“Montenegro: An Affordable and Flexible Visa Option for Digital Nomads in Europe”
If you have a remote job, you might be thinking about blending work with travel across Europe by utilizing a digital nomad visa.
Several European nations have introduced unique visa programs aimed at attracting remote workers from outside the EU to stimulate their local economies. The main criteria for these visas often include a minimum monthly income, and sometimes additional health insurance. However, some digital nomad visas, like the recent one introduced in New Zealand, have no minimum income requirement.
Let’s explore the most accessible digital nomad visa options across Europe, as well as a few countries that have more stringent income requirements.
Digital Nomad Visa in Spain: Recent Updates and Income Criteria
Spain has recently raised the minimum income requirement for digital nomads in 2025, affecting the process for obtaining a visa for remote workers. This increase is linked to the minimum wage in Spain, which has gone up by 4.4% this year.
To qualify for a digital nomad visa, applicants must now demonstrate a minimum monthly income of at least $2,853 (2,763 euros), as this must meet or exceed Spain’s current minimum wage of 1,381.33 euros (roughly $35,000 annually). Despite this increase, digital nomad visas in Spain remain relatively economical compared to other countries in Europe.
Finland: The Lowest Income Requirement for Digital Nomad Visas in Europe
While Finland has a high cost of living, it offers one of the most affordable digital nomad visas in the EU. To qualify for self-employment in Finland, applicants must earn at least $1,260 monthly (1,220 euros), translating to over $15,000 annually. This is the lowest income requirement among EU countries offering digital nomad visas, making Finland an attractive destination for remote workers.
This visa is available for non-EU citizens who are self-employed or run their own businesses. The combination of a low income threshold and high quality of life in Finland makes it appealing for digital nomads who can sustain a modest income while enjoying everything the Nordic lifestyle has to offer.
It is essential to note that despite the low income requirement, living expenses in Finland can be quite high. Hence, adapting one’s lifestyle (e.g., dining out less frequently) may be necessary compared to other European nations.
Montenegro and Albania: Accessible and Flexible Options for Digital Nomads Outside the EU
In Montenegro, applicants for the digital nomad visa must provide proof of a monthly income of at least $1,446 (1,400 euros). This visa allows digital nomads to stay for up to four years, which is longer than in many other European jurisdictions. Additional tax benefits for digital nomads are currently being discussed by the government.
Albania is quickly becoming a favored destination for digital nomads, thanks to its Unique Permit. Applicants need to demonstrate employment in Albania and show they can support themselves with an annual income exceeding $10,125 (9,800 euros).
This visa permits a one-year stay, with the option to extend up to five times. With its 476 kilometers of coastline stretching from the Adriatic to the Ionian Sea, Albania is an attractive travel destination, providing great value with its stunning European landscapes at more affordable prices.
Iceland and Estonia: High Income Requirements for Digital Nomad Visas
Iceland is an exciting location for digital nomads due to its breathtaking scenery, but it may not be suitable for those with lower incomes. To meet the criteria for a long-term remote work visa, valid for six months, applicants must earn at least $7,310 monthly (7,075 euros), which represents the highest income requirement in Europe. Additionally, visa holders are considered tax residents during this period.
Estonia is another popular choice for digital nomads, thanks to its robust digital infrastructure. However, it also has a relatively high monthly income requirement—applicants must earn at least $4,650 (4,500 euros). This visa allows remote workers, whether freelancers or employees of foreign companies, to live and work in Estonia for up to a year.
Romania: Moderate Income Requirement with Tax Incentives
Romania offers a digital nomad visa, but applicants must earn three times the average gross salary in the country, which amounts to $4,081 (3,950 euros).
In 2023, the Romanian government clarified the tax status for digital nomads, stating that those who reside in Romania are exempt from income, social contributions, and health insurance taxes for the long term. This could make Romania an attractive option for remote workers, as the fiscal benefits could offset the relatively high income requirement.
For remote workers looking to live and work in Europe, the income requirements for digital nomad visas vary greatly depending on the country. Spain has a relatively low threshold compared to Iceland or Estonia, while countries like Finland, Montenegro, and Albania provide even more budget-friendly options for travelers.
Alex Leds, Forbes Coast
Digital Nomad Visas In Europe with Low Monthly Income Requirements