Bermuda offers Digital Nomad visa as a way to boost tourism

Would you like to change your work from home location?

For people who wish to work or study remotely, Bermuda offers year-long stays. 

The British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic offers residences for visitors aged 18 years and over, with requirements including health insurance and proof of employment or higher education enrolment. 

"Remote work has been a growing trend for some time, and Bermuda 's government has been examining it as part of its technology-focused economic diversification strategy," Labor Minister Jason Hayward of Bermuda said in a statement. 

"Covid-19 has accelerated the trend towards remote work. These visitors can reside in Bermuda without seeking employment on the island and will promote our country's economic activity without having to displace Bermuda 's workers. 

The idea behind the scheme is to help kick-start the tourism industry of the island nation and provide a boost for its economy following the coronavirus pandemic. 

Residency comes at a price – a year-long stay certificate will cost $263 (£207), with applications open by August 1st. 

However, Bermuda has also extended its tourist visa from 90 to 180 days (around six months) for those who do not want to commit to such a lengthy stay. 

Sitting off the east coast of the United States, Bermuda is a popular tourist destination in line with South Carolina, thanks to its pink sandy beaches, diving friendly reefs and balmy climate. 

It follows in Barbados' footsteps, which is also encouraging foreigners to become the year's digital nomads. 

In response to the impact coronavirus has on travel, Bajan Prime Minister Mia Mottley has proposed the new policy. 

Under the scheme, after opening its borders to international visitors on July 12, visitors would have the option of a year-long stay on the idyllic island. 

The 'Barbados Welcome Stamp' would allow a longer period of time for people to immerse themselves in the culture of the island. 

Mottley said in a statement: "If you can come here and work for a couple of months at a time, you don't need to work in Europe, or the US or Latin America; go back and come back.

Source