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3 Special Experiences Brought by Freelancing｜You Should Try It At Least Once in Your Lifetime!
For many, the term "entrepreneurship" embodies dreams and passion. The startup stories of Apple, Google, and Tesla have become epics and legends of our time, akin to the clarion call of adventure, urging the brave to embark on risky ventures. However, among the millions of workers in Taiwan, only a minority ultimately choose entrepreneurship. For most of us, even after graduation, we opt to join companies to utilize our skills. However, today, I want to persuade you of one thing: even if entrepreneurship isn't your choice, I still recommend trying freelancing or earning some extra income outside your regular job, at least once. Because it will bring you many unique and interesting experiences, some of which could even pave the way for your future career. 1. Experience of Flying Solo There's a documentary about Air Force pilot training called "Taiwan's Elite Warriors :Fighter Pilot", which I highly recommend. Regardless of how many flights rookie pilots take under the guidance of instructors, they must ultimately pass the test of "solo flight" to become true pilots. Many professions are similar. For instance, a surgeon can only truly become a proficient doctor when they can operate independently. It's like when we were kids learning to ride bicycles; no matter how stable our rides were with training wheels, it wasn't until the day the adults removed them that we could proudly say, "I can ride a bike!" Similarly, even if you always accomplish your missions at work, have you ever wondered, if you didn't have a boss or supervisor guiding you, could you solve a problem from start to finish or produce an output? I suggest you frequently ponder this because more and more companies are particularly interested in whether job applicants have the ability to "work independently" or even "make independent decisions," which has almost become a standard interview question. Unless you never have to look for a job again in your life, you'll have to prove to others that even without an "instructor" or "training wheels," you can still independently create value. My first freelancing experience was being a lecturer for a company. At that time, I had experience giving lectures within the company to my colleagues. Later, a friend asked me to give lectures to the employees and the boss of a small company. I thought it wouldn't be a big deal, just revisiting my previous PowerPoint presentations, but after agreeing, I realized that when I used to give lectures within the company, everything from timing, location, venue equipment, attendees, notifications, and tracking results was arranged by supervisors and colleagues. The learners also knew each other well. Many "invisible" tasks and responsibilities were taken care of by others. It wasn't until this freelancing gig that I truly felt the thrill of "flying solo." Despite the immense pressure, I grew immensely. Nowadays, many companies require job seekers to have the ability to "work independently," especially for positions involving "remote work." If you have had several successful experiences of freelancing independently, it can definitely serve as a strong testament to your capabilities. 2. Experience of Market Value I remember my first freelancing gig as a lecturer, where I charged an hourly rate of NT$ 4,500. For someone under 30 years old with no professional teaching experience, this was quite high. After successfully completing the project, I realized: People are willing to pay NT$ 4,500 per hour for my time! I quickly compared this to my hourly "rate" at the company, which was only a little over NT$ 200.NT$ 4,500 compared to NT$ 200, a difference of 22.5 times - this stark contrast left me astonished! This led to a new realization. I thought, if I have a market value of NT$ 4,500 per hour, why would I accept a company's hourly wage of just over NT$ 200? You might think, NT$ 4,500 per hour gigs aren't available every day, but the company's monthly salary is stable! But what's more important, I believe, is that by working at the company, I'm "earning less" byNT$ 4,300 per hour. So, I must "earn it back" from elsewhere; otherwise, working in the company would be too costly! How do you "earn back the difference"? Certainly not by stealing office supplies or tea bags! It's by diligently learning skills, accumulating experience and contacts, obtaining these intangible yet valuable company resources, so that in the future, there's a better chance of selling yourself for NT$ 4,500 or even higher per hour. So, I would suggest trying freelancing independently to understand how much you're worth from the perspective of the market? This way, the next time you complain about low company salaries or aim for a higher pay, you'll have more confidence! And when you plan to switch jobs, you'll have a more precise understanding of your market value! 3. Experience in Business Operations Working in a company, especially in highly specialized roles in large corporations, often creates a sense of dependence. Because each of us only does our part, and there's often an SOP to follow, we can become mere cogs in a big machine, losing our ability to solve problems and be creative. If being a little screw all your life brings you happiness, that's fine. But in this era, where companies have shorter lifespans, and entire industries rapidly decline, if you're a young person under 40, you must think carefully about how to support yourself and your family in the future. Although Taiwan's legal retirement age is 65, in recent years, people in their early 50s have trouble finding jobs, and there are more and more "retirees." If these "old screws" have the ability to operate a small personal business independently, wouldn't that provide more career security? In recent years, I've seen many seniors around me who were high-ranking executives in companies, receiving retirement benefits, wanting to start small businesses (usually cafes or food stalls), but most of them failed. "I led hundreds of people in a listed company, expanded business globally, why would opening a small coffee shop be difficult for me?" However, "professionalism" and "entrepreneurship," though only differing by a word, are entirely different games. Being good at management is going from 1 to 100, while starting a business is going from 0 to 1. There are too many different know-hows and challenges between the two, being proficient in one doesn't guarantee an easy transition to the other. Therefore, for office workers within the stable framework of a company, if you can allocate some extra time to try "freelancing," experience the feeling of going from 0 to 1, face the market alone, and take on the new role of "principal and bell ringer," you'll be building strength for your career. Even if you face career risks in middle age, you'll have more chips to deal with it. Conclusion Most office workers, when they hear "freelancing," first think of "earning money," and if the money isn't much, they lose interest. But what I want to say is, even if you're not interested in earning extra income and have no intention of starting a business, just want to be a professional office worker, the rare experiences brought by freelancing, such as "flying solo," "market value," and "business operations," will help build excellent assets and moats for your career, making it worth trying when you have some free time! -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 27, 2024
English Speaking Coach Mei Exclusive Interview | How to Travel the World on a "Limited Budget" ?
Many people aspire to be digital nomads, longing to work while exploring various places, but most hesitate to take the first step due to budget concerns. Mei, 37, manages to travel the world by being a digital nomad and practicing minimalist travel. Her experience might offer some reference for those with limited budgets who also wish to try digital nomadism and travel extensively! Mei , who has traveled to 42 countries and countless cities, was an office worker five years ago, teaching English and handling digital marketing in an English school in the United States. With a passion for backpacking and a dream to travel the world, she persuaded her boss to allow her to work remotely, embarking on the journey of digital nomadism. Initially, with a monthly salary of about NT$ 30,000 , Mei started her journey. She might work four to six hours a day and spend the rest slowly exploring a city. She might get to know local wildlife in Australia or attend a friend's wedding in India, spending a month deeply immersed in Indian life. Since last year, Mei has visited places like Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, India, Chiang Mai in Thailand, and Los Angeles in the United States. More than two years ago, Mei even established her own English teaching brand, teaching English online. With a computer and internet connection, anywhere in the world could be her office. Many people yearn to be digital nomads, like Mei, working and exploring the world simultaneously, but various worries hold them back. A common concern is, 'Without a substantial budget and a stable income, how can one afford to travel?' However, Mei, an experienced traveler, said, 'People always talk about work and income, but few discuss the travel aspect. Actually, if you are already accustomed to traveling, the pressure regarding income is quite minimal.' 'Being good at traveling' doesn’t mean you have to be good at enjoying yourself, but under limited budget circumstances, it means knowing how to travel smartly and economically in terms of food, clothing, housing, transportation, entertainment, and so on. Before Starting, Set Aside Time and Budget for Travel Before embarking on digital nomadism and even discussing how to work to support one's living and travel expenses, Mei emphasized that one should clearly understand what they want to achieve by choosing digital nomadism. Everyone has different objectives for choosing digital nomadism. Some choose it to have a steady income while sustaining long-term travel, while others might be pursuing their desired work style, among other reasons. However, Mei mentioned that she met many people during her digital nomad journey. Some want to travel the world while also aiming to earn a lot of money or find it hard to let go of work, constantly postponing travel or sacrificing travel time. But when invested in work, they are always distracted, ending up with dissatisfaction in both, resulting in a not-so-good overall journey quality. 'If you want to travel the world, please be sure to allocate time for travel,' Mei emphasized. If travel is one of your goals in digital nomadism, manage it as an important aspect, incorporating it into your schedule. Regardless of how much time you give to travel, the most crucial part is to balance the weight of work and travel according to the purpose of your digital nomadism. By planning a certain proportion of time and budget for travel, you can enjoy the journey more comfortably. Break Free from Monetary Limitations, and Travel Smartly on a Budget Once you've clarified your initial intentions and budget for starting as a digital nomad, and if your purpose is to travel to various countries, you can start thinking about how to travel on a limited budget. In the beginning, Mei relied on remote work, with a monthly income of about NT$ 30,000. Even when she later started taking projects or began entrepreneurship by establishing an online English teaching brand, and her income increased, she knew that if she wanted to travel for a longer time and visit more places, she must travel in a more smart way. 'Many people think that they have to be rich to travel, but I knew early on that this was wrong because many experiences don’t cost money,' Mei said. Despite a limited budget, Mei has many money-saving tips. Typically, the most significant travel expenses might be on transportation and accommodation, but Mei has always kept these expenses to a minimum or even completely free of charge. For accommodation, Mei chooses couch surfing, staying in cheap youth hostels, and even proactively proposes to hostels to work in exchange for accommodation or meals, saving on accommodation and meal expenses. In terms of transportation, Mei also saves on fares by hitchhiking to various places. Since digital nomads are not restricted by time or work location, they can choose inexpensive long-distance buses or trains for commuting and work during the journey. When flying to different countries, she also compares flight prices on websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights, choosing to fly during off-peak times. Even concerning food, Mei has participated in 'food sharing' movements, obtaining 'soon-to-expire' or 'expired' items that are still edible from many supermarkets and bakeries. Just search online for the city name along with the keyword 'food sharing,' and you can get information about 'food sharing' in that city. Mei has many money-saving methods, and she said, 'If you dare to try new things, sometimes money really is not a problem!' If you are just starting with a limited budget, you can begin from cheaper regions, such as cities in Southeast Asia. For instance, Chiang Mai in Thailand is a top choice for many. Reducing Material Desires, Valuing Priceless Life Experiences Mei sets out on each journey carrying only a backpack, keeping material desires to a minimum and not spending money on unnecessary souvenirs and the like. Instead, she chooses to be close to nature and values interactions with people, experiences that are free yet priceless. Upon arriving in a new city, the first thing Mei does is search on Facebook for local communities involving hiking, writing, language exchange, etc., based on her interests. She meets locals or foreigners who have lived there for a long time, exploring the city’s people and things with them. Fortunately, she might also find like-minded friends in these people. Meanwhile, to break free from monetary constraints, Mei bravely tries hitchhiking and couch surfing, among others. These experiences have given Mei precious life experiences that she cherishes deeply. She said, 'If you pay money to buy a travel itinerary, it seems to create a barrier between people.' Even when we go to foreign places, it’s still quite challenging to establish deeper connections with the locals. For instance, in the United States, Mei and a traveling companion hitchhiked to their next destination, meeting a very friendly driver. Before Mei found a place to stay, the driver generously offered his camper van for Mei and her friend to stay temporarily. However, after getting to know him better, they discovered that he was a former drug addict who had become a debt collector after quitting drugs. Although it sounds a bit scary, for the driver, this wasn’t something he couldn’t share openly. His generosity and friendliness remain one of Mei’s most impressive memories from her travels. Many people worry about the dangers of hitchhiking, staying in a stranger's house, or going out with strangers in foreign places. Mei said that there are always risks in traveling, but the risks of hitchhiking, couch surfing, etc., are not as high as people imagine. 'After traveling for a long time, you actually become quite good at judging people,' Mei mentions. She would assess a person’s safety through their words and deeds, and she wouldn’t go to particularly dangerous places or do dangerous things. Often, she would also have companions with her. By staying alert and avoiding people or things that seem dangerous, the risks are actually quite low! Excitedly, Mei listed places she still wants to visit in the future. Next year, she plans to explore Central and South America, and when summer comes, she wants to visit Scotland to learn about the whiskey culture that she has always admired. Having traveled to 42 out of nearly 190 countries worldwide, Mei continues to marvel at the vastness of the world. Free from material and monetary constraints, Mei’s digital nomadic journey around the world continues. You can find more stories about Mei's digital nomad lifestyle on Super Mei Travel! -- (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 5, 2023
7 Habits for Maintaining Efficiency in Online Meetings
Sometimes, during meetings, everyone engages in casual conversations, leading to prolonged discussions on a matter that take up a lot of time, yet result in little to no progress.Other times, everyone works hard during the meeting, but discussions drag on for too long and lose focus, making meetings a tiring affair. I'm also part of the workforce, facing many internal company administrative meetings, client project meetings, and sometimes even meetings that require negotiation and decision-making. Looking back at my own experiences with various lengthy and efficient meetings, I can contrast the two and perhaps distill seven habits for making meetings more "high-performance" from my own experiences. You might notice that the title of this article borrows from Stephen Covey's classic work "The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People." Of course, I'm not a management guru. The seven habits listed here are just from my personal experience, so I also welcome everyone to discuss and share your views. Before the meeting, there is a basic thing that must be done: "Prepare the contents you need to report." If I need to discuss a product with a client, I have to prepare market analysis data. If I need to explain project progress, I have to prepare a work report. Because it's so basic, it's not included in the seven habits below. So, starting from the prepared meeting materials, what else can we do for a high-performance meeting? These habits include actions before, during, and after the meeting.( You can refer to this article from two years ago for more information: How do I conduct efficient meeting discussions with "effective" planning? ) 1. List the Key Issues to Be Confirmed for This Meeting Meetings sometimes accidentally lose focus, with everyone chatting about everything under the sun or discussing whatever comes to mind, eventually straying off-topic and prolonging unnecessary discussion time. Sometimes there is an agenda for the meeting, but sometimes not. Regardless, I always have a habit of listing the key points I want to discuss and the questions I want to confirm for this time. The so-called "list of key issues" is not about reporting data, but about what issues within it really need to be clarified? What are the real highlights worth emphasizing? I usually ask myself, assuming there is little meeting time, assuming it's my turn to speak only at the end with no time left, but what are the key points and questions I must confirm? I need this list whether or not I am the meeting facilitator. If I am the facilitator, having a list of key issues means I know when the discussion is off-topic and can bring the meeting back to the main axis of discussion. If I am just a reporter, having a list of key issues also lets me know how to explain succinctly and what key points I should spend time discussing. 2. Arrange the Discussion Logic for Key Issues Sometimes, meetings can get stuck on certain critical issues, resulting in an endless loop of unresolved discussion. Meetings can feel chaotic, leaving one feeling clueless about the overall structure of the project despite extensive discussion. After listing out the key issues, I adopt another habit: I plan the order and flow of the discussion concerning these key points and questions. I rearrange these key issues and questions logically, starting with the simpler, more straightforward ones before leading into the more complex discussions. I often ask myself, how should I sequentially introduce these points and questions to persuade others? This habit helps build confidence in you during the meeting and eases into difficult topics from simple beginnings, making the whole process smoother. 3. Confirm My Own Answers and Bottom Line for the Questions At times during meetings, when key issues are discussed, everyone might be unsure of the answers or whether certain actions are possible, preventing decision-making and leading to endless discussions. Certainly, there will be challenging decisions to make, but after setting the order of key issues, another habit I have is to think about possible answers to these questions in advance or determine my bottom line for them. If the bottom line is not for me to decide, I will consult with the decision-making manager before the meeting and then proceed to meet with the client. I ask myself, what is my best current answer if no one has a better one for this issue? What is my ultimate bottom line if the other party makes a demand? These first three steps are interconnected; without a prepared list of issues, how would one prepare the bottom-line answers? And once I’ve prepared my own answers, I can respond decisively during the meeting, easily adapt to unexpected situations, adjust, or even overturn previous plans if necessary. 4. Begin by Explaining the Meeting's To-Do List Especially during planning and brainstorming sessions, participants may come with a casual mindset, and the meeting can easily become a mere chat, with no conclusive results achieved. At the beginning of the meeting, if possible, I usually explain the list of key points and questions we aim to discuss - essentially, the logically ordered discussion list from the second habit. I would say, today's meeting will progressively discuss these issues, and then we need to confirm what conclusion? It only requires a brief explanation, possibly less than a minute, but this simple action serves two purposes. Although it might not stop people who love to digress, it gives us a legitimate reason to steer the conversation back, like "Let's return to the next key point I mentioned earlier," and it makes it easier for everyone to accept when the conversation is redirected. 5. Pre-Meeting Note Preparation Of course, we all take meeting notes. However, I have a habit of preparing my meeting notes 'before' the meeting. That is, I note down the list of questions I want to discuss, my answers, and thoughts in advance. Then I proceed to the meeting. What notes should I take during the meeting then? My meeting notes mainly record: What adaptations do I need to make next, and should the subsequent question in the discussion be adjusted? Since I've already noted the main points and answers before the meeting, the notes during the meeting mainly focus on how to make the following part of the meeting more efficient. What did I hear from the other party, and what will be my response or inquiry? How can I adjust the process to facilitate smoother discussion? 6. Confirm All Conclusions at the End When the meeting ends, everyone might remember the latter part of the discussion but forget the earlier parts. At this time, I have the habit of reiterating each issue's conclusion. It doesn't take more than a minute, but it has many benefits. Summarizing the meeting conclusions helps everyone to confirm that there are no issues with each conclusion and gives a quick overall understanding of the meeting. Of course, it is best to email a summary of these conclusions to everyone immediately after the meeting. 7. Discuss the Next Steps for Each Participant A single meeting might discuss an entire project's process, which is a long-term and massive task for everyone involved. However, such meetings might not necessarily kickstart the project's progress immediately after returning to work. So I have one last habit: after explaining all of the meeting's conclusions, I ask everyone, "What are our next steps?" It might be that Esor needs to draft an outline, A needs to prepare a contract, and C needs to send the meeting record to the relevant people and collect feedback. I am accustomed to confirming at the end of the meeting what actions can be "immediately performed" upon returning. If the action is not immediate, a prompt check-in time should be set. With these meeting habits, in my experience, it is easier to create high-efficiency meetings that move faster, end on time, and result in effective actions after the meeting. -- This article is reprinted from：電腦玩物 (article) (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 7, 2023
Foreign Digital Nomads in Taiwan! Living Pros & Cons, Housing, Social Life , and More| Freelance Software Engineer Cédric Lignier Exclusive Interview
In 2018, Cédric reached his tenth year as a software engineer, working in Silicon Valley, USA. This was also the year he left his job and, along with his wife who also works in IT, embarked on a journey as digital nomads. "At first,we planned to take a year off to travel and then come back to work. But after some research, we found that maybe we can try to travel for over one year," Cédric explains. His wife, who initially kept a full-time job while working remotely, later decided to follow his example. Inspired by his flexible lifestyle and income mostly from investing, she also quit her job and started her new life. Their journey began from Montreal, Canada (since his wife still needed to handle U.S. work matters and couldn’t leave the Americas due to time zones), and led them through Mexico, Spain, Portugal, France, and finally Asia, where they explored Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali, Indonesia. In 2020, when the pandemic disrupted their travel plans, they decided to change their original plan of visiting Japan and came to Taiwan. (Photo from Cédric) Settling in Taiwan: Embracing Diverse Outdoor Activities and the Convenience of Taipei’s MRT Cédric shares that he and his wife initially came to Taiwan by chance, given Taiwan’s highly acclaimed pandemic response at the time. So why did they choose to stay, obtain Taiwan Employment Gold Card for permanent residency, and continue to consider Taiwan a “second home,” even as international travel has become easier? The reasons primarily include: 1. Natural Environment and Variety of Outdoor Activities Compared to large urban centers, Cédric and his wife prefer peaceful, natural surroundings. During their time in Taiwan, they explored many locations, perhaps even more than some locals, including Alishan, Kenting, Taitung, Green Island, Penghu, and Xiaoliuqiu. Cédric is especially drawn to Taiwan’s landscapes and cultural richness. He has also enjoyed outdoor activities, such as river tracing, climbing Yushan, and cycling from Hualien to Taitung. The ability to easily access various natural settings is one of the most attractive aspects of living in Taiwan for him. (Photo from Cédric) 2. Safety After spending time in North and South America and Europe, Cédric found the safety in Asia, especially Taiwan, remarkably reassuring. “By safety I mean people don’t have to worry if they misplace an item. For example,I left my GoPro on a YouBike in Kaohsiung, only realizing it was missing once I was on the train back to Taipei. Fortunately, when I contacted lost and found, they told me someone had already turned it in. On our next visit to Kaohsiung, I was able to retrieve it,” he explains. In France, however, it’s easy to lose items to pickpockets, even if you keep them with you. He also mentions that in some areas of the U.S., people are mindful of firearm-related safety; while traveling in Mexico, they had to stay vigilant due to the common risk of carjacking by gangs. Aside from these points, Cédric also praises the signage and cleanliness of Taipei’s public transportation. Compared to Thailand or Vietnam, he finds Taipei’s MRT more easier to understand for foreigners, allowing his parents,who even don’t speak English,navigate the city with ease by following the color coded line and stop numbers. Additionally, the cleanliness of the MRT and buses far surpasses that of the U.S. and France. Inconveniences: Banking and Language Barriers in Smaller Cities Of course, living in a foreign culture with a different language isn’t without challenges. For example, Cédric points out that, in Taiwan, many banking matters still require in-person visits, whereas most banking services abroad can be handled online. Opening a bank account in Taiwan requires an online reservation, followed by nearly two to three hours at the bank to complete all the procedures. If you need to update information, the entire process has to be repeated. “That is painful. We used to do everything online in California or in the US or even in Europe,” he remarks. While English works well in Taipei, other cities can pose challenges if one doesn’t speak Mandarin. When faced with language barriers, he often relies on gestures and Google Translate. He admits that although he has learned a bit of Mandarin, the convenience of using English in Taipei has kept him from fully committing to learning. His most-used Mandarin phrase? In his accent, he replies in Chinese:bubble tea, less ice, no sugar. (Photo from Cédric) Travel-Friendly Short-Term Rentals and Building Friendships Through Shared Interests After weighing the conveniences and inconveniences, Cédric is still enamored with Taiwan. Not only did he settle down, but he also became involved with Crossroads, a non-profit organization working with the Taitung County Government to promote the digital nomad platform TTnomads. Through various cultural activities, they attract digital nomads worldwide to explore Taiwan. As an experienced expat in Taiwan, he also shares some practical tips for newcomers. [Housing] Cédric suggests evaluating one’s own needs when choosing accommodations. For him and his wife, a kitchen is essential since they enjoy cooking. They prefer flexible short-term rentals to explore different cities without the constraints of a one-year lease, typically finding housing on Airbnb and staying at least a month in each location. For shorter trips, they generally use Booking.com. [Mobile Plans] Since they only use their phones when needed (such as for maps), they opted for prepaid SIM cards with around 2GB of data rather than pricier unlimited plans.“They are easy to get and can get reloaded at 7-11 very easily as well,”he added. [Transportation Card] A must-have for life in Taipei is an EasyCard, which Cédric uses to ride the MRT and often to rent Ubike. Speaking of the EasyCard, he laughs, “I thought it’d be a plain card, but there are all kinds of designs to choose from in Taiwan.” If you plan to explore Taipei and its surroundings extensively by using public transportation, you can also buy a T-pass.For just 1,200 NTD per month, you can enjoy unlimited rides on the metro and buses. (Photo from Cédric) [Making Friends] In a new place, how does one make friends? Cédric shares that he and his wife started by using Meetup, where people organize various events. They joined hiking groups, allowing them to meet like-minded friends for regular outings. Later, they also connected with others through the events holding by Taiwan Employment Gold Card Office. Cédric explores aboriginal culture in Taitung. (Photo from Cédric) Having lived in Taiwan for several years, they now look forward to traveling more internationally. After a recent trip to South Korea and now visiting family in California, Cédric and his wife plan to spend one month each year in the U.S. and France with family, while returning to Taipei for two to three months every spring and traveling to other countries during the remaining months. “I think Taiwan is a beautiful place which is underrated,and it has so much potential.” Cédric exclaims. He notes that many people are unaware of Taiwan, or know it mainly due to political issues with China, rather than its beauty. He’s keen to share Taiwan’s charms on his website, Nomad Numbers, and looks forward to returning after their U.S. and France visits! -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 26, 2025
2026 Japan Digital Nomad Complete Guide: Visa, Tax, Living Costs & City Recommendations
We published a Japan digital nomad guide in 2024 covering visa basics, transportation, and accommodation. But two years on, Japan's nomad landscape has fundamentally changed: the Tourism Agency has invested for three consecutive years, local governments are competing to attract nomads, and NomadResort's pilot data proves high-value nomads are willing to invest in Japan. 2026 is a completely different game. This updated guide focuses on tax strategy, detailed cost breakdowns, the latest Tourism Agency policies, 2025 pilot data, and newly emerging nomad cities. For visa application checklists, see our visa details article. 1. Visa Strategy: DN Visa vs Visa-Free — Which Route? Japan's digital nomad visa ("Designated Activities" status) key rules: Duration: Up to 6 months, non-renewable. Must wait 6 months before reapplying Income: ¥10 million/year (~$67,000 USD) Health insurance: ¥10 million coverage required Work restriction: Remote work for overseas clients only No residence card issued; cannot switch visa types But here's what many don't realize: you might not need the DN visa. Practical advice: If your income is below ¥10M or you're staying 2-3 months, visa-free entry while "not taking local Japanese clients" remains the majority choice. But if you need to prove legal work status to clients or employers, the DN visa is the only formal path. 2. Taxes: The 183-Day Rule This is critical and wasn't covered in our 2024 guide. Core rule: Stay under 183 days with all income from outside Japan → generally not considered a Japanese tax resident, no Japanese income tax. Exceed 183 days (including visa-free periods) → potentially classified as tax resident with worldwide income obligations. This is partly why the DN visa caps at 6 months—right at the 183-day boundary. 3. 2026 Tourism Agency: From Tourism to Investment The Tourism Agency launched its third consecutive year of the "Digital Nomad Attraction Program" on March 5, 2026, shifting from exploration to model-setting. 2025 NomadResort Pilot Data: Operated in Okinawa (Nago), Nagano (Hakuba), Nagasaki (Goto), Ishikawa (Noto) Attracted professionals from 27 countries Developed 30+ local experience programs Over 50% of Okinawa participants expressed ¥10-30M investment interest in real estate or business 2026 Priorities: Cross-regional collaboration (city + rural), targeting high-income nomads, and ultra-long stay infrastructure (90+ days). 4. Cost of Living: Five Cities Monthly estimates (single person, moderate lifestyle, JPY): 🏙️ Tokyo: ¥180-310K | 🍜 Osaka: ¥130-240K | 🌊 Fukuoka: ¥100-200K | 🏖️ Okinawa: ¥100-170K | 🏔️ Nagano (Hakuba/Matsumoto): ¥80-160K Cities outside Tokyo save 30-40% with comparable quality of life. Nagano is the newest and most affordable option. 5. City Picks: Five Nomad Styles 🏙️ Tokyo — Everything, but expensive. Endless coworking, perfect transport. Best for short intensive sprints. 🍜 Osaka — Best value major city. 20-30% cheaper than Tokyo, incredible food, Kansai Airport for Asia travel. 🌊 Fukuoka — Japan's most nomad-friendly city. Airport 10 min from downtown, strong startup scene (Fukuoka Growth Next). 🏖️ Okinawa — Tourism Agency's showcase destination. NomadResort 2025 pilot: 50%+ expressed long-term settlement interest. Slowest pace, best beaches, car needed. 🏔️ Nagano (Hakuba/Matsumoto) — Newly emerging 2025 nomad hub. One of four NomadResort pilot regions. Skiing in winter, hiking in summer, lowest costs of all five cities. 90 min by bullet train from Tokyo — the exact "dual-region" model the Tourism Agency is promoting for 2026. 6. Resources Official DN Visa: Immigration Services Agency Tourism Agency 2026 Program: MLIT Coworking Search: Coworker.com NomadResort: Okinawa | Hakuba | Goto | Noto Japan is evolving from a tourism powerhouse into a country where nomads can genuinely settle for months. Compared to 2024, infrastructure is stronger, policies are clearer, and local governments are more proactive. 2026 is the year to seriously consider Japan as your nomad base.
March 12, 2026
Greece End In-Country Digital Nomad Visa Applications from 2024
Greece is often considered a dream destination for many digital nomads. However, if you are planning to apply for Greece's Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) to work in the country, you may need to prepare in advance. According to the latest regulations from the Greek government, starting from January 1, 2024, anyone intending to enter Greece with a Digital Nomad Visa must apply first at the Greek embassy or consulate in their home country, obtain the visa, and then enter Greece through this channel. This also means that the previously used "enter first, then apply" process, allowing individuals to enter Greece with a tourist visa and later apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, will no longer be applicable from 2024. Following the global trend, Greece introduced the Digital Nomad Visa in 2021 to attract digital nomads and remote workers worldwide, even implementing incentives like the "enter first, then apply" mechanism to encourage foreign workers to choose Greece. With the stunning backdrop of the Aegean Sea as a workplace, this friendly policy immediately proved effective. In 2022, the number of applications for the Digital Nomad Visa increased by 50 times compared to the previous year. Many media outlets and bloggers listed Greece as the top destination for digital nomads in 2023. Now, with the new regulations set to take effect in 2024, if you plan to embark on a digital nomad journey in the new year, you can refer to the following simplified strategy for applying for the Digital Nomad Visa in Greece: 1. Who is eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa? Citizens from non-European Union countries. 2. What conditions must be met to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa? Applicants must prove that they are not working for a company registered in Greece (and are prohibited from being employed by a company registered in Greece after obtaining the visa). Demonstrate the ability to work remotely. Prove a monthly income exceeding €3,500 (approximately NT$120,000). Before applying, you can contact personnel at Greek embassies or consulates worldwide to inquire about the latest rules and the proof required for remote work, income, and financial capacity to increase the chances of visa approval. 3. How long is the validity of the Greece Digital Nomad Visa? 1 year, with the possibility of extending upon expiry. 4. What fees do I need to pay? Application fee of €75 (approximately NT$2,573). 5. How long does it take to receive the visa after applying? Typically, results are obtained 2-4 weeks after submitting the application. References: Greece Digital Nomad Visa - Visa Requirements For Remote Work In Greece In New Rules For Digital Nomads, Greece Ends In-Country Visa Applications From 2024 Greece Digital Nomad Visa Greece Will Require Digital Nomads to Apply from Home Countries -- Responsible Editor／Samuel
December 27, 2023
Remote Work Socializing: 7 Ways to Never Be an Outsider Again
When I started working remotely, I was alone most of the time, whether working from home or traveling. Except for phone calls or video conferences, I hardly ever spoke to real people throughout the day. As a result, socializing in remote work became something I had to pay close attention to, otherwise, I easily got lonely. As remote work becomes more prevalent, I've also started noticing that more and more people are facing this issue. So, in this article, I will share with you some methods and platforms for remote workers to socialize. This way, even if you don't have colleagues around, you can still make new friends and expand your social network. What Are the Methods for Socializing in Remote Work? 1. Working at a Co-working Space A co-working space is usually a large building rented by a company or group and converted into a workspace suitable for various needs. It includes private offices for different numbers of people and open public spaces. Most of these spaces require a fee, but some offer trial work days for free. For me, a Co-working space has always been an easy place to meet people. You can bring your business cards, and you might just have the chance to meet some impressive individuals and find unexpected collaboration opportunities. To find out if there are any co-working space in your area, you can Google "Co-working Space + your location", or check out the following platforms: WeWork : Suitable for people in the USA or small startups of four or five people. The monthly rent isn't cheap, starting at around $300, but the facilities are luxurious and fully equipped, almost like a second home! Workfrom : One of my favorite websites, where you can select features like "open late" or "quiet". It also allows you to detect the nearest coffee shops or workspaces based on your location. Nomads list : In addition to searching for cafes and workspaces, this platform offers great online networking and chat features, as well as new arrival guidelines for settling in a new country. Meetup : Here, you can find a variety of free and paid events based on personal interests. However, it's not widely used in Taiwan yet. Eventbrite : Similar to Meetup, but with more paid events. It also sells tickets for theater shows and concerts. This platform is more about finding workshops, talks, and courses than social gatherings. 2. Arrange to Work Together in a Café You can find many groups on Facebook like "Taiwanese in the USA", "Taiwanese in Singapore", "Taiwanese Working in France". These groups are a great way to find friends when you are traveling and working and want someone to chat with. Just post in the group stating where you are and how long you'll be there. You might get a response, and then the two of you can quickly arrange to meet at a café to chat and work together. This is a method I really like. Since both parties have already initiated contact online, it's less awkward when meeting in person, and the pressure of making friends is somewhat reduced. 3. Initiate Casual Conversations with People Working in Cafés You can also think of it as a kind of approach. In the United States, people are accustomed to talking to strangers. Just by making small talk, you can quickly learn about each other's work, interests, where they live, etc., greatly increasing the chance of forming a deeper connection. It's even possible to arrange to hang out or work together later. For the shy Taiwanese, this might require a bit of boldness, but it's definitely a method worth trying. If you're unsure how to start, you can discreetly observe what the other person is doing on their computer, what they're holding, or simply take in the surrounding environment. These are all great starting points for quickly engaging in a conversation. 4. Make Friends in Your Field Through Online Groups If you're more interested in making work-related friends, it's best to connect with people in the same field. You can visit specialized professional groups like LinkedIn", "Women Who Code Taipei", "Graphic Designers of LA", "Photographers in Berlin" to find peers in your profession. These groups have already done a first level of filtering, leaving only those related to your work nature and professional field. They are great for finding potential collaborators or clients. Communication tends to be easier and more targeted with these people due to the similarity in field and work nature. 5. CouchSurfing CouchSurfing, literally meaning sleeping on someone's couch while traveling, is a concept often described more elegantly as "staying for a night". There are increasingly more platforms facilitating connections between hosts and travelers. By setting your preferences online, you can find local residents willing to let you stay with them. Most people registered on these platforms are also keen on meeting new friends. Unless your host is very busy and often out for work, you usually have plenty of opportunities to chat with them, share meals, or even visit nearby tourist spots together. This often leads to strong connections, and it's common to stay in touch after a CouchSurfing experience, as both parties have invested meaningful time in each other. 6. Stay in Hostels or Backpackers' Inns When you travel, if you choose not to do CouchSurfing, you will inevitably need to find a place to stay. In this case, affordable youth hostels or backpackers' inns are good choices. You won't be the only traveler there; you might meet many people from Taiwan or from around the world. Just like point three, take the initiative to strike up conversations with others, using the surroundings or what they're doing as conversation starters. This can easily open up connections between people. Even if you're not staying at such places, their lobbies, lounges, dining areas, or workspaces can also be great spots to facilitate chats. If you want to make friends, don't keep yourself locked up in your room. 7. Attend Offline Seminars or Workshops If you're looking to meet friends who enjoy learning, attending offline seminars is definitely the quickest way. Remember, many people stop learning after leaving school, so those who make time in their busy work and daily life to attend offline seminars or workshops likely have a strong desire for self-improvement. If it's a workshop, there might even be group activities, which automatically give you something to talk about with strangers. Working together to complete a task can also quickly warm up your relationship!" Remote Work Socializing Activities in Taiwan We have discussed 6 ways you can try remote socializing, but most are suitable for the USA or places outside Taiwan. If you're a remote worker who only stays in Taiwan, I have compiled 3 especially active methods in Taiwan where you can find many events for socializing. 1. ACCUPASS Accupass is a very famous event ticketing website in Taiwan, as far as I know. The events listed there are both free and paid, with prices varying depending on the scale of the event. From my own experience, there are many free or low-cost events that are rich in content. There's a wide variety of events available all over Taiwan. Accupass has a lot of offline seminars and online courses. If you love learning, prioritizing events here usually won't disappoint. The updates are quick, covering both networking and learning opportunities. (Click here to visit) 2. Facebook event The number of events on Facebook is also noteworthy. You can find all sorts of events there by setting filters for category, location, and time. This allows you to immediately list all the events you might be able to attend. However, a downside of Facebook events is that the information provided is often sparse. You might need to visit the official website or follow the links provided by the organizers for more detailed information and registration methods. From my observation, there are more volunteer activities on Facebook events, which could be a priority if you prefer volunteering. (Click here to visit) 3. Remote Taiwan This is the best remote workers' community in Taiwan that I've seen so far. The group frequently hosts related seminars, shares experiences of remote workers, and discusses the latest trends in remote work. You can interact a lot with everyone there and take the initiative to get to know others. As mentioned in point 4 above, this platform has already filtered through its members for you. It shouldn't be hard to find like-minded individuals who resonate with remote work for networking. The rest is up to how you engage in conversation. (Click here to visit ) Your Part in Remote Work Socializing Currently, my main method is still working in coffee shops. I've met many people in cafes, some of whom I had great conversations with but never saw again; and others with whom I only spoke for a few minutes, but we exchanged phone numbers and later found we clicked well through messaging. I believe whether or not someone becomes a friend requires the right timing, location, and people. While we can't control timing and location, I think we can at least take responsibility for half of the people aspect. This means we need to take the initiative to connect with others. The other half is out of our control, dependent on whether the other person reciprocates. The key in socializing is to relax and not be too purpose-driven, focusing mainly on "getting to know the other person." I believe there's a direct correlation between human happiness and healthy social interactions. Moderately interacting with others can contribute to your mental and physical well-being. Meeting people from all over the world, and having connections wherever you go, is one of the best aspects of working while traveling. I hope today's sharing has been helpful to you. -- This article is reprinted from：理想生活設計 (article) (This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.)
December 5, 2023
Targeting High-Tech Talent! Canada Plans to Introduce Digital Nomad Visas in 2024
Thinking of experiencing the digital nomad life in Canada with its distinct four seasons? According to the latest announcement from the Government of Canada, this dream might have a chance to come true as early as 2024! According to the latest statements from the Government of Canada, the country plans to officially launch a digital nomad visa program in 2024, inviting global digital nomads, especially those in the tech industry, to settle and live in Canada. Previously, digital nomads wishing to live in Canada mostly relied on tourist visas, with a maximum stay of 6 months each time. However, with the introduction of the digital nomad visa, holders may stay in Canada for up to 3 years. Based on current information, individuals interested in applying for this visa may need to prepare insurance certificates, financial proof, and a list of family members accompanying them for the application to the Government of Canada. Targeting High-Tech Talent! Experience First, Settle Later Sean Fraser, the Minister of Immigration for Canada, pointed out that the Government of Canada hopes this program will attract the favor of tech talents and address the local tech industry's workforce shortage. In an interview, Fraser stated, "For those who are interested in trying to live in Canada, our digital nomad visa program will be an excellent opportunity. If they want to stay after the visa expires, we also welcome them with open arms." Open Government Attitude, but Will Talent Come? However, despite the open attitude of the Government of Canada, is Canada equipped enough, both in terms of software and hardware conditions, to attract digital nomads to settle? In the minds of many digital nomads, Canada, with its beautiful natural landscapes and thriving urban centers, has always been one of the ideal destinations. In 2022, a report from the UK ranked Canada as the best country globally for digital nomads to settle, considering factors such as internet speed, cost of living, and remote job opportunities. Hold Off on Packing for Now If you have already started planning your trip to Canada, you might need to hold off for a bit. Currently, the details of the plan are limited, and some disclosed information has raised concerns in the community. One concern is that the government's prioritization of high-tech talents may significantly limit the number of successful applications. After all, digital nomads are not solely composed of tech professionals; there are also those in marketing, media, and online tutoring. Furthermore, even if high-tech talents are willing to consider Canada as a destination, the salary gap might lead them to choose the United States over Canada. According to data from the job site Randstad Canada, the average annual income for Canadian tech talents is around $74,000 (approximately 2.3 million TWD), while in major U.S. cities like New York and San Francisco, their average annual income can be as high as $130,000 (approximately 4.04 million TWD), highlighting the existing salary gap. Additionally, tax and social welfare mechanisms applicable to digital nomads are also aspects that require waiting for more details from the Canadian government. Digital Nomad Visa Launch ≠ Immediate Departure Masha Sutherlin, Director of Service at HR software provider Deel, also reminds that even if the Canadian digital nomad visa program officially launches in the future, digital nomads should not expect to depart immediately. "Just because a country announces a visa program for digital nomads doesn't mean the government has the ability to process all applications promptly," Sutherlin pointed out. "This is a very novel visa type, and many countries have underestimated the resources required to handle a large number of applications." Sutherlin also added that some countries, like the UAE, have the ability to respond to applications within a few weeks, while others, like Portugal, have longer processing times, "possibly ranging from 3 months to 1 year." Stay Patient, Use Time to Reflect on Personal Needs The Government of Canada states that they will reveal more details in the coming months. While waiting, Sutherlin also advises digital nomads intending to go to Canada to be patient and take the time to reflect on what their ideal lifestyle is. "After all, not every country is like Canada, proposing a digital nomad visa program with a comprehensive plan to help those who want to stay obtain permanent residency." References: A Guide to Canada’s Digital Nomad Visa Canada just launched a new digital nomad program—here’s what you need to know Canada’s digital nomad program could attract tech talent – but would they settle down? -- Responsible Editor／Samuel Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
January 29, 2024
Greece's Digital Nomad Visa Half-Tax Deal, Fully Explained: Work by the Aegean and Pay Half the Income Tax
Among the dozens of digital nomad visa programs now available worldwide, Greece's offering stands apart on one headline feature: a 50% income tax reduction on foreign-source earnings. For remote workers earning above €3,500 per month, this translates to potential annual savings of thousands, or even tens of thousands, of euros. Combined with the completion of the Island Mesh 5G network in 2026 and a cost of living that remains remarkably low by European standards, Greece is evolving from a vacation destination into a serious long-term base for digital nomads. This report breaks down every detail of the Greek digital nomad visa, from eligibility and tax calculations to the actual application process and daily living costs, providing an actionable decision-making guide. Visa Framework Overview Greece's digital nomad visa (formally called the "Digital Nomad Visa" or "Independent Location Work Visa") launched in late 2021. After several revisions, the 2026 version represents a mature system. Core requirements: Applicants must be non-EU/EEA citizens Must work remotely for employers or clients outside Greece Cannot work for Greek employers or conduct business in Greece Minimum monthly income of €3,500 Spouse adds 20% to the threshold (approximately €4,200) Each dependent child adds 15% Duration: Initial visa validity: two years Renewable, with a maximum total residency of five years Permanent residency eligible after five years Greek (EU) citizenship pathway available after permanent residency Application routes: Greek consulates abroad Immigration offices within Greece (for those already legally present) In some cases, tourist visa holders can convert status in-country How the Half-Tax Benefit Works The centerpiece of Greece's nomad visa is the 50% Tax Reduction on Foreign-Source Income. Here's the mechanism. Eligibility conditions: Visa holders must transfer their tax residency to Greece Must not have been a Greek tax resident for at least three of the previous five years Must commit to residing in Greece for at least two years Calculation method: Greece's standard progressive income tax rates: €0 to €10,000: 9% €10,001 to €20,000: 22% €20,001 to €30,000: 28% €30,001 to €40,000: 36% €40,001 and above: 44% The half-tax benefit works straightforwardly: calculate your tax liability using the standard progressive rates above, then pay only 50% of that amount. Worked example at €60,000 annual income: Standard calculation: First €10,000 × 9% = €900 Next €10,000 × 22% = €2,200 Next €10,000 × 28% = €2,800 Next €10,000 × 36% = €3,600 Final €20,000 × 44% = €8,800 Standard tax due: €18,300 (effective rate: 30.5%) With half-tax benefit: Actual tax due: €9,150 (effective rate: 15.25%) Annual savings: €9,150 Worked example at €100,000 annual income: Standard tax due: €35,900 (effective rate: 35.9%) With half-tax: €17,950 (effective rate: 17.95%) Annual savings: €17,950 The higher the income, the greater the absolute savings. For nomads earning above €80,000 annually, the benefit exceeds €14,000 per year. Cross-country comparison: Portugal (revised NHR): 20% flat rate for specific industries, narrower eligibility Italy (Impatriate Regime): Up to 70% reduction, 90% in southern regions Croatia: Zero local income tax during residency (but one-year limit) Spain (Beckham Law): 24% flat rate, plus Autónomo social security costs Estonia: 20% flat personal income tax Italy's southern regions offer the most aggressive tax position for high earners. Croatia's zero-tax approach is attractive but limited by its one-year residency cap. Greece's half-tax program strikes a compelling balance between tax savings and long-term residency potential. Island Mesh: The 5G Game-Changer of 2026 For years, digital nomads wanting to work from Greek islands faced a practical barrier: unreliable internet. Athens and Thessaloniki offered adequate connectivity, but island locations were a bandwidth lottery. That changed fundamentally in 2026. The "Island Mesh" project, a collaboration between the Greek government and telecom operators, completed rollout in early 2026, extending 5G coverage to the vast majority of inhabited islands. Technical details: Millimeter wave and mid-band 5G technology Combined submarine fiber and satellite backhaul Coverage across more than 100 inhabited islands Guaranteed minimum download speeds of 100Mbps, with 300Mbps+ in primary areas Simultaneous upgrade of inter-island submarine fiber links Practical impact: Digital nomads can now work from a cliffside café in Santorini, a beachfront in Mykonos, or a mountain village in Crete with connectivity sufficient for video conferencing and cloud-based work. The longstanding perception that "Greece is great for vacation but not for work" is officially outdated. Note that 5G coverage concentrates in main settlements and tourist areas. Extremely remote locations may still rely on 4G or satellite. Test connectivity before committing to a long-term location. Living Costs: A Detailed Breakdown Greece's cost of living is one of its strongest advantages as a nomad destination. Here are 2026 figures. Athens: City center one-bedroom apartment: €550 to €800/month Suburban one-bedroom: €400 to €600/month Food (mix of cooking and eating out): €350 to €500/month Public transportation pass: €30/month Coworking space: €120 to €200/month Utilities and internet: €100 to €150/month Estimated individual monthly total: €1,200 to €1,800 Islands (off-season): One-bedroom apartment: €400 to €700/month Food: €300 to €450/month Transportation (scooter or car rental typical): €100 to €200/month Coworking (limited options on some islands): €80 to €150/month Utilities and internet: €80 to €130/month Estimated individual monthly total: €1,000 to €1,600 Islands (peak season, June through September): All prices increase 30% to 100% Short-term rentals become especially expensive Long-term lease agreements recommended to lock in rates Comparative context: Athens costs roughly 45% of London, 50% of Paris, 35% of New York Among Southern European peers, Athens is slightly cheaper than Barcelona, comparable to Lisbon, cheaper than Rome Island off-season costs approach Southeast Asian cities like Chiang Mai Step-by-Step Application Process Step 1: Confirm eligibility (2-3 months before application) Verify nationality eligibility Prepare income documentation (six months of bank statements, contracts, or employer letters) Confirm consistent monthly income above €3,500 Calculate adjusted threshold if dependents are included Step 2: Assemble documents Valid passport (at least six months beyond visa period) Income proof Remote work or client contracts Health insurance covering medical costs in Greece Criminal background check Proof of accommodation (lease or hotel booking) Completed application form Certified translations for all non-English, non-Greek documents Step 3: Submit application At a Greek consulate (appointment recommended) Or at a local immigration office if already legally in Greece Pay application fee (approximately €150) Step 4: Wait for processing Typical processing time: 4 to 8 weeks Some consulates may be slower Additional documentation may be requested Step 5: Receive visa and enter Greece Enter Greece on the approved visa Within 30 days of arrival, register at the local tax office (AADE) for a tax number (AFM) Obtain a social insurance number (AMKA) Step 6: Activate tax residency and half-tax benefit Apply to transfer tax residency to Greece Submit the half-tax benefit application (an accountant can handle this) Confirm the benefit's start date Common pitfalls: Greek bureaucracy is slow. Budget more time than expected. Some consulates have specific document format requirements. Verify in advance. Transferring tax residency requires formal notification to your previous country's tax authority. Hiring a local immigration lawyer (€800 to €1,500) and accountant (€500 to €1,000 annually) is strongly recommended. Who Is This Best For? Ideal candidates: Remote workers earning €50,000+ annually (the tax savings become meaningful at this level) People who enjoy Mediterranean climate and lifestyle Those planning extended European stays (Greece as a Schengen base) Those interested in eventual EU permanent residency or citizenship Freelancers or employees with flexible schedules Those who prioritize quality of life over urban convenience Less suitable for: Remote workers earning below €3,500/month (cannot meet the threshold) Those who need a highly urbanized environment with vibrant nightlife (limited options outside Athens) People with low tolerance for bureaucratic inefficiency Those who cannot commit to two years in Greece (required for the tax benefit) Those primarily serving Asia-Pacific clients (time zone challenges) Families requiring top-tier international schools (fewer options than Western Europe) Advanced Tax Considerations Double taxation agreements: Greece has treaties with over 50 countries. Before becoming a Greek tax resident, confirm whether a treaty exists between Greece and your income source country to avoid being taxed by both. Social insurance: Greek tax residents may owe social insurance contributions. For self-employed individuals, this runs approximately 26.95% of income. This cost is separate from the half-tax benefit and must be factored in independently. Exit strategy: The half-tax benefit requires a two-year commitment. Leaving Greece before the two years expire may trigger clawback of previously enjoyed tax reductions. Ensure your plans genuinely support at least two years of residency. Home country obligations: Transferring tax residency to Greece typically ends or reduces obligations in your previous country. However, some countries (notably the United States) impose worldwide taxation on citizens regardless of residency. U.S. citizens need specialized advice. The Bottom Line Greece's digital nomad visa, anchored by its half-tax benefit, occupies a distinctive position in the global nomad visa landscape. It's not the lowest barrier to entry (Argentina and Spain are more accessible). It's not the most aggressive tax deal (Italy's southern regions at 90% reduction and Croatia's zero-tax approach go further). But it achieves an impressive balance across tax optimization, residency flexibility, quality of life, and long-term settlement potential. The 2026 completion of the Island Mesh 5G network addresses what was historically Greece's biggest weakness as a remote work destination. For digital nomads who've fantasized about opening a laptop in a whitewashed house overlooking the Aegean, the fantasy is now an arithmetically sound decision. In the global race to attract digital nomads, Greece has played two powerful cards: half-tax and island 5G. What remains to be seen is whether the execution matches the promise.
April 17, 2026
Podcast "Digital Nomad" ｜Entrepreneur Zoey: Worrying but Never Taking Action, the Success Rate is Zero!
Have you ever thought about what your ideal life looks like? Many people often complain about the monotony and lack of freedom in their 9-to-5 lives, but they rarely think about what kind of life they truly desire. They may know that they aspire to a certain lifestyle but seldom take steps to change it. After all, the concept of an "ideal" life sometimes remains a mere thought, as we find it difficult to achieve or believe that change is possible. In the episode 425 of "JB' Small Talk," we are excited to have Zoey, the host of the podcast 「佐編茶水間」, as our featured guest. Through bold trial and error, Zoey has managed to bring her ideal life to fruition. Even before graduating from college, Zoey had set "remote work" as her career goal. She started from hybrid work to remote work, working for companies in Taiwan and South Korea, and finally moved to the United States to establish her personal brand. Currently residing in the U.S., Zoey is a self-made entrepreneur, sharing content related to "personal brand management," "remote work," and "design thinking" through her brand 「理想生活設計」、Podcast 「佐編茶水間」. She has authored two books, 《啟動遠距工作，設計你的理想生活》、《工作必須有錢有愛有意義！》, sharing her experiences in remote work and digital nomadism, with monthly income over $3000. Reflecting on her journey, Zoey acknowledges that the path to digital nomadism and remote work was challenging, marked by trial and error. However, she adhered to Elon Musk's words: "If you don't try, the probability of success is absolute zero." Zoey relied on taking action to explore more possibilities in her career. You Don't See The Opportunity Doesn't Mean It Doesn't Exist While studying fashion design in college, Zoey, attending night classes, experienced the 9-to-5 work life during the day. It became clear to her that she didn't enjoy the restricted office life. Even then, she contemplated the possibility of remote work in her future. In her senior year, Zoey started taking freelance projects, using her design skills to create logos and websites. This experience confirmed her love for the flexible work model. However, freelancing posed the challenge of unstable project sources. Upon entering the workforce, Zoey explored whether Taiwanese companies offered remote work opportunities. Remote work wasn't a popular concept in Taiwan at the time, especially eight years ago when it was not as prevalent as it is now. Zoey, who had interned in New York and witnessed the remote work culture in the U.S., knew that such opportunities were often found in foreign and startup companies. In Taiwan, she began her search in these two directions. During this period, Zoey worked part-time, took on freelance projects, and searched for a job. However, things did not go as smoothly as she had hoped. She faced the practical challenge of finding remote work in her field of "design," which wasn't as straightforward as she anticipated. Undeterred by the challenges and unwilling to compromise due to practical constraints, Zoey didn't give up. Instead, she explored different possibilities. She smiled, saying, "Just change your approach if the road is not turning where you want it to." Zoey took inventory of her other skills. Throughout, she enjoyed writing articles, observing new knowledge, and had operated a blog for some time. Content marketing became another viable option. Ultimately, Zoey found a job at a Taiwanese startup in the tourism industry, where she could work remotely for a few days each week. Later, she was fortunate to discover a part-time position as a remote visual designer for a Korean company through PTT. Though it wasn't a full-time remote job, Zoey proved that finding remote work in Taiwan was not entirely impossible. If You Don't Take Action, The Success Rate Is Absolute Zero In 2017, circumstances led Zoey to move to the United States with her significant other. She negotiated with her Korean employer to transition from part-time to full-time remote work, finally realizing her long-desired fully remote job. However, the story didn't end there. Zoey embarked on another endeavor — entrepreneurship. After work, she started brainstorming her personal brand and recorded her podcast, 「佐編茶水間」 exploring various monetization possibilities as a side gig. Unfamiliar with advertorial at the time, Zoey began by affiliate marketing，recommending products to her audience. If someone made a purchase based on her recommendation, she earned a commission. Zoey also turned her expertise in design thinking into online courses. Surprisingly, her first online course received positive feedback, earning her $4,000. Rather than immediately quitting her full-time job based on this one-time success, Zoey invested the earnings in upgrading her equipment. It was only after the success of her second online course that she decided to leave her job and fully commit to her personal brand. A successful person cannot be too reckless, placing all bets on one throw, nor can they be too timid, too rational, because being overly rational means not daring to do anything. Throughout her journey, Zoey continuously validated the possibilities of each path. She said, "While you spend time worrying about whether what you're doing is right, is a waste of time, you should also know that if you don't take action, it(the success rate) is absolute zero." Many people fear failure, but Zoey believes that although making a wrong decision may consume time, energy, and money, these concerns are not unfounded. However, making a mistake in one decision doesn't determine your entire life. Bold trial and error can open up more possibilities. Today, Zoey has realized her vision of an ideal life. If you want to learn more about Zoey's journey in practicing full remote work and digital nomadism, along with detailed examples, just check the episode 425 of "JB' Small Talk" . -- Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 9, 2024
3 Strategies for Successful Online Meetings/Interviews: Showing Your Professionalism on Camera
Online meetings and online interviews have become more popular than ever. Since COVID-19, many teams have been turning to online meeting software for meetings and interviews. Mastering the skill of presenting yourself professionally on camera can significantly improve first impressions and enhance interview success. Software Testing: Don't Lose the Battle Before It Starts. A Backup Plan Helps Peace Your Mind Each company has its preferred online meeting software, so you should carry out these 3 checks in advance. Download the specified online meeting software: Don't wait until just before the meeting to realize the other party requires specific software. Update to the latest version: Always make sure your software has been updated. Also, it's wise to have the required online meeting software installed on both your phone and computer as a backup. Have an alternative connection plan: Options like Google Meet, which doesn't need a prior login or even a phone number, are ideal choices. Being well-prepared can show the other party that you are well-prepared and will help ease your anxiety before the meeting or interview. Clothing and Visual Preparation: The Art of Displaying "Professionalism" on Camera Research shows that first impressions are formed within the first 45 seconds of meeting someone. The moment you turn on your camera, you're being evaluated. The following 3 preparations can boost your impression score: Collared shirts are better than collarless, and sleeved tops are preferable to sleeveless. These choices enhance your professional image. If your wardrobe lacks this type of 'work uniform,' investing time in finding one is a good idea, as it will save you the hassle of deciding what to wear before meetings. A clean background is crucial; avoid showing your bed and wardrobe. Even if others know you are working from home, having a bed and wardrobe in the frame can create a 'homely' feel, which should be avoided. Maintain some distance from the camera. It's best to show your hand gestures during conversation: According to research, 55% of communication is non-verbal. Keeping a distance from the camera and allowing your hand movements to be seen can help express your message precisely. Furthermore, You can rehearse with trusted friends before the meeting or interview and record it, allowing you to identify any blind spots and optimize your on-camera image. Avoid Noise for Smooth Communication Once the meeting or interview kicks off, unexpected noises can mess up the communication quality and others' first impressions of you. The following 3 tips can help prevent noise interruption. Mute your phone and turn off app notifications: During the meeting, app notifications or personal messages can mess up the conversation quickly, which should be avoided. Use earphones: This ensures that both parties can hear each other clearly. Keep family and pets away from disturbing: Pick a quiet room, close the door, and inform your family in advance to avoid unexpected interruptions. This helps your online session run smoothly and leaves a positive impression. Building trust in the workplace starts with these small details. As mutual trust grows, future collaboration becomes smoother! -- This article is reprinted from：Farry H（article） （This article is translated by the Digital Nomad editor group.） Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
February 5, 2024
Remote Work New Trend - "Digital Snowmads" Find Paradise in Ski Resorts！
When we think of digital nomads, the first image that often comes to mind is people leisurely sipping coffee in beautiful cafes, or working on their computers while lying on hammocks beside gorgeous beaches. However, these scenes are mostly fantasies of tropical islands or temperate countries. Have you ever thought about those nomads who love winter? With the popularity of remote work, winter-loving digital nomads are actively seeking new ways to integrate work and leisure. Ski resorts have become their preferred destinations, giving rise to the term "Digital Snowmads." These individuals break away from the traditional office setup, opting for the fresh mountain air and choosing ski resorts as their temporary remote work bases. During the snow season, they explore different countries, working remotely during peak times at ski resorts, and then enjoying skiing when the slopes are quieter in the evenings or after tourists have left. In the past, executing the Digital Snowmads lifestyle faced a significant challenge - the high and hard-to-find long-term accommodation costs in ski resorts. Many resorts required payment of the entire season's rent upfront, which, even with some savings, posed a considerable burden. However, many hoteliers have now recognized this opportunity and are offering facilities suitable for long-term stays. For example, Swiss Escape Hotel in Grimentz, Switzerland, has specifically designed long-term stay options for digital nomads. Apart from Grimentz, Bansko in Bulgaria is recognized as one of the most economically affordable ski resorts in Europe. Several digital skiers also share their experiences, such as choosing ski resorts near the Pyrenees mountains in France, which can be more cost-effective than the Alps. In South America, Chile and Argentina are suggested as bases for Digital Snowmads, offering affordable options such as staying in budget hostels near the ski resorts and reducing costs by purchasing daily tickets. This way of working and living in ski resorts not only provides a fun winter experience but also opens up new possibilities for digital nomads seeking to blend work and leisure. From the thrilling skiing on slopes to the serene working hours in cafes, this lifestyle showcases the charm and diversity of remote work. With the advancement of technology and changes in work patterns, we can anticipate that this way of achieving a balance between work and leisure in the beauty of nature will attract an increasing number of participants. -- Responsible Editor／Jeremy Lee Follow the Digital Nomad Facebook fan page and stay updated with more recent articles on Instagram (＠digital.nomad.press)！
January 19, 2024