Digital Nomad Visa 2024

8 min readJun 26, 2024

Digital Nomad Visas are becoming a valuable asset in the modern workplace, offering a win-win solution for both employers seeking global talent and employees seeking greater flexibility and work-life balance.

With the rise of remote work, South America is becoming a hotspot for digital nomads. The continent’s blend of vibrant cultures, affordable living, and stunning landscapes makes it an ideal destination for those seeking to combine work and travel.

Our comprehensive guide explores digital nomad visas in key South American countries, offering valuable insights for both remote workers seeking a new adventure and employers looking to expand their talent pool across this vibrant continent.

Why Digital Nomad Visas Are Gaining Traction Among Employers

Digital Nomad Visas, which allow employees to live and work remotely in a foreign country for an extended period, are increasingly being considered by employers as a valuable tool for attracting and retaining global talent.

Key Advantages for Employers

Access to Global Talent: Digital nomad visas open doors to a worldwide talent pool, allowing companies to hire highly skilled professionals without requiring them to relocate permanently.
Flexibility and Remote Work: They cater to the growing demand for remote work, providing employees with the flexibility to work from various locations while maintaining their productivity.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional expatriate assignments, Digital Nomad Visas can be a more budget-friendly option for employers, as they eliminate many of the relocation and long-term housing costs.
Compliance and Legal Framework: These visas offer a legal framework that ensures employers and employees adhere to local laws, mitigating legal risks associated with immigration and employment.
Employee Satisfaction and Retention: The opportunity to live and work in different countries can significantly boost employee morale and loyalty, contributing to lower turnover rates.

Practical Considerations of Digital Nomad Visas

Tax Implications: Employers and employees must carefully navigate the tax regulations of both the home and host countries, as they can vary significantly.
Healthcare and Insurance: Ensuring adequate healthcare coverage for employees working abroad is often a requirement for obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa and is essential for employee well-being.
Documentation and Support: Employers may need to provide documentation like employment contracts and proof of income. Partnering with Global Employer of Record can streamline the process of managing legal and compliance matters.

Argentina: A Year in the Land of Tango

Argentina offers a rich cultural experience with its vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and diverse natural landscapes, from the Andes mountains to Patagonia’s glaciers. The capital, Buenos Aires, is known for its European-style architecture and lively nightlife.

Argentina aims to boost its tourism sector and local economy by attracting high-earning remote workers who will spend money on local services and accommodations. The introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa helps promote Argentina as a modern and progressive destination for international professionals. This visa allows professionals to stay in the country for up to one year.

Key Details of Securing a Digital Nomad Visa in Argentina

Validity: Initially valid for 180 days, renewable for another 180 days.
Income Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of around $2,500.
Work Restrictions: The visa only permits remote work for foreign employers or self-employment. It does not allow working for Argentine companies.
Application Process: Requires submission of documents such as a passport, work contract, proof of income, and accommodation details. The total visa fee is approximately $200.
Family Relocation: Family members can join, but additional income may be required to meet visa criteria for dependents

Colombia: The Land of Coffee and Culture

Colombia is renowned for its coffee culture, beautiful landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. Cities like Medellín offer a pleasant climate, modern amenities, and a growing community of digital nomads, making it an attractive place to live and work remotely.

The Colombian government introduced the Digital Nomad Visa to enhance its global image and attract foreign talent. By welcoming digital nomads, Colombia seeks to stimulate local economies and foster cultural exchange, contributing to the country’s development.

Key Details of Securing a Digital Nomad Visa in Colombia

Validity: The visa is valid for up to 2 years.
Income Requirement: Applicants must show proof of a monthly income of at least $900.
Work Restrictions: Only remote work or self-employment is permitted for foreign employers.
Application Process: You must submit documents such as a valid passport, proof of remote work, proof of income, health insurance, and a criminal background check. The total cost is approximately $222.
Family Relocation: Family members can join under dependent visas.

Ecuador: Discover Natural Wonders and Tranquility

Ecuador offers unparalleled natural beauty, including the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, and the Galápagos Islands. The cost of living is relatively low, and the country provides a tranquil and scenic environment for remote work.

Ecuador aims to attract remote workers to boost its tourism industry and local economies. By offering a Digital Nomad Visa, the government hopes to attract skilled professionals who will contribute to economic growth while promoting Ecuador as a desirable place to live and work.

Key Details of Securing a Digital Nomad Visa in Ecuador

Validity: Valid for 24 months (2 years), renewable for an additional two years.
Income Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $1,275.
Work Restrictions: Only remote work for foreign employers or self-employment is allowed.
Application Process: Requires submission of documents such as a passport, proof of income, health insurance, and a criminal background check. The visa fee is approximately $450 in total.
Family Relocation: Family members can join under dependent visas, with additional income requirements for each dependent.

Mexico: Enjoy a Rich Cultural Heritage and Modern Amenities

Mexico provides a warm climate, rich cultural heritage, and affordable living costs. Cities like Mexico City and Playa del Carmen are popular among digital nomads for their vibrant communities, modern amenities, and excellent infrastructure.

Mexico seeks to enhance its appeal as a global destination for remote workers, boosting tourism and local businesses. The introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa helps attract foreign income and talent, contributing to the country’s economic diversity and resilience.

Key Details of Securing a Digital Nomad Visa in Mexico

Validity: Initially valid for 1 year, renewable annually up to a total of 4 years.
Income Requirement: Must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $2,595 or a bank balance of $43,000 for the last 12 months.
Work Restrictions: The visa permits only remote work for foreign employers or self-employment.
Application Process: You must submit a passport, proof of income, health insurance, and a criminal background check. The total cost is approximately $240.
Family Relocation: Family members can join under dependent visas, with an additional income requirement of $861 per dependent.

Uruguay: Embrace Stability and Quality of Life

Uruguay is known for its high quality of life, political stability, and beautiful coastal towns. Montevideo, the capital, offers a relaxed atmosphere with modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads looking for a peaceful yet connected environment.

Uruguay’s government introduced the Digital Nomad Visa to attract foreign professionals who can contribute to the local economy without competing for local jobs. This strategy aims to boost the tourism sector and promote Uruguay as a modern, forward-thinking destination for remote work.

Key Details of Securing a Digital Nomad Visa in Uruguay

Validity: Initially valid for 6 months, renewable for another 6 months.
Income Requirement: Must demonstrate sufficient financial means via an affidavit.
Work Restrictions: Only remote work or self-employment is allowed for foreign employers.
Application Process: Requires a passport, proof of income, health insurance, and a criminal background check. The visa fee is approximately $10 to $30, payable in Uruguay.
Family Relocation: Family members can join under dependent visas, with additional applications required for each dependant.

Digital Nomad Visa Benefits

Remote Work Authorisation

A Digital Nomad Visa allows your employee to legally reside in another country while working remotely for your company. This visa type is specifically designed for remote workers and freelancers who maintain their employment or business activities outside the host country.

Tax Residency Management

Typically, digital nomad visas do not require the holder to pay local taxes if their income is sourced from abroad. Therefore, your employee can continue to pay taxes in their home country, avoiding complications associated with double taxation. However, it’s crucial to check the specific tax regulations of the host country to ensure compliance.

Example Scenario: Relocating with a Digital Nomad Visa

A Digital Nomad Visa can be an ideal solution if your employee currently works for your company and wants to move to another country but prefers to continue paying taxes in their home country.

Here’s how it works:

An employee working for a global company wants to move to Argentina. They prefer to continue paying taxes in their home country. By applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Argentina, the employee can live there while working remotely for their company. This visa typically exempts them from paying Argentine taxes on foreign-sourced income.

Global Employment Services by Acumen International

Acumen International empowers your global workforce to thrive wherever they are. From startups to enterprises, our tailored remote work solutions ensure seamless global collaboration.

Acumen International’s Employer of Record (EOR) services streamline the management of immigration, HR, payroll, and compliance matters.

Acumen International provides comprehensive support by acting as the Global Employer of Record in 190 countries, including South America.

Bespoke Global Mobility Solutions

Acumen International offers bespoke global mobility solutions tailored to your company’s unique needs. Our comprehensive services facilitate the seamless relocation of employees across borders, ensuring they meet all local requirements while maintaining their tax obligations in their home country.

We act as the legal employer for your remote employees in 190 countries, providing the necessary employment contracts and documentation to support the visa application process.

Our expert global team handles all aspects of global mobility, from securing visas and work permits to managing tax obligations and social security contributions.

Our personalised approach ensures a smooth transition for employees and helps companies maintain operational efficiency and continuity, even in the most challenging and remote locationslf

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Ongoing validation against trusted government sources.
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Advantages of Global Payroll Calculator for Employers

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Concluding Thoughts

A Digital Nomad Visa can indeed be a practical solution for employees wishing to relocate internationally while maintaining their tax obligations in their home country. Acumen International’s Global Employer of Record (EOR) services streamline the cross-border hiring processes, ensuring flexibility and adherence to international work and tax regulations.

Ready to simplify your global employment strategy? For personalised assistance and more detailed information, visit Acumen International or contact their support team.