How much do I need to earn to be a digital nomad?
What is the minimum income needed to live as a digital nomad? The answer varies drastically depending on the country chosen, and understanding these values is fundamental to planning your international journey.
Financial requirements by destination
Spain: gateway to Europe
Spain offers the Digital Nomad Visa with specific income requirements. To obtain authorization, you need to prove monthly earnings of €2,764, which are equivalent to approximately R$ 17,600 (amount subject to exchange rate fluctuation in August 2025).
This amount is not just a bureaucratic requirement. It represents what the Spanish government considers necessary to maintain an adequate standard of living in the country. Madrid, Barcelona, and other major cities have high costs, especially housing and food.
Thailand: Affordable Tropical Paradise
O Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) requires a financial reserve of 500,000 baht, approximately R$ 84,000. Unlike in Spain, this amount works as a bank guarantee, not necessarily as a monthly income.
Thailand's advantage lies in the reduced cost of living. This reserve amount can sustain a digital nomad for several months, depending on the lifestyle chosen.
Factors that influence your required income
Local cost of living
Each destination has its own peculiarities. While the Spain requires proof of specific income, countries like Portugal or Mexico may have different requirements.
Type of remote work
Freelancers they generally need to prove:
- Active contracts with clients
- Receipt history
- Consolidated professional portfolio
Remote CLT employees they have advantages:
- Income stability
- Simpler proof
- Maintained benefits
Long-term planning
Many digital nomads use this experience as a bridge to permanent international opportunities. Initial investment can open doors to study and work programs abroad.
Strategies to achieve the necessary income
1. Diversification of revenues
Don't just rely on one source. Combine:
- Main job
- One-time freelancers
- Digital products
- Specialized consultancies
2. Advance preparation
Start planning at least 6 months ago of the trip. This period allows:
- Increase your customer base
- Negotiate better contracts
- Create financial reserves
- Prepare necessary documentation
3. Test in domestic destinations
Try remote work in Brazilian cities first. This helps you understand your actual expenses and operational needs.
Required financial documentation
For Spain
- Bank statements for the last 3 months
- Income Tax Return
- Employment or service contracts
- Certificate of proficiency in English or Spanish
To Thailand
- Proof of the reservation of 500,000 baht
- Bank statements
- Employer or client documents
- International health insurance
Additional costs to consider
In addition to the required minimum income, plan extra expenses:
Documentation and visas: R$ 2,000 to R$ 5,000
Airfare: R$ 3,000 to R$ 8,000
Health insurance: R$ 100 to R$ 300 monthly
Initial hosting: R$ 2,000 to R$ 4,000
Local adaptation: R$ 1,500 to R$ 3,000
Alternatives for those who do not reach the minimum income
Study and work programs
If your current income doesn't allow for a digital nomad visa, consider study and work programs. Many countries allow you to work while you study, creating opportunities for professional growth.
International Freelance
Start working for international clients still in Brazil. This increases your hard currency income and proves experience for future visas.
How to choose the best destination
The decision goes beyond financial requirements. Consider:
- Time zone: Compatibility with your customers
- Infrastructure: Internet, coworking, transportation
- Language: Local communication facility
- Culture: Adaptation to lifestyle
- Taxes: Taxation on your income
Destinations like Spain offer access to the entire European Union, but require higher incomes. Thailand has lower costs, but is far from Brazilian customers.
Common mistakes when calculating required income
Underestimate hidden costs
Many nomads focus only on the official minimum income, forgetting:
- International bank fees
- Currency conversion
- Local taxes
- Inflation in the chosen destination
Don't consider emergencies
Always keep an extra reserve of 20% to 30% of the planned amount. Unexpected events happen, especially in the first few months.
Ignore local regulations
Each country has specific rules about remote work and taxation. Inform yourself properly before making decisions.
Be Easy
Choosing the ideal destination for your life as a digital nomad is a complex decision that goes far beyond the minimum income required. A Be Easy offers specialized advice to help you evaluate all variables and find the option that best aligns with your professional and personal objectives. Our experienced team knows the details of each program and can guide you on the best paths to make your dream of working abroad a sustainable reality. Contact us and discover how we can transform your planning into a successful international journey!
