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Forbes
a day ago
- Business
- Forbes
This Affordable European Country Is Launching A Digital Nomad Visa: Here's What You Need To Know
A digital nomad gazes out over Lake Bled at sunrise—one of Slovenia's most iconic destinations. With a new digital nomad visa launching this November, remote workers can now live and work in this storybook setting for up to a year. getty Dreaming of living in Europe while working remotely? Slovenia—one of Europe's most underrated and affordable destinations—is about to make that dream a reality at a time when digital nomadism is gaining serious global traction. Starting this November, Slovenia is expected to launch its first-ever digital nomad visa, giving remote workers a new way to live and work in the heart of Europe. The new program will allow remote workers to live in Slovenia for up to 12 months while working for foreign employers or clients. The move will put Slovenia on the fast-growing list of forward-thinking countries creating digital nomad visas designed to attract remote workers who can live in and contribute to their local economies. More than 60 countries now offer some version of a digital nomad visa. For Americans craving a European lifestyle—but without the bureaucracy of long-term residency or citizenship—this visa offers an exciting new option, according to Cepee Tabibian, founder of She Hit Refresh and author of the book, I'm Outta Here! An American's Ultimate Visa Guide to Living in Europe . 'This is great news,' Tabibian told me in an interview. 'Central Europe doesn't really offer digital nomad visas—Hungary is currently the only one—so Slovenia launching this is a big deal.' Slovenia's New Digital Nomad Visa: The Basics According to a global immigration alert from EY (a division of Ernst & Young), the visa is expected to go into effect on November 21, 2025. Remote workers will be eligible to apply for a non-renewable, one-year residence permit, provided they work for companies based outside Slovenia. Freelancers, self-employed professionals and consultants offering services to clients abroad also qualify for the program. Slovenia is launching a new digital nomad visa—and seaside towns like Piran are poised to become Europe's next remote work havens. getty This flexibility makes the program especially appealing to entrepreneurs, solopreneurs and digital creatives whose work transcends borders. Applicants will need a valid passport, health insurance and proof of sufficient funds—reportedly at least twice the country's average monthly net salary. According to other sources, family members can join digital nomad visa holders, but they too must have income from employers outside Slovenia. While the visa is not renewable, remote workers can reapply after spending six months outside Slovenia. Unlike programs in Spain, Portugal or Greece, Slovenia's digital nomad visa is non-renewable and doesn't lead to long-term residency or citizenship. But it offers a lower cost of living and fewer crowds—plus easy access to those other destinations. Hungary is currently the only other Central European country offering a similar permit. Beyond the paperwork and policy details, what truly makes this visa exciting is the country itself—and what it offers digital nomads. Why Slovenia Could Be The Next Digital Nomad Hotspot Slovenia—a small Alpine country set between Italy and Austria—may not be as well-known as its famous neighbors. And that's part of the appeal. 'We've recommended Slovenia for retirees for years and are excited about the prospect for nomads,' Jen Barnett, founder of Expatsi—which helps Americans find places to live abroad—told me in an interview. Slovenia's capital city, Ljubljana, is a charming hub for remote workers—with its walkable Old Town, thriving café culture and easy access to nature. getty For remote workers, the draw is clear. Cities like Ljubljana, Maribor, Celje, Kranj and Koper are building infrastructure to support remote workers, with coworking hubs, fast Wi-Fi and a welcoming community of expats and digital nomads. It's one of the cleanest, safest, most scenic and most environmentally conscious countries in Europe, with natural beauty and a slower pace of life. 'Slovenia is ranked in the top 10% of countries in the world for safety and natural beauty according to the Legatum Prosperity Index, and nearly as highly for healthcare,' says Barnett. You'll find everything from Alpine peaks and medieval towns to pristine lakes and even a stretch of Adriatic coastline. 'While many Americans are moving to the Mediterranean for the sun and coast, Slovenia offers a unique opportunity to live in an alpine region and enjoy mountains, lakes, and access to the many countries that surround it: Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia,' says Tabibian. 'We could easily see Slovenia becoming the next Portugal, and it's especially perfect for families from the Pacific Northwest who'd like to maintain their active lifestyles,' says Barnett. The weather is great—'The country itself is green and stunning, and high temps never exceed 86 degrees,' says Tabibian. It's also budget-friendly, especially compared to the U.S. and most of Western Europe. 'The cost of living is about half of what you spend in the United States, and there are seven international schools in the capital for families with kids,' says Barnett. 'It's more affordable than most of Western Europe, in some places up to 50% less,' says Tabibian. Its capital of Ljubljana is less expensive than other European capitals—but go beyond and you'll save even more. According to International Living, cities like Maribor, Škofja Loka and Koper, you can rent a one-bedroom for as low as $375 to $600 a month. Restaurants are also affordable, and groceries are fresh and reasonably priced—much lower than what you'd pay in neighboring countries. Public transportation is another big plus. Slovenia's efficient, low-cost public transportation network makes it easy to explore the country—and the region—with minimal hassle and without owning a car. And when you're ready for a weekend getaway, Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia are all just a few hours away. Things To Keep In Mind As idyllic as it sounds, this visa isn't for everyone. Unlike countries that offer a path to permanent residency through investment or long-term stays, Slovenia is not (yet) courting expats looking to settle down permanently. 'It's just for 12 months and non-renewable,' says Tabibian. Strolling through Ljubljana's Old Town, where sidewalk cafés, boutiques and cobblestone streets create the perfect setting for a digital nomad lifestyle. getty And Slovenia's tax laws can be complex, particularly for freelancers or business owners considering a deeper financial footprint in the country. Still, for those who are craving a change of scenery—and want to test out European life without a long-term commitment—Slovenia may be just the place. 'It's still a fantastic way to live in Europe for a year and scout other countries for a longer-term move,' says Tabibian. So whether you're chasing mountain views, slower living or simply a smart, affordable base in Europe, Slovenia's digital nomad visa is a compelling new option. While official details are still rolling out, one thing is clear: Slovenia is ready to welcome a new wave of remote workers—passport in one hand, laptop in the other and a whole new lifestyle ahead. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes Argentina To Launch New Citizenship Program: Here's What You Need To Know By Laura Begley Bloom Forbes Move To Europe: 8 Secret Towns Where You Can Live Well (For Less) By Laura Begley Bloom Forbes Quit Your Job And Live Abroad: 11 Places So Affordable You Might Not Need To Work By Laura Begley Bloom
Telegraph
3 days ago
- Telegraph
This fairytale corner of Central Europe is perfect for a break in the great outdoors
There are more crystal-clear alpine lakes, rushing turquoise rivers, dramatic gorges and thundering waterfalls in northwest Slovenia than you can count. Surrounded by the high peaks of the Julian Alps, marking the border between Slovenia and Italy, this region offers every outdoor activity imaginable. With neighbouring Croatia, Austria and the Italian Dolomites already attracting the adventure set in droves, for those in search of adrenaline kicks, like me, it's an overlooked gem. Here's where to go and how to explore from my tour of four of the region's top spots. Lake Bled Europe's most picturesque lagoon The allure of world-famous Lake Bled, with its fairytale island, is easy to understand. The lake and Church of the Assumption on Bled Island have long been a place of pilgrimage, and, supposedly, ringing the bell in the church on the island will grant wishes. What to do The best way to reach the island is by catching one of the traditional pletna boats, operated by a select few families who have permission to row the vessels. Srečo Zupan built his by hand and rows using an ancient standing technique – once he retires, his sons will take up his mantle (€20 for adults; €10 for children; Alternatively, book a rowing session with an Olympian. I joined three-time Olympian Miha Pirih (from €240 per person; on a double scull out onto the lake. After a few false starts, and a lot of patient encouragement, we were flying along at a grand pace. Where to eat Garden Village, roughly a 10-minute walk from the southern shore of the lake, has outside tables near a swimming pond populated by 'singing' frogs. Where to stay In Bled, Vila Adora, on the south shore, is whimsically furnished with glamorous lake-view terraces; double rooms cost from €430, including breakfast. Hotel Starkl, also close to the south shore, has small but very well-appointed rooms; doubles from €206, including breakfast (two-night minimum stay). Lake Bohinj Slovenia's largest glacial lake Lake Bohinj, 30 minutes west of Bled, is known for its natural beauty and is one of my favourite places in Slovenia. It's a great starting point for hiking, and it's also possible to swim and canoe on the lake. What to do However, the best view of Bohinj is from above. As I flew high in a tandem paraglider (from €190; the water looked completely still, mirroring back the surrounding green forests and snowy mountain peaks. Where to eat Hisa Linhart, in the nearby village of Radovljica, is home to Michelin-star dining (five-course tasting menu, £75) Where to stay Luxurious Vila Muhr, close to the eastern shore of the lake in the village of Ribčev Laz, is a former royal hunting lodge and has suites from €950 in high season, including breakfast. Lake Zelenci A protected landscape Part of the Zelenci Nature Reserve, Lake Zelenci is a colourful lake that gleams neon-blue and lime-green under the sun. In a mesmerising sight, pressure from natural springs under the lakebed causes the water to bubble to the surface. Nearby, Lake Jasna, a serene artificial lake, was created in the Eighties for recreation – visitors can now enjoy well-maintained walking trails, fishing and a lakeside library. What to do From the nearby town of Kranjska Gora, an old railway line has been converted into a dedicated cycle path, which I used to access the nature reserve. Guided cycling trips including routes over the Italian border to see Laghi di Fusine (€120 half day/€200 full day, for up to eight people; Where to eat Oštarija restaurant in Kranjska Gora serves hearty hog roast and traditional Balkan slow-cooked dishes. Where to stay In the village of Gozd Martuljek, Hotel Triangel has comfortable rooms, a wellness centre and splendid views of Špik mountain; doubles from €325, including breakfast (self-catering apartments also available). Vila Paulina, in the centre of Kranjska Gora, offers apartments from €350, for four nights. The Triglav Lakes The Valley of the Seven Lakes The real jewel of this region is the Valley of the Seven Lakes, a pristine alpine valley known for its stunning natural beauty, botanical richness and a series of natural lakes. The valley's remote lagoons can only be visited on foot, by completing a challenging hike through the limestone landscape. What to do The hike through the valley was the highlight of my trip, and arguably is the most beautiful route in the Julian Alps. The best starting point is Planina Blato, near the village of Stara Fužina. To see all seven lakes in one day is a strenuous hike (12 hours) – instead, stay overnight and split the distance into two days. The Triglav lakes are protected, and swimming is not allowed in order to protect the fragile ecosystem. Guided tours with Mitja Sorn start from €550 in the high season for up to eight people ( Where to eat Koča pri Triglavskih jezerih (Triglav Lakes Lodge) serves traditional Slovenian food from mid-June to September. Try the ričet (barley stew) and the traditional Štruklji (dumplings); bring cash as huts often don't accept cards. Where to stay The Triglav Lakes Lodge also offers accommodation, but requires advanced booking; prices vary by accommodation type, starting from €36 per night in a dormitory room, excluding breakfast, from mid-June to September. How to get there British Airways, easyJet and RyanAir fly from London to Ljubljana airport, an hour's drive from Lake Bohinj or 30 minutes to Lake Bled.
