Remote work isn’t just a trend - it’s a lifestyle. Since the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the way we work, more people than ever have ditched the traditional office for a passport and a laptop. Whether you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or full-time employee, working remotely around the world is now more accessible than ever.
But before you pack your bags, you’ll want to consider key details like visa requirements, internet connectivity, time zones, and local amenities.
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Essential tips for remote workers on the go
Before choosing your dream destination, keep these essential digital nomad tips in mind:
- Understand visa requirements. Some countries offer special digital nomad visas; others may restrict work activities on tourist visas.
- Verify internet speed and reliability. Your career depends on staying connected.
- Explore co-working spaces. Great for stable internet and building community.
- Be mindful of time zones. Scheduling meetings across continents can be tricky.
- Get travel insurance. Coverage is key for emergencies and peace of mind.
- Confirm your company's remote work policies. Not every employer allows global work setups.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a budget-friendly haven in Southeast Asia, brimming with culture and community. Co-working spaces like Punspace and cafés with reliable Wi-Fi are everywhere. When you’re not working, you can explore lush jungles, sacred temples, or enjoy iconic dishes like Khao Soi.
While the time difference may require schedule adjustments, the city’s lifestyle and affordability make it worth it.
Visas & Work Setup:
- Visa-Free Stay: 60 days; Digital Nomad Visa (DTV): up to 5 years, requires proof of ~฿500,000 (~US $14,000)
- Time Difference (NYC): +12 hours – expect early mornings or late-night meetings
Internet & Co‑working:
- Reliable fiber internet (~60–120 Mbps) is widely available; monthly coworking passes run around US $60–65/month
Rentals & Cost of Living:
- Budget & mid-range: Private apartments in Chiang Mai / condos typically cost US $300–900/month
- Luxury serviced apartments: Options range from ฿2,000 (≈ US $50) to ฿40,000+ (~US $1,000+) per month .
- Long‑term rentals in Chiang Mai: A one-bedroom condo in Nimman or Old City can be found for US $250–400/month (long-term), or up to US $1,500 for upscale units .
Liveability & Lifestyle:
Chiang Mai merges rich culture (temples, festivals) with outdoor adventures (hiking, elephant sanctuaries). Street food is cheap, everyday meals cost <US $2, and healthcare plus travel insurance is very affordable. Numerous expat meetups and co-living options make settling in easy.
Find perfect apartments for rent in Chiang Mai
Bali, Indonesia (Ubud & Canggu)
Bali’s tropical beauty isn’t just for vacationers. Digital nomads enjoy beachfront cafés, wellness retreats, and thriving ex-pat communities. Canggu offers a surf-meets-startup vibe, while Ubud brings peace and spiritual exploration. Just remember, this visa is geared toward full-time employees - not freelancers.
Visas & Work Setup:
- Visa-On-Arrival: 30 days
- E33G KITAS: Remote Worker Visa, 1-year duration, requires ~US $60,000 annual income and ≥US $2,000 in savings
- Time Difference (NYC): +12 hours
Internet & Co‑working:
- Cafés and co-working hubs with good Wi-Fi are plentiful in both Canggu and Ubud.
Rentals & Cost of Living:
- Budget stays: Private guesthouses range from US $250/month; city-center studios often US $330+/month
- Mid-range to luxury villas: Expect US $1,000–2,000/month depending on location and amenities.
Monthly living costs:
- Total budgets run US $1,500–2,000/month including rent, food, internet, coworking .
Liveability & Lifestyle:
With yoga studios, surf culture, lush landscapes, waterfalls, and vibrant expat communities, Bali combines relaxation with productivity. However, freelance work may not meet visa requirements.
Medellín, Colombia
Medellín, once infamous, is now a shining star for digital nomads. With perfect weather year-round, affordable living, and a growing tech scene, it's easy to see why this city draws remote workers. Enjoy cable car rides over lush hills, vibrant street art, and dance-filled nights. Its time zone makes it perfect for those working U.S. hours.
Visas & Work Setup:
- Visa-Free Stay: 90 days
- Digital Nomad Visa: up to 2 years, requires minimum ~US $1,000/month salary and health insurance
- Time Difference (NYC): 0 hours
Internet & Co‑working:
- Fast and affordable internet, with numerous co-working spaces and dynamic digital communities.
Rentals & Cost of Living:
- Studios: From US $360/month; total budgets run US $1,200–1,800/month
- Apartments or shared condos: Options abound in Comuna 13 and El Poblado, typically under US $500/month.
Liveability & Lifestyle:
Year-round spring-like weather, vibrant culture, outdoor adventures, cable-car looks over the city. Great for syncing with U.S. work schedules and enjoying lively local life.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hustle meets heritage in Ho Chi Minh City. Fast internet, low costs, and energetic streets make this city a top choice in Asia. While there’s no specific digital nomad visa, the 90-day tourist visa suffices for many. Co-working spaces abound, and street food culture is unbeatable. The 12-hour time difference may be a challenge but is manageable with some flexibility.
Visas & Work Setup:
- Tourist Visa: 90 days (no specific nomad visa)
- Time Difference (NYC): +12 hours
Internet & Co‑working:
- Rapid fiber speeds complement trendy cafés and co-working hubs, particularly in District 1 and 2.
Rentals & Cost of Living:
- Studios in city-center: From US $435/month; total budgets typically fall in the US $1,048/month range
- Shared apartments or budget studios: From US $300/month, depending on neighborhood.
Liveability & Lifestyle:
Street food, nightlife, historical sites, and nearby beaches and national parks. Visa runs are common due to limited visa options.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon combines European charm with affordability. With world-class internet and stylish co-working spaces like Outsite and Village Underground, it's ideal for creatives and tech workers. The sunny climate, historic streets, and seaside views are a huge bonus. Plus, the relatively small time difference is helpful for staying in sync with U.S.-based teams.
Visas & Work Setup:
- Visa-Free Stay: 90 days
- D8 Digital Nomad Visa: 12 months (renewable up to 2 years), requires €3,400/month, Portuguese bank account, rental agreement
- Time Difference (NYC): +5 hours
Internet & Co‑working:
- Average internet speeds are ~27 Mbps; coworking desks cost €120–200/month
Rentals & Cost of Living:
- 1-bedroom in center: €1,200–1,300/month; summer rates may exceed €2,500/month
- Shared/coliving: Room rentals in Lisbon are €500–600/month; coliving places like Outsite and Yon Living cost ≈ €1,200/month
- Overall budget: €1,800–2,200/month manages a comfortable lifestyle; total living costs for solo nomads average €1,630/month
Liveability & Lifestyle:
Rich in history, architecture, meetup events, and seaside day trips. But it’s facing increasing rent and gentrification pressure - some locals voice concern.
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Mexico City, Mexico
If staying closer to home is your goal, Mexico City checks all the boxes. Affordable rent, delicious cuisine, fast Wi-Fi, and a rich cultural heritage await. It also has minimal time difference with North America, making it ideal for U.S.-based remote workers. Just make sure to obtain the proper visa and proof of income.
Visas & Work Setup:
- Visa-Free Stay: 180 days for many passport holders
- Temporary Resident Visa: up to 4 years, requires US $2,600/month proof plus health insurance
- Time Difference (NYC): −1 hour
Internet & Co‑working:
- Fast internet and growing co-working scenes across neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco.
Rentals & Cost of Living:
- City-center apartments (1BR): US $800–1,300/month .
- Neighborhood variation: Cheaper options in outer boroughs, but public transport is excellent.
- Total living costs: US $1,500–2,000/month including rent and basic expenses .
Liveability & Lifestyle:
Amazing food scene, historic architecture, vibrant cultural events, and parks. Close to the U.S. time zone and easier commutes for remote work hours.
FAQs about working remotely around the world
1. Do I need a digital nomad visa to work remotely abroad?
Not always. Some countries allow remote work on a tourist visa, but a digital nomad visa provides legal protection and longer stays.
2. What are the best countries with digital nomad visas in 2025?
Thailand, Portugal, Indonesia, Colombia, and Mexico all offer excellent digital nomad visa options.
3. Is remote work allowed in all countries?
No, some countries restrict remote work on certain visa types. Always research local regulations before arriving.
4. What if my job requires U.S. time zone hours?
Choose destinations like Mexico, Colombia, or Portugal with minimal time differences to stay in sync.
5. How do digital nomads handle taxes?
Tax laws vary. Consult a tax advisor familiar with expat or remote worker regulations to ensure compliance.
6. Can freelancers apply for digital nomad visas?
Yes, but it depends on the country. Some require proof of full-time employment, while others accept self-employed individuals with sufficient income.
