Remote work remains a popular choice, especially for those who can combine it with travel.

It's widely acknowledged that an increasing number of Europeans are embracing remote work. While the COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in accelerating this trend, it is expected to continue as people explore new ways of working.

As Euronews reports, research indicates that, on average across the European Union, 30% of employees have regularly worked from home in 2022, either in a fully remote or hybrid capacity. This marks a substantial increase from the pre-pandemic estimate of as low as 5.5% in 2019.

Among this growing remote work population, some individuals are taking it a step further by relocating from their home countries entirely.

With many countries enhancing their technological infrastructure and offering digital nomad visas, the global economy has created a sustainable business model for many remote workers.

According to a recent study by virtual private network specialists ExpressVPN, there are 20 ideal overseas locations for expats, including remote employees and digital nomads, and two of them are located in Europe.

Best International Locations for Expat Remote Employees:

1. Madeira, Portugal

   As other Portuguese cities like Lisbon and Porto experience rising costs and crowds, Madeira is emerging as a more affordable alternative for digital nomads and foreign remote workers. Its temperate climate and coastal setting make it attractive for expats and remote workers seeking a blend of traditional culture and modern work opportunities. Madeira claims to have the fastest internet speeds in Portugal due to recent infrastructure upgrades. Foreign remote workers can rent hybrid "workation" facilities that combine housing and workspace, with prices starting at around €850 per month.

2. Tallinn, Estonia

   Estonia's capital city, Tallinn, sits along the rugged yet beautiful Baltic Sea coastline. While the climate is colder compared to other cities on the list, Tallinn offers advanced digital infrastructure, making it appealing to remote workers and digital nomads. Competitive internet speeds and online access to nearly all public services are among its advantages. Estonia also provides a flexible residential and visa policy, allowing digital nomads to qualify for e-residency status, enabling them to own and operate businesses without physical presence requirements.

3. Bermuda

   Bermuda is an enticing destination for adventurous remote workers and digital nomads seeking a complete departure from the traditional corporate environment. While Bermuda is primarily known as a tourist destination with its pink sand beaches, it offers competitive internet capabilities and well-equipped co-working spaces. Additionally, Bermuda's tax codes do not include income tax on residents. Remote workers can obtain a Work From Bermuda certificate, permitting them to work and live on the island for up to a year.

4. Chiang Mai, Thailand

   Located in the northern hills of Thailand, Chiang Mai has become a popular destination for younger remote workers and digital nomads. It boasts a strong expat and digital nomad culture, although Thailand currently lacks a defined visa program for digital nomads or temporary remote workers. Foreign remote workers are required to obtain a government work permit before earning income in the country. A "Special Tourist Visa" allows long-term travelers to stay in Thailand for up to 270 days. Chiang Mai offers reliable internet connectivity, even on small islands in southern Thailand, making it an attractive option for remote work. The cost of living in Thailand is significantly lower compared to the US.

5. Bali, Indonesia

   Often referred to as the "Island of the Gods," Bali, Indonesia, has become a popular destination for digital nomads and independent remote workers. Bali's thriving international community and abundance of co-working spaces simplify the process of setting up a remote workspace, finding accommodation, and establishing a social network within the city. Bali is also planning to introduce a digital nomad visa. The government and private investors have significantly improved digital infrastructure on the island, with widespread Wi-Fi access in public areas and communal workspaces. However, some remote workers express reservations about the quality of the internet connection, especially in touristy areas.

6. Bangalore, India

   The bustling city of Bangalore, often referred to as the Silicon Valley of India, boasts a tech-friendly economy and a well-trained local workforce, making it an ideal place for remote workers and digital nomads. The city's business district offers various opportunities for foreign workers. Bangalore's climate is relatively mild compared to other Indian regions, providing a comfortable environment for remote work. India offers a long-term visa for foreign professionals looking to work remotely in the country, although there is no specific visa program for temporary remote workers or digital nomads. Traditional work visas can be extended for up to five years.