Introduction
Remote work makes it possible to live almost anywhere – but working legally across borders is more complicated than many people realise. Visas, tax residency, employment law, and insurance all matter.
This guide explains the fundamentals you should understand before working remotely from another country in 2026.
Tourist visas vs working legally
Most countries do not allow work on a tourist visa, even for foreign employers.
Typical situations:
- Tourist visa → usually illegal to work
- Digital nomad visa → legal but limited
- Work visa → legal but employer-sponsored
- Employer of Record (EOR) → legal employment locally
Always check:
- Visa conditions
- Length of stay
- Local employment rules
Digital nomad visas explained
Countries offering remote-worker visas include:
- Portugal
- Spain
- Estonia
- Croatia
- Dubai (UAE)
- Costa Rica
Common requirements:
- Proof of income (€2,000–€4,000/month)
- Health insurance
- Clean criminal record
- Remote employer or freelance clients
Limitations:
- Often temporary (6–24 months)
- May trigger local tax residency
- Not valid for local employment
3. Tax residency: the real risk
You may become tax resident if you:
- Conduct business locally
- Spend 183+ days in a country
- Have your main home there
This can create:
- Double taxation risk
- Employer compliance obligations
- Social security requirements
Professional advice is recommended if you are planning on staying longer than 3 months.
Employer compliance options
If you’re employed:
Options:
- Your company opens a local entity
- Use an Employer of Record (EOR)
- Convert to contractor (with risks)
- Return to home country payroll
EOR services handle:
- Payroll
- Taxes
- Employment contracts
- Benefits compliance
Health insurance & liability
At minimum:
- International medical insurance
- Emergency evacuation
- Liability coverage
Local healthcare access often depends on:
- Visa type
- Residency status
- Social security registration
Summary checklist
Before relocating:
- Confirm visa legality
- Understand tax residency rules
- Verify employer compliance
- Arrange insurance
- Document employment status