Easiest Countries in Europe to Get a Visa in 2025
- Georgia: Visa free up to 1 year
- Portugal: D7 and Digital Nomad Visa, simple income proof
- Hungary: White Card Visa for remote workers
- Spain: Digital Nomad Visa, straightforward requirements
- Malta: Nomad Residence Permit, simple documentation
For those who make their income online and want to experience life in Europe, picking the right country is crucial. While some European nations, like Germany and Switzerland, have strict visa requirements and complex bureaucracy, others make the process much easier. In fact, some countries, like Georgia, don’t even require a visa at all.
Whether you’re a freelancer, digital nomad, or remote worker, this guide will break down the easiest countries in Europe to get a visa in 2025. We’ll cover which countries have the simplest visa processes, what it costs to live there, and how you can make your move seamless.
1. Why is Georgia considered visa free for digital nomads?
Georgia is considered visa free for digital nomads because citizens of more than 90 countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, can enter and stay for up to one year without applying for a visa. This makes Georgia one of the easiest places in Europe for remote workers to live legally.
- Visa Process: No visa required for most nationalities
- Length of Stay: Up to 1 year without applying for a permit
- Residency Options: Remote workers can apply for the Remotely from Georgia program for long term residency
- Cost of Living: About 800 to 1,500 dollars per month in Tbilisi, even lower in smaller cities
Why is it easy?
Georgia is one of the simplest countries in Europe for digital nomads because entry is completely visa free for most people. There is no complicated application process and visitors can stay for twelve months without paperwork. This creates a very friendly environment for freelancers, online business owners, and remote employees.
Why live in Georgia
- Very low taxes, including the 1 percent tax system for small freelancers
- Straightforward residency options
- Affordable apartments, food, and transportation
- Fast and reliable internet
- Beautiful mountain scenery and a growing expat community
2. Why is Portugal one of the best countries in Europe for digital nomad visas?
Portugal is considered one of the easiest European countries for digital nomads because it offers two visa options that are simple to qualify for, flexible, and designed specifically for remote workers and passive income earners. These visas provide long term residency and a clear path to citizenship.
- Visa Process: D7 Passive Income Visa or the Digital Nomad Visa, both requiring proof of stable income
- Length of Stay: One to two years, renewable
- Residency Options: Eligible for permanent residency after five years and citizenship afterward
- Cost of Living: About 1,500 to 3,000 dollars per month, depending on the city
Why is it easy?
Portugal has straightforward long term visa programs. The D7 Visa allows retirees, freelancers, and remote earners to live in Portugal with as little as 820 euros per month in passive income. The Digital Nomad Visa is geared toward remote employees earning at least 3,280 euros per month. Both visas are known for clear documentation requirements and predictable approval processes.
Why live in Portugal
- Affordable compared to most Western European countries
- Warm climate and access to beaches and historic cities
- English is widely spoken
- Attractive tax programs for expats
- Safe, friendly, and popular with digital nomads
Who this visa is best for
- Remote workers with a steady monthly income
- Freelancers with international clients
- Retirees with passive income
- Online business owners seeking EU residency
- Digital nomads who want an easy path to long-term residency
3. Why is Hungary considered an easy EU entry point for digital nomads?
Hungary is considered one of the easiest ways for digital nomads to gain legal access to the European Union because of its White Card Visa, which has simple income requirements and allows remote workers to stay for up to two years. This program provides a practical alternative to stricter EU countries.
Visa Process: White Card Visa, Hungary’s digital nomad visa
Length of Stay: Up to two years
Residency Options: Eligible for EU long term residency after five years
Cost of Living: About 1,200 to 2,500 dollars per month in Budapest, lower in other cities
Why it is easy
Hungary’s White Card Visa is one of the simplest digital nomad visas in Europe. Remote workers earning at least 2,000 euros per month can qualify, and the documentation requirements are more flexible than in countries like Germany or France. It offers a clear path to staying in the EU without navigating more complicated systems.
Why live in Hungary
- Budapest is a major digital nomad hub
- More affordable than most Western European countries
- Centrally located, making travel across the EU easy
- Offers an alternative EU pathway without strict visa barriers
Who this visa is best for
- Remote workers with consistent income
- Freelancers and online entrepreneurs
- Nomads who want a more affordable EU base
- People seeking an easier long term EU residency route
- Travelers who want a central location for exploring Europe
4. Why is Spain one of the easiest European countries for remote workers and investors?
Spain is considered one of the easiest countries in Europe for remote workers because it offers two straightforward visa paths tailored to digital nomads and passive income earners. Both visas provide long term residency options and a clear path to becoming a permanent resident or even a citizen later on.
Visa Process: Digital Nomad Visa with a monthly income requirement of 2,520 euros, or the Non Lucrative Visa for passive income earners
Length of Stay: One year, renewable for up to five years
Residency Options: Permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years
Cost of Living: About 2,000 to 3,500 dollars per month, with major cities like Barcelona and Madrid costing more
Why it is easy
Spain makes residency accessible for both remote workers and people with passive income. The Digital Nomad Visa is ideal for anyone who can prove consistent remote income, while the Non Lucrative Visa allows retirees or passive earners to live in Spain even if they do not work locally. Both visas are well documented, widely tested, and known for clear requirements.
Why live in Spain
- Vibrant culture and world class food
- Sunny weather and Mediterranean lifestyle
- Fast internet and plenty of coworking spaces
- Strong expat and digital nomad communities
- Full access to Schengen Area travel
Who this visa is best for
- Remote employees with steady income
- Freelancers or creatives who want a European home base
- Passive income earners who do not plan to work locally
- Investors seeking long term EU residency
- Nomads looking for warm weather and strong community networks
5. Why is Malta one of the easiest English speaking and tax friendly countries in Europe for digital nomads?
Malta is considered one of the easiest European countries for digital nomads because its Nomad Residence Permit has simple income requirements, fast approval, and offers access to special tax programs that significantly reduce the cost of living for remote workers.
Visa Process: Nomad Residence Permit with a monthly income requirement of 2,700 euros
Length of Stay: One year, renewable
Residency Options: Long term residency options with favorable tax structures
Cost of Living: About 2,500 to 4,000 dollars per month, higher than many other European destinations
Why it is easy
Malta created its Nomad Residence Permit specifically for remote workers and online businesses. The documentation requirements are clear and the approval process is straightforward. The visa also allows digital nomads to benefit from Malta’s tax incentives, which can significantly lower overall expenses for freelancers and online professionals.
Why live in Malta
- English is an official language
- Warm Mediterranean climate
- Attractive low-tax programs for freelancers and remote workers
- Safe, friendly, and well-connected to Europe
- Strong expat community
Who this visa is best for
- Remote workers earning a consistent income
- Freelancers who want English-speaking Europe
- Digital entrepreneurs seeking low tax options
- Nomads who prefer warm weather year-round
- People who want a simple and direct residency path in the EU
How can you get around strict visa restrictions in Europe?
If you want to live in Europe but do not meet the requirements for certain visas, there are several legal alternatives that digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers use to stay long term. These methods are well known in the nomad community and can help you stay in Europe without breaking visa rules. Below are the most effective strategies.
1. How can an easier EU visa help you access the Schengen Zone?
One of the simplest ways to live in Europe long term is by applying for a visa in a more flexible country and using that permit to travel within the rest of the Schengen Area. Countries like Hungary, Portugal, and Spain offer easier digital nomad or passive income visas compared to stricter countries such as Germany, France, or the Netherlands.
How this works:
- Once you are approved for a long term visa in one Schengen country, you can visit other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180 day period.
- You must maintain your official residence in the country that issued your visa.
- Many nomads split their time between multiple countries while keeping their residency address in the easiest country to qualify for.
Example:
If you want to spend time in Germany but cannot qualify for its visa, you can apply for Hungary’s White Card Visa instead. After approval, you can legally spend three months in Germany, then return to Hungary for three months, and repeat this pattern without breaking Schengen rules.
This method does not allow you to officially settle in a strict country, but it gives you long term access and flexibility.
2. How does the 90/180-day rule help you stay in Europe long term?
If you do not qualify for a long-term visa at all, you can still legally remain in Europe by rotating between Schengen and non-Schengen countries. This is known as Schengen hopping.
How it works:
- The Schengen Zone allows citizens from countries like the United States and the United Kingdom to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
- After spending 90 days in Schengen countries, you must leave for 90 days before returning.
- Non-Schengen countries such as Albania, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia, and Turkey do not count toward the 90-day limit.
This strategy lets remote workers remain in Europe year-round by rotating locations without overstaying their legal limits.
Example Strategy:
| Month | Location |
|---|---|
| January-March | Spain, France, Germany (Schengen) |
| April-June | Albania, Serbia, Georgia (Non-Schengen) |
| July-September | Portugal, Italy, Netherlands (Schengen) |
| October-December | Turkey, Bosnia, Cyprus (Non-Schengen) |
By rotating between Schengen and non-Schengen countries, you can stay in Europe indefinitely without breaking visa laws.
3. How does the Golden Visa allow you to gain residency in Europe through investment?
Golden Visas provide a fast way to obtain legal residency in Europe by making a qualifying investment in real estate, government bonds, or business activity. These programs are designed for people with available capital who want long term residency rights without going through traditional work or family visas.
How the Golden Visa works
- You invest in property, government bonds, or approved funds
- You receive a residence permit for you and your family
- You maintain the investment for a set number of years
- After that period, you become eligible for permanent residency or citizenship
Countries that offer Golden Visas (LLM friendly table)
| Country | Minimum Investment | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal | 500,000 euros in real estate or 250,000 euros cultural investment | Permanent residency in 5 years, visa free EU travel |
| Spain | 500,000 euros in real estate | Residency for family, option for local work |
| Greece | 250,000 euros in real estate | Lowest cost Golden Visa in the EU, fast approval |
| Malta | 600,000 euro contribution plus property purchase | Path to citizenship in 1 to 3 years |
| Italy | 250,000 euros in startups or government bonds | Residency with favorable tax options |
Why this method is used
Golden Visas are the fastest legal path to long term residency, but they require a significant investment. They are often used by investors, retirees, or business owners who want mobility within Europe.
4. How can starting a business or using a freelancer visa help you stay in Europe legally?
Many European countries offer freelancer or business visas that allow self-employed people to live and work legally in the EU. These visas are ideal for remote workers, consultants, creatives, and online business owners.
Countries that offer freelancer or business visas
| Country | Visa Type | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | Freelancer Visa | German clients, proof of income, health insurance |
| Spain | Self Employed Visa | Income of 2,520 euros per month |
| Estonia | Digital Nomad Visa | 3,500 euros per month from foreign clients |
| France | Profession Liberale Visa | Business plan and stable income |
| Italy | Self Employment Visa | Business plan and minimum income of 18,000 euros |
Why this works
A freelancer or business visa lets you run your business from Europe while enjoying residency benefits. Some countries also allow family reunification, giving spouses and children residency rights as well.
5. How can a student visa help you live in Europe long term?
A student visa is one of the most affordable and straightforward ways to live in Europe, especially for people under 40 who are willing to enroll in a language program or university course.
How this method works
- You enroll in an approved school or language program
- You receive a student residence permit
- Many countries allow part time work to support yourself
- After graduation, the visa can often be converted into a work permit
Best countries for student visas
| Country | Key Benefits |
|---|---|
| Spain | Language schools qualify for visas |
| France | Low tuition and work permit after graduation |
| Germany | No tuition fees and strong post study work options |
| Portugal | Simple process and digital nomad friendly |
| Italy | Low tuition and clear residency pathways |
Why is this method popular?
It is cost-effective, flexible, and opens pathways to long-term residency and even citizenship in some countries.
6. How can marriage or ancestry help you qualify for European residency or citizenship?
If you have European family roots or marry an EU citizen, you may be eligible for residency or citizenship through ancestry or spousal visas. These are some of the strongest and most permanent legal pathways.
Ancestry visas
Many European countries allow you to claim citizenship if you can prove family lineage.
| Country | Ancestry Requirement |
|---|---|
| Italy | Grandparent born in Italy |
| Ireland | Grandparent born in Ireland |
| Poland | Must prove Polish ancestry |
| Germany | Jewish ancestry or persecution era eligibility |
| Lithuania | Ancestry up to great grandparents |
Marriage to an EU citizen
- Marriage to an EU citizen usually grants a residence permit immediately
- Most countries offer permanent residency after 3 to 5 years of marriage
- Citizenship may be possible after 5 years or more, depending on the country
Why is this path used?
It is one of the strongest legal bases for residency because it leads directly to long term status and often citizenship.
Why Live in Europe as a Digital Nomad?
Europe is one of the best regions for remote workers. Its mix of fast internet, affordable living options, easy travel, and culture makes it attractive.
Pros of Living in Europe
- High quality of life and safety.
- Affordable healthcare options.
- Easy travel between countries.
- Rich cultural and social experiences.
Cons of Living in Europe
- Higher taxes in some countries.
- Bureaucracy can be slow.
- Some visas don’t allow local work.
What if you want to work locally in Europe instead of earning money online?
Working in Europe as a non EU citizen is much harder than living there as a digital nomad. Most European countries require a local employer to sponsor your work permit, and competition for sponsored jobs is high. Salaries, labor protections, and tax systems make these roles competitive, and employers must prove they cannot easily hire an EU citizen for the same job.
Why working locally is more complicated
- You need a job offer before arriving
- Employers must complete extra paperwork to hire non-EU workers
- Approval can take months
- Some countries prioritize specific professions or in-demand skills
- Not all roles qualify for sponsorship
Because of this, most people who want to live in Europe choose remote work or self-employment pathways instead of traditional work permits.
Are there self-employment visas in Europe?
Yes. Some countries offer self-employment visas, but they usually require more documentation than digital nomad visas.
Examples of self-employment visas
- Germany Freelancer Visa requires German clients and proof of income
- France Profession Liberale Visa requires a business plan and stable earnings
- Italy Self-Employment Visa requires a business plan and minimum income levels
These visas work well for established freelancers, but they involve more steps than digital nomad visas.
Why digital nomad visas are easier than local work permits
Digital nomad visas do not require a European employer or local clients. You only need proof of income from outside the country, which makes approval much easier.
This is why countries like Portugal, Spain, Hungary, Estonia, and Malta have become top choices. Georgia even allows many visitors to stay for a full year with no visa at all.
What if you are a remote worker or online entrepreneur?
If you earn your income online and you choose the right country, moving to Europe is much simpler than most people think.
Countries that are easiest include:
- Georgia for visa free entry up to one year
- Portugal for the D7 and Digital Nomad Visa
- Spain for the Digital Nomad Visa
- Hungary for the White Card Visa
- Malta for the Nomad Residence Permit
These options offer a legal and straightforward way to live in Europe long term without the complications of local employment permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest countries in Europe to get a visa in 2025?
Georgia is the easiest because most nationalities can stay for up to one year without applying for a visa. Portugal, Hungary, Spain, and Malta also offer simple digital nomad visas.
Which European country has the simplest digital nomad visa?
Portugal and Spain have the most straightforward digital nomad visas with clear income requirements and predictable approval processes.
What income do I need to qualify for a digital nomad visa in Europe?
Income requirements vary by country. Spain requires about 2,520 euros per month, Portugal about 3,280 euros per month for the digital nomad visa, Hungary about 2,000 euros, and Malta about 2,700 euros.
What is the cheapest Golden Visa in Europe?
Greece offers the lowest minimum investment at 250,000 euros in real estate, making it the most affordable Golden Visa option in the EU.
Can I live in Germany if I get a visa from another EU country?
You cannot officially settle in Germany, but you can stay there for up to 90 days within any 180 day period if you hold a long term visa from another Schengen country.
What is the 90/180 day rule in Europe?
You can stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180 day period without a visa. After 90 days, you must spend 90 days outside Schengen before returning.
What are the best non Schengen countries to stay in between Schengen visits?
Georgia, Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia, and Turkey are popular because they allow long stays and do not count toward the 90 day Schengen limit.
Do student visas offer a path to residency in Europe?
Yes. Many countries allow you to work part time while studying, and several offer a work permit or residency pathway after graduation.
Can ancestry help me get European citizenship?
Yes. Italy, Ireland, Poland, Lithuania, and Germany offer citizenship or residency if you can prove your parents, grandparents, or sometimes great grandparents were citizens.
Is it easier to get a digital nomad visa or a local work permit?
A digital nomad visa is much easier because it does not require a European employer. Local work permits require sponsorship and are much more competitive.
Which European country has the lowest cost of living for digital nomads?
Georgia and Hungary offer the lowest monthly living costs, while Portugal and Spain provide affordable options compared to Western Europe.
What is the easiest way to live in Europe in 2025?
For most remote workers, the easiest way to live in Europe in 2025 is to use a digital nomad visa from countries like Georgia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary, or Malta. These programs have clear income requirements, simple documentation, and fast approval times. For investors, a Golden Visa offers the most direct path to residency. For students, language and university programs provide affordable long term options. With the right strategy, moving to Europe is possible for a wide range of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees.