The Best Countries for Digital Nomads in 2026: A New Ranking

A digital nomad visa doesn’t necessarily mean that relocating will be easy. Upon arrival, remote workers have to deal with registration, taxation, opening bank accounts, healthcare, and reliable internet access. A new study, the Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026 by Holafly, compared 17 popular destinations based on precisely these practical criteria. The researchers found the fewest difficulties in Georgia, while Peru, South Africa, Thailand, and Malaysia also made the top five. Here’s a look at which countries made the top 10 and where it will be easiest for digital nomads to settle in 2026.

Earlier, we talked about the European countries where it is easiest to get a work visa and start a career abroad.

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How were the most convenient countries for digital nomads in 2026 determined?

The Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026 ranking was compiled by Holafly. Researchers analyzed 17 popular destinations and assessed how easy it is for a remote worker not only to travel to a country but also to settle into daily life there.

The evaluation took into account:

- The complexity of visa procedures

- Local bureaucracy and registration requirements

- Access to banking services

- Internet quality and stability

- The level of medical care

- Cost of living

- Risks of disruptions and emergencies

This approach is important because a visa that is formally simple does not guarantee a smooth move. According to Holafly, 46.8% of surveyed remote workers and digital nomads have already lost work hours or income due to travel issues, and 35% regularly face connectivity issues that interfere with their work.

Learn more about the best countries for digital nomads in 2026 by following the link.

Georgia – the easiest country for digital nomads in 2026

Georgia ranked first among countries with the lowest level of day-to-day challenges for digital nomads. Remote workers here find it easier to handle basic administrative matters after moving there than in any other country among the 17 surveyed.

One of the main advantages is minimal bureaucracy. The study notes that digital nomads in Georgia are not required to register their place of residence or automatically receive a local tax ID number simply by staying in the country. Opening a bank account as a foreigner is also relatively simple: in many cases, a passport is sufficient, and the procedure itself can take just a few hours.

An additional advantage is the liberal entry policy. Citizens of many countries, including EU member states and Ukraine, can stay in Georgia visa-free for up to one full year. This allows some remote workers to live in the country for an extended period without having to apply for a separate digital nomad visa.

Among the main advantages of Georgia for remote work are:

- Long-term visa-free entry for citizens of many countries

- Relatively simple banking procedures

- Minimal administrative formalities upon arrival

- Well-developed infrastructure for remote work in Tbilisi and Batumi

- Relatively affordable cost of living

At the same time, a long-term stay may result in tax obligations, so it’s important to check the tax rules separately depending on the length of stay, source of income, and employment status. It is precisely this combination of easy entry and minimal day-to-day formalities that has allowed Georgia to top the 2026 ranking.

In a previous article, we reported that Georgia is launching a new C5 visa for remote workers.

Peru – second place among the most convenient countries for digital nomads

Peru took second place in the 2026 ranking. The country attracts remote workers with its relatively low cost of living, diverse locations, and the opportunity to combine work with travel. The infrastructure for working online is most concentrated in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa.

Peru has already enshrined a separate immigration status for digital nomads in its legislation. It is intended for foreigners who work remotely for a company registered outside Peru and do not receive income from Peruvian sources. The law allows for a stay of up to 365 days, with the possibility of extension.

Among the advantages Peru offers remote workers are:

- Relatively affordable housing and living expenses

- Major cities with coworking spaces and stable internet

- A legally recognized status for digital nomads

- The ability to stay in the country for up to a year

- A wide selection of domestic travel destinations

At the same time, it’s important to consider the differences in infrastructure quality between regions. In major cities, connectivity issues are significantly fewer, whereas in mountainous and remote areas, stable internet isn’t always guaranteed. Therefore, Peru is best suited for long-term work for those who plan to base themselves in a major city and save travel around the country for their free time.

In our previous article, we discussed the best tropical islands for remote work in 2026.

South Africa – ranked third among the most convenient countries for digital nomads

The Republic of South Africa took third place in the 2026 ranking. The country is particularly appealing to those who want to combine remote work with life in a major international city, nature, and a relatively well-developed digital infrastructure. Cape Town and Johannesburg remain the most popular hubs for digital nomads.

South Africa has a specific visa for remote workers that allows them to live in the country and work for a foreign employer for up to three years. Key requirements include a valid employment contract with a company outside South Africa and proof of sufficient income. The current minimum income requirement is 650,796 rand per year.

Among the advantages of South Africa for digital nomads:

- The ability to obtain a long-term visa for up to 36 months

- Well-developed coworking spaces and service sector in major cities

- A good selection of housing for medium- and long-term rentals

- A large English-speaking business community

- A convenient balance of work, travel, and leisure

At the same time, the country has its drawbacks. The quality of infrastructure and the level of safety vary significantly depending on the city and neighborhood, so you should choose your place of residence very carefully. If a visa holder spends more than 183 days in South Africa within a 12-month period, additional tax registration requirements may also apply.

Learn more about the world’s best cities for remote work by following the link.

Thailand—ranked fourth among the most livable countries for digital nomads

Thailand ranked fourth in the 2026 ranking. For remote workers, it is one of the most attractive options in Southeast Asia thanks to its combination of well-developed infrastructure, a large international community, and a relatively affordable cost of living.

The country offers the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which is particularly suitable for remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads. The visa is valid for five years and allows a stay of up to 180 days per entry. Under certain conditions, this period can be extended for another 180 days.

The most popular cities among digital nomads are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. They offer a wide selection of coworking spaces, cafes for working, modern residential complexes, and high-speed internet.

Among Thailand’s main advantages:

- Long-term visa for remote workers

- Well-developed digital infrastructure

- A large international community

- A wide range of housing options in various price ranges

- Convenient flight connections to other Asian countries

The main caveat is that you need to check the rules regarding residency, taxation, and proof of financial means in advance. At the same time, it is precisely the combination of a long-term visa, good internet, and convenient infrastructure that makes Thailand one of the most comfortable destinations for remote work in 2026.

We previously discussed who is eligible for a DTV visa and what documents are required.

Malaysia – fifth place among the most convenient countries for digital nomads

Malaysia ranked fifth in the 2026 ranking. The country is well-suited for those seeking modern infrastructure, a comfortable urban environment, and lower costs than in many popular destinations in Europe or North America. Digital nomads most often choose Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.

The DE Rantau Nomad Pass program is available for remote workers in Malaysia. It is designed for digital professionals, freelancers, and employees of foreign companies and allows them to legally reside in the country for an extended period. To apply, you must provide proof of remote employment or contracts with clients, as well as meet the program’s financial requirements.

Among Malaysia’s main advantages:

- Fast and stable internet in major cities

- A wide selection of modern housing

- A well-developed network of coworking spaces

- Widespread use of English

- Relatively affordable transportation, food, and daily services

Kuala Lumpur is particularly convenient for those who value the infrastructure of a metropolis and international flights. Penang is better suited for a more relaxed life by the sea, while Johor Bahru is ideal for those who want to stay close to Singapore.

Drawbacks include a hot and humid climate for most of the year and the need to carefully check visa requirements and tax regulations before relocating long-term. At the same time, in terms of the cost of living, quality of infrastructure, and convenience for remote work, Malaysia remains one of Asia’s top destinations.

In our previous article, we discussed the requirements for digital nomads in Malaysia and how to obtain a DE Rantau permit.

Vietnam – sixth place among the most convenient countries for digital nomads

Vietnam ranked sixth in the 2026 ranking. Its main advantages for remote workers include a low cost of living, fast internet in major cities, and a wide selection of short- and medium-term housing options.

Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang remain the most popular hubs. Ho Chi Minh City has the most coworking spaces and business infrastructure; Hanoi is ideal for those who want to live in the capital at a lower cost; and Da Nang is often chosen for its beach, compact city layout, and more relaxed pace of life.

The main advantages of Vietnam:

- Affordable housing and food

- Stable internet in major cities

- Many coworking spaces and cafes for working

- Well-developed domestic flights

- Convenient location for traveling throughout Southeast Asia

The main drawback is that Vietnam does not have a separate, traditional “digital nomad” visa. Therefore, before a long-term stay, you need to check the available visa types, permitted length of stay, and renewal rules separately. For those planning to stay for several months, this is one of the key aspects of preparation.

In our previous article, we discussed which countries offer a comfortable lifestyle on 500 euros and how to prepare for the move.

Croatia — ranked seventh among the most convenient countries for digital nomads

Croatia ranked seventh in the 2026 ranking and has become one of the most convenient European destinations for remote workers. Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are the most popular destinations, although rent in these tourist cities can become significantly more expensive during the summer.

The country has a separate temporary residence regime for digital nomads who work remotely for a company or clients outside of Croatia. To apply, you must provide proof of remote employment, sufficient income, health insurance, and a place of residence.

Among Croatia’s main advantages:

- A separate legal status for digital nomads;

- Stable internet and a well-developed mobile network;

- A large number of coworking spaces in popular cities;

- A convenient location for traveling throughout Europe;

- A high level of safety and high-quality urban infrastructure.

The main drawback is the seasonal increase in housing prices along the Adriatic coast. In Split and Dubrovnik, the difference between winter and summer prices can be significant, so for long-term stays, it’s more cost-effective to consider Zagreb or smaller cities outside the main tourist areas.

In our previous article, we discussed the digital nomad visa for Croatia: applicant requirements, application process, and benefits.

Hungary – ranked eighth among the most convenient countries for digital nomads

Hungary ranked eighth in the 2026 ranking. For remote workers, the most obvious choice is Budapest: it’s home to coworking spaces, international companies, high-quality internet, and a wide range of housing options.

The country offers the White Card for digital nomads—a residence permit for third-country nationals who work remotely for a foreign company or run a business outside of Hungary. This status is suitable for those who want to live in the country legally without entering the local labor market.

Key advantages of Hungary:

- A separate permit for remote workers

- Fast internet and well-developed urban infrastructure

- A large number of coworking spaces in Budapest

- Convenient transportation links to other European countries

- A lower cost of living than in many Western European capitals

At the same time, the White Card has strict requirements regarding income and source of employment, and does not grant the right to work for a Hungarian employer. Therefore, this option is primarily suitable for those whose stable income is generated entirely outside the country.

Learn more about the specifics of the digital nomad visa in Hungary by following the link.

Portugal – ninth place among the most livable countries for digital nomads

Portugal ranked ninth in the 2026 ranking. It has long remained one of the most popular destinations for remote workers thanks to its mild climate, good internet, and large international community. Digital nomads most often choose Lisbon, Porto, Madeira, and the Algarve.

A special residency program is available for remote workers. It is designed for those who work remotely for a company or clients outside of Portugal. To apply, you must confirm your remote employment, tax residency, and average income over the past three months. The minimum income must be at least four times the guaranteed minimum monthly wage.

Among Portugal’s advantages:

- A separate legal regime for digital nomads

- Fast internet and plenty of coworking spaces

- Extensive air connections to Europe and the Americas

- A large community of expats and remote workers

- The possibility of obtaining a residence permit

The main drawback is the higher cost of housing, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and popular coastal areas.

In addition, the paperwork may require more time and preparation than in the countries at the top of the ranking. Those planning to live in Portugal long-term should also check in advance the tax implications of changing their residency status.

We previously covered the digital nomad visa in Portugal: benefits, requirements, and the application process.

UAE— Tenth Place Among the Most Convenient Countries for Digital Nomads

The UAE ranked tenth in the 2026 ranking. The most popular option for remote workers is Dubai, which boasts well-developed coworking spaces, mobile connectivity, banking services, and international air service.

For those working for a foreign company, a residence permit for remote work is available. The applicant must confirm employment outside the UAE, a stable income, and health insurance coverage. This status allows one to legally live in the country without being employed by a local company.

Among the main advantages of the UAE:

- Very fast and stable internet

- A large number of modern coworking spaces

- Well-developed banking and digital infrastructure

- High level of security

- Direct flights to dozens of countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa

The main drawback is the high cost of living. Rent, private healthcare, transportation, and daily expenses in Dubai are significantly higher than in Georgia, Vietnam, or Malaysia. Therefore, the UAE is better suited for remote workers with a high and stable income who value quality infrastructure and international mobility.

Learn more about the Remote Working Visa in the UAE by following the link.

If you are planning to work abroad in 2026 and want to better understand the rules of employment, work permits, taxes, and basic employee rights, it is worth preparing for the move in advance. Visit World's practical working guide will help you navigate the current requirements, types of work permits, and steps to take upon arrival to avoid common mistakes and feel confident in your new life abroad.

We remind you! New economic indicators show which countries have been able to increase their GDP and which have lost ground due to inflation and slowing growth. Ranking of the richest countries in the world in 2026 — follow the link.

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