The Best Places to Work Remotely in 2024: Top Countries and Cities for Digital Nomads

With a laptop and a solid Wi-Fi connection, digital nomads are redefining what it means to work remotely. Modern remote work extends far beyond libraries and coffee shops, so I’m on a quest to help you find the best countries to work remotely.    

At Hubstaff, we’re all about remote work. Our team works remotely from the cobblestone streets of Europe to the sun-soaked beaches of Costa Rica. We know what we’re talking about when it comes to working remotely worldwide. 

But where should you work if you want the best blend of culture, cost of living, and connectivity? In this guide, we’ll explore the top remote-working destinations, highlight the places that make work possible, and turn the whole process into an adventure.   

Introduction to remote work destinations

From fast Wi-Fi and affordable living to rich culture and impressive views, finding the perfect place to work remotely in 2024 requires a bit of strategy — and a healthy sense of adventure.

The rise of remote work across the globe 

What began as a necessary adaptation during the pandemic has become a defining trend, with companies and employees discovering the benefits of flexible work arrangements. 

Why remote work works 

For over a decade, we’ve thrived as a fully remote company, so we know firsthand that this way of working isn’t just possible — it’s highly effective.

• Profits. Enabling remote working saves costs on office space — research estimates savings of $10,600 per employee. 
• Diversity. Remote work increases in diversity and inclusion are not only morally necessary, but they can also impact profit margins significantly.
  

• Productivity. Remote work is more than just an adventure for employees. Our research has consistently shown that it increases productivity. 

Now that you’re convinced of the “why,” let’s discuss the “how” and (most importantly) “where.”  

What makes a location ideal for remote work? 

An ideal remote work destination is a delicate balance of practicality and inspiration. Of course, the best location to work remotely will vary dramatically based on your preferences and lifestyle. 

But here’s a glimpse into some of the factors we used to create our list: 

• Reliable high-speed internet. Essential for staying connected and productive from anywhere. 
• Affordability. Your income should comfortably support the local lifestyle without straining your budget. The cost of living is essential for digital nomads.
• Time zone alignment. Collaborating with your team across borders can enhance collaboration and communication.  
• Cultural richness. The best locations offer vibrant cultures that enrich your experience beyond work.  
• Visa requirements. Finding countries where you can stay longer than a tourist visa allows will help you settle in and feel comfortable. 

Now, let’s get into the exciting part: the best places to work remotely. 

Best countries to work remotely & visa requirements

As the world opens up to remote work, certain countries have emerged as havens for digital nomads. These locations offer the perfect blend of the criteria we mentioned above. 

Top countries for remote workers

Here’s a list of some of the best countries for remote workers that take into account digital nomad visas, cost of living, and thriving expat communities. 

We wanted to give you the inside scoop on working remotely in these locations, so we asked our team for real input on people who work in these countries. 

Portugal (D7 Visa)

Known for its sunny climate, rich history, and affordable cost of living, Portugal offers a unique combination of quality of life and professional opportunities. Thanks to its D7 Visa, which provides a pathway for remote employees to live and work in the country, Portugal is one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads. 

• Requirements: Proof of income (typically around €7,200 annually), health insurance, and accommodation.
• Benefits: Long-term residency options, access to Portugal’s healthcare system, and free movement within the Schengen Zone.

Spain (Digital Nomad Visa)

Spain’s new dedicated digital nomad visa has quickly made it one of the top destinations for remote workers. With its warm, sunny weather, Spain offers a variety of living environments, from bustling cities to serene coastal towns. 

• Requirements: Income requirement of at least €2,160 per month, proof of remote employment, and private health insurance.
• Benefits: Allows up to 12 months of stay, possible extensions, and access to Spain’s health care system.

Mexico (Temporary Resident Visa)

Mexico’s temporary resident visa is a popular option for remote workers looking for an affordable, culturally rich destination to live and work. The visa provides remote workers with the flexibility to stay for an extended period and the option to renew, making it ideal for digital nomads. 

• Requirements: Proof of monthly income of $2,500 or savings of $43,000, valid for up to four years.
  
• Benefits: Freedom to work while enjoying Mexico’s rich culture, warm weather, and relatively low cost of living.

Croatia (Digital Nomad Visa)

Known for its stunning Adriatic coastline and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, Croatia offers a unique mix of work-life balance and natural beauty. The digital nomad visa is designed to allow professionals to live in Croatia for up to a year while working remotely for companies outside the country.

• Requirements: Proof of monthly income of €2,300, remote work for a company not registered in Croatia, and health insurance.
• Benefits: For up to a year, nomads will have access to Croatia’s stunning coastal cities and cultural heritage.

Georgia (Remote Work Visa)

Georgia’s remote work visa, part of its “Remotely from Georgia” program, has made this beautiful country an attractive destination for digital nomads looking for affordability, culture, and accessibility. With an open-door policy for remote workers, Georgia allows professionals to live and work in the country for up to a year. 

• Requirements: Proof of income of at least $2,000 per month and remote work for a foreign company.
  
• Benefits: Ability to stay for up to one year, affordable cost of living, and growing expat communities.
  

Estonia (Digital Nomad Visa)

Estonia was among the first countries to offer a digital nomad visa officially. Cutting-edge e-governance and tech-savvy infrastructure make Estonia a haven for digital professionals seeking a seamless blend of work and life. The country’s digital nomad visa allows remote workers to stay for up to a year while continuing their work for a company based abroad.

• Requirements: Proof of earning at least €3,504 per month, working for a company outside Estonia or as a freelancer.
  
• Benefits: Stay for up to one year with the possibility of renewal, and enjoy Estonia’s advanced digital infrastructure.

Costa Rica (Rentista Visa)

Costa Rica is an idyllic destination for digital nomads seeking a balance between productivity and relaxation. The country’s Rentista Visa caters to remote workers and freelancers. It offers nomads the opportunity to live and work in this tropical paradise for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal. 

• Requirements: Proof of income of at least $2,500 per month for two years or a deposit of $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank.
  
• Benefits: Valid for two years with the option to extend access to Costa Rica’s health care system and tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income.

Germany (Freelancer Visa)

Germany’s freelancer visa is specifically designed for individuals who do freelance or remote work, making it ideal for digital nomads. The visa provides a pathway for remote workers to legally reside in Germany while working for international clients or businesses. 

• Requirements: Proof of work as a freelancer or remote worker, health insurance, and proof of income to support living expenses.
  
• Benefits: It allows remote workers to live and work for up to three years. Nomads on the Freelancer Visa have access to the Schengen Area, a borderless area of Europe spanning 29 different countries.

Once you know the countries where being a remote worker is easy, you can narrow down the exact city and location you want to explore.

Top cities for remote work 

Today, professionals are seizing the opportunity to redefine where and how they work, setting up shops in cities halfway around the world or in remote tropical paradises. 

Here’s a list of the top cities for remote workers, taking into account factors like digital nomad visas, cost of living, co-working spaces, and expat communities:

• Lisbon, Portugal. Lisbon’s coastal charm and growing reputation as a tech hub make it a top destination for remote workers. It boasts a growing digital nomad community and an array of co-working spaces. Reliable high-speed internet and an excellent public transportation system add to its appeal. 
  
• Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona’s rich culture, Mediterranean lifestyle, and modern conveniences make it a magnet for remote workers. The city’s vibrant streets, lined with Gaudí’s iconic architecture, are complemented by a beautiful year-round climate, making it easy to take a break from your laptop to enjoy the beach. 
  
• Mexico City, Mexico: As one of the largest cities in the world, Mexico City offers endless cultural experiences, from its thriving art scene and centuries-old architecture to its world-famous cuisine. While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in popular expat areas and tourist destinations.
  

• Split, Croatia: Split offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and coastal views. The city is a hub for expats — especially during the warmer months. Additionally, Split is more affordable than other European cities, and its access to the Adriatic Sea makes it an attractive destination for remote workers.  
  
• Tbilisi, Georgia: Georgia’s capital is quickly gaining recognition as one of the top remote-working destinations. Nestled between Europe and Asia, Tbilisi offers a unique mix of history and modern living. The city’s open-door policy for remote workers, affordable cost of living, and welcoming expat community make it particularly attractive for digital nomads.   
  
• Tallinn, Estonia: Tallinn, Estonia, is a trailblazer among European countries in digital innovation, making it an ideal destination for remote workers. Known as one of the world’s most digitally advanced countries, Estonia offers a progressive e-residency program. It’s also located in one of the first countries to have a digital nomad visa, so it’s easier for remote professionals to set up shop.  
  
• San José, Costa Rica: As the capital of Costa Rica, San José offers the best infrastructure for remote workers. It has reliable internet, a variety of co-working spaces, and a strong expat community. The city is a gateway to beaches and rainforests, making weekend escapes easily accessible. 
  
• Berlin, Germany: Known for its cultural richness and alternative spirit, Berlin offers an array of co-working spaces, from startup incubators to creative hubs. The city’s freelancer visa further boosts its appeal, providing a straightforward pathway for remote professionals to live and work in Germany.

These cities combine affordability, lifestyle, and community to create ideal environments for remote workers. 

Final words: Tools and resources for remote workers

As the remote work revolution continues to reshape how we approach our professional lives, having the right tools and resources can make all the difference in ensuring productivity, collaboration, and balance.

• Coworker.com: This tool can help you locate top-rated co-working spaces across the globe, ensuring you have access to productive workspaces wherever you are.
  
• Slack: an essential app for team collaboration, offering organized channels for project discussions, direct messaging, and video calls.
  
• Zoom: For video conferencing and virtual meetings with clients or team members worldwide.
  
• Wise: Allows international money transfers with low fees and great exchange rates, useful for digital nomads living abroad.
  
• NordVPN: Ensures your internet connection is secure when working on public Wi-Fi, protecting your data and privacy. 
  
• Airbnb: Airbnb has become a go-to platform, offering flexible stays in major cities worldwide. Many properties are now optimized for anyone with a remote job, offering very high-quality Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces.   
  
• Hubstaff: A powerful platform for time tracking, payroll, and productivity monitoring, making it easy to manage distributed teams or your freelance work. 

Embracing remote work unlocks a world of possibilities, but success hinges on having the right tools and environment to thrive. By choosing countries that support freelance and remote work with the proper infrastructure and policies, digital nomads can maintain peak productivity while enjoying the freedom this lifestyle offers.