Digital Nomad Visa Income Requirements 2026 — Every Country Compared

Digital nomad visas have exploded in popularity since 2020. Over 30 countries now offer them, but the income requirements vary wildly. Some require just $750/month, others demand $65,000/year. This guide compares every major digital nomad visa and its income threshold.

What counts as "income" for a digital nomad visa?

This is where most nomads get tripped up. Different countries define income differently. Some accept freelance income, some require employment, some accept passive income, and some are strict about the source. Always check the fine print.

• Freelance/self-employed income: Most countries accept this, but you may need to show invoices or contracts.
• Employment income: Some countries require you to be employed by a company, not self-employed.
• Passive income: Dividends, rental income, and investment returns. Some countries accept this, others do not.
• Savings: A few countries accept proof of savings instead of monthly income.
• Gross vs. net: Some countries specify gross income (before taxes), others net (after taxes). This can make a huge difference.

Digital nomad visa income requirements by country

• **Colombia:** $750/month (lowest in the world)
• **Mexico:** $2,700/month
• **Portugal:** €1,000/month (D8 visa)
• **Spain:** €2,850/month (2026 threshold)
• **Greece:** €2,500/month
• **Croatia:** €2,000/month
• **Estonia:** €3,500/month
• **Czech Republic:** €2,500/month
• **Hungary:** €2,500/month
• **Poland:** €2,500/month
• **Romania:** €2,000/month
• **Bulgaria:** €2,000/month
• **Turkey:** $2,500/month
• **Georgia:** $2,000/month
• **Thailand:** $2,000/month
• **Malaysia:** $2,500/month
• **Indonesia:** $1,500/month
• **Vietnam:** $1,200/month
• **Philippines:** $2,500/month
• **Japan:** $65,000/year (highest in the world)
• **South Korea:** $2,000/month
• **Singapore:** $5,000/month
• **UAE (Dubai):** $3,000/month
• **Costa Rica:** $3,000/month
• **Argentina:** $2,000/month
• **Chile:** $2,700/month
• **Brazil:** $1,500/month

The gross vs. net trap

Many countries specify "gross income," which means before taxes. But some nomads only have net income (after taxes). If a country requires €2,500/month gross and you only earn €2,000 net, you do not qualify. Always ask the consulate whether they accept net income or require gross.

Dependants and surcharges

Some countries increase the income requirement if you are bringing dependants (spouse, children). Spain, for example, requires an additional €500/month for each dependant. Portugal requires an additional €300/month. Always factor this in if you are not travelling alone.

Employee vs. freelancer restrictions

A few countries (notably Japan and South Korea) require you to be employed by a company, not self-employed. If you are a freelancer, you may not qualify. Always check the visa terms before applying.

Savings as an alternative to income

Some countries (Portugal, Spain, Greece) allow you to show savings instead of monthly income. The formula is usually: savings = monthly requirement × 12 months. So if Spain requires €2,850/month, you could show €34,200 in savings instead.

How to prove your income

• Bank statements: Most countries accept 3-6 months of bank statements showing regular deposits.
• Tax returns: Your last 1-2 years of tax returns (if you file taxes).
• Contracts or invoices: Proof of ongoing client relationships or employment.
• Accountant letter: A letter from your accountant confirming your income.
• Company letter: If employed, a letter from your employer confirming your salary.

FAQ: Digital nomad visa income

• Q: Can I combine income from multiple sources? A: Yes, most countries accept combined income.
• Q: What if my income fluctuates? A: Show an average over 3-6 months.
• Q: Do I need to earn the income in the visa country? A: No, most countries accept income from anywhere.
• Q: What if I do not file taxes? A: You will need to show bank statements or other proof of income.
• Q: Can I use my spouse's income? A: Only if you are applying together. Some countries require separate applications.

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