Among the most popular relocation destinations, digital nomads most often consider Portugal, Turkey, and Georgia. And it's not only because of the mild climate, although living by the sea certainly remains one of the main advantages. Each of these countries offers well-developed urban infrastructure, comfortable conditions for remote work, and its own legalization programs for foreign professionals. The opportunity to live in a new country while continuing to work for a foreign company is exactly what has made these destinations especially attractive to IT specialists.
At the same time, the requirements of these programs differ significantly. In some countries, the primary focus is on the applicant's income level, while others prioritize a straightforward application process or the possibility of obtaining long-term residence in the future. Therefore, before choosing a destination, it is worth comparing not only the climate or cost of living but also the requirements imposed on future residents.
The best-known option is Portugal's D8 Visa, designed for professionals who work remotely for foreign companies or run their own businesses. Applicants must prove a monthly income of at least €3,680, equivalent to four minimum monthly salaries in Portugal in 2026, and demonstrate savings of no less than €11,040, equal to twelve minimum monthly salaries. Applications must be submitted through a Portuguese consulate, preferably in the applicant's country of citizenship or current residence. Due to the heavy workload of the AIMA immigration authority, application processing in 2026 may take from six to nine months, considerably longer than in Turkey or Georgia. Once approved, freelancers receive a temporary residence permit that can later be renewed until permanent residency is obtained.
Georgia follows a different approach. Instead of complex visa procedures, the country allows citizens of many countries to stay visa-free for extended periods, making relocation for remote work much easier. Those planning to earn income locally or register a business can apply for individual entrepreneur status under the Small Business Regime, which offers a tax rate of just 1% on annual turnover of up to approximately $165,000. This is one of the most attractive tax regimes in the region for freelancers and small IT teams.
Turkey has also introduced its own program for digital nomads. Since 2024, the country has offered a Digital Nomad Certificate, which serves as the basis for obtaining a short-term residence permit, known as an ikamet. The required income threshold is considerably lower than in the other countries on this list: applicants need to prove a monthly income of at least $3,000 using bank statements, tax returns, or contracts with foreign clients. The certificate application is submitted online, and the entire process - from application to receiving the residence permit card - takes up to four weeks. The ikamet is usually issued for up to one year and can be renewed as long as the eligibility requirements continue to be met, including sufficient income and remote employment.
Despite the differences between their visa programs, all three countries share one important feature. Foreign citizens are free to purchase residential property without obtaining citizenship. While in some countries real estate overseas is available only if additional requirements are met, Turkey, Portugal, and Georgia do not impose such restrictions.
For professionals who meet the requirements of all three visa programs, the next step is choosing the right city. In many cases, the difference between Lisbon and Porto, Antalya and Istanbul, or Tbilisi and Batumi proves to be far more important than the legal details of the visa process.