Germany is the first European country to make a formal attempt to regulate remote work for the future. Since last January, remote workplaces have been the norm, and the government encourages employers to offer flexible hours. And now, Germany is one of the best places to live as a digital nomad.
How To Live In Germany As A Digital Nomad?
For EU citizens, to live in Germany as a digital nomad, you need to get residence rights by registering your address (Anmeldung) and opening a German bank account.
Countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, and the UK have agreements with the EU, and they can stay in the Schengen Area without Visa for 90 days.
Non-EU-citizens can apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa or a Business Visa to stay in the country for over 90 days.
These types of arrangements don’t allow working during the 90 days. However, most people working with foreign companies as digital nomads go under the radar. Germany hasn’t launched a visa targeting remote workers yet, but there are feasible options.
For example, a freelance visa is one of the most accessible alternatives, whether you have different clients or work for a remote company. There is also the ‘artist visa’ for freelance musicians, artists, and writers in Berlin. The process for the latter is faster.
What do you need to obtain a Visa in Germany:
- Proof of income.
- Contribute to taxes.
- Stock of savings (around €10,000).
- Proof of local and regional interest (that’s the hardest requirement for digital nomads).
- Health insurance.
Even without a visa scheme for digital nomads, Germany is a great place to work remotely. An efficient system, public transport, and affordable living costs help settle in the country while finding the right legal arrangement. Even if the Internet isn’t the best you can find, you can work in co-working and co-living spaces, living a new adventure in Germany as a digital nomad.
