for 1 year, with a possibility to renew for an additional 1 year. It’s essentially Indonesia’s official digital nomad visa, though the duration ended up shorter than the initially touted five-year plan. To qualify, one needs to prove they work remotely for a company or clients outside Indonesia, meet a minimum income (exact amount to be confirmed by regulation; often a few thousand USD per month is expected), and have health insurance. A nice aspect is that Indonesia reportedly allows applicants to apply for this visa while in the country on a tourist visa (by converting their status), making it flexible. It’s worth noting that while the visa is for a year, Indonesia’s tax law considers you a tax resident if you stay more than 183 days in a year – however, earlier proposals indicated that as long as your income is foreign-sourced, it would not be taxed locally under this remote visa. In practice, many nomads might not stay continuously for over 6 months, or if they do, they may rely on this promised tax exemption (clarity on this aspect is still evolving, so professional advice is recommended if you plan to stay long term).
• “Second Home” Long-Term Visa: In late 2022, Indonesia unveiled the Second Home Visa, targeting high-net-worth individuals, retirees, and investors. This visa allows qualified foreigners to stay for 5 or 10 years at a time. The catch is the financial requirement: applicants must either deposit approximately $130,000 (2 billion IDR) in a local Indonesian bank or own equivalent valuable property in Indonesia. It’s essentially a long-term residence visa for the wealthy, not specifically a business or work visa (though one could presumably work online while on it). The Second Home Visa is attractive for those who want to settle in Bali or other parts of Indonesia for the long haul without constantly renewing shorter visas. It does not by itself provide a tax holiday – so if you truly move to Bali full-time on this visa, you’d likely become a tax resident on worldwide income (Indonesia taxes residents globally). But some might use it while keeping significant assets abroad and not remitting income, etc. The introduction of this visa shows Indonesia’s intent to attract affluent foreigners – be it entrepreneurs setting up businesses, or retirees seeking an idyllic retirement (Bali’s answer to Thailand’s long-stay retiree visas, essentially).
• Existing Shorter Visas: Before these new visas, most digital nomads in Bali were using creative workarounds like the B211A socio-cultural/business visa, which allows an initial 60-day stay and can be extended to 180 days. This 6-month visa has been a popular way to stay longer than a tourist visa and legally work online (albeit “unofficially” as long as you’re not earning money from Indonesian sources). Many nomads still use this option for stays under 6 months. It’s relatively easy to get via visa agents. Additionally, some expats have used KITAS (temporary residence permits) sponsored by local companies or as an “investor KITAS” by setting up a local business. Those routes require more paperwork and local involvement. The government’s push for a dedicated nomad visa was precisely to reduce the gray area and simplify the process for remote workers who bring foreign income.
Duration & Renewal: Indonesia’s offerings span from 6 months (B211A) to 1-2 years (Remote Visa) up to 5-10 years (Second Home). The new Remote Worker Visa’s 1+1 year model means after two years one could presumably reapply or transition to another status. It’s shorter than visas in Thailand or even Malaysia’s nomad pass (1+1 year as well), but it’s a start. The Second Home Visa’s 5 or 10 years is very generous in length, rivaling Thailand’s 10-year LTR. If you have the funds to lock away, it virtually grants a decade of worry-free residency in Bali – something very appealing to, say, someone who wants to buy a villa and spend half the year in Bali for the foreseeable future. One caveat: Indonesia is known for occasionally changing rules; for instance, visa rules during COVID shifted frequently. But these new visas indicate a more stable framework going forward.
Tax Incentives: The big talking point in 2021 was Indonesia’s tourism minister saying the planned nomad visa would allow “tax-free” status for five years for those who earn abroad. As of 2025, the implemented Remote Worker Visa (1 year) is shorter, but effectively if one stays under 183 days in a tax year, they wouldn’t trigger tax residency, hence no local tax on their foreign income – this matches what many nomads were already doing by not staying too long. If one does stay longer, it remains to be seen if Indonesia will formally grant a tax exemption for remote visa holders; otherwise, the letter of the law could make them tax residents. Meanwhile, Second Home Visa holders likely do not get any special tax breaks beyond any standard non-resident taxation rules, so they need to plan accordingly (some might combine this with spending time outside Indonesia each year to avoid becoming tax resident). Compared to UAE or Thailand’s clear “no foreign income tax” stance, Indonesia’s is a bit more conditional. However, Indonesia does not tax foreign-sourced income for non-residents, so many remote workers simply ensure they’re not classified as residents. It’s a somewhat “don’t ask, don’t tell” situation currently, expected to become clearer as these programs mature.
Lifestyle and Infrastructure: Bali’s lifestyle is legendary – a unique blend of relaxed tropical island life with a creative, spiritual vibe that has attracted yogis, surfers, designers, and entrepreneurs from around the world. The cost of living is very affordable. It’s possible to live in Bali on under $1,000 a month if you rent a local guesthouse and eat local warung food, though many expats spend more like $1,500–$2,500 for a higher standard (private villa, occasional fine dining). In global nomad surveys, Bali often tops the list for bang-for-buck. On a day of work, a nomad might sit in a cafe with fiber internet and a smoothie bowl for a few dollars. Internet infrastructure in Bali has improved greatly – in hubs like Canggu, Ubud, and Denpasar, many cafes and coworking spaces offer fast connections. Some villas now come with fiber optic lines, though power outages or spotty service can occur, so having a backup (like a local 4G data SIM) is common.
Healthcare in Bali is adequate for routine needs with several international clinics and a few hospitals (Siloam, BIMC) that expats use. For major issues, expats sometimes fly to Singapore or Bangkok. So, while not as robust as Thailand’s, Bali’s healthcare is decent and improving – and having travel or international health insurance is advisable.
The expat and nomad community in Bali is huge. You’ll find co-working spaces like Dojo or Outpost bustling with remote workers, and communities for everything from startup founders to digital marketers to crypto enthusiasts. There’s also a large crowd of “silicon valley escapees” and online influencers in places like Canggu. Culturally, Bali offers a fascinating experience as the island is predominantly Hindu and has beautiful ceremonies, temples, and arts – expats often fall in love with the Balinese culture and hospitality. You can spend your weekends exploring rice terraces, volcanoes, or diving in coral reefs.
Appeal to Wealthy Individuals: Bali has also become a luxury destination – dotted with high-end wellness retreats, golf courses, and five-star resorts. Wealthy individuals might be drawn to building a holiday villa (foreigners can lease land or own via local companies under certain conditions) or simply enjoying a tropical second home. The Second Home Visa is explicitly targeting this demographic. For someone with significant funds, Bali offers a chance to own a sprawling estate with staff for a fraction of the cost in the West. High-end dining and beach clubs rival those in Ibiza or St. Tropez, at lower prices. The main challenge for long-term elite residents has been the lack of straightforward residency – which the Second Home Visa now addresses.
In essence, Indonesia (Bali) is embracing its role as a top nomad and expatriate hotspot by creating legal pathways to stay. The combination of Bali’s natural allure and these new visas (even if they come with some bureaucratic nuances) makes it an increasingly viable option for both the remote-working professional and the international retiree/investor looking for a slice of paradise.
Other Emerging Hotspots and Programs to Watch
Beyond the four countries above, many other nations have jumped on the trend, each with their own twist. Here are a few noteworthy mentions:
• Spain: Long popular among expats, Spain launched its own Digital Nomad Visa in 2023. Modeled under its new Startup Law, this visa lets non-EU remote workers live in Spain for 1 year, extendable up to 5 years, with an income requirement around €2,400 per month and a clean background. Spain also offers a Golden Visa (residency for €500,000 property investment) and has the “Beckham Law” which can tax foreign workers at a flat 24% rate as non-residents for 5 years – a kind of tax benefit that many nomads may qualify for. Lifestyle-wise, Spain offers great infrastructure (Madrid and Barcelona have excellent internet and co-work spaces), a rich culture, and moderate cost (higher than Portugal, but still lower than Northern Europe).
• Greece: Greece introduced a Digital Nomad Visa in 2021 with relatively easy terms – one year stay and renewable for another year, requiring proof of about €3,500 monthly income. Greece’s lure is in its idyllic islands and history-rich cities. They also have a Golden Visa (formerly €250k real estate investment; as of 2023 the minimum doubled to €500k in prime areas). While taxes in Greece are normally high, they too created a special regime: a 50% income tax break for seven years for foreign professionals relocating to Greece, which pairs nicely with the nomad visa initiative.
• Malaysia: In Southeast Asia, Malaysia is vying for the nomad crowd and wealthy expats, somewhat as an alternative to Thailand. It launched the DE Rantau Nomad Pass in late 2022 – a 12-month renewable visa for digital freelancers and remote employees with a fairly attainable income requirement (~$24,000 annual) and a low fee. Malaysia is attractive due to its modern cities (Kuala Lumpur has great internet, public transit), widespread English usage, and diverse culture. For high-net-worth individuals, Malaysia revamped its Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) long-term visa in 2021 (though raising income and asset requirements significantly, which slowed its uptake) and also launched a Premium Visa Programme (PVIP) offering 20-year residency for a sizable investment. Cost of living in Malaysia is similar to Thailand – low for day-to-day expenses, though cars and certain imported goods can be expensive. Kuala Lumpur and Penang host large expat communities and are known for excellent food and healthcare.
• Others: Various other countries across the globe are worth a mention. Georgia offers a laissez-faire one-year stay for many nationals and has a special freelancer permit (“Remotely from Georgia” program) with no tax for short stays and a low 1% tax for small business earnings – Tbilisi’s low cost (under $800/mo living) and growing expat scene make it a quiet contender. Costa Rica introduced a digital nomad visa in 2022 granting up to 2 years, with no local tax on foreign income and the slogan of “pura vida” lifestyle. Several Caribbean islands (Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands) launched one-year “work from paradise” visas during the pandemic – ideal for those who don’t mind island costs. Dubai’s neighbors like Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are also crafting remote work visa schemes and special economic zones for virtual businesses. In Asia, Taiwan and Sri Lanka have been discussing nomad visas; Vietnam is another hotspot where many nomads go (though it lacks a formal nomad visa, many use business visas). It’s clear that the landscape is rapidly evolving, and new “hotspots” can emerge as visa policies adjust.
For any remote worker or investor weighing options, it’s wise to consider what you value most: Is it the tax savings? The lifestyle and cost? The ease of getting the visa and maintaining it? The option to eventually get citizenship? Each country has its pros and cons, and as we’ve seen, policies can change (sometimes quickly in response to politics or economic needs). Now, let’s summarize the key features of the visa programs in our main countries in a comparison table:
Key Visa Features Comparison Table
Below is a summary of the principal visa options for digital nomads and high-net-worth individuals in Thailand, UAE, Portugal, and Indonesia, highlighting their durations, renewal, and special benefits:
Table Notes: The above summarizes primary visa options as of 2024-2025 and recent changes. Always check the latest official requirements as policies can update. Dollar figures for income requirements are approximate conversions.
Conclusion
The landscape of visas for digital nomads and high-net-worth expats is rapidly evolving, reflecting a new era of global mobility. Countries like Thailand, the UAE, Portugal, and Indonesia are not only rolling out the welcome mat – they’re actively competing for talent and investment by tailoring visas with longer stays, easier renewals, and enticing benefits like tax breaks. For remote workers, this means unprecedented freedom to choose a home base that fits their desired lifestyle – whether it’s a Thai beach, a Dubai skyscraper, a Portuguese cobblestone neighborhood, or a Balinese villa. For wealthy individuals and retirees, it means more options to secure a “plan B” residence or simply enjoy life abroad with favorable terms.
Each destination comes with its unique mix of appeal and practical considerations. Thailand offers affordability and hospitality, plus new perks for foreign income earners. Dubai dazzles with ultra-modern living and zero taxes, albeit at a higher price tag. Portugal provides a cultural European experience with paths to citizenship, even as it tightens some loopholes. Bali gives the ultimate tropical lifestyle, now with official visa status to back it up, though one must navigate some bureaucratic and infrastructure limitations.
Key considerations when comparing include the visa length and stability (do you prefer a multi-year guarantee or are you okay renewing each year?), the financial requirements (some demand high income or investments), and the tax implications (true tax havens vs. places where you’ll pay taxes on worldwide income). Lifestyle factors – quality of healthcare, internet, community, cost of living – often ultimately determine where a person feels most “at home”. For instance, a six-figure nomad might happily pay Dubai’s costs for the networking and luxury, whereas a startup freelancer might thrive in Chiang Mai’s budget-friendly scene.
It’s also wise to have a bit of a long-term plan. Some of these visas can lead to permanent residency or citizenship (e.g., Portugal), which can be a huge benefit if you want a more permanent stake in a country. Others explicitly do not lead to citizenship (UAE, Thailand’s LTR or Elite), so they remain long-term but ultimately temporary arrangements – which might be fine if you plan to country-hop or keep your primary citizenship.
One overarching trend is clear: countries see remote workers and wealthy expats as assets, and they are innovating to attract them. This is a positive development for global citizens. It means more freedom to choose where to live and work, and likely even more interesting visa options on the horizon as the competition heats up. Today, you can design a lifestyle where you earn in one country, live in another, and invest in yet another, all facilitated by these visa programs.
As always, do thorough research (rules can change), talk to immigration experts if needed, and perhaps even test out living in a place on a short-term visa before committing long-term. With the right preparation, you could be enjoying a sunset in your dream destination – laptop in one hand and new residency card in the other – reaping the benefits of these innovative visa policies that make it all possible.
Sources
• Thailand Board of Investment. (2022). Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa. ltr.boi.go.th
• Thai PBS World. (2024). Thailand introduces ‘Destination Thailand Visa’ for digital nomads. thaipbsworld.com
• Bangkok Post. (2024). New visa aims to lure digital nomads. bangkokpost.com
• Thai Embassy. (2024). Thailand Digital Nomad Visa. thaiembassy.com
• Thailand BOI. (2024). LTR Visa Guide. ltr.boi.go.th/eligible
• UAE Government Portal. (2024). Remote Work Visa. u.ae
• Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. (2024). Virtual Working Programme. visitdubai.com
• UAE Golden Visa. (2024). Golden Visa for investors and professionals. gdrfad.gov.ae
• UAE Ministry of Economy. (2024). Green Visa Overview. moec.gov.ae
• Indonesian Immigration Department. (2024). Second Home Visa & Remote Worker Visa. imigrasi.go.id
• Indonesia Travel. (2024). Digital Nomad Visa: What You Need to Know. indonesia.travel
• Portugal Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). (2024). D8 Visa and Golden Visa Guidelines. imigrante.sef.pt
• Portugal Government Gazette. (2023). Mais Habitação Law. dre.pt
• Portugal Tax Authority. (2023). End of NHR Program. portaldasfinancas.gov.pt
• Spain Startup Law. (2023). Digital Nomad Visa. investinspain.org
• Greece Ministry of Migration & Asylum. (2024). Digital Nomad Visa. migration.gov.gr
• Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). (2023). DE Rantau Nomad Pass. mdec.my/derantau
• Malaysia Immigration Department. (2024). Premium Visa Programme (PVIP). imi.gov.my
• Costa Rica Immigration. (2023). Digital Nomad Visa Overview. migracion.go.cr
• Georgia Public Service Hall. (2024). Residence for Freelancers. psh.gov.ge
• Nomad List. (2024). Cost of Living and Nomad Ratings. nomadlist.com
Report Generated by The ALFA Group