Working where others go on vacation? Many digital nomads are turning this widespread dream of independence and flexibility into a reality. The Corona pandemic in particular has shown us that it's much easier and simpler to do than many previously thought. Only the courage to try this out is in your own hands.
You are not yet a digital nomad, but you want to become one? Then it makes sense as a first step to think about the following points and take care of it.
1. determining the right time
Upheaval situations such as the end of studies, an expiring employment contract or a general new life situation are perfect to make this new stage of life of location-independent working possible. Especially the time between two projects can turn out to be an optimal start. This gives you the opportunity to adjust to the new situation and to restructure your professional life.
2. choosing the right country
In which country is it possible to work location-independently? Theoretically, of course, there are no limits. First of all, you should decide for yourself which aspects are important to you during your stay: Language, climate, region, time change, cultural aspects, budget & cost of living, etc.... ... Once you have decided on a suitable region, country or city, then you need to find out about the general conditions.
Where is there good and stable internet? What are the requirements for a work permit (employer, work visa, insurance, etc.)? Do I need a guarantee or proof of a certain income if I am there for a longer period of time? If and how much taxes do I have to pay as a digital nomad? All these questions need to be clarified in a location-specific manner so that nothing stands in the way of relaxed and effective work and no unpleasant surprises await you afterwards.
3. preparation of the documents
Checking that the passports are up to date is of course the first check. You should also check which insurances are useful and what they cover. Especially in the uncertain Corona times, short-term cancellations are unfortunately not uncommon, which is why a travel cancellation insurance makes sense in any case, so that you do not have to sit on incurred costs and are on the safe side. Check whether visas are required for your chosen destination and take care of it early (you may need to provide proof and qualifications (check the consulates' websites for this).
If you only want to work abroad temporarily, it makes sense to minimize your fixed costs at home as much as possible. Can I sublet my apartment? Do I still need my car? This way you can save a lot of money, which you can spend on better things and experiences in your destination country.
4. insurance
No matter if you are employed or self-employed: inform yourself and protect yourself! Check your insurances before you start your digital nomadism. You should also keep an eye on your social security and pension plans, even if you are still at the beginning of your working life.
Find out in detail what regulations your company has regarding data protection, occupational health and safety, and proof of working hours. Also technical aspects like sufficient working materials as well as worldwide access to needed servers have to be considered.
And always have a certain buffer on the high side, with which you can finance unplanned costs such as a hospital stay or a trip interruption.
5. build up social contacts
What many global nomads underestimate at first: How lonely you can feel among people. It's important that you're open to meeting new people. Whether in a private or professional context, the freedom to work remotely can also make you very lonely, as you spend a lot of time alone or acquaintances are usually not long-lasting. Through social platforms like Facebook, Bumble, or even Tinder, you can quickly find like-minded people with whom you will feel more familiar than usual because of the shared situation. In addition to CoWorking Spaces, CoLiving Spaces, such as Homeoffice Madeira, are an ideal starting point for getting in touch with like-minded people.