Remote work has redefined what “home” means — and not just for solo travelers. More and more families are embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, with kids attending international schools, parents coworking near the beach, and weekends spent exploring new cultures.
But moving abroad as a family takes more than a laptop and a passport. You need a visa that supports dependents, offers access to schools and healthcare, and doesn’t drown you in paperwork.
Here’s a breakdown of the best digital nomad visas for families — country by country — to help you find the right fit.
🇵🇹 Portugal
Portugal’s digital nomad visa is one of the most family-friendly in Europe. It allows you to bring your spouse and children, offers access to public healthcare and schools, and can lead to permanent residency after just five years.
Income Requirement: €3,000–€4,000/month (+50% partner, +30% per child)
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable
Perks: Access to public services, great quality of life, international communities
Best for: Families seeking long-term stability in Europe
Popular cities: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve
🇪🇸 Spain
Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa is great for families wanting a mix of urban life, Mediterranean culture, and quality education. The visa allows dependents and can be renewed for up to five years.
Income Requirement: €2,200–€2,700/month (+50% partner, +15% per child)
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable up to 5
Perks: Public healthcare, bilingual private schools, mild climate
Best for: Mediterranean lifestyle with EU access
Popular cities: Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga
🇲🇽 Mexico
Mexico doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa, but the Temporary Resident Visa is a flexible and accessible option. It allows family inclusion, has low fees, and supports stays up to four years.
Income Requirement: $2,500/month or $43,000 in savings (+~$861/dependent)
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable up to 4
Perks: Affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, private education options
Best for: Quick approvals and a warm, relaxed lifestyle
Popular cities: Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Mexico City
🇨🇷 Costa Rica
This eco-friendly country welcomes families under its digital nomad visa. Dependents, including elderly relatives, are allowed, and the application process is relatively straightforward.
Income Requirement: $3,000–$4,000/month
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable once
Perks: Green living, private/public healthcare, child-friendly communities
Best for: Nature lovers and sustainable families
Popular areas: Nosara, Tamarindo, San José
🇹🇭 Thailand
Thailand’s new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) supports long-term stays with multiple 180-day entries over five years. Dependents require their own DTV visa, but the process is clear and online-friendly.
Income Requirement: ~$14,400/year (per adult)
Visa Duration: 180 days per stay, up to 5 years
Perks: World-class private hospitals, international schools, low cost of living
Best for: Southeast Asia travel base with comfort
Popular cities: Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket
🇭🇷 Croatia
Croatia’s visa is valid for one year and supports families, but it’s non-renewable. You’ll need private insurance and can’t work locally. Still, it's an affordable EU base with stunning coastal towns.
Income Requirement: €2,500/month (+10–15% per dependent) or €30,000 in savings
Visa Duration: 1 year (non-renewable)
Perks: Beautiful coastline, safe cities, low living costs
Best for: Short-term stays in the Balkans
Popular cities: Split, Zadar, Zagreb
🇲🇹 Malta
Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit ideal for English-speaking families. It includes dependents and is renewable yearly. Private health insurance is required.
Income Requirement: €3,500/month (+20% partner, +10% per child)
Visa Duration: 1 year, renewable
Perks: English-speaking schools, top healthcare, sunny lifestyle
Best for: Families who want a small, safe EU base
Popular cities: Valletta, Sliema
🇨🇴 Colombia
Colombia’s new Visa V is family-friendly and affordable. It includes dependents under 18 and can be renewed. Private health insurance is required.
Income Requirement: $680/month (+$200 per dependent)
Visa Duration: Up to 2 years, renewable
Perks: Low cost of living, warm climate, growing expat network
Best for: Budget-conscious families exploring South America
Popular cities: Medellín, Bogotá
Final Thoughts: What’s Best for Your Family?
Choosing the right digital nomad visa depends on your income, goals, family size, and preferred lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide:
For long-term EU life: Portugal or Spain
For affordability and flexibility: Mexico or Colombia
For natural surroundings and fast processing: Costa Rica
For Southeast Asia access: Thailand
For English-language education: Malta
For short EU adventures: Croatia
Visas change quickly, and details matter — so before making any decisions, check out the full original guide from Freaking Nomads here:
👉 Best Digital Nomad Visas for Families – Freaking Nomads