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Bulgaria Joins Slovenia, Moldova, Portugal and Spain with New Visa Avenues: What You Need to Know
Published on
January 2, 2026
As the world embraces remote work and digital nomadism in 2026, Europe is rolling out new Digital Nomad Visas that offer exciting opportunities for location-independent professionals. From Portugal to Bulgaria, and Slovenia to Moldova, European countries are stepping up to attract digital workers with flexible and accessible visa options. This guide outlines the latest digital nomad visa launches across Europe and what you need to know to make the most of them.
Bulgaria: A New Digital Nomad Residence Permit
Bulgaria has recently joined the ranks of European countries offering a Digital Nomad Residence Permit. This new initiative opens doors for remote workers who want to live and work in Bulgaria while enjoying the benefits of Eastern European living. The visa program is expected to launch officially in December 2025, with full availability starting in 2026.
Key Features of Bulgaria’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Duration: The visa is designed for long-term stays and can last for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal.
- Eligibility: Remote workers employed by companies outside Bulgaria, or freelancers working for foreign clients, can apply.
- Income Requirements: Applicants must prove a minimum monthly income to demonstrate financial independence.
- Benefits: The digital nomad residence permit will allow professionals to live in Bulgaria and travel freely within the EU Schengen Area.
This move positions Bulgaria as an attractive destination for digital professionals who want to explore new cultures and travel within Europe while keeping their careers intact. With the addition of Bulgaria’s visa, the region becomes more competitive in the global remote work visa market.
Slovenia: Digital Nomad Visa Now Available
Slovenia has already launched its Digital Nomad Visa in late 2025, making it available throughout 2026. This visa offers a great balance of work-life benefits, allowing remote workers to enjoy Slovenia’s natural beauty and EU benefits.
Key Features of Slovenia’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Duration: Valid for one year with renewal options.
- Eligibility: Remote workers with a job outside Slovenia or self-employed professionals with foreign clients are eligible.
- Income Requirement: A minimum monthly income requirement must be met to qualify for the visa.
- Family Reunification: The visa allows families to join the remote worker, but spouses/partners are not permitted to work for local Slovenian companies.
With Slovenia’s visa, nomads gain access to a country with a low cost of living, excellent tech infrastructure, and stunning outdoor activities. Slovenia’s Scenic Alps and lake regions also add to its appeal as a home base for remote workers looking to maintain a work-life balance.
Moldova: New Long-Term Digital Nomad Visa
Moldova has introduced its Digital Nomad Visa in September 2025, which will be fully active in 2026. This visa allows remote workers to reside in Moldova for up to two years.
Key Features of Moldova’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Duration: The visa is available for one to two years, offering flexibility for long-term stays.
- Eligibility: Remote workers with jobs outside of Moldova or freelancers with international clients are eligible.
- Income Requirements: A minimum income threshold must be met.
- EU and Schengen Travel: Though Moldova isn’t part of the Schengen Area, the visa allows easy access to travel across many EU countries.
This visa offers remote workers the chance to experience a low-cost lifestyle with excellent internet connectivity, while working in a region that is increasingly known for technology adoption and growing startup hubs.
Portugal and Spain: Long-standing Digital Nomad Visas
Portugal and Spain have long been leaders in the digital nomad visa trend. These countries offer long-term residence visas that provide freedom to travel across the EU and enjoy Europe’s vibrant cultures. Both countries remain at the forefront of the digital nomad scene in 2026 and beyond.
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Allows freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs to reside and work in Portugal for up to one year, renewable for up to five years.
- Portugal offers tax incentives for digital nomads, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking affordable living costs in Lisbon or Porto.
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa:
- Offers remote workers the ability to stay in Spain for up to one year, with renewal options for up to five years.
- Spain’s visa is especially appealing due to its cultural hubs like Barcelona and Madrid, as well as its ability to offer high-speed internet and an EU location.
Other European Countries with Active Digital Nomad Visas
Several other European countries offer digital nomad visas and will continue to expand these options in 2026:
- Estonia: One of the pioneers in digital nomadism, Estonia’s long-term e-Residency program remains active and popular for entrepreneurs and freelancers.
- Germany: While not offering a specific “digital nomad” visa, Germany’s freelancer visa offers an excellent option for remote workers in Berlin or Hamburg.
- Croatia: Introduced its digital nomad visa with a long-term stay option for those working remotely with foreign clients.
These nations remain key players in the digital nomad visa market and offer attractive benefits such as low taxes, beautiful landscapes, and access to the EU.
Summary of Key Digital Nomad Visas for 202
Conclusion
The future for digital nomads in Europe looks bright in 2026 and beyond. With new visa options in Bulgaria, Slovenia, and Moldova, along with long-established programs in Portugal and Spain, remote workers have more freedom than ever to live, work, and travel across Europe. Whether you’re drawn to affordable living in the Balkans or the Mediterranean climate of Spain, Europe is becoming the go-to destination for location-independent professionals.
