Digital Nomad Visa for Americans:
What You Need to Qualify
Ready to Go Remote?
Wondering what it takes to qualify for a digital nomad visa for Americans? This is the checklist you’re searching for. No filler, just the facts on how to qualify for a digital nomad visa and start living the international life. Whether you’re headed to Portugal, Costa Rica or Croatia, this guide will show you exactly what you need to get approved.
✅ How to Qualify for a
Digital Nomad Visa
| Requirement | What You Need | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Income | $1,500–$3,500/month (varies by country) | Proves you can support yourself |
| Remote Work Proof | Employer letter or client contracts | Confirms you don’t work locally |
| Health Insurance | International coverage, $30K–$50K minimum | Required for emergencies abroad |
| Background Check | FBI report, apostilled if needed | Confirms clean criminal record |
| Valid Passport | With 6+ months validity | Required for visa approval |
| Accommodation Proof | Lease or booking | Shows you have a place to live |
| Application Fee | $100–$250 range | Covers government admin costs |
Most Accessible Digital Nomad Visas
Each country has different rules but these five are the most popular, friendly and realistic options for U.S. citizens in 2025:
Costa Rica
Income Requirement: $3,000/month
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable once
Taxes: No local tax on foreign income
Notes: Fast approval (2–3 weeks), Spanish translation required
Apply via DGME
Brazil
Income Requirement: $1,500/month or $18,000 in savings
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable once
Taxes: Non-resident unless you stay 183+ days
Notes: Apply from abroad or inside Brazil; requires translation to Portuguese
See Brazil Visa Info
Portugal
Income Requirement: €3,480/month
Visa Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable
Taxes: Taxable after 183 days, but treaty + NHR can reduce it
Notes: Often requires proof of savings + lease
Official Visa Page
Croatia
Income Requirement: €3,295/month or €39,540 in savings
Visa Duration: 6–12 months, extendable to 18
Taxes: Exempt from local tax as a digital nomad
Notes: Quick online process, accepts English documents
Apply Here
Malaysia
Income Requirement: $24,000/year for tech jobs
Visa Duration: 3–12 months, renewable to 24
Taxes: No tax on foreign income
Notes: DE Rantau Pass via MDEC portal
Visit DE Rantau
Take the Quiz to Find Your Ideal Country
Where should you go?
Take our 60-second Passport Fit Quiz to discover your best country match based on your income, lifestyle and goals.
What Counts as Remote Work?
You don’t need to be a tech bro. These are all legit:
- Freelance writers, designers and marketers
- Remote employees with a U.S.-based company
- Consultants and coaches with international clients
- Business owners running a location-independent company
- Any job that you can do online
Just make sure your income is from outside the country you’re applying to.
Tips for Your Digital Nomad Visa Application
Background Checks
Start with an FBI Identity History Summary. Apostille it via the State Department if required (Costa Rica, Portugal, Croatia).
Translations
Costa Rica = Spanish
Brazil = Portuguese
Portugal = Portuguese
Croatia = English or Croatian
Malaysia = English accepted
Health Insurance
Make sure it covers at least $30,000–$50,000 in emergency care. Providers digital nomads often use:
Don’t Overstay
Track your visa end date. Overstaying = fines or bans. Some countries offer one renewal. After that, move on or upgrade to a residency path.
What About Taxes?
Do Americans still owe U.S. taxes abroad?
Yes. The U.S. taxes all citizens on global income. But you can reduce your tax bill with these:
- FEIE (Foreign Earned Income Exclusion): Exclude up to $130,000/year if you meet the 330-day rule or become a full-time foreign resident.
- Foreign Tax Credit: Use foreign taxes paid to reduce your U.S. taxes (especially helpful in places like Brazil or Portugal).
Local Tax Breakdown:
| Country | Local Income Tax | Tax Residency Trigger |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | No | None – digital nomads exempt |
| Brazil | Maybe | Yes – 183 days |
| Portugal | Yes (treaty in place) | Yes – 183 days |
| Croatia | No | Digital nomads are exempt |
| Malaysia | No | Territorial tax system – foreign income not taxed |
Most nomads stay under tax radar unless they exceed 183 days. Always file U.S. taxes. Use FEIE, FTC, or both.
Pro Tip:
Don’t assume. Check each country’s rules before you arrive and consider a tax consultation if you’re earning over $100K/year.
Final Thoughts:
The Passport Bro isn’t trying to run, he’s ready to arrive. With this checklist, you’re not guessing or hoping. You know what you need, where you qualify and how to take the next step.