What is a Freelance Visa?
Freelancing is the new way of working — flexible, independent, and borderless. But if you want to legally work abroad as a freelancer, you often need a Freelance Visa.
A Freelance Visa is also called a Self-Employment Visa or Digital Nomad Visa allows independent workers to live and work legally in a foreign country without being employed by a local company.
It’s perfect for writers, designers, IT professionals, marketers, consultants, and anyone who works remotely.
Benefits of a Freelance Visa
- Live legally in a new country
- Access local services (like banking, healthcare)
- Travel freely within certain regions (e.g., Schengen Area for Europe)
- Grow your international client base
- Experience new cultures while working remotely
List of Countries Offering Freelance Visas
Here’s a list of countries that currently offer Freelance Visas (or similar programs):
| Country | Visa Name | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | Freelancer Visa (Freiberufler) | Popular for artists, writers, IT professionals |
| Portugal | D7 Visa / Digital Nomad Visa | Attractive tax benefits, affordable living |
| Spain | Digital Nomad Visa | 12-month visa, renewable up to 5 years |
| United Arab Emirates (Dubai) | Freelance Permit | Available for media, tech, education sectors |
| Estonia | Digital Nomad Visa | First EU country to launch a digital nomad visa |
| Croatia | Digital Nomad Visa | 1-year stay without local tax obligations |
| Malta | Nomad Residence Permit | Work remotely for non-Maltese companies |
| Czech Republic | Zivno Visa (Trade License Visa) | Requires proof of contracts and trade license |
| Italy | Self-Employment Visa | Ideal for freelancers, consultants, and entrepreneurs |
| Greece | Digital Nomad Visa | Allows you to live in Greece for up to 2 years |
| Iceland | Long-Term Remote Work Visa | For non-EU freelancers with high income |
| Barbados | Welcome Stamp | 12-month visa for remote workers |
| Costa Rica | Rentista Visa | Suitable for self-employed individuals |
| Mexico | Temporary Resident Visa | Allows remote work and self-employment |
| Georgia | Remotely From Georgia | Special program for freelancers and remote workers |
Basic Requirements to Apply
Most freelance visas need you to show:
-
Proof of freelance work or contracts
-
Minimum monthly income
-
Health insurance coverage
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Background verification
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Proof of accommodation
Each country has its own set of rules, so it’s important to check eligibility before applying.
Need help applying for a Freelance Visa?
Contact FederPath Consultants — we guide you through every step of the visa process for a smooth, stress-free move!