Caojing, the surprising village for digital nomads located in China
The rise of remote work has transformed the concept of international mobility, driving the development of spaces and policies designed for digital nomads.
In this context, initiatives such as the recently inaugurated “international village” in China, or the advantageous European visa programs, ultimately have a similar goal: to attract talent to their respective productive “ecosystems”, as well as the economic benefits that these people bring.
Next, we explore these options, highlighting their main features.
Caojing Digital Nomad International Village: Technology and nature in harmony
Located in Caojing National Park, within the Jinshan district of Shanghai, the Caojing Digital Nomad International Village It opened in August 2024 as an innovative response to the growing interest in remote work. This village combines a serene rural setting with the connectivity and convenience of a modern metropolis.
Main Features:
- Strategic location: Located in an area of 3.66 square kilometers, with 40% of its area covered by water, it offers an idyllic natural landscape.
- State-of-the-art infrastructure: It features 5G network coverage provided by China Telecom, ensuring high-speed connections for remote professionals.
- Inspiring workspaces: From stations by lotus ponds to equipped cafes, the village offers unique options for working and relaxing.
- Sustainability and rural revitalization: Designed as part of China's rural revitalization strategy, it seeks to transform rural areas into hubs of creativity and international collaboration.
- Community environment: The project promotes activities such as cycling, cultural exploration, and collaborative projects, fostering a sense of community among residents.
With this initiative, China is not only offering a space to work, but also a comprehensive environment to live, connect, and innovate.
Digital nomadism in Europe: tradition and future
If China is beyond your reach for remote work, don't overlook the possibility of working from Europe.
In Europe, various legal frameworks have been designed to attract digital nomads. Below, we will examine the cases of Spain, Portugal, and Greece.
Spain: The digital nomad visa under the Startups Act
Since December 2022, Spain has offered a visa for foreign teleworkers as part of its Startups Law.
Requirements:
- Demonstrate income equivalent to twice the professional minimum wage (approximately 2,520 euros per month in 2024).
- To prove an employment or professional relationship with a foreign company.
- Have at least one year of work experience.
- Revenue generated mostly outside of Spain.
Benefits:
- Initial residence of up to five years.
- Inclusion of dependent family members in the visa.
- Access to Spanish nationality after two years of legal residence for Latin American citizens.
Barcelona, in particular, presents itself as an epicenter for these workers, thanks to its digital ecosystem, international connectivity and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Portugal: D8 Visa for digital nomads
Portugal's D8 visa is one of the most attractive due to its flexible approach and additional benefits.
Requirements:
- Minimum income of four times the Portuguese minimum wage (around 3,280 euros per month).
- Employment contract or proof of independent activity.
- Evidence of rental or ownership of housing in Portugal.
- Valid health insurance.
Benefits:
- Initial stay of two years, renewable.
- Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which allows reduced tax rates for ten years.
- Access to technology hubs in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, fostering networking and innovation.
Greece: Digital nomad visa with tax incentives
Greece is also joining this trend with a specific residence permit for remote workers.
Requirements:
- Demonstrate a monthly income of at least 3,500 euros, with increases for dependents.
- Proof of employment or remote professional activity.
- Health insurance and residency in Greece.
Benefits:
- 50% reduction in income tax during the first seven years of residence.
- Possibility of renewable residence for periods of two years.
- Athens stands out as a preferred city for digital nomads, thanks to its combination of natural beauty and urban infrastructure.
AIM Global advises you on your digital nomadism projects.
The current international landscape surrounding remote work offers unique opportunities for those seeking to combine remote work with a fulfilling lifestyle.
Visas from Spain, Portugal, and Greece offer tax, legal, and quality-of-life benefits. And at AIM Global, we have the experience to help you choose the program that best suits your needs.
Schedule today Schedule a meeting with us. We'll help you create a future of greater global mobility and cross-cultural collaboration.
