The United States of America is certainly one of the most desirable countries and popular destinations out there. With a growing economy, strategic geographic location, and good political place, the USA appeals to tourists and visitors all over the world.
Digital nomads and remote workers must wonder whether they can pursue their work here and be surrounded by top talent.
In short, the USA offers a range of benefits to the digital nomad community! If this place has intrigued you enough to pack your bags, keep reading this article and learn about the possible visa options.
Does the United States have a Digital Nomad Visa?
The United States does not have an official digital nomad visa as of now and it doesn’t plan on introducing one anytime soon. However, it offers several visa alternatives for remote workers and digital nomads. While these other options aren’t exactly the same, they serve a similar purpose and aid the digital nomad community.
Some good options include a visitor visa, a B-2 Tourism Visa, and an ESTA (visa waiver program). Much like digital nomad visas, these alternatives also restrict you from working legally within US borders. ESTA does not allow you to work remotely either.
Who Can Apply for the United States Digital Nomad Visa?
With the exception of countries that can enjoy visa-free entry to the USA, anyone can apply for United States digital nomad visas; B-2 tourism visas, and ESTA.
Eligibility criteria:
- Citizens of foreign countries
- Medical reasons; treatments and procedures
- Foreign nationals visiting family, friends, relatives
- Individuals partaking in social events
- Individuals participating in unpaid contests
- Individuals who are enrolled in short-term courses
- Citizens of Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus (other EU citizens can enter without a visa)
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in the United States?
A B-2 tourist visa is the closest thing to a typical “remote work visa” in this country. Take a look at the step-by-step guide below and see how you can apply.
- Apply
You’ll need to check whether your country is visa-exempt in regard to the USA’s context. If it is, you can arrive in the country and enter as a digital nomad. On the off chance that your country isn’t visa-exempt, you’ll need to go to a United States embassy or consulate in your country of residence (home country).
- Gather the required documents.
Now is the time to gather all the documents required for a Digital Nomad Visa. The tentative list for the visa requirements is discussed below.
Make sure to double-check them before submitting.
- Fill out the application form.
This step includes a lot of intricate details. Hence, the necessary amount of attention should be given. You can easily get it online and fill it out.
- Make your appointment
The next step is to make an appointment at your nearest embassy and submit all the documents. Make sure to bring copies with you as they are necessary during the visa processing time.
- Attend the interview
Your appointment will also include an interview and it’ll be determined whether the visa application is approved or not.
- Wait for the visa
Once you have completed all the steps, you just need to sit tight and wait for the authorities to process your application. They’ll let you know whether the interview went successfully and you’ll receive your visa shortly.
How Much Does it Cost?
A United States digital nomad visa; a B-2 tourism visa in this context, typically costs $185 (this is a non-refundable fee that is levied whether or not your visa application is approved). However, additional costs will be incurred if you need to get your documents sorted out.
Other than that, applicants above the age of 14 will need to pay $85 for biometrics.
Costs are bound to change if you are bringing dependents including spouse, children, and other family members.
United States Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
If you’re someone who is thinking about applying for a US digital nomad visa then these are the applications and documentation you should start gathering.
Important: copies of the following documents must be submitted in the English language.
Required Documentation
Remember that you’ll need to bring the following documents to your scheduled interview.
- Valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for the entirety of your intended stay and an additional 6 months beyond that
- Photo: clear, colored, 22mm and 35mm
- Filled out visa application form: form DS-160
- Receipt of the application fee payment
- Travel itinerary: this can include proof of accommodation, tickets, and travel plans
As you can see, the list of documents for a USA digital nomads visa isn’t that complex. The primary reason for that is the fact that a b-2 tourism visa is not a digital nomad visa per se, but rather a tourist visa. Hence, making it easy for applicants to apply. While things like proof of employment, background checks, or health insurance aren’t needed, standard requirements must be met.
Financial requirements
The USA visas that offer similar benefits require you to submit proof of financial stability and fulfill minimum income requirements. In order to be deemed eligible, your bank account must have sufficient balance. The minimum requirement is $6,000–$10,000.
Essentially, you need to prove that you can support yourself during your time in the USA.
You can submit bank statements, payslips, and income tax returns to meet the financial requirements.
How Long Does it Take to Get a United States Digital Nomad Visa?
There is no set time for this visa application process because sometimes it can be completed in 70 business days while other times, USA embassies require up to 756 days. Ideally, your application will be processed within the first few months of submission and you’ll receive feedback.
However, it can change depending on the competency of the USA embassy, consulate, or diplomatic mission in charge. It can also extend if your case worker or counselor finds that they need more details or documents. All you can do is submit an accurate application with correct and complete documents.
Benefits of the United States Digital Nomad Visa
- High-speed internet
One of the best parts about this country is its high-speed internet, great coverage, and reliable speeds. The US government has highly invested in the internet infrastructure to enable reliable and high-speed Wi-Fi all over the region. The USA experiences an average download speed of 219 Mbps which is great for remote work. Digital nomads can easily maintain a good work-life balance thanks to these. Additionally, you can get local SIM cards at your nearest convenience store or an airport when you arrive. Most cafes and coworking spaces offer fast wifi for free.
- Tax exemption
Another great thing for non-residents is that they are not subject to local taxes. You can work remotely and enjoy your income. If you are visiting the USA on a B-2 tourism visa, you won’t be allowed to work locally, and hence, you won’t have any taxable income.
However, you’ll still be liable to the tax obligations in your home country, if that is what they require.
- Welcoming community
The US is also a great place because of its political condition. The country is democratic and has a strong freedom of speech. Since it is racially tolerant and female-friendly, both groups can travel safely. The USA is very friendly to the lgbtq+ community and the local community is fairly welcoming.
- High quality of life
The United States of America offers various facilities and modern amenities that ensure a very high quality of life. Digital nomads will have access to a resourceful economy, and growing tech sector, and they will have the opportunity to thrive. The top-notch healthcare, high-end medical treatment, and education, paired with a stable political system is a great combination for sure. Other than that, you’ll have the chance to be surrounded by young talent, a thriving digital nomad community, and world-class technology.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in the United States?
Anyone who is considered a tax resident in the US will be required to pay taxes on their worldwide income. This means that if you’re a digital nomad based in the USA, you’ll be subject to income taxes and personal taxes no matter the source and origin of your income.
This tax situation is favorable to applicants from foreign countries who are visiting on B-2 tourist visas.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa United States
A B-2 tourism visa is designed to last for a period of 10 years. However, the US Customs and Border Protection only allows you to stay in intervals with 6 months being the maximum.
Once the 10 years have passed, you can reapply for renewal and get an extension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a B-1 visa and a B-2 visa?
The B-category visas are designed to accommodate a wide variety of visitors to the country. The B-1 business visa caters to individuals who wish to enter the USA for business activities such as conferences and meetings. However, the B-2 tourism visa is for those who wish to enter for personal reasons; recreational activities, visiting family, and medical treatments.
Do EU citizens need a visa to enter the USA?
Under the EU agreement, the citizens of the European Union can enter and stay in the United States without a visa. All EU countries are visa-exempt except for Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus.
How long does a B-2 tourism visa last?
A b-2 tourism visa can stay valid for up to 10 years but applicants are only allowed to stay for 6 consecutive months at a time.
Why am I denied a USA digital nomad visa?
While your embassy can guide you best about this, here are some reasons why one’s digital nomad visa application may get denied.
1. Misinformation
2. Incomplete information
3. Insufficient funds
5. Incomplete application form
What are good places for digital nomads?
Some good places include Sri Lanka, the Cayman Islands, North America, South America, Budapest, Costa Rica, Chiang Mai, South Africa, etc.
Which countries can enter the USA visa-free?
Citizens of the United Kingdom, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Taiwan.
Final Thoughts
The United States of America is a metropolitan country, perfect for digital nomads and remote workers. This country has everything that a digital nomad could possibly need. With its high quality of life, bustling nightlife, and fast internet, it caters to the digital nomad lifestyle. In addition to that, there is plenty to do around here. You can enjoy the cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere, and engage in various outdoor activities.
This article discussed the United States digital nomad visa program and the process that concerns it. We hope it answered all your questions, provided detailed information, and helped you evaluate the visa policy of this country. If you have any further queries, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
Did You Like This Article About the United States Digital Nomad Visa?
Sign up for our newsletter to receive more exclusive tips and insights straight to your inbox!