Digital Nomad Visa Guide 2025: Thailand vs Portugal vs Bali – Income, Taxes & Residency
Digital Nomad Visas Compared: Thailand vs Portugal vs Bali (2025)
Working from anywhere is no longer just a dream — it’s a lifestyle. With more countries offering digital nomad visas, remote workers now have legal ways to live abroad while working for foreign clients or companies. Among the most popular destinations are Thailand, Portugal, and Bali (Indonesia).
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa (also called remote work visa or workation visa) lets you live in a country longer than a tourist visa while working for a foreign employer or clients. You’ll typically need proof of income, health insurance, and a clean police record. The payoff is legal stability, easier renewals, and sometimes favorable tax treatment.
Country Comparisons: Thailand, Portugal, Bali

Feature | Thailand (LTR Visa) | Portugal (D8/D7 Visa) | Bali (Remote Worker E33G) |
---|---|---|---|
Income requirement | USD 80,000/year (or ≥ USD 40k + qualifications) | D8: €3,480/mo; D7: €870+/mo passive income | USD 60,000/year from foreign sources |
Duration | Up to 10 years (5 + 5) | 2 years, renewable; PR path | 1 year, renewable |
Taxes | Possible overseas income exemptions | Tax resident ≥183 days | Tax-free if <183 days |
Pros & Cons
Thailand
- Pros: 10-year validity, affordable living, strong expat hubs.
- Cons: High income bar, health insurance required.
Portugal
- Pros: EU residency, PR path, healthcare access.
- Cons: Housing proof, costlier cities, taxes after 183 days.
Bali / Indonesia
- Pros: Lower bar, relaxed lifestyle, affordable rent.
- Cons: Tax after 183 days, infrastructure differences.
Key Takeaways
- Thailand (LTR): Best for high earners wanting stability.
- Portugal (D8/D7): Ideal for EU access and long-term residence.
- Bali (E33G): Great for lifestyle and flexibility.
Conclusion
Digital nomad visas are now mainstream. Thailand, Portugal, and Bali each offer unique trade-offs across income, taxes, and lifestyle. Match your earnings and long-term goals, then prepare documents early for a smooth application.
👉 Which destination would you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more remote work tips!
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