I know many digital nomads and people who are considering this as a lifestyle. It is always (or seems to be) hard to pick the perfect country. In this article I am sharing the 20 best countries for remote work and I hope the details included here will help you choose your destination easier.
VisaGuide has just released the 2025 Digital Nomad Visa Index, a comprehensive ranking that evaluates countries based on their attractiveness and support for digital nomads.
The index considers key factors like internet speed, healthcare quality, cost of living, taxation, and popularity among travelers. And I have to say—I’m delighted to see my own country, Romania, featured in the Top 10.
This year’s index reveals a dynamic mix of classic destinations and surprising newcomers, proving that remote workers have more options than ever before. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 countries – and what makes each one stand out. Here, as a personal note, I have to admit that I found a few of the top 10 (actually top 20, as I include the top 20 in this article) surprising:)
Spain – The Crown Jewel of Remote Work
Spain ranks number one overall, with a perfect score of 5. It balances lifestyle, connectivity, and infrastructure beautifully. With 79.74% Internet Speed Score, 87.08% Health Score, and an unbeatable 100% Tourism Popularity, Spain offers everything from bustling coworking spaces in Barcelona to relaxed beach days in Valencia. True, you have to like being in a destination filled with tourists.
United Arab Emirates – Digital Efficiency at Its Peak
The UAE impresses with a 100% Internet Speed Score, making it ideal for high-demand remote work. (This score reminded me of the time, a few years back, when Romania had the fastest internet in the world. Gone are the days )
While the Health Score is lower at 43.03%, and income requirements are higher, the country still attracts nomads with its futuristic cities and strategic location between East and West.
Montenegro – Affordable Living, European Charm
Montenegro might surprise some by landing in third place – I know I was surprised. The Internet Speed Score is 27.54%, but the Health Score of 85.54% and Cost of Life Score of 93.51% make up for it. It’s a budget-friendly option with mountains, coastline, and a growing digital nomad community.
The Bahamas – Island Life Meets Tax-Free Benefits
The Bahamas isn’t the fastest when it comes to internet – with only a 19.79% Internet Speed Score – but it shines with 0% taxes and offers a laid-back island atmosphere that’s hard to resist. The Health Score sits at 57.88%, making it a paradise with a few trade-offs. And, let’s be honest: it’s The Bahamas. Paradise much?
Hungary – A Smart Choice in Central Europe
Hungary combines decent infrastructure with affordability. With a 66.11% Internet Speed Score, 15% flat tax, 59.83% Health Score, and a 93.10% Cost of Life Score, it’s a solid choice for nomads seeking good value in a culturally rich and centrally located country.
Canada – The Healthcare Hero
Canada stands out with a 100% Health Score – the only country in the top 10 with a perfect rating in this area. Its 71.70% Internet Speed Score ensures smooth remote work, while its stunning nature and multicultural cities add major lifestyle appeal.
Romania – Underrated, Affordable, and Rising
Romania, my home, ranks impressively with a 76.44% Internet Speed Score and a 94.40% Cost of Life Score. The Health Score is 52.54%, but what really makes it unique is its untapped potential: fewer tourists, plenty of coworking hubs, and a deeply affordable lifestyle for digital professionals.
Portugal – Sunshine, Surf, and Affordability
Portugal continues to charm remote workers with its 90.32% Health Score and 97.84% Cost of Life Score. Whether it’s Lisbon’s tech scene or Porto’s wine culture, Portugal offers safety, excellent infrastructure, and Mediterranean vibes.
Brazil – Vibrant Culture and Low Costs
Brazil scores a 59.09% on Internet Speed and 52.54% on Health, but it matches Portugal in affordability with a 97.84% Cost of Life Score. With its energy, diversity, and coastline, Brazil is perfect for adventurous nomads who want more for less.
Curaçao – The Unexpected Caribbean Pick
Curaçao is a surprise appearance in the top 10. It has the slowest Internet Speed Score at 10.46%, but offsets that with 0% taxes and a strong 83.58% Cost of Life Score. If you can work with slower speeds, this Dutch-Caribbean island might be your ideal tropical HQ.
“Note: The Cost of Life Score is inversed – the lower the actual cost of living, the higher the score.” That’s why countries like Romania and Portugal shine here. This is a note from the official index.
Other Countries to Keep on Your Radar
Just outside the top 10 are some incredible contenders (these ranked 11-20 in the top): Mexico, Czechia, Norway, Colombia, Mauritius, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, and Armenia – each offering its own unique balance of culture, cost, and connectivity.
You can see the entire list of 50 countries here: Digital Nomad Index 2025.
How to Choose the Right Country for You
Choosing where to live and work as a digital nomad isn’t just about the numbers. While rankings help narrow things down, your personal preferences matter even more.
Think about the climate – do you thrive in tropical heat, four seasons, or eternal spring? Consider tourism density: some love the buzz of global hotspots, while others prefer quiet towns with fewer travelers.
Language familiarity is another major factor – are you fluent in the local language, or do you want to push yourself to learn?
Also ask yourself: do you prefer an environment that’s culturally close to your own, or do you seek something completely new? And of course, make sure to check the visa conditions, income requirements, and tax implications before choosing your next destination.
It’s all about what helps you feel productive, fulfilled, and free.
Conclusion
The 2025 Digital Nomad Index from VisaGuide confirms that digital nomads now have a world of well-ranked options – from the global leader Spain to the budget-savvy comfort of Romania. Many of the countries in the first 20 places in this top are from Europe
Whether you’re seeking tax freedom, healthcare access, or just a cozy café with fast Wi-Fi and beautiful views, there’s a country that matches your vision of freedom and productivity.
Remote work is no longer a trend – it’s a lifestyle – and I say that as someone who decided to work from home 20 years ago, when I was 23 and I launched my PR agency. And this list is your global roadmap. I hope you have already seen some interesting destinations for you
