Choosing the right place for your digital nomad lifestyle is essential for both professional growth and personal satisfaction. Hungary and Spain have emerged as top choices for digital nomads, each offering unique opportunities for remote workers seeking a balance of work, culture, and convenience.
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, explores the pros and cons of Spain and Hungary Digital Nomad Visas to decide which digital nomad visa in Europe is the best fit for your needs.
Best Places to Be a Digital Nomad: Hungary and Spain
Hungary and Spain offer distinct experiences for those who are looking for EU digital nomad visas. As a digital nomad, location is a key factor when choosing where to live and work. Hungary’s central European position, low cost of living, and emerging tech scene make it an attractive destination for remote workers.
On the other hand, Spain boasts a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle, warm climate, and a well-established digital nomad community.
Hungary’s capital, Budapest, is a growing hub for tech startups and offers a cost of living significantly lower than many Western European cities. With easy access to other parts of Europe, Hungary is ideal for digital nomads looking to travel across the continent while working remotely.
Spain is known for its climate and culture. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the beaches of Barcelona, Spain offers a variety of environments for digital nomads. The cost of living in Spain is higher than Hungary, especially in major cities, but the Mediterranean lifestyle and strong community of remote workers provide a different set of advantages.
Understanding Spain Nomad Residence
Digital Nomad Visa in Spain offers a comprehensive package. Spain recently introduced a visa specifically for digital nomads, allowing remote workers to reside in the country while maintaining employment elsewhere. This visa requires a stable source of income from a company located outside Spain and provides a legal way to live and work in Spain for up to 3 years, with the possibility of extensions.
To qualify, applicants must prove they earn at least €2,646 per month from remote work. Also, the visa allows nomads to bring their family members, making Spain a solid choice for those travelling with dependents.
Spain also offers tax incentives for digital nomads, which can significantly reduce the burden of income tax for remote workers staying in the country. These benefits make Spain a financially appealing option for high-income individuals.
Understanding Hungary’s Digital Nomad Visa
Hungary’s White Card visa provides flexibility for remote workers. Hungary launched its digital nomad visa, known as the White Card, allowing non-EU citizens to live and work in the country for up to two years. Similar to Spain’s program, the visa is aimed at those employed abroad or operating their own business outside Hungary.
To qualify for Hungary’s White Card, applicants must prove a stable income over €3,000 per month. This ensures that digital nomads are financially independent during their stay.
Unlike some other European countries, Hungary has simplified the application process, making it straightforward for digital nomads to settle in the country. Extensions beyond the initial two years are also possible, allowing for long-term residency planning.
Compared to Spain, digital nomads living in Hungary can expect to save more on everyday expenses like accommodation, transport, and dining out. Budapest in particular has a thriving digital community and coworking spaces, providing a solid base for remote work.
Hungary and Spain Digital Nomad Visas Comparison
Hungary offers a simpler and more affordable lifestyle. Hungary’s lower cost of living, especially in terms of rent, utilities, and food, makes it a financially attractive option for digital nomads. A nomad living in Budapest can expect to pay far less than in major Spanish cities, making it easier to save or reinvest earnings into their business.
Spain provides a strong infrastructure for remote workers. Spain’s long history of welcoming expats, combined with its infrastructure for remote workers makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a more structured digital nomad experience.
In cities like Barcelona and Madrid, there are dedicated communities that offer networking and support for remote workers.
Taxes are a major factor when deciding between Hungary and Spain. Hungary offers flat income tax rates, which might be more predictable for digital nomads. Spain, on the other hand, has tax incentives that can make it more attractive for higher-income earners, though the process can be more complex.
Climate is a significant lifestyle consideration. While Hungary experiences a full range of seasons, including cold winters, Spain is well-known for its warm Mediterranean climate, especially in the south. This could be a deciding factor for digital nomads who prioritise a warm, outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Conclusion
Both Hungary and Spain offer excellent opportunities for digital nomads, but the choice depends on your personal priorities. Hungary stands out for its affordability, simplicity, and strategic location in central Europe. Spain offers a more established community of digital nomads, tax benefits for high earners, and a Mediterranean lifestyle that appeals to many.
If you are considering either destination, we recommend researching your specific needs and speaking to experts about visa applications and tax implications.
