Best Visas to Apply For Now
New year, new location? January is a popular time for nomads to plan their next move. European consulates are back from holiday closures, and Southeast Asian destinations offer peak-season weather. Here are our top picks to start 2026.
🇹🇠Thailand DTV: Start the year in tropical warmth with a 5-year visa framework
January is peak season in Thailand — perfect weather, vibrant nomad communities in full swing, and the Destination Thailand Visa offers unbeatable flexibility with its 5-year multi-entry structure. Chiang Mai and Bangkok coworking spaces are buzzing with returning nomads after the holidays.
Seasonal tip: January through March is Thailand's cool, dry season — the best weather of the year. Flights are pricier but the experience is worth it.
Note: Peak tourist season means higher accommodation prices and crowded popular areas. Book coworking memberships early.
🇬🇪 Georgia: Zero-cost visa with growing winter nomad scene in Tbilisi
While Tbilisi winters are cold, the city's indoor culture thrives — cozy wine bars, affordable restaurants, and a growing coworking scene. The Remotely from Georgia program has no application fee, no income tax, and the lowest barrier to entry of any formal nomad program.
Seasonal tip: Tbilisi in January averages 2-5°C. Heating costs are low but factor in winter clothing. Fewer tourists means lower prices.
Note: Shorter days and cold weather aren't for everyone. Internet can be spotty during heavy snowfall outside the capital.
🇨🇴 Colombia: Low-cost entry with eternal spring weather in Medellin
Colombia's digital nomad visa requires just $1,400/month — one of the lowest thresholds globally. Medellin's year-round spring climate (15-28°C), affordable living, and thriving nomad community make January an excellent time to arrive. The city's infrastructure for remote workers continues to improve.
Seasonal tip: January is dry season in Medellin — comfortable temperatures and minimal rain. Perfect arrival timing.
Note: Safety requires neighborhood awareness. Stick to well-known nomad areas like El Poblado and Laureles.
🇪🇸 Spain: Beat the summer rush with an early-year application
Applying in January gives you a head start on Spain's digital nomad visa processing. Consulates are less busy post-holidays, and processing times tend to be shorter in Q1. The Beckham Law tax regime remains attractive at a flat 24% rate on Spanish income.
Seasonal tip: Applying now means you could have approval by March-April, perfectly timed for spring arrival in Barcelona or Valencia.
Note: Spanish bureaucracy moves slowly even in quiet periods. Having a gestor (administrative assistant) is highly recommended.
🇲🇾 Malaysia DE Rantau: Affordable Asia with strong digital infrastructure
Malaysia's DE Rantau Nomad Pass offers excellent value — $2,000/month income requirement, no tax on foreign income, and some of Asia's best internet infrastructure. Kuala Lumpur's modern coworking scene and incredible food make it a strong January destination.
Seasonal tip: January is within Malaysia's rainy season on the west coast, but Kuala Lumpur's indoor infrastructure means rain barely affects daily routines.
Note: DE Rantau has sector restrictions — you must work in IT or digital economy fields. Not open to all professions.
General Application Tips
- January is an excellent month to organize documents for the year ahead. Get apostilles, translations, and certifications done now.
- Many countries adjust their income requirements annually at the start of the year — verify current thresholds before applying.
- Health insurance policies often renew in January. Compare nomad insurance providers like SafetyWing, World Nomads, and Genki for the best annual rates.
- If you're considering a European nomad visa, start the process in Q1 to avoid summer consulate slowdowns.
- Tax year transitions mean it's a good time to consult a cross-border tax advisor about your obligations.
Disclaimer
Based on historical patterns and publicly available information. Processing times and conditions may vary. These recommendations reflect general trends and should not be considered legal or immigration advice. Always verify current requirements with official government sources before applying.
Last updated: 2026-01-05