BY FRIEDERIKE RUCH,
BY FRIEDERIKE RUCH, CONVINUS7. Visa Extension or ConversionExtension of the visa is usually possible, although it often requires renewed proof of income,insurance and residence. Only a few countries allow the conversion of a Digital Nomad Visa intopermanent residence status. The applicant’s nationality can also play a role in this.8. Penalties & Consequences for ViolationsIn most countries, the following may apply in cases of illegal employment or misrepresentation:Revocation of the visaFinesExpulsion and re-entry bansTax evasion may lead to criminal prosecution – including in the home country9. Requirements & CriteriaTypical requirements include:Proof of remote work (e.g. employment contract with a foreign company)Minimum annual income (usually between CHF 20,000 – CHF 60,000)International health insurance coverClean criminal recordValid passport10. Challenges & CriticismThe following issues are commonly raised:Tax grey areas: lack of clarity regarding double taxationBureaucracy: application is generally straightforward, but foreign employers may face considerablecompliance tasksSocial isolation due to frequent relocationImpact on local markets: price increases due to wealthy nomads (e.g. rent)Lack of clear distinction from remote work visas16convinus.com
BY FRIEDERIKE RUCH, CONVINUS11. OutlookAn increasing number of countries plan to introduce Digital Nomad Visas. As more programmes arelaunched, it is likely that requirements will become more standardised. Countries with low livingcosts and good infrastructure will likely remain the most attractive. There should also be a growingfocus on sustainability and integration into the local community.12. CountriesThe following is a non-exhaustive list of countries offering a Digital Nomad Visa or similar schemes:EuropeAlbania, Armenia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Greece,Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway,Portugal, Romania, Serbia, SpainCaribbean & Central AmericaAnguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba (planned),Dominica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Montserrat, Panama, UruguayAsia & PacificAustralia, Dubai (UAE), India (Goa), Indonesia (planned), Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand (planned),South Korea (planned), Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam (planned)AfricaCape Verde, Mauritius, Namibia, SeychellesConclusionLegally, the Digital Nomad Visa sits between a tourist visa and a work permit – without the usualintegration into the local labour market. The main legal risks lie in tax obligations, social securitycoverage, and the clear distinction from local employment. Nevertheless, it offers opportunities forboth nomads and host countries – provided legal and social issues are proactively addressed. Itrepresents a step towards a more flexible, interconnected world – with new rules and possibilities.17convinus.com
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