You’ve finally landed the remote job you’ve dreamed of. All documents are in order. Bags are packed and ready to go.
But, the question is “where to?”.
As we enter the final stages of 2025, so many countries across the globe have launched their own variations of digital nomad visas by now.
Some seem too good to be true, with an unbelievably low bar to obtain, and others have you scratching your head, wondering how on Earth people meet said requirements.
And then there’s another category of destinations that are downright surprising, offering visas to attract remote workers, seemingly welcoming them with open arms despite government-backed campaigns to deter tourists from visiting.
That’s the case for one of Europe’s most iconic countries that we at Travel Off Path have covered too many times to count in terms of overtourism concerns, yet an insightful new report from the Global Intelligence Unit just featured it as the #2 spot in the world for digital nomads.
Are Digital Nomads Welcome In The Netherlands?
Where does the Netherlands stand in terms of tourism in general right now? The last time we checked, they were essentially pulling the welcome mat out from tourists’ feet.
Whether any particular visitor was “up to no good” in Amsterdam’s famous pockets of dark tourism, or if they’re your typical run-of-the-mill tourist enjoying more palatable delights of one of Europe’s prettiest cities, seemed pre-determined by the government with a ‘one size fits all’ approach.
As recently as early summer, well-respected Fodor’s was still reporting how locals are fed up with tourists in The Netherlands (mainly Amsterdam) hence we have tried to dig up the best alternatives for you, such as canal-lined Rotterdam and Dordrecht.
So, is there a difference between digital nomads and tourists in the eyes of locals?
Well, if they’re aligned with Mexico City residents, the answer would be no, which is why the Netherlands being crowned 2nd best in the world was quite a shocker.
Given how tourists may be in town as short as a weekend getaway compared to digital nomads paying rent each month, let’s look into the benefits of making your base in the Netherlands.
The downside is certainly Amsterdam’s unwelcoming “Karens”, at least from the outside looking in…
The Netherlands’ “Self-Employed Residence Permit”
Who knew the Netherlands even had its take on a digital nomad visa?
Described as “gross profit per month (with holiday allowance)” this permit only requires a minimum monthly income of $2011 as of today, meaning it’s actually remarkably easy to obtain from that standpoint.
Though business plan submissions can be a hassle, they’re not as much of a headache as they can be to maintain a decent quality of life if you’re scraping by on roughly $2000 per month.
As the same report implies, the cost of living here is high, especially if you’re dead set on Amsterdam.
Other lesser-known cities, arguably just as pretty and far less crowded, like Haarlem, Utrecht, and Leiden, are all built along scenic canals with vibrant storefronts and welcoming cafes — and we all know cafe culture is a staple across the nation.
Known as the “Self Employed Residence Permit”, once granted, nomads can stay here up to 2 years and can be used as a gateway to permanent residency if that’s your end goal.
Online application fees total approximately $480 for first-time applicants and your job must pass a 3-step ‘points test‘ if you’re not an American, Japanese, or Bolivian citizen.
To sum up the benefits of this permit, you’re applying to a country highlighted by these features:
- Largely proficient in English
- Clear-cut instructions to obtain ‘permit’
- Low income requirement
- Popular café culture
- 2-year validity (with possible extensions)
- Zippy internet speeds
- High quality of life
- Growing startup scene
- Bicycle friendly everywhere (save Uber money!)
There’s also the option of DAFT (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty), catered toward U.S. citizens who prefer opening a business in the Netherlands.
It does come with a hefty $5335 investment requirement, but more flexible terms with stays up to 5 years.
Top 5 Dutch Cities For Nomads
If you’re willing to risk irritable locals not approving your presence, and you have deeper pockets than $2011 per month, Amsterdam is certainly a top choice.
Lined with trendy cafes perfect to use as your office, ample co-working spaces, safe cycling routes, and no shortage of vibrant parks and world-class museums, this iconic city undoubtedly lives up to the hype.
One of our favorite sources to determine the latest trends with digital nomads is Nomads.com, where, currently, Amsterdam ranks #5 in the Netherlands.
This ranking is almost solely based on high costs across the board as there are 4 other cities (2 of which we mentioned above) that top Amsterdam for the nomad lifestyle:
- 5) Amsterdam
- 4)The Hague
- 3) Leiden
- 2) Utrecht
- 1) Groningen (listed as the most affordable Dutch destination)
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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