10 countries digital nomads flock to for health and work-life balance
Digital nomads look for countries with reliable internet, good healthcare, and access to the outdoors — Photo courtesy of Kosamtu / E+
Nearly 70 countries offer digital nomad visas. Deciding where to apply is a complex process that depends on many factors, including how long you want to stay, how far your income will go, and if you wish to live by the beach, in the mountains, in a bustling city, or a combination of these.
Each country that offers digital nomad visas has pros and cons, and having so many options is great. But choosing a country with good healthcare and where it’s easier to live a healthy lifestyle should be important to all digital nomads. After all, the point is to enjoy your life abroad. Here’s everything you need to know about the healthiest countries for digital nomads.
What is a digital nomad?
Digital nomads can work wherever and whenever they want — Photo courtesy of Simon Izquierdo / iStock Via Getty Images
A digital nomad works remotely while traveling and living anywhere there’s a reliable internet connection. These jobs aren’t easy to find, but those lucky enough to qualify for a digital nomad visa can move abroad and live a life many people only dream of.
Digital nomads can work abroad for a set period, assuming they earn enough money, have a qualifying job, and meet other requirements for obtaining a digital nomad visa. Requirements vary significantly by country, but all digital nomads have a unique opportunity to “choose environments that actively support their health and well-being,” says Dr. Sam Setareh, director of Clinical Cardiology and Cardiovascular Performance at Beverly Hills Cardiovascular.
According to Setareh, when choosing where to apply for a digital nomad visa, you should consider six factors: access to quality healthcare; clean air and water; opportunities for physical activity, such as parks or beaches; a healthy food culture, including access to fresh foods; the chance to make connections within the community; and a climate that will motivate outdoor activities.
The best countries for digital nomads
Many factors determine the best countries for digital nomads — Photo courtesy of Vasil Dimitrov / E+
According to a study by William Russell, a company that provides insurance to Americans who have moved abroad, these are the 10 healthiest countries for digital nomads. All of these countries have comprehensive healthcare systems, but it should be noted that digital nomads may need to buy their own health insurance or pay into the national healthcare system to have coverage.
Taiwan
According to William Russell, Taiwan is the healthiest country in the world for digital nomads. At approximately 81 years old, life expectancy in Taiwan is among the highest in the world. This is mainly due to Taiwan’s advanced medical care and a population that values exercise. Taiwan also has a lower cost of living, which can reduce stress. Because of its status as the healthiest country for digital nomads, it has a robust digital nomad community.
Norway
Norway’s universal healthcare system includes mental health services, prescription drugs, and medical transport. Patients must pay a nominal amount toward their care, and out-of-pocket expenses are capped at about $300 per year. Although the weather can be quite cold much of the year, Norway boasts a gorgeous landscape perfect for outdoor activities all year. Just be sure to pack your wool socks!
Iceland
Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes, abundant outdoor activities, and excellent healthcare system. However, the country’s high cost of living makes a digital nomad visa out of reach for many. Those who meet the steep minimum income requirements will find a healthy and welcoming country.
Germany
Some countries make it difficult to see doctors, but Germany has removed many of those barriers. For that reason, many people consider Germany’s healthcare system one of the easiest to navigate in Europe. In Germany, patients can access almost any type of medical care without much red tape or long waits. Although Germans are known for their love of beer and sausages, regional cuisine is generally high quality and low in sugar.
Italy
Italy generally has a slow pace of life and an excellent healthcare system. Digital nomads who can eat pizza and pasta in moderation can feast on the country’s abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. The beautiful country also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Malta
Malta has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world. The country’s primary hospital, the Mater Dei, is one of Europe’s largest and most advanced medical facilities. The country’s mild, sunny climate promotes outdoor activity all year long.
Spain
In Spain, you’ll find a lower-stress lifestyle and a heart-healthy Mediterranean diet, which is famous for being one of the healthiest diets in the world. It’s also a sunny country with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. When it comes to healthcare, insurance covers most costs. Residents typically only pay a portion of prescription drug costs and contribute a small amount to the cost of specialty care.
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Czechia
Czechia’s universal healthcare system emphasizes preventative care. You’ll find a good work-life balance and a lower cost of living, which leads to less stress. Prague, the capital, is very walkable, which promotes a healthy lifestyle.
Cyprus
Cyprus offers high-quality healthcare and an average of 300 days of sunshine, encouraging a healthy lifestyle all year. Cyrpus provides opportunities to work on the beach or in crisp mountain air, so every digital nomad can find a place that works for them. The country’s lower cost of living may also lead to a less stressful lifestyle. Healthcare in Cyprus is generally high-quality and affordable.
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Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s stunning natural landscapes, from beaches to cloud forests, encourage digital nomads to spend a lot of time outdoors. Many residents of Costa Rica have a laid-back “pura vida” lifestyle that promotes well-being and lowers stress. The country also has a fantastic universal healthcare system that emphasizes preventive care.