The rise of digital nomads

Why People Choose to Work as Digital Nomads

The past few years have proved the benefits and feasibility of remote work. As a result, the appeal of living and working as a digital nomad has become increasingly more attractive. What once may have seemed like a distant dream is now very much a reality that has just as many personal benefits as professional ones.

Flexibility: Digital nomads have the freedom to work from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing them to travel and explore new places while still earning an income.

Independence: Digital nomads have the ability to set their own schedules, choose their own clients or projects, and work on their own terms.

Cost of Living: Many digital nomads choose to work in countries with a lower cost of living, allowing them to save money on expenses like rent, food, and transportation.

Career Opportunities: Working as a digital nomad can open up new career opportunities, allowing individuals to work on exciting projects, collaborate with people from all over the world, and develop new skills.

Lifestyle: Digital nomads often value a work-life balance and the ability to prioritize their health, wellness, and personal interests while still pursuing their careers.

Adventure: Many digital nomads are drawn to the sense of adventure and excitement that comes with traveling to new places, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures.

Personal Growth: Working as a digital nomad can be a challenging and rewarding experience, requiring individuals to be resourceful, adaptable, and self-motivated, which can lead to personal growth and development.

Top Professions for Digital Nomads

Despite all of the benefits and rationales behind becoming a digital nomad, some professions lend themselves to this lifestyle choice more than others. There are some jobs that simply cannot be done remotely, as they require physical presence or in-person interaction. Professions that require specialized equipment or tools, heightened safety or security protocols, physical labor, or face-to-face collaboration are clearly not suited for remote work from a beach in Bali. On the other hand, jobs in which technology enables remote or asynchronous work are the perfect fit.

Software Developer: Many software developers can work remotely and collaborate with their teams using online tools and video conferencing software.

Writer or Blogger: Freelance writing and blogging can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing writers to create content while traveling.

Designer: Graphic designers, web designers, and other creative professionals can work remotely and collaborate with clients online.

Online Marketer: Online marketing and social media management can be done from anywhere, and many businesses rely on digital marketing to reach their audiences.

Virtual Assistant: Many companies hire virtual assistants to handle administrative tasks remotely, such as scheduling appointments, answering emails, and managing social media accounts.

Translator: Translators can work remotely to translate documents, websites, or other content for clients from around the world.

E-commerce Entrepreneur: Starting an e-commerce business allows individuals to sell products online from anywhere in the world, as long as they have a reliable internet connection.

Online Teacher or Tutor: Many teachers and tutors offer their services online, allowing them to work with students from around the world.

Consultant: Many consultants work remotely and use online tools to collaborate with clients, share reports, and provide recommendations.

Photographer or Videographer: Many photographers and videographers work remotely, offering their services to clients from around the world or creating and selling stock footage and images online.

Top Countries for Digital Nomads

Given the flexible nature of remote work, digital nomads have a wide range of places to choose from. Many will relocate on a regular basis, staying weeks or months at a time in each place before settling elsewhere for another short period of time. Country selection can vary depending on personal preferences and priorities, but some destinations prove to be popular choices based on factors like cost of living, internet speed, community, and visa requirements.

Estonia: A small country in Northern Europe known for its advanced digital infrastructure, low cost of living, and e-Residency program that allows digital nomads to establish and run an EU-based business.

Portugal: A popular destination for digital nomads due to its mild climate, affordable cost of living, vibrant startup scene, and relatively easy visa requirements for EU and non-EU citizens.

Mexico: A country with a rich culture, diverse geography, and affordable cost of living, making it a popular choice for digital nomads seeking adventure and immersion.

Germany: Known for its thriving startup ecosystem, excellent infrastructure, and strong economy, Germany also offers a freelancer visa for self-employed digital nomads.

Thailand: A Southeast Asian country with a low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and a well-established digital nomad community in places like Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

Spain: A popular destination for digital nomads seeking a laid-back lifestyle, great weather, and a welcoming culture. The non-lucrative visa allows digital nomads to stay for up to a year without needing a work permit.

Canada: A welcoming and diverse country known for its quality of life, safety, and excellent healthcare system. Digital nomads can apply for a working holiday visa or startup visa.

Costa Rica: A Central American country with a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a focus on sustainability and eco-tourism. Digital nomads can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.

Bali, Indonesia: A tropical paradise with a low cost of living, good infrastructure, and a vibrant digital nomad community. The visa-on-arrival allows digital nomads to stay for up to 60 days.

Czech Republic: A country in Central Europe with a low cost of living, rich history, and beautiful architecture. Digital nomads can apply for a long-term visa for self-employment or start a business in the country.

Working in tech-enabled professions on a freelance basis has a variety of perks, with the ability to work remotely from almost anywhere in the world being one of them. While steady, reliable work isn’t always guaranteed, working within a freelancing network like Carbon better equips digital nomads with quality clients and projects to fill their time and their wallets. If you’re a technical freelance professional with a laptop, a suitcase, and some wanderlust, get in touch- we would love to hear from you!

Carbon is the go-to staffing specialist for Eastern European and North African technical talent. Trusted by the biggest names in technology and venture capital, Carbon’s hyperlocal expertise makes entering new talent markets for value-seeking global companies possible.

Honouring exceptional talent ®