Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people live and work, causing many to seek out new locations to call home. Digital nomads, in particular, have been exploring different countries to find the perfect mix of lifestyle, opportunities, and affordability. In this blog post, we will discuss the top five countries digital nomads are moving to in 2021.

Mexico

Mexico is an attractive destination for digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and diverse cities. The country offers a variety of living environments, from bustling Mexico City to picturesque Tulum and Cabo. Despite concerns about safety, many digital nomads report feeling safe in Mexico as long as they stay away from areas with high crime rates. Additionally, Mexico has relatively easy visa and residency programs, making it an accessible option for nomads.

Portugal

Portugal is becoming increasingly popular for digital nomads, thanks to its Golden Visa and D7 residency programs. These programs offer access to the European Union, making it an ideal location for those who want to travel within Europe. Portugal also has a pleasant climate, good quality of life, and attractive tax incentives for non-habitual residents. Although it may be considered rural or small by some, many digital nomads enjoy the relaxed pace of life in Portugal.

Thailand

Thailand is a long-standing favorite among digital nomads for its affordability, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals. The country offers a contrast to Malaysia and Bali, with more established tax and immigration systems. Thailand has introduced new visa programs and has seen a decrease in real estate prices due to a drop in tourism, making it even more appealing to digital nomads.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Dubai

Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, has been attracting digital nomads due to its modern infrastructure, cleanliness, and zero-tax policy. The city offers a wide range of services and amenities for expats, making it an ideal place to live and work. Despite initial biases against the UAE for being a Muslim country, many digital nomads find that Dubai is actually an expat-friendly destination with over 90% of its population being expatriates.

Colombia

Colombia is another Latin American country that has been gaining popularity among digital nomads. Known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly locals, Colombia offers a unique experience for those seeking a new place to call home. Tax planning in Colombia can be more complex compared to other destinations on this list, but it still remains an attractive option for digital nomads.

Conclusion

The top five countries digital nomads are moving to in 2021 include Mexico, Portugal, Thailand, Dubai, and Colombia. Each destination offers unique advantages and opportunities for digital nomads, making them attractive options for those looking to live and work abroad. As more people explore alternative living arrangements and remote work, we can expect these countries to continue growing in popularity among the digital nomad community.