A new analysis of Google search data has found that searches for 'digital nomad visas' have soared by a massive 1,135% worldwide, highlighting that demand for these will be higher than ever in 2024 .
The study by travel enthusiasts Places to Travel used Google Trends to identify the increased demand for remote work visas, highlighting the growing passion for travel that appears to attract people from all over the world.
More than 50 countries around the world are reported to offer a digital nomad visa, with a popular European country being the latest to implement the program. In April 2024, the highly anticipated Italy remote work visa was officially launched and sent travel lovers into a frenzy as searches for the visa skyrocketed by a whopping 3,025% worldwide.
As interest in this new way of working and making the most of our socially connected world reaches new heights, travel expert and CEO of Places to Travel, Jason Wilson, has shared his thoughts on the benefits of these coveted visas:
“Digital nomad visas are still a relatively new way to work legally in another country for an extended period; The first was launched just four years ago, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many companies to shift to remote work practices.
“Since then, its popularity has swept the world, as the study results show, and employees are eager to take advantage of the unique career opportunities offered to them, while continuing to build their hard-earned careers.”
“Nomadic visas offer an exciting and holistic way for remote workers to experience a new country, unlike the more 'traditional' routes of taking a career break.”
Jason continues: “To successfully obtain a digital nomad visa, each country that offers the program has its own specific eligibility requirements, often related to the applicant's salary, career, and educational history. However, for those who meet the criteria, the experience can be life-changing, with durations ranging from several months to a year, and some even allow for renewals.
Revealing his expert tips for applying for a digital nomad visa, Jason concluded:
1. “ Perhaps obvious, but extremely important to highlight, is to make sure you fully examine the eligibility requirements of your desired country to ensure you meet the minimum criteria to deter the possibility of any problems during the application process. Not to mention talking to your employer to make sure they will allow you to work from another country and even another time zone.”
2. “Research areas in your chosen country to find exactly where you would like to move.” This may be a place you fell in love with on vacation, but for those who have never visited your chosen country, online blogs, social media and vlogging can be helpful.”
3. “Budget, budget, budget.” While finances may not be the most exciting part of an international trip, the more prepared you are in advance, the smoother the experience will be. Research rent, living and lifestyle costs in your desired location to ensure you can live comfortably on your salary, and remember that some visa applications come with a fee that you will need to take into account.”
4. “Request it with enough time.” Nomad visas from some countries can be fast and processed in a matter of weeks, but some can take many months; so be prepared to be patient until you receive your decision."
5. “ Most importantly: have fun! Nomadic ways offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse ourselves in a new culture and a unique way of exploring our diverse world, and technological advances in 2024 will give us the opportunity to do so without "disrupting" our daily lives, but rather transforming it. ”.
Source: Places to Travel. and Google Trends.