Top countries for UK digital nomads

Introduction

‍

As remote work becomes the norm, more UK-based professionals are seeking to relocate abroad while maintaining employment with UK companies. Choosing the right destination as a digital nomad depends heavily on visa availability, tax implications, and cost of living. In this guide, we highlight the top relocation options for UK remote workers in 2025.

‍

Key considerations for UK digital nomads

‍

Before relocating, UK remote workers should consider:


‍

• Visa pathways for remote workers or freelancers
• Tax residency rules in the destination country
• UK Statutory Residence Test (SRT) to cease UK tax residency
• Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) with the UK
• Payroll adjustments for UK-based employers
• Time zone alignment and digital infrastructure

‍

Top countries for UK digital nomads (2025 Edition)

‍

Spain 🇪🇸

‍

Visa: Digital Nomad Visa (valid up to 5 years)


Tax: Beckhams Law – 24% flat tax up to €600,000


Why it works: Fantastic weather, strong expat communities, and accessible EU healthcare
Ideal for: UK digital nomads seeking EU residency with a clear, predictable tax scheme

‍

Georgia 🇬🇪

‍

Visa: Remotely from Georgia – 1-year visa-free for UK nationals


Tax: 1% income tax under Small Business Regime


Benefits: Easy entry, very low cost of living, and minimal bureaucracy

Ideal for: Low-cost, low-tax base for freelancers and contractors

‍

Malta 🇲🇹

‍

Permit: Nomad Residence Permit (1 year, renewable)


Tax: Foreign income not remitted to Malta is tax-exempt


Benefits: English-speaking, EU member, strong financial services sector

Ideal for: UK professionals wanting EU access and clarity in tax treatment

‍

Croatia 🇭🇷

‍

Visa: Digital Nomad Visa (12 months, not extendable)


Tax: No local tax on digital nomad income for visa holders


Why it works: Mediterranean lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe

Ideal for: Short-term relocation with minimal tax reporting obligations

‍

Mexico 🇲🇽

‍

Visa: Temporary Resident Visa (up to 4 years)


Tax: No tax on foreign income 


Perks: High quality of life, low cost, vibrant digital nomad communities

Ideal for: Remote workers seeking a longer-term base in the Americas

‍

Thailand 🇹🇭

‍

Visa: Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa or Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) Visa


Tax:  Foreign income not remitted to Thailand is tax-exempt


Advantages: Excellent lifestyle, coworking hubs in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket

Ideal for: Digital nomads who value affordability and vibrant expat culture

‍

United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪

‍

Visa: Virtual Work Residency Visa (1-year renewable)


Tax: 0% personal income tax


Benefits: Modern infrastructure, English widely spoken, premium lifestyle

Ideal for: High earners seeking tax neutrality and business-friendly environment

‍

Costa Rica 🇨🇷

‍

Visa: Digital Nomad Visa (valid for up to 1 year, extendable)


Tax: Exemption on foreign income under the nomad visa


\Why it works: Stable economy, safe environment, nature-rich and wellness-focused lifestyle

Ideal for: Nomads seeking balance, sustainability, and Central American residency

‍

Planning your tax-efficient exit from the UK

‍

To successfully transition abroad while employed by a UK company, follow these steps:


‍

1. Determine your UK residency status using the SRT
2. Inform HMRC and file a form P85 if needed
3. Choose a country with a tax-friendly regime and verify the applicable visa
4. Establish local residency while avoiding UK tax obligations
5. Consult experts on payroll structuring, pension planning, and cross-border compliance