10 Digital Nomad Visas Being Phased Out—and 10 Being Introduced in 2025

The digital nomad landscape is evolving fast in 2025. While some countries are phasing out popular visa programs due to housing pressures or policy shifts, others are launching new options to attract remote workers. Visas that once offered easy tax breaks and long stays are becoming more restrictive. Meanwhile, emerging destinations are rolling out simplified applications, lower income requirements, and better infrastructure. Whether you’re planning your next long-term base or scouting future hotspots, these are the countries making big changes—both good and bad—for location-independent travelers.

1. Portugal D7/D8 Visa – Being Phased Out

Portugal’s popular nomad visas are facing tightening rules, with higher income requirements and stricter residency terms. The D7 path now demands more proof of passive income, and limits are being placed on stays in major cities. Processing times are longer, and some tax benefits are being removed. While still available, the visa is no longer as accessible or appealing as it once was.

2. Bali/Indonesia Nomad Proposal – Being Phased Out

Indonesia’s much-hyped nomad visa has lost momentum. Originally expected to offer a five-year stay with no local tax, the proposal has stalled due to political delays and local pushback. Many digital nomads still rely on standard tourist visas, which offer no long-term guarantees. For now, the visa remains more concept than reality.

3. Mexico Paper FMM Phase-Out – Being Phased Out

Mexico is moving away from its traditional FMM entry card, once a loophole for nomads staying months at a time. New digital immigration processes come with shorter stay limits and more scrutiny. Long-term visitors now face tougher renewal processes and less flexibility. It’s a shift that’s making Mexico a less casual option for digital workers.

4. Brazil Digital Nomad Visa – Being Phased Out

Brazil’s digital nomad visa is still active, but it’s becoming harder to renew and less financially attractive. Tax exemptions are under review, and new requirements may tie applicants to stricter residency rules. While still a warm-weather destination for nomads, the red tape is increasing. Travelers may soon find it harder to make Brazil a long-term base.

5. Antigua & Barbuda Nomad Residence – Being Phased Out

This two-year visa was once a favorite for remote workers seeking island life. Now, high living costs and reduced renewal approvals are making it less viable. Applications are taking longer, and some previous tax benefits are being cut. It’s still technically available, but much harder to access and maintain.

6. Malta Nomad Residence Permit – Being Phased Out

Malta’s once-favorable nomad permit has lost some shine. Tax rules have tightened, and staying longer than a year comes with added bureaucracy. Income requirements have been raised, and it’s harder to renew without becoming a tax resident. Nomads are increasingly looking elsewhere for easier setups.

7. Greece Digital Nomad Visa – Being Phased Out

Greece’s program started strong, but new rules are cooling interest. Higher income thresholds and fewer tax breaks are pushing applicants away. Long-term stays are harder to extend, and delays in processing are common. Greece remains beautiful—but less accessible for digital workers.

8. Japan Digital Nomad Program – Being Phased Out

Japan’s early allowance for remote work is being rolled back. Entry caps, stricter insurance mandates, and limited extensions are making stays more complicated. The country is also restricting repeat entries within a year. While still friendly to short visits, it’s no longer a reliable option for longer-term digital nomads.

9. Cayman Islands Global Citizen Program – Being Phased Out

Targeted at high earners, this program is becoming less attractive as requirements tighten. Cost of living has surged, and many digital nomads are choosing cheaper Caribbean options. Renewals are harder, and new documentation hurdles are discouraging new applicants. It’s a luxe option that’s losing its shine.

10. South Africa Nomad Program – Being Phased Out

South Africa’s program is still operational but facing new restrictions. Tax obligations kick in after shorter stays, and extending beyond 90 days requires more paperwork. Concerns over safety and cost of living are also impacting its appeal. It’s becoming less nomad-friendly compared to rising competitors.

11. Taiwan Digital Nomad Visitor Visa – Introduced 2025

Taiwan launched a digital nomad visa allowing up to 180 days for remote work. Applicants need to show proof of income and financial reserves, but the process is mostly digital. It’s ideal for skilled professionals looking to work from a stable, tech-savvy country. Extensions are possible, and living costs remain affordable.

12. Spain Digital Nomad Visa – Introduced 2025

Spain’s new visa offers one-year stays with the ability to renew for up to five years. Remote workers enjoy tax incentives and quick processing. The program supports family members and targets skilled professionals. With strong infrastructure and diverse cities, Spain is quickly becoming a top choice.

13. Philippines Digital Nomad Visa – Introduced 2025

The Philippines introduced a formal nomad visa with a 12-month duration and renewal option. Requirements include proof of foreign income and valid health insurance. The program opens access to popular destinations like Cebu and Siargao. It’s an affordable tropical base with a growing remote work scene.

14. New Zealand Remote Work Scheme – Introduced 2025

New Zealand relaxed its visitor visa rules to allow remote work for up to 90 days. The stay can be extended for up to nine months with additional documentation. It offers a straightforward entry path for digital nomads, especially from North America and Asia. Scenic landscapes and safety make it an appealing short-term base.

15. Slovenia Digital Nomad Visa – Introduced 2025

Slovenia is launching a digital nomad visa to attract skilled remote workers. The program will allow stays up to a year with income proof and digital work documentation. It’s positioned as a quiet, affordable alternative to more crowded European hubs. The application process is expected to be simple and online-based.

16. Türkiye Digital Nomad Visa – Introduced 2025

Turkey has expanded its visa to include U.S. citizens and several EU countries. Applicants need a minimum income and can stay for up to 12 months. The program includes healthcare access and optional family inclusion. Istanbul and coastal regions are especially appealing for long-term stays.

17. Colombia Nomad Visa – Introduced 2022 (Gaining Momentum)

Colombia’s visa allows a two-year stay with a low income requirement. Applications are fully online, and the cost of living is one of the lowest in Latin America. Major cities like Medellín have strong coworking scenes. It’s a popular option for budget-conscious nomads.

18. Uruguay Digital Nomad Visa – Introduced 2023 (Active 2025)

Uruguay offers a six-month stay with an easy renewal process. Remote workers must show proof of foreign income and no criminal record. The country is politically stable with good healthcare and digital infrastructure. It’s becoming a hidden gem for South American nomads.

19. Mauritius Premium Visa – Introduced 2022 (Active 2025)

This visa grants one-year stays with few bureaucratic barriers. The island nation welcomes families and entrepreneurs, with no local tax on foreign income. It’s ideal for nomads seeking a beach lifestyle in a secure and peaceful environment.

20. Kenya Digital Nomad eVisa – Introduced 2025

Kenya’s new eVisa allows remote workers to live and work for up to one year. The application is quick and accessible from dozens of countries. Coworking hubs are growing in Nairobi and Mombasa. It’s one of Africa’s most promising new hubs for remote professionals.

This article was written by Hunter and edited with AI Assistance