7 Best Countries for Remote Work – The World is Your Office
Say goodbye to cubicle life and hello to the world! Our round-up of the best countries for remote work is your golden ticket to blending business with pleasure. Discover which countries are rolling out the welcome mat for digital nomads like you.
Spoiler alert: It’s going to be an exciting ride!
Remote work, also known as telecommuting, refers to a work arrangement that allows employees to perform their job duties working remotely for a foreign company, from outside the traditional office environment. This concept leverages digital technologies to communicate, collaborate, and complete tasks, enabling work from virtually anywhere, be it from home, a coworking space, or a cafe across the globe.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated this trend, as businesses and healthcare employees alike discovered the feasibility and benefits of remote working arrangements. Today, remote work is not just a temporary solution but a permanent shift for many, reshaping the future of work and opening up new possibilities for how, when, and where work can be done.
Choosing the best country for remote work involves considering factors such as internet reliability, cost of living, health insurance, jobs, safety, community, and the legal framework for visas and work permits.
This guide aims to explore the top remote working locations around the globe, offering remote workers, digital nomads, travelers and freelancers data and insights into destinations that provide the optimal blend of connectivity, comfort, community, and cultural experiences. It endeavors you to get you interested in new possibilities for productivity, inspiration, and global adventure, making the world your office.
1. Portugal
Why It’s Great:
Portugal and its islands have become favorites among remote workers due to their mild climate, affordable living costs, and high-quality internet.
Plus, due to its vibrant culture and strong tech scene, it has become a hotspot for remote workers and foreign entrepreneurs around the globe. The country offers a variety of coworking spaces for companies that cater to diverse needs, from bustling city centers, like Lisbon and Porto, to serene seaside towns, like Nazare and Algarve.
Portugal’s strategic location in Europe, easy access to other European countries and favorable time zones for doing business with both European and American clients, make it an ideal base for international remote workers and businesses.Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest and best countries to work on the globe. The low crime rate contributes to a relaxed and secure environment for living and working.
The country offers a special digital nomad visa, Startup Visa and a Tech Visa making it easier for remote workers to stay long-term.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
• Digital Nomad land in Madeira
2. Estonia
Why It’s Great:
Estonia, renowned for its focus on digital innovation and e-government initiatives, has become a magnet for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. With its high-speed internet, tech-savvy population, and welcoming visa policies for digital nomads for up to a year, Estonia offers a variety of coworking spaces across its charming cities.
English is widely spoken in Estonia, especially within the business and tech communities, making it easy for international workers to communicate, network, and collaborate without language barriers. Estonia offers a high quality of life, with clean air, beautiful natural landscapes, and a safe, welcoming environment.
As the first country to offer the service of e-Residency, a government-issued digital identity that allows entrepreneurs from different regions to start and manage an EU-based company online. It has created a solid foundation for digital nomads and remote workers seeking a hassle-free environment to work in.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
3. Thailand
Why It’s Great:
Thailand, with its vibrant cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, offers warm weather and a strong community of remote workers and expats. The country is known for offering a mix of vibrant city life, serene beaches, and cultural richness.
Thailand has a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries. This affordability extends to coworking spaces, accommodation, food, and transportation, making it an attractive option for freelancers and entrepreneurs looking to expand and maximize their budgets.
Thai culture is known for its hospitality and friendliness towards foreigners. The opportunity to immerse oneself in Thailand’s rich culture, cuisine, and traditions adds an extra layer of experience beyond just work.
Thailand offers excellent infrastructure including reliable internet, a wide selection of accommodation options, and efficient public transportation. Plus, it offers the Thailand Elite Visa, which is a up to five years renewable multiple-entry visa with an extendable 1-year length of stay per each entry.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
• The Hive Thonglor in Bangkok
4. Mexico
Why It’s Great:
Mexico offers diverse locations for remote workers, from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the beaches of Tulum and Playa del Carmen. It’s known for its affordable and relatively low cost of living, rich culture, and good internet connectivity in urban areas.
The country’s diverse landscapes and generally warm climate are attractive for those looking to escape colder weather. The ability to work remotely close to beaches, mountains, or in temperate climates year-round is a significant draw.
Mexico is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including its cuisine, art, and history. The warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people create a welcoming environment for foreigners.
Coworking spaces often reflect this region of cultural richness, offering a unique working environment that blends productivity with cultural immersion. Mexico has invested in modern amenities, ensuring that coworking spaces are equipped with the technology and comforts that remote workers need.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
• Nest Coworking in Playa del Carmen
5. Georgia
Why It’s Great:
Georgia boasts a high quality of life with its warm climate, rich cultural history, and proximity to both urban and natural areas. This attracts professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle, who find coworking and co-working spaces more conducive to productivity and well-being.
Home to top-rated universities such as the Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Georgia offers access to a large and diverse talent pool. Georgia’s economy is robust, with strong sectors in technology, logistics, film, and agriculture that is distinct of eastern Europe.
This economic diversity attracts businesses of all sizes, many of which utilize coworking spaces for their flexibility, community and employee engagement, providing a unique opportunity for networking and collaboration with professionals from various industries and disciplines.
Georgia has recently emerged as a sought-after destination popular among digital nomads for its easy visa policies, including the “Remotely from Georgia” program, affordable living, and vibrant culture. Tbilisi, the capital, is known for many aspects: its hospitality, delicious food, and growing coworking scene.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
6. Bali (Indonesia)
Why It’s Great:
Bali is a top destination for remote workers due to its beautiful landscapes, affordable lifestyle, and strong community of digital nomads. The island offers numerous coworking spaces, cafes with reliable internet, and a laid-back lifestyle. Plus, its home to numerous coworking spaces that cater to a diverse community of professionals from around the globe.
These spaces offer not just high-speed internet and comfortable workstations but also opportunities for networking, skill-sharing, and immersing in Bali’s unique culture.
Bali’s stunning landscapes, from its beaches to its rice terraces, offer a picturesque backdrop for work and leisure. The island’s lifestyle, which emphasizes well-being and balance, is a big draw. Yoga, surfing, and a vibrant culinary scene provide ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment outside of work hours.
The tropical climate in Bali ensures warm weather year-round, which is appealing for those from colder countries looking for a sunny place to work and live.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
7. Spain
Why It’s Great:
The cities of Barcelona and Madrid offer a rich cultural experience along with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. These places have a plethora of coworking spaces that cater to different needs, from quiet and cozy spots for deep work to larger community-focused spaces that encourage networking and collaboration.
Remote workers from all around can enjoy Spain’s renowned cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural offerings, including festivals, museums, and historical sites, providing an enriching experience beyond work. Plus, the possibility to find cheap flights to visit all of Europe.
While Spanish is the primary language, in major cities and coworking spaces, English is widely spoken, making it easier for international professionals to adapt. The presence of an international community also means that one can find a diverse and inclusive environment.
Spain offers various digital nomad visa options for entrepreneurs, skilled workers, and freelancers from outside the EU, such as the self-employment work visa, making it easier for you to start living in this historically rich part of the world, filled with friendly locals.
Some Coworking Places worth checking out:
• The Shed Coworking in Madrid
In Summary
The ideal destination depends on what you value most in your work and lifestyle. Do you prioritize fast internet and a strong digital nomad community, or are you looking for affordability and adventure?
Perhaps a balance of professional networking opportunities and a serene environment is what you seek.
Regardless of your preferences, the world is brimming with possibilities for remote workers.
As we embrace the flexibility of remote work, it’s clear that our global village is more connected and accessible than ever. The key is to research thoroughly, consider what matters most to you, and perhaps even visit a few top choices before making your decision.
Wherever you choose to go, embracing the adventure of a remote job can open the door to a world of new experiences, professional growth, new friendships and personal fulfillment.