Imagine traveling the world and being able to work from wherever your heart desires. Digital nomads are individuals who have no need to imagine because this is their way of life.

Digital nomads are people who live a nomadic (travelling) lifestyle while working remotely through the use of technology and the Internet.

They generally own minimal material assets. They work remotely in hotels, cafes, public libraries, on the beach, or recreational parks, while using Wi-Fi, smartphones or mobile hotspots to access the Internet.

Digital nomads have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Many have chosen to work for themselves or for companies that allow them to travel.

Becoming a digital nomad means your job has to be fully digital, whether you choose to work for a company or yourself.

Being a digital nomad doesn’t mean limiting yourself to a specific role.

Among the common roles that lend themselves well to a fully remote culture are: Customer service agent, graphic designer, editor, sales agent, teacher/tutor, social media coordinator, and writer.

The freedom to discover new opportunities and make decisions based on what feels right is something that comes easily for digital nomads. For example, while working from home, a digital nomad may suddenly feel like moving somewhere else (such as to a different country where their work can be done remotely) and they are completely free to do so!

The digital nomad visas

Yes, there is such a thing as a digital nomad visa. The digital nomad visa is a temporary residence permit for those who earn an income working remotely. Typically, these visas last from one to two years but can be extended for a longer period of time. This visa allows digital nomads to legally reside in a foreign country while they work remotely.

Advantages of the digital nomad lifestyle

A digital nomad lifestyle sounds great and offers many advantages. Some of these include:

Control: Digital nomads have more control over the work and projects they choose to do. They have more control of their own time.

Flexibility: This lifestyle offers a great amount of freedom. Digital nomads can work from anywhere without disruption to their daily routine.

No dress code: Forget about office attire, being a digital nomad means you don’t have to dress up daily for work. A tank top and shorts will do!

No more commuting:On most occasion your office is where you wake up each day. So, no more long lines at the bust stop.

Travel: Opportunities to travel meet new people and learn about new cultures.

Disadvantages of the digital nomad lifestyle

Though being a digital nomad sounds awesome there are a few disadvantages that comes with the lifestyle. Here are a few:

Expensive: Can be expensive to travel on a regular basis especially from one country to the next.

Time: You may have to work for clients in multiple time zones, this may cause individuals to work irregular hours.

Loneliness: Being away from family and friends can become challenging over extended periods.

If you have an adventurous side, this lifestyle may be for you. Being a digital nomad can be one of the most rewarding yet challenging ways to live. However, once you equip yourself with organisational skills, discipline, and a thirst for learning, you could enjoy an exhilarating and fulfilling life around the world as a digital nomad.