Asian Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas: A Comprehensive Guide

Explore the best Asian countries offering digital nomad visas, including Cyprus, Japan, Malaysia, and more. Find the perfect destination for your remote work lifestyle.

Discover the best Asian countries offering digital nomad visas. Learn about eligibility criteria, application processes, and benefits for remote workers seeking a unique cultural experience.

As the trend of digital nomadism continues to rise, many countries are establishing official digital nomad visas to attract remote workers. Asia, with its diverse cultures and vibrant cities, is also joining this movement.

Read also: Digital Nomad Visas in the Caribbean, South, and North America.

Asian Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas

1. Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa

Cyprus offers a digital nomad visa known as the “Cyprus Startup Visa – Category B.” This visa allows you to stay for up to one year, with the option to renew. It’s available to those who can work remotely from anywhere in the world.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Demonstrate the ability to work remotely using telecommunications technology.
• Earn a minimum monthly income of €3,500 ($3,700).
• Maintain a clear criminal record.
• Possess adequate travel insurance valid in Cyprus.

Cyprus is an attractive destination for digital nomads due to its favorable climate, high standard of living, and robust infrastructure for remote work. Additionally, the country offers a favorable tax regime for businesses and entrepreneurs.

2. Japan Digital Nomad Visa

Japan is currently developing a digital nomad visa, but in the meantime, several other visa options are available:

• Work Visas: Various categories are available for individuals with specialized skills and qualifications.
• Startup Visa: This program supports foreign entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Japan, offering residency status for up to a year in certain areas.
• Business Manager Visa: Suitable for setting up or investing in Japanese businesses, though it requires a physical office and significant financial investment.
• Highly-Skilled Professional Visa: A points-based visa for individuals with skills beneficial to Japan’s economy, allowing a five-year stay.
• Non-working Visas: These include student, trainee, and dependent visas, permitting limited work hours with prior authorization.

3. Malaysia Digital Nomad Visa

Malaysia has introduced the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, a digital nomad visa aimed at transforming the country into a hub for remote workers in Southeast Asia. This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for another year.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Earn a minimum monthly income of $2,000 (€1,890).
• Demonstrate remote work capability for a foreign employer.
• Work in the IT industry.
• Maintain a clear criminal record.
• Possess adequate travel insurance valid in Malaysia.

Malaysia is an affordable country with lower living costs compared to many Western countries, making it an appealing option for digital nomads. The country is also known for its beautiful beaches and jungles.

4. Philippines Digital Nomad Visa

The Philippines launched its Digital Nomad Visa in June 2023, allowing remote workers to live and work in the country for up to two years.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Work for a foreign employer or be a freelancer with clients outside the Philippines.
• Earn a minimum annual income of around $24,000.
• Be at least 18 years old with a minimum of one year of work experience in your current field.
• Carry personal medical insurance covering at least 100 million won for hospital treatment and repatriation during your stay.

5. Singapore Digital Nomad Visa

While Singapore doesn’t yet offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, several alternatives are available:

• Employment Pass (EP) or EntrePass: For foreign professionals, managers, and executives with a minimum monthly salary of $5,000.
• Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass: Aimed at top talent in various sectors, such as business, arts, culture, sports, academia, and research.
• S Pass: For mid-level skilled workers earning at least $3,000 per month.
• Training Employment Pass: For foreign professionals undergoing practical training in Singapore, earning at least $3,000 per month.
• Work Holiday Programme: For students and young graduates aged 18-25 from select countries, allowing a stay of up to six months with a cap of 2,000 applications annually.

6. South Korea Digital Nomad Visa

South Korea introduced its digital nomad visa in January 2024, allowing remote workers to live and work in the country for up to one year, with the possibility of renewing for an additional year.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Work for a company based outside South Korea or be a freelancer with foreign clients.
• Earn over 85 million won ($66,000) in the previous year.
• Be at least 18 years old with a minimum of one year of experience in your current industry.
• Have personal medical insurance covering at least 100 million won for hospital treatment and repatriation.

The high income requirement may be a barrier for some, but the opportunity to experience life in South Korea makes it an appealing option.

7. Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa

Sri Lanka’s digital nomad visa, launched in 2021, caters to remote workers in technological or online fields. It allows for a stay of one year, with the possibility of renewal.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Work remotely for companies or clients abroad.
• Earn a minimum monthly income of $2,000.
• Possess a valid passport.
• Have international health insurance.

Sri Lanka’s freelance visa is a convenient option for remote workers seeking a serene environment to live and work.

8. Taiwan Digital Nomad Visa

Taiwan doesn’t have a dedicated digital nomad visa but offers the Gold Card, a visa aimed at attracting high-skilled professionals, including digital nomads earning at least $5,700 (€5,400) per month.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Hold a valid passport.
• Provide a passport-sized photo.
• Show proof of employment.

The Gold Card includes an alien resident certificate, re-entry permit, resident visa, and work permit, making it a comprehensive option for skilled professionals.

9. Thailand Digital Nomad Visa

Thailand introduced a 10-year Long-Term Residency (LTR) Visa in September 2022, targeting wealthy individuals, including digital nomads.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Demonstrate remote work capability.
• Earn a minimum monthly income of $6,670 (€6,300).
• Maintain a clear criminal record.
• Possess adequate medical insurance valid in Thailand.

This visa is primarily aimed at affluent digital nomads, though Thailand’s favorable economy and lifestyle are attractive to many.

10. Turkey Digital Nomad Visa

Turkey’s Digital Nomad Visa, introduced in 2021, allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to one year while working for a foreign company or freelancing for clients outside Turkey.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Earn a minimum monthly income of $2,500 (€2,360).
• Maintain a clear criminal record.
• Hold a valid passport for at least six months.
• Possess adequate travel insurance valid in Turkey.

Turkey offers a unique blend of culture and affordability, making it an ideal location for digital nomads.

11. Vietnam Digital Nomad Visa

Although Vietnam does not officially offer a digital nomad visa, there are several visa options for those looking to live and work in the country:

• Tourist Visa (DL category): Allows stays of up to three months.
• Business Visa (DN category): Suitable for engaging in business activities.

Requirements:

• Hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
• Complete and sign a visa application form.
• Provide passport-sized photos.
• Show proof of accommodation in Vietnam.
• Provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• Present a return ticket or onward journey ticket in English.

Conclusion

Asia offers a variety of options for digital nomads looking to explore new cultures while maintaining their careers. From the affordable living in Malaysia to the high-income requirements in South Korea, there’s a destination to suit every remote worker’s needs.