The world of remote work has changed dramatically in 2025. Countries that once welcomed digital nomads with open arms have tightened, suspended, or restructured their long-term stay programs. The freedom to live and work abroad is no longer guaranteed — at least, not everywhere.

CURIANIC readers deserve reliable, government-verified information, not speculative articles or social media rumors. After a thorough review of immigration laws and official government portals, it’s clear that only a select few countries worldwide still offer fully legal, long-term options for digital nomads.

In Europe, only Slovenia and Portugal provide legally codified visas specifically for remote workers. These programs are fully backed by government regulations, offering transparency and peace of mind.

1. Slovenia — Temporary Residence Permit for Digital Nomads

Slovenia introduced its Temporary Residence Permit for Digital Nomads on 21 November 2025, specifically designed for non-EU nationals performing remote work.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: Non-EU nationals; must work remotely for companies or clients outside Slovenia.
• Financial Requirement: Minimum monthly income of twice Slovenia’s average net salary.
• Duration: Up to 1 year, non-renewable, but reapplication allowed after 6 months outside Slovenia.
• Family Reunification: Immediate family members can join the permit holder.
• Registration Requirement: Must register temporary residence within 8 days of arrival.

Why It’s Reliable:
This program is codified in Slovenia’s official immigration law, providing a clear, legally verified pathway for long-term remote work in Europe.

Official Government Resource: Government of Slovenia – Temporary Residence Permit for Digital Nomads

2. Portugal — Remote Work / Telework Visa

Portugal’s Regulatory Decree 4/2022, linked to Law No. 23/2007, allows remote workers from outside Portugal to legally reside in the country for telework purposes.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: Remote work for companies or clients located outside Portugal.
• Duration: Temporary stay/residence visa, with options for renewal or conversion to longer-term residence.
• Family Sponsorship: Family members can accompany the visa holder under the same permit.
• Legal Basis: Fully codified and published, recognized by SEF Portugal.

Why It’s Reliable:
Portugal’s program is government-backed and legally codified, offering digital nomads a secure path for living and working in Europe without ambiguity.

Official Government Resource: Portugal – Type of Visa: National Visas / Remote Work / Digital Nomad

3. Global Context — Immigration Laws Are Shifting

The year 2025 has been turbulent for long-term remote work programs worldwide:

• Many countries previously popular with digital nomads — including the UAE, Greece, and Estonia — have suspended or restructured their programs.
• Some countries now require stricter documentation, higher income thresholds, or local employment, limiting accessibility.
• Others have programs that exist only in law-firm summaries or social media announcements, lacking full government verification.

The result: globally, only a handful of countries remain fully reliable for long-term digital nomad stays. In Europe, this is currently Slovenia and Portugal.

Strategic Considerations for Remote Workers

1. Verify Official Sources: Immigration laws can change rapidly. Always consult government portals before applying.
2. Document Preparation: Ensure passport, employment contracts, income proof, and health insurance are complete.
3. Financial Planning: Budget for visa fees, insurance, and the cost of living in your destination country.
4. Family Considerations: Slovenia and Portugal allow family reunification — confirm requirements.
5. Tax Planning: Long-term stays may trigger tax residency; consult a cross-border tax professional.
6. Future Openings: Monitor official immigration updates globally — new countries may introduce verified programs.

Conclusion

2025 has dramatically narrowed the field for digital nomads. While the world once promised endless opportunities for remote work, only a few countries remain fully transparent, legally verified, and reliable.

In Europe, Slovenia and Portugal stand out as the only officially documented, government-backed options for digital nomads in 2025–2026. For those seeking secure, long-term remote work stays, these countries provide a stable foundation amid a rapidly changing global landscape.

CURIANIC readers should focus on verified government programs and stay alert to immigration updates to ensure their global mobility remains safe and legal.

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