African countries are actively fighting the crisis in tourism that arose after the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, to attract more expats and stimulate the economy, the country is introducing a visa for digital nomads. Find out in which countries in Africa you can already issue a visa for remote workers and what are the requirements

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For many years, when digital nomads were choosing a country to move to, few people paid attention to African states. However, in recent years, the countries of the continent are increasingly appearing in the selections of the best places for remote workers to move, because there is a fantastic nature, good Internet connection and more and more often different countries are introducing special visas.

We talk about African countries that offer visas for remote workers later in this article.

Which African countries have introduced visas for digital nomads?

Digital nomad visas are becoming increasingly popular in Africa. Countries such as Mauritius, Cape Verde, Seychelles, South Africa and Kenya have already introduced digital nomad visa programs, positioning themselves as attractive destinations for remote professionals. Other countries of the continent also plan to do this:

Kenya

On October 2, 2024, Kenya launched the Digital Nomad Work Permit program. The visa is for foreign professionals working remotely for companies outside Kenya, including freelancers.

The main requirement is a minimum annual income of USD 55,000 (EUR 50,000). In order to issue a digital nomad visa in Kenya, the applicant will need to provide:

1. Valid passport.

2. Confirmation of remote work outside Kenya.

3. Proof of residence in Kenya.

4. Certificate of no criminal record.

Read more about Kenya visa for digital nomads in this article.

In late 2020, Mauritius launched its premium visa targeting various foreign nationals, including digital nomads.

This visa is issued free of charge, it is valid for one year and can be extended.

Applicants must have a minimum monthly income of USD 1,500 or USD 18,000 per year.

Cape Verde

Cape Verde sets an income threshold for digital nomads of $1,800 per month ($21,600 per year). The cost of obtaining a visa in Cape Verde is $52. A Cape Verde visa allows you to stay in the country for 6 months, and it is also possible to extend the permit for another 6 months.

Namibia

Namibia requires a monthly income of US$2,000 (US$24,000 per year). The duration of stay based on this visa is 6 months and it can be extended. The cost of issuing a permit is $62.

Seychelles Islands

Seychelles requires expatriates to have sufficient resources to support themselves during their stay, although no exact income figure is specified. Seychelles charges $47 for a permit.

South African Republic

South Africa could be the next African country to offer a digital nomadic visa.

The project, introduced in 2022 and re-announced by President Ramaphosa in February 2024, is not yet active. However, the government is working on its implementation. On October 11, the Ministry of Internal Affairs published a list of visa access criteria. Expatriates must earn at least 650,796 rand per year ($37,044).

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Why are African countries introducing visas for digital nomads?

Digital nomadic visas allow remote workers to live and work in African countries for extended periods of time, offering new experiences and benefits to both nomads and host countries.

In particular, with the help of the introduction of permits, countries are trying to raise the economy, and especially the tourism sector. States also aim to diversify beyond traditional sectors.

Of course, digital nomads do not create jobs, but they stimulate the development of the economy, due to the fact that they spend money on housing, food and services. In this way, they support job creation at the local level.

In addition, the cultural impact of nomads is significant, with the movement of new residents fostering innovation and international collaboration, benefiting local communities and fostering global connections.

Benefits of a digital nomad visa in Africa

Remote workers also receive numerous benefits:

1. Low cost of living.

The lower cost of living in many African countries allows nomads to enjoy a higher quality of life compared to their home countries.

2. Beautiful nature.

The diversity of landscapes across the continent – ​​from quiet beaches to bustling cities – provide an inspiring backdrop that supports creativity and work-life balance.

3. A rare combination of performance and adventure.

Countries with high levels of infrastructure development, such as Kenya and Mauritius, offer remote workers a combination of productivity and adventure.

4. Political stability.

Countries that introduce digital nomad visas can offer expats relative political stability.

As telecommuting gains global popularity, African countries are also seizing the opportunity to attract digital nomads by introducing specialized visas. These visas open up new opportunities for professionals who want to work remotely while enjoying the unique environment these countries offer. Therefore, choose a country and go on an interesting adventure, continuing to build a career in your favorite company.

We will remind you! In 2024, Japan launched a digital nomadic visa that will allow remote workers to live and work in the country for 6 months. We have already talked about the requirements for expats and the procedure for issuing a document.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

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