Do you have a plan to travel to the EU for a vacation or work? Like how you travel to different countries that require transnational identity documents. Europeans must secure a passport for international travel, including a visa for their travel purpose.
The EU passport (歐盟護照) is used as your foreign national ID, it is a transnational or international identity document. It grants the holder the right to enter or travel freely within the EU. The passport holder can freely move within the EU.
Understanding the EU passport
The passport is recognized by other countries, allowing the holder to cross borders. An EU passport holder can cross borders or cross countries with the freedom to move and visa-free travel in the Schengen Area, including EU countries and some non-EU countries, such as:
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Norway
- Switzerland
Passport holders can travel between member countries or with an identification card. An EU passport is important for international travel, as it verifies the identity and nationality of the holder to foreign authorities.
Who issues an EU passport?
The EU government issues an EU passport, allowing the holder to freely move or travel within the EU. These EU passport holders can live and work within the EU member states without a visa. Yes, EU passport holders can have visa-free travel within the member states.
If you are a non-EU national and planning to live or work in the EU, you need both an EU passport and a digital nomad visa (數位遊牧簽證).
Digital nomad visa in the EU
A digital nomad visa is for non-EU citizens who wish to live and work remotely in the EU. Investors benefit more from this visa because it allows them to live and work as foreigners.
EU and EEA citizens can work remotely in any EU country without securing a digital nomad visa. In short, only those non-EU citizens must secure this visa to allow them to live and work remotely for an extended period in any other member state.
Digital nomad visa in the EU application
Remote work has become the norm today, making professionals look to the EU for a new work-life balance. Several EU countries offered digital nomad visas for remote workers, giving them the legal right to live and work. These non-EU citizens can live and work while enjoying the European lifestyle.
To apply for a digital nomad visa in the EU, here are the things you need to do:
Pick the right country. Ensure that the country you plan to live and work in the EU offers this visa, including:
- Portugal
- Spain
- Estonia
- Croatia
- Greece
Each country has different ways of securing a digital nomad visa, such as:
- income requirements
- application process
- cost of living
Now, if you think you cannot, you will have a problem in the country of your choice, better switch to another EU country.
Understand the visa requirements. Visa requirements may vary for most countries they ask for, such as:
- Valid passport
- Proof of remote work
- Minimum monthly income
- Health insurance coverage
- Clean criminal record
Prepare your documents. Collect all the necessary paperwork for submission, such as:
- employment letters
- proof of income
- travel insurance
- accommodation details
Apply through the online portal or the embassy. Some EU countries allow online applications, while others require a consulate or embassy in your homeland.
Wait for approval. Visa processing takes a few weeks to months. You can move and start working in the EU as an EU-based digital nomad after being approved.
Conclusion
Living and working in the EU as a digital nomad has become more accessible than ever. If you are a non-EU citizen, this will be your guide on how to live and work freely as a non-EU citizen living in the EU lifestyle.
