The Best Countries for Long-Term Travel Visas

With remote work on the rise and the appeal of slow travel growing stronger than ever, more people are searching for long-term travel visas that allow them to live abroad beyond the typical 90-day tourist limit. Whether you’re a digital nomad, freelancer, entrepreneur, or simply an explorer with wanderlust, countries around the world are responding with new visa programs designed to make long stays more accessible than ever.

From tropical escapes to European cultural hubs, these countries with long stay visas are opening their doors to global citizens. Here’s a breakdown of the best countries for digital nomads and long-term travelers looking to live and work abroad without the stress of constant visa runs.

What Is a Long-Term Travel Visa?

A long-term travel visa allows you to legally stay in a foreign country for several months or even years without becoming a permanent resident. Unlike short-term tourist visas, these long stay visas are specifically designed for people who want to live, work remotely, or explore a new country in-depth while staying compliant with local immigration laws.

Many countries now offer remote work visas, also called digital nomad visas, that let location-independent professionals legally live and work within their borders.

Top Countries Offering Long-Term Travel Visas

Below is a curated list of the best countries for long-term travel visas based on visa length, ease of application, lifestyle perks, and cost of living.

1. Portugal – D7 Visa & Digital Nomad Visa

• Visa Type: D7 Visa or Digital Nomad Visa

• Duration: 1 year (renewable up to 5 years)

• Requirements: Proof of passive income or remote income (~€3,040/month)

• Why It’s Great: Mild climate, rich culture, affordable living, access to the Schengen Area

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes

Portugal has become a digital nomad hotspot due to its low cost of living, welcoming attitude, and reliable visa programs for long-term travelers. The D7 visa is perfect for those with passive income or remote work arrangements.

2. Spain – Non-Lucrative Visa / Digital Nomad Visa

• Visa Type: Non-Lucrative Visa or Digital Nomad Visa

• Duration: 1 year (renewable)

• Requirements: Income of at least €2,400/month, private health insurance

• Why It’s Great: Vibrant cities, beaches, culture, and EU access

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes, with new digital nomad visa option

Spain’s newly launched digital nomad visa has made it even easier for remote workers to stay long term while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.

3. Thailand – Long Stay Visa (LTR)

• Visa Type: Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa

• Duration: Up to 10 years

• Requirements: Minimum annual income of $80,000 (with exceptions), insurance, etc.

• Why It’s Great: Tropical climate, rich culture, low living costs

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes

Thailand’s LTR visa is ideal for retirees, remote professionals, and wealthy expats looking to stay long-term in Southeast Asia.

4. Mexico – Temporary Resident Visa

• Visa Type: Temporary Resident Visa

• Duration: 6 months to 4 years

• Requirements: ~$2,600/month income or $43,000 in savings

• Why It’s Great: Low cost of living, warm weather, expat community

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes

Mexico is one of the best countries for long stays thanks to its straightforward application, proximity to the U.S., and affordability.

5. Indonesia (Bali) – Second Home Visa / Digital Nomad Visa

• Visa Type: Bali Digital Nomad Visa (in development) / Second Home Visa

• Duration: Up to 5 years (Second Home Visa)

• Requirements: ~$130,000 in savings or proof of income

• Why It’s Great: Paradise-like setting, low cost, nomad-friendly

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes (via upcoming visa options)

While Indonesia is still finalizing its digital nomad visa, Bali remains a top location for remote workers due to its co-living spaces and scenic appeal.

6. Georgia – Remotely From Georgia Program

• Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa

• Duration: 1 year

• Requirements: Proof of $2,000/month income

• Why It’s Great: No visa runs, low costs, fast internet, welcoming locals

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes

Georgia’s visa-free entry and remote work visa make it a hidden gem for long-term travelers.

7. Estonia – Digital Nomad Visa

• Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa

• Duration: 1 year

• Requirements: Proof of €3,504/month income, remote employment

• Why It’s Great: Digital-first infrastructure, safe, modern cities

• Remote Work-Friendly: Absolutely

Estonia was the first EU country to launch a digital nomad visa. It’s perfect for those who want to live in a tech-savvy, EU-based country.

8. Costa Rica – Rentista Visa / Remote Work Visa

• Visa Type: Rentista Visa or Digital Nomad Visa

• Duration: 1 year (renewable)

• Requirements: $2,500/month income or $60,000 in savings

• Why It’s Great: Natural beauty, eco-lifestyle, great expat communities

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes

Costa Rica’s visa programs support long stays for both retirees and remote workers wanting to live the pura vida lifestyle.

9. Croatia – Digital Nomad Visa

• Visa Type: Digital Nomad Visa

• Duration: 6 months to 1 year

• Requirements: Proof of income (~€2,300/month), remote work

• Why It’s Great: Beautiful coastline, affordability, EU access

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes

Croatia’s stunning coastlines and relaxed vibe make it one of the best long-term travel visa countries in Europe.

10. Germany – Freelancer Visa

• Visa Type: Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler)

• Duration: 1 to 3 years

• Requirements: Freelance work contracts, proof of income, residence

• Why It’s Great: Strong economy, excellent infrastructure, cultural richness

• Remote Work-Friendly: Yes, especially for EU clients

Germany’s freelancer visa is more complex but highly rewarding for creatives, artists, and independent professionals.

Benefits of Long-Term Travel Visas

Choosing long stay visa countries offers numerous advantages:

• Deeper Cultural Immersion: More time to understand local customs and build meaningful connections.

• Work-Life Balance: You can maintain your career while experiencing life in a new place.

• No Constant Visa Runs: Avoid the hassle and expense of border runs every 90 days.

• Financial Efficiency: Monthly rentals and local services save money over short-term stays.

• Health & Wellbeing: Slower travel leads to less stress, better routines, and a healthier lifestyle.

Things to Consider Before Applying

Before applying for long-term travel visas, keep these factors in mind:

• Income Requirements: Most visas need proof of stable remote income or savings.

• Health Insurance: Many countries require international health coverage.

• Language Barriers: Some visa processes require paperwork in the local language.

• Tax Obligations: Staying longer may impact your tax residency seek professional advice.

Conclusion

Long-term travel isn’t just a dream it’s an achievable lifestyle. With more countries offering remote work visas and long stay visa options, digital nomads and adventurous souls can live in places that align with their values and aspirations.