The world of remote work: A guidebook for Indian Digital Nomads

The digital nomad lifestyle is taking over the world as we know it—and Indians are riding the wave.

Of 35 million digital nomads in the world, 8% are Asian. Plus, the 2024 State of Digital Nomads report shares that there are now more than 980,000 Indian digital nomads worldwide.

Digital Nomadism is not just a fancy term; it's a lifestyle choice. Imagine having the freedom to work from the vibrant streets of Tokyo, the serene beaches of Bali, or the historical landscapes of Rome. That's the essence of being a digital nomad—the world is your workplace, and endless possibilities exist. Remote work opportunities will always be up for grabs.

This lifestyle is gaining traction, particularly in India. Remote work has become more than just a trend; it's a movement. With technology breaking down geographical barriers, the traditional 9-to-5 grind is being pushed away to favor flexible work arrangements. Indians, like many others around the globe, are now embracing the freedom to work from anywhere.

What do digital nomad visas mean for Indians?

Not all countries are automatically on board with having digital nomads work from their terrains. That's where the digital nomad visa swoops in as the hero of the story. As the demand for remote work soars, countries worldwide are warming up to the idea of attracting skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.

Now, the question is: how many Indians have taken the plunge into the digital nomad lifestyle? Well, the numbers are on the rise. More and more of us are saying goodbye to the conventional office setup and hello to a life filled with diverse cultures, new experiences, remote work opportunities, and a dash of adventure. You will meet an Indian digital nomad almost anywhere. ‍

Of the 35 million digital nomads in the world, 37% are millennials earning at least $100,000 a year all while traveling the world. When it comes to ethnicity, 76% of digital nomads, 10% are Hispanic, and 8% are Asian. According to The 2024 State of Digital Nomads, there are now 981,946 Indian digital nomads roaming the world. Additionally, a survey revealed that Indians are more inclined to take on the digital nomad lifestyle.‍

As more and more countries release digital nomad visas, this means more opportunities and upcoming adventures for the Indian digital nomad crowd.

Benefits of obtaining a digital nomad visa for Indian citizens

Not just a bureaucratic formality but a gateway to experience life and work in some of the most stunning locations on Earth. Here are some reasons why Indian freelancers should definitely consider applying for digital nomad visas:

• The freedom to work anywhere—legally: With a digital nomad visa, you can set up shop in another country without worrying about the work legalities where you're officially welcome to work for your global clients from a cafe in Vietnam or a beach resort in Thailand.
• No need to worry about extended stays: Forget the typical tourist visa hustle. Digital nomad visas often grant longer stays, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture without the constant countdown to your departure.
• Soak up the local experiences while earning global income: Ever dreamt of sipping chai in the Himalayas while earning in dollars or euros? A digital nomad visa lets you experience the local vibes while keeping your global income flowing. You can even hop around from country to country and live like a local.

What do Indian digital nomads need to prepare to be granted digital nomad visas?

Digital nomad visa requirements vary from country to country. However, there are some general similarities in terms of digital nomad visa requirements that one would need to prepare:

• Financial proof - most countries require a minimum annual income before granting visas
• Proof of income sources - digital nomads need to show proper documentation explaining their source of income
• Proof of accommodation - visa applicants will need to have prior booking arrangements before they apply for the visa
• Insurance documents - most immigration officers will look for comprehensive medical insurance that can cover incidents in their country
  

Discover everything about digital nomad visas for Indian citizens in our all-inclusive guide here.

How do Indian digital nomads handle their taxes?

The quick answer is… it depends. It depends on the type of digital nomad visa you have for a specific country and the length of your stay there. In some countries, you might be considered a resident and will then be required to pay a percentage of your tax

Here are the common concerns that up-and-coming digital nomads ask, and the corresponding answers:

1. How much taxes do I pay if I work overseas?

This will largely depend on the country you're working in. Different nations have different tax rules; some might even have treaties with India to prevent digital nomads from being taxed twice.

2. Working overseas tax: what to consider

Most countries' taxes on income are based on where it is earned, but India has a global income taxation system. This means that as an Indian resident, you're liable to pay taxes on your worldwide income. So even if you spend three months in Lisbon, four months in Bangkok, four months in Estonia, and only one month in India—you’re still required to file and pay your taxes according to India’s finance laws.

3. Paying taxes when you are an Indian working overseas

Here's the nitty-gritty for Indian digital nomads:

• If you're considered a resident of India, your overseas income is taxable in India.
• However, if there is a treaty between India and the country you're working in, you might be eligible for relief under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).

Remember, tax laws are like complicated puzzles, and they can vary. It is highly recommended that you seek advice from tax professionals specializing in international tax matters. Get the lowdown on digital nomad visas for Indians with our ultimate guide—it's your passport to remote work freedom

Here’s where Out of Office comes in…

Our team at CXC is well-equipped to handle financial requirements, digital nomad visa applications, and legal obligations for remote workers.

The truth is, being a digital nomad can be a fun adventure. However, processing the necessary documents can be frustrating and time-consuming. CXC steps in to partner with contractors worldwide to make their digital nomad dreams a reality.

Ready to explore a digital nomad visa as an Indian citizen? Don't miss our comprehensive guide here.