Moving abroad to escape high costs of living is becoming increasingly popular, with individuals seeking affordable options to improve their quality of life. European countries such as Montenegro, Portugal, Croatia, and Lithuania offer low cost of living indices compared to destinations like Switzerland. In Montenegro, prices are around 39.4% of those in New York City, making it a prime destination for digital nomads seeking rugged mountains and medieval villages. Portugal, known for its bars and beaches, has a cost of living index of 45.1 and offers a digital nomad scheme that allows remote workers to live in the country for up to 12 months. Croatia, with its national parks and ancient palaces, provides special visas to digital workers from outside the EU and has a cost of living index of 45.5. Lithuania, particularly Vilnius, is also popular with digital nomads and offers a ‘National D’ visa valid for up to one year.
Low prices in these affordable European countries may benefit digital nomads, but they can also have negative impacts on local communities through price inflation and housing crises. It is important for expats to consider the local residents’ perspectives and find ways to ethically support the communities they join. This may include learning the local language, familiarizing oneself with local customs, and respecting the local way of life. By integrating themselves into the community, expats can build positive relationships and contribute positively to their new environment. Understanding the potential challenges and opportunities of living in a new country is essential for a successful and harmonious relocation.
Montenegro, in addition to its low cost of living, offers a two-year visa for digital nomads, with the possibility of a two-year extension. Prices in the capital, Podgorica, are relatively low, with a cheap meal costing €8 and a one-bedroom flat in the city center renting for €545 per month. Portugal, with its sunny beaches and bustling cities, has a higher cost of living compared to Montenegro, but still remains affordable for expats. The capital, Lisbon, has prices such as a cheap meal for €12.75 and a one-bedroom flat in the city center for €1,413 per month. Croatia, known for its Game of Thrones filming locations, began offering special visas for digital workers from outside the EU in 2021, with prices in the capital city, Zagreb, including a cheap meal for €10 and a one-bedroom flat in the city center for €682 per month. Lithuania, particularly Vilnius, offers a National D visa for digital nomads, with a cost of living index of 47.1 and prices like a cheap meal for €12 and a one-bedroom flat in the city center for €743 per month.
Overall, moving to an affordable European country can offer opportunities for a better quality of life at a lower cost, particularly for digital nomads seeking new experiences and remote work opportunities. By understanding the impact of their presence on local communities and taking proactive steps to integrate into their new environment, expats can create a positive and sustainable experience for themselves and those around them. Researching the cost of living, visa options, and local customs before making the move can help individuals make an informed decision and prepare for a successful relocation abroad.
