How to become a digital nomad​ in Europe?

In October 2024, remote job vacancies in Europe and the Middle East accounted for 4.7% of the total, making it clear that the way people work is changing. So much so that digital nomad visa in Spain for US citizens has grown in recent months.

Want to become a digital nomad but don't know where to start? In this article you will find a complete guide to start new experiences without sacrificing your career.

Why Europe is a top destination for US digital nomads

Europe is a unique continent that combines factors that make it a magnet for digital nomads.

In Europe you will find sea and mountains. Cold and warm climates. Depending on your needs and tastes, you can find the country that suits you best. In addition, most European cities have high-speed internet connections and coworking spaces where you can work in peace and quiet.

Most countries have an enviable quality of life, with quality healthcare systems and a rich cultural and gastronomic offer.

Do US citizens need a visa to work remotely in Europe?

The visa application process will depend on several factors, including the length of your stay in the destination country. Before embarking on your trip, you should consider the following:

Understanding the Schengen Zone and the 90/180-day rule

The Schengen Area consists of 27 European countries that have abolished internal border controls. US citizens can enter without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Working remotely on a tourist visa: What’s allowed?

Although a tourist visa technically does not allow you to work, many digital nomads continue to work remotely while travelling. However, before making this decision, it is important that you consult with lawyers in Spain or in the country where you are going to settle for a short period of time, to make sure there are no problems.

Best digital nomad visas in Europe for US citizens

Due to the rise of digital nomads, several European countries have seen the opportunity to create specific visas to attract this figure and contribute to economic development. Among the most relevant are:

Spanish digital nomad visa

Spain is one of the latest countries to incorporate a specific visa for digital nomads, offering the possibility of residing in Spain for one year, with the option of subsequent extensions.

Portugal’s D8 visa for remote workers

Portugal offers the D8 visa, aimed at professionals who wish to work remotely from the country. Requirements include proof of a minimum monthly income and the intention to reside in Portugal during the period of the visa.

Estonia’s digital nomad visa

Estonia was one of the first countries to take an interest in digital nomads. Its visa programme allows workers to work remotely for one year. To do so, they must prove a valid employment contract or be self-employed with clients outside Estonia.

Greece, Croatia, and other nomad-friendly visas

Greece and Croatia have also launched visa programmes for digital nomads, provided they can prove sufficient income and, in some cases, health insurance.

Taxes for US digital nomads in Europe

Taxes are another thing to consider before becoming a digital nomad in Europe.

Do you have to pay US taxes while living abroad?

Yes, US citizens are required to file and pay federal income tax on their aggregate income, regardless of where they live.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit (FTC)

The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) allows Americans to exclude a portion of their foreign-earned income from federal taxation. For 2025, this limit is approximately $112,000. In addition, the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) allows for crediting taxes paid in another country against US tax liability, thus avoiding double taxation.

Understanding tax residency in Europe (183-day rule)

Another important thing is to know how many days you plan to reside in the country. There are many European countries which, after 183 days of living there, become tax havens, meaning that you are obliged to declare and pay tax on your overall income in that country.

Best cities in Europe for digital nomads

Europe is made up of 50 countries, for some cities have become a favourite destination for digital nomads:

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has become a hub for digital nomads. Affordable visa costs, the use of the latest technology and its climate are some of the factors that attract foreigners to telework in this country.

Barcelona, Spain

Spain is the fourth country in the world in terms of number and capacity of coworking spaces, with Catalonia being one of the autonomous communities with the most coworking spaces, Barcelona being one of its epicentres.

Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia, a leader in government digitalisation, offers a highly favourable environment for digital nomads, with excellent technological infrastructure and specific visas for remote workers.

How to get health insurance as a US digital nomad in Europe?

As we mentioned before, one of the requirements to become a digital nomad is to have health insurance in the country where you reside. But how do you get it?

International health insurance options

Digital nomads can opt for international insurance such as SafetyWing, World Nomads or Cigna Global to ensure coverage in Europe.

EU healthcare access for non-residents

Some European countries have public health care for temporary residents. However, it is always advisable to bring private insurance to avoid possible high costs.

Banking and payments in Europe

Having a bank account in Europe is important when you become a digital nomad. You can open a bank account online to avoid long queues and bureaucracy at traditional banks. Favoured options for digital nomads are Revolut, N26 and Wise, which allow accounts in multiple currencies and help avoid currency conversion fees.