Holafly Index: Visa Hurdles for Digital Nomads in 17 Nations

Growth in Remote Work Faces Bureaucratic Hurdles

The appeal of working remotely from abroad continues to grow, with MBO Partners' 2025 State of Independence study reporting 18.5 million Americans identifying as digital nomads, a 153% increase since 2019. Despite this expansion, the reality often involves significant administrative challenges.

Global eSIM provider Holafly's recently released Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026 indicates that nearly two-thirds of 600 surveyed travellers found paperwork and visa processes more time-consuming than anticipated.

Metin Kastro, Holafly's COO, noted that while arrival is often straightforward, the subsequent bureaucracy, loss of work hours, and unreliable internet connectivity frequently lead to burnout for remote professionals.

Holafly Index Ranks 17 Destinations by Friction

The Holafly Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026 assessed 17 popular destinations, ranking them from easiest to hardest for remote workers based on several factors. These criteria included visa complexity, local bureaucratic processes, ease of banking access, internet connectivity, healthcare infrastructure, and potential disruption risks.

The index aims to highlight these often-overlooked friction points, asserting that successful long-term mobility depends on reducing the daily logistical burdens that affect individuals' livelihoods and peace of mind. While a high friction score does not deter visiting a location, it signals a need for more preparation.

Asia-Pacific Destinations Present Varied Experiences

Among the destinations evaluated, several in or adjacent to Asia presented distinct experiences for digital nomads. Georgia, positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, was ranked as one of the easiest, allowing citizens from over 95 countries, including the United States, to live and work visa-free for up to a year without requiring a tax ID or address registration.

Conversely, Malaysia offers a digital nomad visa for up to one year, renewable, but remote workers may encounter difficulties opening local bank accounts due to requirements for local address proof. Thailand provides a five-year digital nomad visa allowing multiple stays of up to 180 days, although tax obligations may apply depending on the length of stay.

Indonesia, while appealing for its coastal lifestyle, has a higher income threshold of $60,000 for its digital nomad visa and a lower healthcare score. Vietnam currently lacks a specific digital nomad visa or a long-stay option for remote work, unless a six-figure capital investment is made.

Implications for Asian Travellers and Regional Policies

For Asian travellers considering remote work abroad, or for those from other regions looking towards Asia, the Holafly index provides a clear picture of administrative demands. Destinations like Georgia offer relatively straightforward entry, making them attractive for those seeking ease of settlement.

However, countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia present specific challenges, from banking hurdles to higher income requirements, which could influence destination choices.

Regional governments and tourism boards in Asia may review these findings to refine their digital nomad visa programmes, potentially streamlining application processes or improving infrastructure to better compete for this growing segment of global talent.

Addressing issues like stable internet, accessible banking, and clearer tax guidance could enhance the appeal of Asian nations for remote workers in the coming year.