Digital Nomad’s Guide to Working from the Balkans

The Balkans is a region known for its diverse culture, traditions, history, and scenic views. It has recently gained a lot of traction among tourists and is a popular travel destination for digital nomads. Comprising countries including Bosnia, Albania, Croatia, Herzegovina, Montenegro, and more, the Balkans is a unique blend of classic and modern, East and West.

Here is a comprehensive guide for digital nomads who want to know what to expect when working from this vibrant region.

Why choose the Balkans for tourism?

The Balkans is a home to stunning and breathtaking landscapes. Stretching from Bosnia’s mountainous terrains to Croatia’s Adriatic coastlines, the region is imbued with history, exquisite medieval castles, and architecture reflecting the Ottoman era. Each country has its own individual customs, traditions, festivals, and even cuisines. However, there exists an interlink between the countries one way or another.

Affordability

One key feature that draws digital nomads to the Balkans is affordability. Compared to the West of Europe, the price of living in the Balkans is prominently lower. You can actually enjoy a good quality of life, including budget-friendly food, transportation, accommodation, and entertainment.

A growing digital nomad community

The Balkans have recently become a hub for digital nomads. Main cities such as Sofia and Zagreb entrenched nomad communities along with networking events and co-working areas. The abundance of resources and sense of bonding makes it convenient for the newcomers to settle and thrive.

Best Balkan Cities For Digital Nomads

Let’s examine the regulations for digital nomads in the Balkan countries. We will start with the objectively best one: Bulgaria.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria. The city has a historical heritage and modern amenities. Co-working spaces such as Work&Share offer excellent working facilities for remote work. Sofia also has lush green spots and easy access to mountain resorts such as Vitosha. This is why Sofia is known as a city that provides ample opportunities for leisurely activities and is a popular destination for digital nomads.

Bulgaria has become an increasingly attractive destination for digital nomads, although it does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, several options and regulations exist that cater to remote workers and freelancers looking to stay in the country for an extended period.

Visa and Work Permit Options

For digital nomads wanting to work remotely from Bulgaria, the most suitable option is to obtain a freelance permit followed by a Type D visa. This process involves several steps:

1. Freelance Permit: This must be approved by the Bulgarian Employment Agency. Applicants need to provide a detailed work plan and demonstrate proficiency in Bulgarian at a B1 level.
2. Type D Visa: After securing the freelance permit, individuals can apply for a Type D visa at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate. This visa allows for stays of up to one year and can be extended.
3. Residence Permit: Upon entering Bulgaria with a Type D visa, individuals must obtain a residence permit from the Migration Directorate

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements and process differ depending on citizenship:

• EU Citizens: Can enter Bulgaria without restrictions and stay for up to 90 days. For longer stays, they must register with the Migration Office and obtain a residence permit
• US Citizens: Can enter Bulgaria without a visa for 90 days. For longer stays, they must apply for a Type D visa.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support their stay in Bulgaria. This can be shown through bank statements, income statements, or other financial documents.

Tax Considerations

Digital nomads in Bulgaria can benefit from favorable tax rates:

• A flat tax rate of under 10% applies to income earned by expats and digital nomads in Bulgaria.
• For the most up-to-date tax information, check the official website of the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency.

Belgrade, Serbia

Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, is specifically very famous for its nightlife. You will find numerous co-working areas, such as Smart Office and Impact Hub, in the region. This way, the requirements of digital nomads are met.

In addition to the nightlife, one aspect that makes Belgrade worth living is the friendly locals. You can also avail of budget-friendly accommodation and cheap yet high-quality dining options. Moreover, the city’s location is central and ideal, therefore making it easier to travel to parts of Europe.

Visa Options

• Serbia does not currently offer a specific “digital nomad visa”, but there are suitable options for remote workers
• The most relevant visa is the Type-D visa, which allows for stays of up to 180 days
• After the Type-D visa expires, a temporary residence permit can be obtained for one year

Eligibility and Requirements

• Applicants need to demonstrate a monthly income of at least $3,500 for the past 6 months
• Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and proof of sufficient funds

Duration of Stay

• The temporary residence permit is valid for up to one year and can be renewed
• Recent changes in 2024 have extended the possible duration of temporary residence permits to up to three years

Application Process

• As of February 2024, the application process for temporary residence and work permits has been fully digitalized
• Applications can be submitted online through the eGovernment portal

Tax Considerations

• Personal income tax rates in Serbia range from 10-20%
• Social contributions can be high, amounting to about 26% of income
• Setting up a company in Serbia might be more tax-efficient, with a corporate income tax rate of 15%

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is a charming, quaint ancient town with green spaces and sustainable living. The city actually has a rapidly expanding nomad community. The co-working spaces, such as the Kreativini Center, offer imperial facilities. The city is densely populated, which makes it easier to navigate. Since its close proximity to the Alps makes it a great base for nature enthusiasts.

Slovenia currently does not have a specific digital nomad visa, but there are options for remote workers who want to stay in the country for an extended period. Here’s an overview of the regulations and options for digital nomads in Slovenia:

Visa Options

1. Tourist Visa: EU citizens can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. Non-EU citizens may need to apply for a Schengen visa for short stays.
2. Self-Employment Permit: This is the closest alternative to a digital nomad visa in Slovenia. It requires:
   • Registering a business in Slovenia
   • Obtaining a tax number
   • Applying for a work permit
   • Applying for a single work and residence permit

Accommodation Tips

Searching for accommodation within the Balkans is no hard deal and is uncomplicated. You can find a variety of options, such as Airbnb, rentals, and even budget hostels. Moreover, you may also avail of mid-range hotels or long-term apartment leases. You can easily find accommodation online through websites like Airbnb and Booking.com along with other local rental platforms.

Co-living spaces are also becoming increasingly common in larger cities. These spaces tend to offer good-quality accommodation and a feeling of community.

Visa and Residency

There are varying visa requirements. It basically depends on the nationality and the country you intend to reside in. There are several Balkan countries that fall in the Schengen Zone. This means they allow a 90-day stay period in a 180-day period for numerous non-EU citizens. Other than this, countries such as Serbia and Croatia offer special digital nomad visas.

This would, in turn, allow for extended periods of stay. It is also important to research visa requirements and options for the country that you plan on touring.

Language

Every country within the Balkans has its own variable and official language. However, English is very commonly spoken, specifically among the younger population and in the Urban regions. Learning some basic and common phrases in the native language is appreciated by the locals.

Internet and connectivity

A reliable and stable internet connection is necessary for digital nomads. Most Balkan countries offer excellent internet connections, and efficient internet speed is easily available in co-working spaces.

There are also appreciable mobile data plans that offer excellent and robust internet connectivity, all at budget-friendly prices. This makes it easier to stay connected to the internet while you are on the go. It is strongly advised that you get a local sim as they offer better prices along with connectivity.