Syria's traditional glassblowing is a craft with deep historical roots, dating back over two thousand years to the time of the Phoenicians.

This ancient art form was invented by Syrian craftsmen in the area of Sidon, Aleppo, Hama, and Palmyra in the 1st century BC.

The technique of glassblowing has remained essentially unchanged to the present day.

The town of Urem Al-Kubra in Aleppo province is particularly renowned for its skilled glassblowing craftsmen.

The craft is not only a testament to Syria's rich cultural heritage but also a symbol of resilience, as artisans like Yassin Arab have revived the practice in areas liberated from conflict.

These craftsmen use recycled glass, melting it at high temperatures to create various items such as hookah bottles, vases, and decorative pieces.

The importance of glassblowing in Syrian culture is significant, as it represents a form of plastic art that has been passed down through generations.

Artisans like Hussein Najjar, who have been practicing for decades, highlight the craft's role in cultural expression and its potential for imaginative creation.

Currently, the number of traditional glassblowers in Syria is not explicitly detailed, but the craft's revival in liberated areas suggests a small yet dedicated community of artisans working to preserve this heritage.

The inclusion of traditional glassblowing on UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding underscores the craft's vulnerability and the necessity for its preservation.

This designation by UNESCO aims to protect and promote the continuity of this ancient art form, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of Syria's cultural landscape for future generations.

Syria's traditional glassblowing is a craft with deep historical roots, dating back over two thousand years to the time of the Phoenicians.

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Content: Art of glassblowing returns again in Aleppo countryside liberated from terrorism

The town of Urem Al-Kubra in Aleppo province in northern Syria has historically been famous for its skilled glassblowing craftsmen. The war considerably affected this traditional craft inherited from our ancestors, but after the liberation of the city from terrorism, some artisans have brought it back to life. The artisan, Yassin Arab learned the glassblowing craft from his father when he was a child, and after the town was liberated from terrorism, he returned to his small facility, where he worked to restore it and start working again. Arab does not hide his enormous passion for the craft of glassblowing and his belief in the need to preserve this ancient Syrian heritage. Regarding the working mechanism, the artisan explained to SANA that he uses recycled glass, melts it again in the oven at high temperature, and then chooses a specific shape for its manufacture, whether hookah bottles, vases, plates, small jugs, fish houses for decoration, decorated cups and antiques of different sizes. After that, t he piece is blown, rotated and processed by the artisan until it takes its final shape using white and brown colors, and once the manufacturing of the product is finished, it is decorated and colored to give it the required aesthetics. For his part, Hussein Najjar noted that he learned the craft of blowing glass manually since he was young and has been working in this field for 40 years. He added that he is able to make any shape or glass container, using his imagination, and considered that the art of glassblowing is one of the types of plastic arts. Traditional glassblowing is a profession that dates back more than two thousand years (since the time of the Phoenicians) and was included in December 2023 by UNESCO on the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity that needs urgent preservation. Source: Syrian Arab News Agency

This ancient art form was invented by Syrian craftsmen in the area of Sidon, Aleppo, Hama, and Palmyra in the 1st century BC.

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Content: Bella Hadid flashes her toned figure in shorts and a cropped sports top while showing off her creative side as she learns the art of glassblowing

It appears Bella Hadid has found a new hobby that showcases her artistic side.

On Sunday, the catwalk queen took to her Instagram page and posted a step-by-step video of herself making her own glass piece, using classic glassblowing technique in a workshop.

Considering the extreme temperatures it takes to make glass from beginning to end, Bella opted to keep her cloths to a minimum and wore skimpy white shorts with a cropped purple sports top.

Showing her creative side: Bella Hadid, 25, learned the classic art of glassblowing to make her own glass piece and posting a video on her Instagram page on Sunday

Glass is made from the process of heating sand to an extremely high temperature so that it turns into a moldable liquid. When it solidifies, a piece of glass is formed in whatever shape the creator has molded it into.

In the video, viewers will find Bella at the stage where she's working to shape the molten red hot material.

She can be seen sitting down and jabbing a long, sharp wrench-like tool with her scorching hot material, which was attached to a hollow blow pole about three feet long.

She was concerned with safety and wore goggles to protect her eyes.

Shaping: The video shows Bella at the stage where she's working to shape the molten red hot material that is attached to a blow pole

Working it: An instructor can be heard voicing a couple of tips as she spins that object around to the point where a small hole begins to form

Dose of heat: By the end of the first clip, Bella gets up and gives the hot material another dose of intense heat by placing it into a fiery furnace

An instructor can be heard voicing a couple of tips as she spins that object round and round to the point where a small hole begins to form.

By the end of the first clip, Bella gets up and gives the hot material another dose of intense heat by placing it into the fiery furnace.

For the next phase, the instructor assists Bella and slowly spins the blow pole while she sands down the still-molten red piece with two black blocks.

The heat is so intense that you can see steam floating into the air as they continue the sanding-down process.

Honing it: For the next phase, the instructor assists Bella and slowly spins the blow pole while she sands down the still molten red piece with two black blocks

Team work: Bella and the instructor work together to begin molding the molten hot object into shape with those two black blocks

Trippy: Bella gave her 53.7 million Instagram fans and followers a look at how her glass piece is looking at this stage of the process

More intense heat: At one point, the Washington, DC, native can be seen kneeling down using a small propane tank to heat up the object to make a few more changes

At one point, the Washington, DC, native can be seen kneeling down using a small propane tank to heat up the object to make a few more changes.

'Oh yeah, that's the one right there,' a man's voice from behind the camera can be heard saying as they continue to spin the object while jabbing it with that sharp tool.

As the process continues, Bella sits down, spinning the blow pole back and forth as it rests in a round plate that she holds with her right hand.

'It's a perfect shape,' the instructors says in encouragement.

'Here it is, ladies and gentlemen,' the man continues just as Bella gets up to blow into the pole to expand the molten hot material out to form some sort of glassware or vase.

Example: The catwalk queen drew out the shape of her piece she was trying to attain with chalk

Rounding it out: As the process continues, Bella sits down and spins the blow pole back and forth as it rests in a round plate that she holds with her right hand

Major phase: 'Here it is, ladies and gentlemen,' the man from behind the camera continues as Bella starts blowing into the pole

Expanding: Bella then process of blowing into the pole to expand the molten material out to form some sort of glassware

Old technique: Glassblowing is the practice of shaping a mass of glass that has been softened by heat by blowing air into it through a tube, or in this case a pole

The final clips shows a closeup of Bella spinning the glass while adding a few intricate touches to the piece with a prong-like tool.

Glassblowing is the practice of shaping a mass of glass that has been softened by heat by blowing air into it through a tube

It was was invented by Syrian craftsmen in the area of Sidon, Aleppo, Hama and Palmyra in the 1st century BC, according to Britannica.

The technique has remained essentially the same to the present day.

Ancient art form: Glassblowing was was invented by Syrian craftsmen in the area of Sidon, Aleppo, Hama and Palmyra in the 1st century bc, according to Britannica

Lovin' it: The glassblowing technique has remained basically the same to the present day

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Bella Hadid flashes her toned figure in shorts and a crop top while learning the art of glassblowing

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The technique of glassblowing has remained essentially unchanged to the present day.

The town of Urem Al-Kubra in Aleppo province is particularly renowned for its skilled glassblowing craftsmen.

The craft is not only a testament to Syria's rich cultural heritage but also a symbol of resilience, as artisans like Yassin Arab have revived the practice in areas liberated from conflict.

These craftsmen use recycled glass, melting it at high temperatures to create various items such as hookah bottles, vases, and decorative pieces.

The importance of glassblowing in Syrian culture is significant, as it represents a form of plastic art that has been passed down through generations.

Artisans like Hussein Najjar, who have been practicing for decades, highlight the craft's role in cultural expression and its potential for imaginative creation.

Currently, the number of traditional glassblowers in Syria is not explicitly detailed, but the craft's revival in liberated areas suggests a small yet dedicated community of artisans working to preserve this heritage.

The inclusion of traditional glassblowing on UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding underscores the craft's vulnerability and the necessity for its preservation.

This designation by UNESCO aims to protect and promote the continuity of this ancient art form, ensuring that it remains a vibrant part of Syria's cultural landscape for future generations.


The air leak at the International Space Station (ISS) was detected when NASA reported that air loss from the Zvezda module had doubled under certain circumstances.

The leak was identified in the aft end of the ISS, with the volume of lost air increasing to about two pounds a day, compared to a pound a day previously.

The situation is under control and being constantly monitored by Roscosmos, the Russian space agency.

The aging structure of the ISS and the growing need for repair and maintenance work are contributing factors to such issues.

Additionally, small cracks were discovered on the Zarya module, which could potentially spread over time, although it is unclear if these are directly related to the air leak.

The hatch in the affected area is closed, and it does not impact the Crew-8 mission, as the rest of the station remains solid.

The next opening of the hatch is expected in April, and while it’s closed, the leak does not pose a risk to the crew or the station.

Regular technical issues are reported on the ISS, and Roscosmos is developing plans for a new Russian-manned orbital structure due to the aging ISS.

The air leak at the International Space Station (ISS) was detected when NASA reported that air loss from the Zvezda module had doubled under certain circumstances.

Title:

Content: 29 Feb, 2024 11:18

Russia comments on space station leak

A NASA official had previously reported that air loss from the Zvezda module had doubled

Air leaking from a segment of the International Space Station (ISS) poses no risk to its crew or the orbital outpost, the Russian space agency Roscosmos has said.

A NASA official had previously reported that the rate at which air was escaping from the satellite's Russian Zvezda module under certain circumstances had doubled. The situation is under control and being constantly monitored, the Roscosmos told Interfax on Wednesday, when asked about remarks by NASA’s ISS program manager, Joel Montalbano,.

”The aging of the station’s structure and the growing need for repair and maintenance work on board require a significant portion of the crew’s time,” Roscosmos said.

Montalbano mentioned the issue during this week’s briefing on the upcoming SpaceX Crew-8 mission, which is scheduled for launch on Friday.

”There is an area in the aft end of the International Space Station. [There is] a small leak. We’ve seen this leak increase about a week before the recent Progress launch and docking,” he said, referring to a Russian automatic supply freighter.

The volume of lost air has increased to about two pounds a day, compared to a pound a day previously, Montalbano said.

”The hatch is closed in that area. It’s not an impact on Crew-8, but I didn’t want anyone to be surprised, if they hear about that later,” he explained.

The use of the module for retrieving the Progress shipment didn’t pose any issues in terms of the leak, he said. The next opening of the hatch is expected in April. While it’s closed, the rest of the station is “solid.”

Technical issues at the ISS are being reported on a regular basis. Roscosmos has said the age of the station is a key reason why it is developing plans for a new purely Russian-manned orbital structure as an alternative to participating in the international project.

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The leak was identified in the aft end of the ISS, with the volume of lost air increasing to about two pounds a day, compared to a pound a day previously.

The situation is under control and being constantly monitored by Roscosmos, the Russian space agency.

The aging structure of the ISS and the growing need for repair and maintenance work are contributing factors to such issues.

Additionally, small cracks were discovered on the Zarya module, which could potentially spread over time, although it is unclear if these are directly related to the air leak.

Title:

Content:
"This Is Bad" - Russian Cosmonauts Discovery Tiny Cracks In Space Station

by Tyler Durden
Saturday, Sep 04, 2021 - 09:55 AM

Russian cosmonauts have discovered small cracks on the International Space Station (ISS), and it's unclear whether the cracks are causing air leaks in the orbiting space lab, according to Reuters

Vladimir Solovyov, the chief engineer of Moscow-based company Energia, the top contractor for Russia's spaceflight program, told Russia's state-owned RIA news agency that "superficial fissures have been found in some places on the Zarya module."

Solovyov warned: "This is bad and suggests that the fissures will begin to spread over time."

He didn't mention if the cracks were the source of air leaks which Russian cosmonauts discovered.

The 23-year old space station has been fraught with problems. NASA and the Russian Space Agency Roscosmos searched for a small air leak last year when air pressure dropped in the space station.

Readers may recall, in 2018, the station experienced an air leak that was initially thought to be the result of a micrometeorite - but turned out to be a "deliberate sabotage."

Several other recent incidents have been reported on the space station, such as a software glitch that ignited thrusters on the Russian research module Nauka and sent the ISS out of normal pitch. There was also a piece of space junk that sliced through a robotic arm

Meanwhile, Moscow has given their farewell warning that it will depart from the ISS in 2025. Russian officials have said the aging ISS is too dangerous for their cosmonauts:

"We can't risk the lives [of our cosmonauts]. The situation that today is connected to the structure and the metal getting old, it can lead to irreversible consequences - to catastrophe," Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov recently said.

At the same time, China has launched a new space station that is expected to outlast the ISS.

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The hatch in the affected area is closed, and it does not impact the Crew-8 mission, as the rest of the station remains solid.

The next opening of the hatch is expected in April, and while it’s closed, the leak does not pose a risk to the crew or the station.

Regular technical issues are reported on the ISS, and Roscosmos is developing plans for a new Russian-manned orbital structure due to the aging ISS.


Notable countries offering such visas include Norway, with its Svalbard digital nomad visa, and Croatia, which allows stays up to one year.

Spain also offers a Digital Nomad Visa, although awareness of it is low among potential users.

However, challenges such as language barriers, healthcare costs, and the need for reliable internet access can arise.

Additionally, some countries have restrictions on the duration of stay, requiring nomads to leave after a certain period.

The types of work suited to the digital nomad lifestyle typically include roles that can be performed entirely online, such as software development, graphic design, writing, and other tech-related jobs.

Tools commonly used by digital nomads include communication platforms like Slack, project management tools like Trello, and remote work facilitation apps like Citizen Remote, which assists with visa applications and provides community connections.

Notable countries offering such visas include Norway, with its Svalbard digital nomad visa, and Croatia, which allows stays up to one year.

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Working in Norway For Members

Is Norway's independent contractor visa a good fit for digital nomads?

Robin-Ivan Capar - [email protected]

Digital nomads have been showing an increased interest in Norway in recent years. But what are the visa options best suited to working remotely from Norway, and is the independent contractor visa an option?

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The digital nomad lifestyle offers modern professionals the opportunity to visit different countries while maintaining a steady line of income.

With its pristine nature, fascinating fjords, and rugged wilderness, Norway has started attracting more and more interest among the digital nomad community in recent years.

But what are the best visa options for digital nomads in a country that is known for making remote work difficult?

Most international professionals often point to two visas: the Svalbard digital nomad visa and the independent contractor visa.

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The digital nomad visa – limited to Svalbard

You should know that Norway does have a digital nomad visa in place. Unfortunately, the program is limited to the Svalbard archipelago – situated in the Arctic Ocean, between mainland Norway and the North Pole.

The current digital nomad scheme allows foreign citizens who meet set criteria to establish themselves on Svalbard Island and carry out their business from there.

However, as legal experts at LawyersNorway.eu point out, if you successfully establish yourself there, you will be able to move to other parts of Norway later on.

If moving to Svalbard is not a deal-breaker for you, keep in mind that you'll also need to fulfil the following requirements:

  • You'll need to have a valid passport;
  • You'll need to submit the digital nomad visa application form.
  • Authorities will ask you to provide documentation that proves that you're self-employed or working for a non-Norwegian company, as well as documentation related to your education and vocational qualifications;
  • You will also be required to prove that you can sustain yourself in Norway and have a minimum gross income of around 360,000 kroner annually (expect the authorities to request bank statements);
  • You'll need to have valid health insurance;
  • You'll also need to provide Norwegian authorities with a contract with at least one Norwegian client, which must explicate that your minimum salary as a skilled employee is at least 189,39 kroner per hour;
  • You'll need to show proof of having accommodation in Svalbard.

Note that there is also a processing fee for the digital nomad visa, which is set at around 6,000 kroner.

If, on the other hand, you're not that keen to move to Svalbard, the independent contractor visa might be a better fit.

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The independent contractor visa

Norway's independent contractor visa is intended for non-European Union citizens, and it's somewhat similar to the Svalbard visa for digital nomads.

Some people tend to recommend it to self-employed professionals who plan to stay in Norway for at least a couple of years.

To be exact, the independent contractor visa is a residence permit issued to eligible remote workers, giving them the right to work remotely in Norway for two years.

You can be granted this permit for two years at a time, and you can have this permit for up to six years. The idea behind this visa was to attract international professionals to move to Norway.

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Digital nomads looking to take advantage of this opportunity need to meet multiple requirements. The trickiest one is that they need to have at least one corporate client based in Norway to apply (as is the case with the Svalbard digital nomad visa - notice the pattern?).

In order to qualify for the Norwegian independent contractor visa, you'll need to meet the following requirements:

  • Required education/qualification level: The full list of requirements relating to education or special qualifications can be found on the website of the Norwegian Immigration Directorate (UDI) here.
  • At least one Norwegian client: You will need at least one Norwegian corporate client to be eligible for this type of visa. Expect the authorities to require a contract with the client as proof.
  • A valid passport and an address in Norway: First off, you need to have a valid passport. You also need to have your accommodation in Norway taken care of, as you'll be asked to provide an address. You'll likely need to provide a tenancy contract as proof.
  • Proof of self-employment and proof of income: You will be asked to provide proof of business establishment and activity outside of Norway, and the authorities will also verify whether your income allows you to move to and live in Norway.

Note that the minimum annual income you'll need is around 360,000 kroner, and you'll be required to provide bank slips or statements to prove you earn that income each year.

You can apply for the independent contractor visa through the UDI's wizard here. The visa processing fees are listed here.

In conclusion, is the independent contractor visa a good fit for digital nomads? If you plan to stay in Norway for at least two years, then the answer is likely yes.

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Digital nomads, pay attention! If you plan to carry out work assignments different than those described in the contract you presented to the authorities, or if you plan to work for another company, you will need to apply for a new residence permit.

To get more information on the rights and obligations related to the independent contractor visa, consult the UDI's website here.

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Title:

Content: Thousands of digital nomads staying in Croatia, longer stay problematic

NEWS 12.02.2023 15:31

Croatia, a country with a dwindling population, has become a hot destination for digital nomads - mostly young, highly educated and rich foreigners. Thousands of them are staying in the country, but the small number of those wishing to stay longer have to be resourceful as the law does not allow a stay of more than one year.

The global number of digital nomads is estimated at around 35 million. According to some estimates, that number is expected to reach one billion by 2035.

Croatia ranks high on the list of digital nomads’ favourite destinations. Even though data vary, depending on the source of information, a survey conducted by the Nomad List platform shows Croatia is globally the most attractive destination for digital nomads.

Croatia is a small country but what it offers is diverse so it attracts different groups of digital nomads, says Jan de Jong, founder of the Digital Nomads Croatia association.

The Dutch, who lives in Croatia, in 2020 launched amendment of the relevant laws owing to which Croatia introduced, as one of the first European countries to do so, a visa for digital nomads, enabling citizens of third countries to stay in the country for up to one year.

10,000 digital nomads staying in Croatia on a monthly basis

De Jong notes that one of the main reasons why digital nomads come to Croatia, besides infrastructure, which mostly includes the need for a good internet connection and an established community of digital nomads, is the lifestyle Croatia offers, which, in an addition to everything else, is very affordable.

That lifestyle seems to be very affordable to digital nomads, as an average digital nomad makes around €6,500 a month, according to Nomad List.

At the end of January 2023, there were 595 valid visas for digital nomads in Croatia, according to data from the Ministry of the Interior, however, that figure is much below the actual number of digital nomads staying in Croatia because it refers only to third-country citizens staying here for more than three months.

To get a complete picture of the situation, one should take into account EU citizens, who move freely throughout EU territory, including Croatia, without time limitations, as well as the large number of digital nomads from third countries staying in Croatia for less than a month.

The Ministry of the Interior says that it does not keep a record of the latter two categories of digital nomads, so their number can only be estimated.

Judging by trends for individual cities, including Zadar, Split and Zagreb, on the Nomad List platform, de Jong concludes that roughly 5,000 digital nomads arrive in Croatia a month. If every digital nomad is estimated to stay in Croatia for two months, one can say that around 10,000 digital nomads are staying in Croatia every month.

Meanwhile, after Croatia was one of the first European countries to introduce visas for digital nomads, other European countries have followed suit.

In addition to the basic requirements, such as remote work or self-employment and a certain minimum monthly income, which in Croatia amounts to €2,300, while in Iceland it is more than €6,000 – the visa for digital nomads also regulates the longest allowed stay in the country.

Croatia is one of the countries with more restrictive rules because if a digital nomad likes the country and wants to stay for more than a year, they must leave the country for at least six months in order to be able to apply for a visa again.

On the other hand, in other European countries the visa can mostly be extended, depending on the country, for example, in the Czech Republic a digital nomad visa can be extended for a period of three years in total.

Purpose of visa country’s tourist promotion

Even though de Jong says that the purpose of the visa for digital nomads was never to allow permanent stays, he notes that a certain number of digital nomads contact his association looking for advice on what to do if they want to stay in the country.

Asked if there is a legal way to extend the visa, the Ministry of the Interior says that that option does not exist and that it cannot even be extended with a permit for extended tourist stay.

The ministry explains this with the fact that the sole purpose of visas for digital nomads was “Croatia’s tourism promotion.”

One of those who got caught in that legal limbo is Steve Tsentserensky, a copywriter from Ohio, USA, who was among the first digital nomads to get a visa in Croatia.

During his six-month stay in Zagreb, he fell so much in love with the city that he decided to return for a longer period of time.

Asked how he would do that, because the law restricts his stay, unless he marries a Croat, establishes a company or finds employment, he says that he will do what is feasible to regulate his stay and probably again apply for a visa for digital nomads.

He stresses, however, that it would be good if the visa could be extended for a longer period of time, without applicants having to leave the country because they all have the possibility to reapply after the expiry of the six-month period, and the conditions are completely the same.

Another digital nomad, a woman from the USA, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that after the expiry of her visa she did not want to leave the country and that, even though she kept the same job for which she receives a US salary, she found the solution in a fictitious employment contract.

Somebody offered me a work permit, she says cautiously. She considered other ways as well, such as starting a business, and was also advised to marry, but she believes that with the work permit she has also found a way to contribute to the community she lives in by paying taxes, because as a digital nomad she does not have to do it.

Both Americans like the relaxed lifestyle of Zagreb residents, which is why they want to stay for some time.

They did not say how long, but the woman said that she is actively learning Croatian and not thinking about leaving the country.

When they stay longer, they become immigrants

Caroline Hornstein-Tomic, a researcher at the Ivo Pilar Institute of Social Sciences, says that digital nomads are usually highly educated people, mostly in their 30s, who are also excellent consumers.

“If they decide to stay longer, they become a kind of immigrants,” she says and adds that there is still no research in Croatia on how digital nomads impact local communities, but that that impact certainly exists.

They boost tourism as well as other sectors of the economy, they have encouraged the development of infrastructure and the establishment of numerous hubs, as well as services that meet their need to get along in the new country, she says.

Hornstein-Tomic says that she has interviewed some of the nomads who have been staying on Dalmatian islands, and that she has heard about their positive experiences with the local community.

“Those who have decided to stay longer are interested in local jobs or business development, and they also do volunteer work, so apart from financial resources, they also have knowledge that they like to share,” says Hornstein-Tomic.

Commenting on the demographic potential of that group, de Jong says that digital nomads follow new trends and no longer go to countries where they have better-paying jobs but rather those where they like the lifestyle, bringing their well-paid jobs with them.

He thinks that the current remote work revolution will continue and that a reversal of the trend is not likely.

That trend can be the biggest opportunity for Croatia, from where around half a million people have emigrated over the past ten years looking for better-paying jobs, says de Jong, who has lived in Croatia for the past 16 years.

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What are the criteria of the top 20 digital nomad locations?

A digital nomad visa program or the equivalent

What country is attracting digital nomads because of its fjords and rugged wilderness?

What are the criteria of the top 20 digital nomad locations?

A digital nomad visa program or the equivalent

What country is attracting digital nomads because of its fjords and rugged wilderness?

Spain also offers a Digital Nomad Visa, although awareness of it is low among potential users.

Title:

Content: Spain: Number one for remote-working Brits

Digital nomad on the beach. Credit: simona pilolla 2/Shutterstock.com

According to Nebeus’ 2023 study on remote work trends, Spain emerges as the top dream destination for UK professionals seeking a better quality of life.

With 46 per cent of British professionals considering relocating for remote work, the survey sheds light on this trend.

Remote work growing in UK

In 2023, 44 per cent of British people embraced remote work, a trend echoed globally. Not only does it trim down commuting expenses, but it also opens doors to work from new countries.

Nebeus conducted a survey of 400 UK professionals, exploring their attitudes towards remote work abroad, with a focus on financial aspects.

Spain leads the way

For UK nationals seeking relocation for a better quality of life, one country stands out as the preferred destination for remote work, with 22 per cent choosing Spain as their first option

The United States received 19 per cent of the votes and France in third place with 13 per cent. The report revealed the other placings: Portugal, 6 per cent; Southeast Asia 5 per cent and Latin America, 3 per cent.

Spain’s allure lies in its blend of tradition and modernity, warm ambiance, and relaxed lifestyle. According to the survey’s findings, the most popular Spanish regions among UK remote workers are Barcelona, 14 per cent; Valencia, 7 per cent and Madrid, 5 per cent.

Unveiling the Digital Nomad Visa

Surprisingly, 89 per cent of respondents are unaware of Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, designed to enable remote work without changing jobs.

This lack of awareness highlights the need for better promotion of this visa, offering flexibility while enjoying Spain’s benefits and retaining UK employment.

Concerns and considerations

When contemplating a move to Spain, respondents expressed their concerns about healthcare costs, language difficulties, and the cost of living and leaving loved ones behind.

Fifty-three per cent of those who participated stated language difficulties to be their primary concern. This was a particular worry for those in Scotland and the East of England both at 62 per cent and Yorkshire, 58 per cent.

Regarding finances, 51 per cent believe their spending power would match or exceed that in the UK. Londoners, in particular, expect a higher spending power in Spain, with the cost of living in mind.

Interestingly, higher-income individuals are less inclined to move abroad, possibly due to tax considerations or job seniority. Those with mid-range salaries are the most willing to relocate for remote work.

Parents are more hesitant to work remotely abroad, concerned about their children’s wellbeing, schooling, and leaving friends behind. Non-parents are more open to the idea.

Nebeus’ survey reflects a growing interest in remote work abroad among UK professionals, emphasising the need for accurate information about digital work visas and addressing linguistic, financial, and cultural challenges.

As the working landscape evolves, remote work is becoming an increasingly viable option, reshaping careers and lifestyles.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Do remember to come back and check The Euro Weekly News website for all your up-to-date local and international news stories and remember, you can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements

What are the criteria of the top 20 digital nomad locations?

A digital nomad visa program or the equivalent

What countries does "Visa Guide" rank as the top destinations for remote work?

However, challenges such as language barriers, healthcare costs, and the need for reliable internet access can arise.

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Content: Skip to Content

Considering a move abroad in 2024? These are the best countries for expats

By Blane Bachelor, CNN

(CNN) — A new year is a fitting time to commit to big-picture goals — and for some, that can mean a dream of living abroad.

And thanks to the rise of remote work, new visa programs and tax incentives that entice digital nomads, investors and families, people considering an international move have more paths to explore.

Of course, the ability to move abroad is a privilege that extends only to people lucky enough to be in possession of the right passport, with doors remaining closed to many nationalities.

For those who have the option, the decision about which country to make your new home is a big one that requires extensive research and planning. Beyond the “I could live here!” daydreaming that might bubble up during vacation, moving abroad means a deep dive into tax implications, work visas, health care and quality-of-life comparisons, just to name a few.

One especially helpful resource is the annual Expat Insider survey by InterNations, an expat community with more than 5.1 million members. The survey, which has been running for a decade, reflects input from nearly 12,000 expats representing 177 nationalities in 181 countries or territories. It conveys their satisfaction level with various aspects of expat life on the basis of factors such as quality of life, ease of settling in, working abroad, personal finance, housing and language.

In addition, retirees can take advantage of resources including Live and Invest Overseas, whose annual index ranks its top 10 overseas retirement destinations. The 2024 index was released in early January, with Valencia, Spain, topping the list, followed by Braga, Portugal, and Mazatlán, Mexico.

It’s also important to consider the impact of your move on a new host country, especially in destinations that are seeing big upticks in immigration from the United States and other wealthy nations, says Megan Frye, a relocation consultant and writer who has lived in Mexico City for the past eight years.

Frye advises clients considering a move from the United States to Mexico — which has ranked among the top five countries in InterNations’ annual survey since 2014 — to be aware of the inequities in migration policies between the two countries.

“My focus with my clients is to be very clear about the gentrification problem that Mexico faces, and to give them an opportunity to think about what our role is in that situation,” says Frye, who is originally from Michigan. “I believe all people should be able to move freely wherever they want, but there’s a clear injustice considering how easy it is for US citizens to relocate to Mexico in comparison with the other way around.”

While there are dozens of destinations to consider for a move abroad to a new country, the following list prioritizes a range of expat-centric topics, including quality of life, affordability, safety and access to culture and outdoor activities. We’ve also included some of the downsides to consider, as well as info on how to make the move.

This list has general advice for people making the move from anywhere in the world, but focuses chiefly on US citizens.

Mexico

A longtime retirement destination for Americans, Mexico also has attracted more families and the digital nomad set over the past few years.

Mexico City — the largest in North America, with about 22 million people in the metro area — has been especially popular, and the capital’s population grew between 2019 and 2023 by 3%, about 600,000 people, according to The World Population Review. And from 2019 to 2022, the number of Americans who applied for or renewed residency visas spiked from about 17,800 to more than 30,000.

Elsewhere, cities including Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende and Playa del Carmen are also havens for US expats, many of whom point to Mexico’s lower cost of living and relaxed lifestyle as strong draws.

Pros: Mexico ranked first in InterNations’ 2023 Expat Insider survey and has ranked among the top five countries since 2014. According to the latest results, expats appreciate factors such as the ease of settling in, a fulfilling social life and strong support networks. Mexico’s affordability and laid-back lifestyle also score high.

Cons: As with other global destinations that have received an influx of Americans as of late, some Mexican cities with large expat communities are experiencing pushback against foreigners.

Mexico also has a high crime rate. Homicide rates are nearly four times as those in the US, according to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography. And those numbers may be even higher, since data from the Human Rights Watch suggests that an estimated 90% of crimes in Mexico are never reported.

How to make the move: Moving to Mexico isn’t as simple as packing a bag, hopping a flight and toasting to your new life over a margarita on the beach. Traditionally, valid passport holders from countries that don’t require a visa (including the United States) who are coming to Mexico for leisure or business have been allowed to remain in the country for up to 180 days. (They still must complete a visitor’s permit, or Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM, at their port of entry.)

However, that amount of time is no longer the default, and the exact number of days allowed is at the discretion of the immigration official processing entry.

Mexico does not offer a digital nomad visa, but those considering a permanent move can look into a Temporary Resident Visa, which allows up to four years in Mexico. Meanwhile, official retirees can apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.

Portugal

Portugal’s popularity among expats has exploded since the country introduced its Golden Visa program in 2012. It has become the most successful of its kind, inspiring other countries to launch their own plans to attract foreign investment.

However, in the spring of 2023, Portugal made significant changes to the program, effectively ending the real estate investment aspect. It also changed its nonhabitual resident regime, says Alex Ingrim, a licensed financial advisor and president of global wealth management firm Chase Buchanan USA.

“Portugal’s a little bit harder of a place to immigrate to [now] if you want the flexibility of a Golden Visa,” Ingrim tells CNN Travel. “It’s not as attractive from a tax jurisdiction standpoint. And we’ve seen a lot of people kind of lose interest in Portugal frankly, and start planning for other jurisdictions in Europe.”

Pros: Portugal is tough to beat for its affordability, quality of life, year-round mild weather and high-quality health-care system. The cost of living is generally more affordable than most countries in Europe, and, according to Numbeo, the world’s largest crowd-sourced quality of life database, it’s 35.5% lower than in the United States. In addition, Portugal is the seventh-safest country in the world.

Cons: As is the case in Mexico and other countries with large expat communities, there’s growing backlash against the influx of foreigners, especially Americans, and especially in Lisbon. Critics say the resulting spike in rents and real estate prices has forced out longtime residents and changed the fabric of certain neighborhoods.

How to make the move: The Golden Visa program is still in place, although the country has now eliminated the real estate investment option. As Ingrim notes, Americans still interested in pursuing residency via that route “need to be really cognizant of how it affects their financial planning, how it affects their US tax obligations and whether it’s still kind of the best option for them moving forward.”

Spain

A gorgeous climate, one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe, and vibrant, culture-rich cities and towns from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic: No wonder more Americans are eagerly proclaiming “Viva España!” for their next life chapter.

Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Bilbao all boast large English-speaking expat communities, while the coastal city of Valencia is quickly gaining traction as a coveted spot, too: It ranked first in InterNations’ 2022 Quality of Life Index, and also topped the annual index by Live and Invest Overseas for 2024.

Pros: There’s mucho to love about Spain: modern cities and quaint small towns, high-quality universal health care and a world-renowned dining and nightlife scene, just to name a few.

According to the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, Spain also is one of the most culturally liberal and welcoming countries for LGBTQ+ travelers. In 2005, it became one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage, and it hosts one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations, which draws some 1.5 million people every year.

Cons: English is generally not widely spoken outside of larger cities (and in the northeastern region of Catalonia, Catalan is the official – and often preferred by locals – language). The distinctly Spanish way of life also can take some getting used to for foreigners, as schedules for working, dining and socializing are later than American standards. The workday generally runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with a long lunch break during the afternoon siesta (during which time many businesses are closed), and Spaniards usually eat dinner no earlier than around 8:30 p.m.

Politics in Spain is also becoming increasingly more divisive (and occasionally violent), especially as the northeastern region of Catalonia continues its push for independence.

How to make the move: Several options exist for expats looking to relocate to Spain. Anyone with sufficient funds to support themselves and any dependents can consider the non-lucrative visa (or NLV), which is ideal for retirees and those who have other forms of passive income that originates in the United States. (However, you can’t earn income while in Spain with this visa.)

Spain also offers a digital nomad visa and an entrepreneur visa.

The Netherlands

This bicycling-obsessed nation ranked fifth in Gallup’s 2023 World Happiness Report, which assesses various indicators across life satisfaction and social and economic well being. It also topped Numbeo’s 2023 survey for quality of life.

More than 31,000 US citizens currently call the Netherlands home sweet home. The capital of Amsterdam is an especially popular spot, with its picturesque canals, historic architecture and relaxed vibe drawing a large international crowd.

Pros: For active types, it’s hard to beat the Netherlands’ world-class cycling infrastructure and culture – in fact, the country is said to have more bikes (fietsen) than people. The Netherlands also is known for its strong education system, with most education at all levels funded at least in part by the government.

One major tax advantage for expats: Highly skilled workers can apply for what’s known as the 30% ruling, a tax advantage in which they’re granted a tax-free 30% allowance of their gross salary for five years. However, the Dutch government recently implemented a cap on the amount of wages eligible for the ruling.

Cons: Compared with some other European countries, the Netherlands is pricey: Rents for unfurnished apartments hit an all-time high in November 2023, according to data from Statista. Outside main hubs, smaller cities and towns including Haarlem, Delft, Leiden and Maastricht are considerably less expensive.

In addition, income taxes are high, with a tax rate of 49.5% on salaries exceeding €73,031 (roughly US $81,135). That can come as quite a shock following five years of being taxed at 30% — which leads many expats to start considering their next move after their eligibility ends.

Finally, the weather — which is dark and rainy in the winter (conditions that make biking a lot less enjoyable) and constantly windy (there’s a reason for all those windmills) — can be difficult for some to adapt to.

How to make the move: The Netherlands does not offer a digital nomad visa, but you can apply for a long-stay visa, also known as an authorization for temporary stay (in Dutch, it’s MVV for short). In the United States, you can apply at the Netherlands embassy in Washington or at the consulates-general in Miami, New York or San Francisco.

Germany

Germany is the European Union’s biggest economy, and its strong job market and robust welfare system — not to mention heritage-rich cities and towns — are appealing for auslanders, especially Americans. According to the latest national figures, more than 121,000 Americans currently call Germany home. Berlin has an especially large international community of English-speaking internationals, but other hubs such as Munich, Frankfurt and Stuttgart also have strong expat communities.

Pros: Germany is a great fit for families, thanks to universal health care and social benefits such as a monthly kindergeld (“children money”) stipend, heavily subsidized childcare and generous parental leave.

In addition, compared with some other European countries, Germany’s freelancer visa is fairly easy to get, Arielle Tucker, a Switzerland-based certified financial planner, tells CNN Travel. She also notes that “one benefit that US citizens have over some non-EU countries is that they can apply for a Freelance Visa in Germany, as US citizens do not need an entry visa.”

Cons: Germany doesn’t have some of the same conveniences to which many Americans are accustomed, such as 24-hour grocery stores or drive-through pharmacies. On Sundays, most stores are closed (with the general exception of restaurants and bakeries). And the country’s bureaucracy can be maddening, with many government processes relying on official paperwork that’s delivered through the mail.

That popularity among auslanders has contributed to a housing pinch in major cities, especially Berlin, where finding accommodation is one of the most stressful aspects of a move. And beyond major cities, English is not widely spoken.

How to make the move: Germany’s skilled worker visa allows certain individuals with a qualifying degree or certificate a six-month window to search for employment in their area of qualification. Its self-employment visa is also fairly straightforward.

Singapore

Plenty of foreign nationals are singing Singapore’s praises: In 2022, this sophisticated city-state ranked third on InterNations’ Expat Essentials Index. It’s viewed as one of the top countries in which to live and work, thanks to a thriving job market, excellent education and health care, and one of the world’s best transportation systems.

Pros: Singapore is a top financial and investment hub in Asia, with excellent job prospects and economic stability. Foodies, meanwhile, will love its dazzling dining scene, from lively night markets to Michelin-starred restaurants. And travel enthusiasts can take advantage of easy access to one of the world’s most awarded aviation hubs, Changi Airport.

Cons: Singapore is very expensive, and some people may have trouble adjusting to its humid, tropical climate. It’s also a long way away from the United States — which can be tricky for visits home.

How to make the move: Singapore doesn’t offer a digital nomad visa, but those who have worked lined up can apply for an Employment Pass. Entrepreneurs interested in starting a business in Singapore can apply for an Entre Pass.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s abundant natural beauty, tropical climate and affordable cost of living have long appealed to expats looking for their own slice of pura vida, which literally translates to “pure life” and is both the national slogan and lifestyle. The Central American country has long been a popular destination for Americans.

Pros: Costa Rica has an excellent health-care system that consistently ranks high. It’s also one of the most sustainable countries in the world. Locals tend to lead healthy lifestyles, whether that’s surfing year-round or doing daily yoga postures on the beach.

In addition, Costa Rica offers some tax incentives that appeal to foreign  nationals. “Costa Rica only taxes income earned in the country, which means that non-Costa Rican pensions, investments, or employment income do not incur an additional Costa Rican tax burden,” David Lesperance, founder and principal of Lesperance & Associates, a tax and immigration advisement firm, tells CNN Travel.

Cons: Costa Rica’s laid-back lifestyle also can affect how business is done, and the tendency to show up late is often referred to as “Tico Time.”

In addition, some creature comforts may be lacking compared with what Americans are used to. In older buildings, for example, it’s not uncommon to throw toilet paper in bins instead of flushing it down the toilet. And thanks to its geography and location along the infamous Ring of Fire, Costa Rica experiences earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic activity — it’s home to six active volcanoes.

One important note on the tax front: There is no tax treaty between Costa Rica and the United States, so claims on US tax returns for foreign tax credits or foreign earned income are more complicated for expats.

How to make the move: With the country’s new digital nomad visa, remote workers can stay in Costa Rica for up to a year with an option to extend for another year.

Panama

Often described as the Miami of Central America, Panama is a prominent financial and business hub linking North and South America. In recent years, it’s been drawing more Americans beyond just the retirement set.

Lesperance says he’s seen a notable bump in moves among high-net-worth clients with Hispanic heritage, as well as workers in the financial sector, who are moving there “en masse,” especially as Miami has become more crowded and expensive.

Pros: Year-round warm weather, a mix of cosmopolitan hubs such as Panama City and relaxed beach towns, and easy access to both North and South America make Panama an excellent option for frequent travelers. And one of the biggest advantages for Panama’s Golden Visa scheme is that it provides perpetual residency without requiring investors to reside there. Maintaining permanent resident status requires a visit to Panama at least every two years.

Cons: In 2023, the cost of establishing residence in Panama increased substantially, from $300,000 to $500,000.

In addition, because Panama also does not have a tax treaty with the United States, claims on US tax returns for foreign tax credits or foreign earned income are complicated, Lesperance notes.

How to do it:  Panama offers several types of investment opportunities that offer permanent residency and a path to Panamanian citizenship after five years.

The Panama Qualified Investment Immigration (or PQII) program, often known as the Panama Golden Visa, is a residency-by-investment procedure. The minimum investment is $500,000 (which increased from $300,000 in October 2022), which must be held for at least five years. Investors can qualify via real estate purchases, bank deposits or investing in funds.

Panama also has a retirement visa program. However, Lesperance notes that although the retirement route technically comes with Panamanian citizenship after five years, “in practice it is not straightforward. Therefore advantages of the PQII pathway versus the cost of a retirement visa are questionable.”

Italy

It’s hard to imagine a country that boasts a more universally romantic notion of living abroad, and thanks in part to the popularity of investment schemes such as the one euro homes that many small towns have launched, expats now have more options of fulfilling their dreams of la dolce vita.

Pros: Access to some of the world’s most popular tourist cities, picturesque countrysides and immersion in a culture that values family, food and wine — what’s not to love about Italian life? Italy’s health-care system is also good, and many expats give a big thumbs-up to the overall friendliness of Italians.

Cons: Prospects for employment in Italy aren’t as abundant as they are in other European countries. Beyond major cities, English generally isn’t widely spoken, and you’ll likely need to hire an attorney to help navigate legal processes such as purchasing a home. And be prepared for Italy’s infamously glacial government bureaucracy.

How to make the move: Americans who are planning to stay more than three months must get an entrance visa at an Italian consulate before arriving. Italy’s visa options include a long or short-term self-employment visa, or lavorno autonomo, and a start-up visa.

France

While the reality of living in France is drastically different from what’s portrayed on screen à la “Emily in Paris,” there’s still plenty to say oui! to: universal health care, highly valued work-life balance (remember all those protests in response to the French government raising the retirement age?) and some of the world’s most coveted food and fashion scenes.

Although it can be pricey, France also offers extensive social programs and benefits for residents: universal health care, for one, as well as numerous public holidays. The country scores well on InterNations’ indexes for quality of life.

Pros: Residents can take advantage of numerous social benefits, including universal health care, economic stability and numerous public holidays — not to mention a 35-hour work week. In addition to the excellent quality of life, from a tax standpoint “because they have some good treaties with the US,” Tucker says. “For example, they are one of the few countries where Roth IRAs are considered qualified retirement accounts and their tax-free nature is preserved. So even though the tax rates are higher, if you can do some pre-immigration planning, it can still be an attractive country for US expats.”

Cons: As Tucker notes, income and social taxes in France are high: up to 45% (and high-income individuals also may need to pay a surcharge of 3% on part of their income).

Outside of major cities such as Paris, Lyon and Strasbourg, the language barrier can be problematic if you don’t have a solid grasp of French.

How to make the move: Anyone looking to stay in France for more than three months will need to apply for a long-term visa. France does not offer a visa for digital nomads; instead, you’ll need a long-stay visa if you plan to work or study. There are several categories under France’s Carte de Séjour Residence Permit, each with various conditions and restrictions.

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What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

What issues could affect working remotely?

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

What issues could affect working remotely?

Additionally, some countries have restrictions on the duration of stay, requiring nomads to leave after a certain period.

What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements

The types of work suited to the digital nomad lifestyle typically include roles that can be performed entirely online, such as software development, graphic design, writing, and other tech-related jobs.

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Content: How the UAE has emerged as a hotspot for remote cross-border jobs

International companies are expanding their talent search to tap into a global pool of high-quality jobseekers as the remote working trend accelerates

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The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way the world works, triggering a booming remote jobs sector that has led companies to expand their talent search globally - giving employees flexibility and an opportunity to increase their salaries, according to a new hiring report.

The UAE is one country that is emerging as a hotspot for remote cross-border hiring, with companies in Canada, the US, the UK and Israel tapping into a “pool of high-quality jobseekers” looking for full-time remote positions, payroll and remote onboarding company Deel said in its State of Global Hiring Report 2022.

Remote hires from the UAE in the first half of this year have doubled compared with the same period in 2021, the Deel report says without giving exact numbers.

“The UAE has quickly become a global business hub, and having a large pool of skilled human capital is regarded as the foundation of economic growth and international competitiveness,” says Tarek Salam, Deel’s UAE lead and head of Middle East and North Africa expansion.

“The insights from the … report speak to the calibre of talent in the Emirates, as international markets are increasingly looking to the country for mid- to senior-level talent.”

Since the outbreak of the pandemic, employees are leaving their jobs at much higher rates than normal, in what has been called “The Great Resignation”, as they seek a better work-life balance and more flexibility with their jobs.

In March, a survey by financial services company Prudential found that 42 per cent of remote workers will look for a new job if their company does not continue to offer options to work from home in the long term.

This signals that a “war for talent” may be looming if companies do not address workers’ needs, the Prudential survey said.

“By providing access to remote work, companies are seeing increases in employee well-being, productivity, innovation and inclusion; it’s proof that a happy team is a productive team, Mr Salam says.

“We will continue to see an acceleration in remote work adoption. Leaders must rethink their workplace culture to be more inclusive of remote and hybrid work — this is the new normal.”

Meanwhile, 70 per cent of professionals in the UAE and Saudi Arabia have considered leaving or have left their jobs because of a lack of flexibility amid a widening disconnection between employers and employees about returning to the office after the pandemic, according to a survey by LinkedIn in May.

“The impact of the pandemic on how we work has been transformative, and research globally is pointing to an increased urgency for greater flexibility and empowerment in the workplace,” Ali Matar, head of LinkedIn Mena and EMEA venture markets, said at the time.

In recent years, the UAE, the Arab world’s second-largest economy, has undertaken several economic, legal and social reforms to strengthen its business environment, increase foreign direct investment, attract skilled workers and provide incentives to companies to set up or expand their operations.

The government’s overhaul of a number of visa programmes has also boosted opportunities for employees seeking to work remotely, as international employers increasingly look to the UAE for talent.

In 2019, amendments were introduced to the Golden Residence Scheme to simplify the eligibility criteria and expand the categories of beneficiaries.

The 10-year visa is granted to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals who earn a monthly salary of more than Dh30,000 ($8,167), exceptional talents, scientists and professionals, outstanding students and graduates, property investors, humanitarian pioneers and front-line heroes.

A Green Visa provides a five-year residency for skilled employees without the need of a sponsor or employer. The minimum educational level must be a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and the salary should not be less than Dh15,000.

The UAE also introduced a one-year digital nomad visa in March 2021 that allows people to live in the Emirates while continuing to work for employers in their home countries.

In April, Dubai was ranked as the third-best city in the world for digital nomads to live in, research by real estate consultancy Savills found.

“Businesses are seeing the benefits [of cross border hiring]. Companies no longer have to think about location or other overhead costs. This has huge downstream impacts, everything from company acquisition strategies to supporting local economies, to empowering the global workforce like never before,” Mr Salam says.

“Remote and hybrid working is the future and it is here to stay. Over the past few years, there has been a fundamental shift in the way people work and a wide-scale return to the office now seems highly unrealistic,”

Deel’s research — which was compiled from more than 100,000 worker contracts — indicates that rates of global hiring increased 145 per cent or more in all regions in the first half of 2022, with companies in Latin America and Asia-Pacific leading the way.

Latin American topped the list of regions hiring internationally with a 161 per cent increase, followed by Asia-Pacific with a 159 per cent rise in companies employing workers globally and Europe, the Middle East and Africa ranking third with a jump of 159 per cent.

As well as the UAE, Argentina, the Philippines, India, the UK, and the US are the most attractive countries to hire from, the report adds.

Salaries are also on the rise for remote support, finance and content roles, with Italy, Brazil and India recording the fastest-growing pay increases, it says.

“Given high demand for talent and a shortage of available candidates, companies are looking outside of higher-cost countries to find quality talent,” Deel says in the report.

“As a result, salaries are rising around the world, in particular, Italy, Brazil and India.”

Interest in part-time remote work is also on the rise, particularly in the US, according to FlexJobs, a subscription service for employees seeking flexible and remote jobs.

Searches for “remote, part-time jobs” surged 105 per cent in the first half of this year, says FlexJobs, which analysed 50 career categories in its database from January 1 to June 30.

Demand for product and design roles is shifting from the US to countries such as Argentina and India
Tarek Salam, UAE lead and head of Mena expansion at Deel

“Remote work and flexible schedules are top priorities for workers, so it’s no surprise that in today’s fast-changing work landscape, remote, part-time jobs are gaining serious traction,” says Sara Sutton, founder and chief executive of FlexJobs.

“A part-time career can help you fill employment gaps, earn supplemental income, tap into new skills — and especially when it’s remote — lead to greater job freedom and flexibility.”

Popular career categories for remote part-time work include customer service, education and training, administrative, writing, and accounting and finance, among others, FlexJobs says.

Meanwhile, employers are looking for a wide range of skills and experience when it comes to hiring remote workers in other countries, according to Deel's Mr Salam.

However, skilled technology professionals continue to be the most in demand globally, including software engineers, product designers, and UI and UX designers.

“Demand for product and design roles is shifting from the US to countries such as Argentina and India,” Mr Salam says.

“Finding high-quality people often requires broadening the pool you’re hiring from; if you want great talent that won’t cut into profits, think more globally,” he says.

“For employees and contractors, finding the best job might require working for companies that aren’t based in your home country. This shift is helping people find better opportunities, with salaries on the rise in many developing economies.”

Top 5 remote technology roles

  1. Software engineers and developers
  2. Product designers
  3. Product managers
  4. Graphic designers
  5. UI/UX designers

Source: Deel

Updated: August 05, 2022, 6:02 PM
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In an increasingly interconnected world, the allure of working abroad has never been stronger. The prospect of exploring new cultures, gaining international experience, and broadening one’s professional horizons is undeniably enticing. However, beneath the surface of this exciting opportunity lies the complex challenge of setting up a shop in a foreign country. That’s where Citizen Remote can help.

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What are critical aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle?

Knowledge of visa and other legal requirements