Digital Nomad Lifestyle Tips: Your Guide to Thriving Anywhere

Looking for essential digital nomad lifestyle tips? You’re in the right place! In a world where the traditional 9-to-5 grind is no longer the only path to success, more and more people are choosing the flexibility of remote work. Picture waking up to the sound of ocean waves in Mykonos, working from a chic cafe in Madrid, or taking a midday hike through the Portuguese countryside. This is not just a dream; it’s a reality for those who have embraced the freedom and flexibility of working remotely.

In this blog, we’ll explore our favorite digital nomad lifestyle tips to successfully navigate their way through location freedom. So, let’s jump right in!

What is a Digital Nomad Lifestyle?

If you’re reading this article, you probably already know what a digital nomad is. If not, let’s quickly summarize it. A digital nomad is a person who leverages technology to work remotely, allowing them to live a location-independent lifestyle. So, digital nomads are not confined to working in an office or single geographical location, enabling them to travel and experience new cultures along the way. 

Typical roles that digital nomads take up include software development, graphic design, writing, consulting, and online marketing. The most important thing for a digital nomad is usually having internet access, and they will often opt for areas with lower living costs.

3 Reasons Why the Digital Nomad Lifestyle is Increasing in Popularity

The appeal of becoming a digital nomad lies in the unique combination of freedom, flexibility, and opportunity this lifestyle offers. Let’s take a look at 3 key factors that attract individuals to become digital nomads:

1. Geographic Independence

Digital nomads are not tied to a specific location for work, allowing them to travel the world while maintaining their careers. This geographic independence enables them to explore diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, fulfilling a desire for adventure and discovery.

2. Flexible Work Hours

Unlike traditional office jobs with rigid schedules, many digital nomad roles offer the flexibility to set one’s own work hours. This autonomy allows individuals to work during their most productive times, balance work and leisure, and adapt to different time zones and personal commitments.

3. Work-Life Balance

The ability to design a personalized work environment and schedule helps digital nomads achieve a better work-life balance. They can incorporate more leisure activities, wellness practices, and family time into their daily routines, contributing to overall well-being and job satisfaction.

Sounds like a dream, right? Well, the good news for you is that Lexidy takes the stress out of the process when you want to become a digital nomad. So be sure to get in touch with our dedicated team today, consisting of experts from many different markets!

Emerging Trends Empowering Digital Nomads

The rise in popularity of digital nomadism has been influenced by changes in work culture, global events, and technological advancements. The following factors have allowed digital nomads to pave a pathway to work without geographical restrictions:

1. Remote Work Hubs and Co-Living Spaces

Remote work hubs and co-living spaces are emerging worldwide, offering digital nomads a blend of work and living environments tailored to their needs. These spaces provide reliable internet, coworking areas, and social opportunities, fostering a sense of community.

2. Specialized Visas and Government Initiatives

Countries are recognizing the economic potential of digital nomads and introducing specialized visas to attract them. Countries like Greece, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and France offer remote work visas with various benefits, making it easier for digital nomads to stay longer while contributing to the local economy.

3. Tech-Driven Solutions

Advancements in technology are enhancing the digital nomad experience. Improved internet connectivity, portable office setups, and collaboration tools like project management software and communication platforms are making remote work more efficient and accessible.

All of these factors have contributed to the rise in popularity of becoming a digital nomad and assist in a successful transition out of the typical 9-to-5 culture.

Digital Nomad Lifestyle Tips: How to Prepare

It’s important to adequately prepare for your transition to the digital nomad lifestyle. From ensuring you have sufficient income to maintaining internet access so you don’t miss client calls. Here are five essential digital nomad lifestyle tips to help you get started:

Find Remote Work Opportunities in Advance

This is an essential step when becoming a digital nomad. Be sure to secure remote work opportunities before you hit the road. Explore freelance platforms, remote job boards, and networks within your industry to line up projects or positions. Understand the costs involved with working for yourself while traveling.

Having a steady income stream is crucial for sustaining this lifestyle. Make sure you strike the right balance of earning enough income to support yourself while traveling. Whether you will hop from destination to destination or set up a base in one city, you will likely be renting and potentially paying for co-working spaces. Having an income stream ready in advance will ensure you can pay the bills.

1. Build an Online Presence

Create a professional website, maintain active social media profiles (for example, LinkedIn), and showcase your portfolio to attract potential clients or employers. A strong online presence establishes credibility and makes it easier for opportunities to find you. 

2. Understand the Best Tools for Your Work

Familiarize yourself with essential tools such as project management software, communication apps, and VPN services. These tools will help you stay productive, organized, and connected no matter where you are.

3. Choose a Destination with Strong Connectivity

Research and choose destinations known for reliable internet connectivity. Look for cities with good Wi-Fi infrastructure, coworking spaces, and backup options to ensure you can work without interruptions.

4. Engage with Other Digital Nomads and Attend Networking Events

Build a support system by connecting with other digital nomads. Attend networking events, join online communities, and participate in local meetups to gain insights, share experiences, and create opportunities for collaboration and growth.

There is a lot of independence and proactivity required to be a successful digital nomad. By following these essential digital nomad lifestyle tips, you’ll be well-prepared to begin your remote work journey and make the most of your newfound freedom.

Living a Digital Nomad Lifestyle: Key Advice

Living as a digital nomad can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires careful planning and adaptability. Here are our top 5 digital nomad lifestyle tips to help you navigate day-to-day life while balancing work and travel:

1. Finding Reliable Wifi

Reliable Wi-Fi is perhaps the most essential tool for digital nomads. You can research destinations for cafes, coworking spaces, and accommodations with strong internet connections. Be sure to check their reviews to see what others have to say about the connectivity. Carry a portable Wi-Fi hotspot or local SIM card as a backup, allowing you to stay connected. Use speed-testing apps to check internet speeds before settling into work. This ensures smooth connectivity and uninterrupted work.

2. Creating a Reliable Routine

Establishing a productive routine is crucial for staying focused. Start your day with a consistent morning ritual and decide on a dedicated workspace, even if it’s just a corner of a room in your accommodation. Create a daily or weekly schedule so you can know what time of day is for work and when to switch off. Regular breaks and incorporating physical activity are great ways to stay energized. Implementing a structured routine helps boost productivity and well-being.

3. Balancing Work and Travel

Balancing work and travel is key to a healthy and successful digital nomad lifestyle. Plan your work hours and travel itinerary to avoid stress and meet commitments. Set clear boundaries between work and leisure time, and use time management tools like calendars and productivity trackers. While traveling is a big part of the fun of being a digital nomad, you don’t want it to get in the way of your work. Consistency will allow you to enjoy freedom in the long term. 

4. Financial Management

Effective financial management is crucial for sustaining your lifestyle. Create a budget in advance and track income and expenses to ensure you are staying on track. Using global banking solutions like TransferWise or Revolut makes life a lot easier when handling multiple currencies. Don’t forget, it’s always a good idea to maintain an emergency fund for unexpected expenses. Careful financial management lets you enjoy travels without money worries.

5. Networking and Community

Building a community and network is important for support and growth. Engage with digital nomad communities on social media, attend local events and meetups, and use coworking spaces to build connections. Collaborate with other nomads on projects. Not only will this potential open up more opportunities and create a source for advice, but a supportive network will also enhance your professional and personal life.

By following these essential digital nomad lifestyle tips, you will be on the right track to land on your feet!

Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas

Digital nomad visas are becoming increasingly popular as countries recognize the benefits of attracting remote workers. Here are some popular countries offering digital nomad visas, along with brief requirements for each program:

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who wish to live in Portugal while working remotely or sustaining themselves through independent income sources.

Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal

There are several requirements during the application process, these include:

• Proof of Sufficient Funds: With a minimum average monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage. As of 2024, this equates to €3,280 per month. If applying with a spouse, partner, or adult child, this amount increases by €410 per month. For a minor dependent, the amount increases by €246.
• Subsistence: Proof of one year’s worth of means of subsistence in a Portuguese bank account, covering the entire family unit.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record.
• Family Inclusion: Family members, including spouses or partners, dependents, or parents, can apply for a residence visa alongside the main applicant.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is suitable for non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to live in Spain while working remotely for their foreign clients.

Requirements for Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa

To facilitate the investment and other financial transactions, you must open a bank account in Greece. To do this you will need:

• Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their families during their residency. This includes 200% of the monthly minimum wage (SMI) for the main applicant, plus 75% of the SMI for the first family member and 25% of the SMI for each additional family member. As of 2024, this amounts to €2,646 for the main applicant, an additional €993 for the first family member, and €331 for each additional family member.
• Employment Duration: Applicants must have been employed by their current organization for a minimum of three months.
• Remote Work Authorization: The employer must issue a signed letter authorizing remote work, with all duties being performed from a remote location.
• Company Establishment Duration: The company you work for must have been established for at least the last 12 months.
• Freelancer and Entrepreneur Validation: If you’re a freelancer or business owner, you must provide proof of a commercial relationship with one or more companies for at least three months.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage valid in Spain is mandatory for all employees.
• Registration Commitment for Self-Employed: As a self-employed individual or business owner, you must register as self-employed in Spain once the permit is granted.
• Restrictions on Company Location: Companies authorizing remote work must be based outside Spain. Self-employed individuals or contractors may work for a Spanish company, but this must not exceed 20% of their total professional activity.

Greece Digital Nomad Visa

Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa is aimed at non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely or are self-employed and can sustain themselves without relying on local employment.

Requirements for Greece’s Digital Nomad Visa

• Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate a steady income of at least €3,500 per month for the primary applicant. If applying with a spouse or partner, this amount increases by 20%, and for each dependent child, an additional 15% is required.
• Employment Restrictions: Applicants cannot be employed by a Greek company. All work must be conducted remotely, utilizing a laptop and an internet connection.
• Business and Freelance Criteria: Self-employed individuals must declare their business type and confirm that their business operations are based outside Greece. Freelancers must work for clients or companies that are also located outside Greece.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required.

France Long Stay Visitor Visa

While France doesn’t have a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, the Long-Stay Visitor Visa is a suitable option for remote workers. It’s designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to reside in France for more than three months without engaging in any professional activities in France. So, if you have clients abroad this visa could be perfect for you.

Requirements for France’s Long-Stay Visitor Visa

Demonstrate Financial Independence: You need to prove that you can financially sustain yourself during your stay in France. This requires showing funds equivalent to at least one year of the French minimum wage—approximately €17,000. This amount can be presented as a lump sum in your bank account or through regular monthly income statements.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: You must have health insurance that covers all potential medical expenses during your stay. The insurance should be comprehensive enough to ensure you won’t need to rely on the French public healthcare system.
• No Employment in France: You must declare that you will not engage in any employment activities in France. This means you cannot hold a French work contract, serve clients in France, or issue invoices to French companies.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required.

Italy Digital Nomad Visa

Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa is for non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely as highly qualified professionals or freelancers. This visa allows you to live in Italy while continuing your remote work.

Requirements for Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa

To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in Italy, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Freelancer or Work for a Company: You must be either a freelancer or a remote worker for a company as a highly qualified professional. In Italy, highly qualified professionals are individuals who:
  • Hold a tertiary-level higher education degree or an equivalent qualification.
  • Have at least three years of relevant professional experience or a higher professional qualification verified by at least five years of experience.
  • Meet the requirements for regulated professions in Italy.
• Employment Verification: You must provide proof of your employment relationship, either through a valid work contract or a binding job offer. Additionally, you must have at least six months of prior experience in the field in which you will be working while in Italy.
• Minimum Income Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least €25,500. If you are a remote worker, your salary must meet the minimum salary standards set by Italian law, which could be higher than €25,500.
• Health Insurance and Accommodation: You are required to have valid health insurance that covers medical treatment and hospitalization. Additionally, you must provide proof of accommodation in Italy for the duration of your visa (365 days).
• A Clean Criminal Record
• Additional Travel Requirements: If applying for a visa that lasts less than 90 days, you may need to submit round-trip flight tickets. For visas longer than 90 days, a one-way flight ticket to Italy may be necessary.

These are some of Europe’s top destinations that are currently offering visas for digital nomads. Whether you want to become a digital nomad on one of Greece’s many islands or in rural Portugal, be sure to get in touch today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Nomad Lifestyle Tips

Which countries offer a digital nomad visa?

Several countries offer digital nomad visas, including Portugal, Italy, Spain, Greece and France. Each country has specific requirements for proof of income, accommodation, health insurance, and more.

How long can I stay in a country with a digital nomad visa?

The duration of stay with a digital nomad visa varies by country. Typically, digital nomad visas allow stays ranging from 6 months to 2 years, with options for renewal or extension. For example, Portugal’s Digital Nomad Residence Permit is initially valid for 2 years and can be renewed for 3 years, while Spain’s Digital Nomad Residence Permit allows an initial stay of 3 years, renewable for 2-years.

Can my family accompany me if I have a digital nomad visa?

Yes, most digital nomad visas allow your family to accompany you. Countries like Portugal, Spain, Greece, Ital, and France include provisions for dependents. Requirements typically include proof of sufficient additional income, health insurance, and accommodation for family members. Each country has specific guidelines, so it’s important to check the detailed requirements for the visa you are applying for.

Conclusion: How Lexidy Helps Digital Nomads Thrive

Digital Nomadism is an enticing lifestyle for many, with an opportunity to work independently and generate your own income while traveling the world. This also gives you the chance to widen your network and experience what so many cultures have to offer.Are you ready to take the jump? Book your free consultation with Lexidy’s legal eagles today to explore how a Digital Nomad Visa could be the beginning of your next career filled with freedom and unforgettable experiences!