Global Digital Nomad Report: key trends shaping the future of remote work and travel
According to the Global Digital Nomad Report, the phenomenon of digital nomadism—a lifestyle where individuals use technology to work remotely from various global locations—has seen significant growth, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the feasibility and benefits of remote work, reports a Kazinform News Agency correspondent, citing the Global Intelligence Unit.
Digital nomadism, popularized in the late 1990s, refers to people who use digital technology to work remotely while traveling. This lifestyle has grown with the rise of high-speed internet, mobile tech, and remote work acceptance. Though telecommuting began in the 1970s, it became widespread with the internet. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, pushing companies to adopt remote work, and many workers realized they could live abroad while working. Countries responded by introducing nomad visas to attract remote workers.
Despite limited data, digital nomadism is recognized for its positive impact on local economies. More countries are developing policies to support this trend. The Global Digital Nomad Report ranks 65 countries based on factors like visa costs, quality of life, and economic environment, providing a guide for digital nomads to choose their next destination.
Regional Insights
Europe: Europe emerges as a leading destination, particularly post-pandemic, with countries like Spain, the Netherlands, Norway and Estonia offering robust infrastructure, favorable visa policies, and pathways to citizenship. The report underscores Europe’s focus on attracting highly skilled workers through comprehensive digital nomad programs. The Report reveals that 9 out of 10 top destinations for digital nomads to work and live are in Europe.
Americas: Canada is the sole non-European country to secure a spot in the top 10 destinations for digital nomads, according to our Global Digital Nomad Index. In South America, several destinations offer a compelling blend of affordability and innovation, with Ecuador and Brazil particularly noted for their attractive digital nomad schemes. Meanwhile, the Caribbean, despite its allure, must address high entry costs and income requirements to enhance its competitiveness. Notably, 7 out of the 10 most expensive visa schemes originate from this region, with application fees reaching as high as $2,000 in some countries.
Asia: Countries such as Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea are noted for their advanced technological infrastructure and high quality of life, though they could enhance their appeal by offering more favorable visa benefits and clearer pathways to residency.
Middle East: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are showcased for targeting affluent digital nomads with their advanced infrastructure and high quality of life, although the high financial thresholds pose accessibility challenges.
Oceania: Australia is recognized for its high quality of life and supportive infrastructure, though it faces challenges related to high living costs and income requirements.
Global Migration
According to research by The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), which surveyed around 27,000 digital experts, 80% of respondents have higher education, 38% have completed a master’s or postgraduate degree, and 4% hold a PhD. Additionally, 68% of digital experts are men, with the largest gender gap (72%) observed in the field of artificial intelligence. However, a significant number of women are also choosing careers in digital technologies. Typically, digital nomads work remotely, and while remote work was once mainly for freelancers, it now includes office workers as well.
More than 60% of digital nomads are traditional employees working remotely. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated that transitioning to remote work is possible without harming business productivity. Moreover, it allows employees to work from anywhere in the world. The rise of traveling remote workers has become a central theme in global workforce dynamics.
According to BCG research, about 40% of global digital talents are always open to new job opportunities. They value continuous skill development and gaining new experiences. Frequent job changes and shifts in responsibilities enable digital experts to accumulate invaluable experience, making them more competitive.
Companies in global hubs such as Amsterdam, Shanghai, Bangalore, London, Tel Aviv, Seattle, Boston, Austin, Toronto, New York, Berlin, and Tokyo are the top recruiters of digital nomads. The U.S. is considered the most attractive destination for digital experts, though many prefer neighboring countries or places with a shared language and culture.
To advance their skills, digital nomads are willing to leave home, especially those in artificial intelligence. This trend is most pronounced in developing countries, with over 75% of digital experts in India and Brazil open to relocation. In contrast, fewer professionals in China consider moving abroad.
The highest demand globally is for experts in artificial intelligence and agile methodologies. Digital industry geniuses are sources of innovation and help drive digitalization, enhancing a country’s economic success. As a result, nations are implementing various strategies to attract top digital minds.
For example, Japan recently announced plans to introduce a new visa system for digital talents, allowing them to stay in the country for up to six months (previously limited to 90 days on a short-term tourist visa). To qualify for this visa, workers must earn an annual income of over 10 million yen ($68,200) and be residents of one of 49 countries or regions exempt from visa restrictions and with tax agreements with Japan. Their spouses and children will also be permitted entry.
Other countries are also offering special visa regimes for digital nomads to compete for valuable talent. However, each country offering privileges to this category of professionals has its own criteria and requirements.
