Are digital nomad visas over?

Hey Nomads,

Irene here. Hope you’ve found a cozy corner of the world to read this from today! 😊

A few days ago, we reported that Bermuda is shutting down its digital nomad visa—and it got me thinking. Is this the start of a trend? Are countries that once rolled out the red carpet for remote workers now changing their minds?

Bermuda’s “Work from Bermuda” visa was a big deal when it launched in 2020. It was one of the very first nomad visas, and it felt like we were finally being seen. Like, the world was catching up with this lifestyle we’ve been living and breathing. But lately, some of those doors are quietly closing...

And this isn’t even the first time a country has backtracked. Some are limiting applications, others are tightening income requirements, or making the process more complicated. Maybe they didn’t get the economic boost they expected. Maybe local pushback changed the narrative. Or maybe governments just shifted priorities—it happens.

So, is the DNV dream dead? I don’t think so. I think it’s evolving. Bermuda’s decision might reflect changing strategies or growing competition. But if we zoom out, the global trend is still pointing firmly upward.

Really, countries are still competing to attract remote workers like us. Established hotspots like Portugal and Spain continue to thrive. New players are stepping in or refining their offers — like El Salvador, potentially the Philippines, and even Cyprus. In total, there are now over 60 countries with specific visas or programs tailored for nomads. That’s WILD, considering just a few years ago we had...Well, almost none!

And let’s not forget, formal DNVs aren't the only route. Many of us have crafted beautiful lives abroad using other paths—long-stay tourist visas, freelancer permits, passive income visas, or the visa-free magic of places like Georgia. The digital nomad community has always been about creativity and adaptability.

So, is the closure of one program the end of an era? Not at all. It feels more like a new chapter. Countries are learning, refining, and adjusting to the reality of remote work and global mobility, especially post-pandemic. And we’re still out here—building lives, crossing borders, and rewriting the rules as we go.

Let’s keep sharing what we learn. Stay curious. Stay mobile.

Wishing you smooth travels,

Irene Lidia

🗞️ What's new in the nomad world

• Selina's getting a facelift: the hostel chain has rebranded as Socialtel after its acquisition and $50M makeover. They’re bringing back 29 spots across Latin America, with 15–20 more on the way — this time with upgraded amenities. The nomad crowd will definitely be watching…And ready to judge.

Selina rebrands as Socialtel following acquisition and $50M overhaul

Selina rebrands as Socialtel after a $50M acquisition by Collective Hospitality, relaunching 29 properties and planning 20 new openings in 2025.

Freaking NomadsIrene Wang

👀 What else...

• Tax season is here. And yeah, it’s a headache—especially when you’re bouncing between countries and trying to figure out who you owe (and how much). We pulled together a list of tax services that actually understand the digital nomad life. Stuff like tax treaties, business setups, all the confusing bits. Might make things a little easier for next year.

Best Tax Services for Digital Nomads

Learn how to hire a professional to handle your tax filings as a remote worker abroad and take advantage of tax treaties, credits, and deductions.

Freaking NomadsJessica Saabor

• Going nomad isn’t all beach laptops and sunsets. We just shared a piece that gets into the not-so-glamorous side—like feeling disconnected, juggling time zones, and staying motivated when every day looks different. It’s honest, a little messy, and might hit close to home if you’ve ever thought about leaving the 9-to-5. There’s some solid advice in there too, from someone who’s living it.

Is the Digital Nomad Lifestyle for You?

A journey from corporate grind to digital nomad freedom. Honest insights on what it actually means to live the dream and become a digital nomad.

Freaking NomadsLuca Mussari

✨ Our favorite nomad quote for this week

“Collect moments, not things." – Aarti Khurana

💼 100% remote jobs handpicked for you

Who is hiring this week? Here are some top roles to check out:

• Senior Software Engineer C++ at Tether
• Data Scientist at Gameplaygalaxy
• Financial Data Engineer at Automattic
• Senior Go Software Engineer at Synthflow
• Systems Administrator at Jenzabar

💡This week's pick (to make your life easier)

If you’ve ever researched digital nomad visas, you know most countries want proof of health insurance. But even if you’re just doing visa runs or stretching tourist stays to the limit, solid coverage can save you from a world of headaches.

We’ve been testing Faye Travel Insurance lately, and we’ve got to say it’s one of the least annoying insurance experiences we’ve had.

📱 You can do everything from your phone

🏥 It meets most nomad visa requirements (like $250K medical & $500K evacuation)

✈️ Covers delays, cancellations, and lost bags—without making you jump through hoops

⚡ Claims are usually processed in hours, not weeks

That's all for this week.

If you haven't already, follow us on Instagram or Threads and don't forget to create your profile for free on our Community Hub to find new places for nomads, track your countries and connect with other members of the FN community.

We'll see you there, Freaking Nomads!

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