Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Estonia vs. Mexico
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: Estonia vs Mexico
If you're a digital nomad looking for a place to stay for an extended period, Estonia and Mexico are great options. Both countries offer unique experiences and opportunities for digital nomads, but their visa requirements differ. In this blog post, we'll compare the visa requirements of Estonia and Mexico.
Estonia
Estonia is a small country in Northern Europe with a highly advanced digital infrastructure that makes it an excellent hub for digital nomads.
Digital Nomad Visa Program
| Cost of Visa | EUR80 for a type C and EUR100 for a type D visa |
|---|---|
| Length of Stay | Up to 12 months • Before the initial Estonia Digital Nomad Visa expires, the applicant can apply for a new one. However, he/she is not allowed to stay in Estonia longer than 548 days within 730 consecutive days. |
| Income Requirement | Yes - EUR3,504 per month |
Other Conditions or Requirements
- The applicants should work online & independent of location:
- For an employer registered abroad
- For their company registered abroad, or
- As a freelancer for clients mostly abroad
- Must hold documents which prove that the applicant can work remotely
- Documents providing information about the current work status
- Documents providing information about the last six months income, its regularity, and its sources
- Documents about academic and professional history
- A Valid Passport or Travel Document
- Medical Insurance or Health Insurance
- Proof of Accommodation
- If the employer is not registered in the Estonian commercial register, the employer must register with the Tax and Customs Board as a non-resident employer before commencing activities in Estonia
- Yes - Digital nomads will be taxed under the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa after 183 consecutive days (after living 183 days within a financial year)
- Yes - Digital nomads will be taxed under the Estonian Digital Nomad Visa
- The relevant administrative authority will review the application in full and conduct thorough background checks
Mexico
Mexico is a large and diverse country that offers an amazing array of experiences for digital nomads. From stunning beaches to fascinating cultural sites, this country has it all.
FMM (Forma Migratoria Multiple)/Temporary Resident Visa*
| Cost of Visa | For a temporary resident visa: • US$48 (Interview Government fee) • $4,735 MXN (Government fees for Residency Permit card, updated each year) |
|---|---|
| Length of Stay | FMM permit: 180 days. • If stay is extending over 180 days, need to apply for temporary resident visa, valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually up to 4 years). • After 4 years, the individual can apply for a permanent resident visa |
| Income Requirement | For a Temporary Resident Visa: • Investments or bank accounts with an average monthly balance equivalent to 5,000 days of the general minimum wage, during the last twelve months. (For 2022, it is $864,350 MXN) or • Monthly income free of liens greater than the equivalent of 300 days of the general minimum wage. (For 2022, it is $51,861 MXN). |
Other Conditions or Requirements
- Depends on tax residence status. Tax residency is triggered when the individual has a place of abode (home) in Mexico. In case the individual also has a home in another country, will be tax resident in Mexico the center of vital interests is located in Mexico. An individual has his/her center of vital interests in Mexico in either of the following cases, among others:
- When more than 50% of the individual’s total income received during the calendar year is derived from Mexican sources; or
- When the individual’s main center of professional activities is located in Mexico
- No, assuming no labor relationship with a Mexican entity
- No
- The FMM permit does not allow to work for a Mexican company. • Temporary resident visa: Does not allow to work for a Mexican company. The applicant must show proof that is earning income from a company outside Mexico. In case the individual will receive income from a Mexican entity, the Temporary resident visa with a work permit should be applied for by the Mexican employer, we understand this would not be applicable for Digital Nomads
- Visa application form
- Passport
- If applying from a country that is not the individual's home country, proof of legally being in that country
- ID photo measuring 3.9 cm x 3.1 cm
Conclusion
Deciding between Estonia and Mexico as a digital nomad destination will largely depend on personal preferences, work style, lifestyle, and cultural experience desired. Estonia has an excellent digital infrastructure and offers an attractive visa program for digital nomads. On the other hand, Mexico provides an opportunity to experience vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty. Both countries offer a unique experience and opportunities for digital nomads, so it ultimately depends on the specific type of environment and experience you are seeking.