Uruguay is a South American country with a subtropical climate. Endless sandy beaches, famous wine regions, and unique thermal springs all characterize the Eastern Republic of Uruguay as a prime location for remote work.
The country borders Brazil and Argentina, where digital nomads from around the world have already flocked. Uruguay is no exception and offers freelancers highly favorable conditions for relocation compared to other countries.
The Republic’s authorities have minimized bureaucratic formalities for obtaining a nomad visa. Uruguay provides all the conditions to make digital nomads feel as comfortable as possible while working in the country. For instance, high-speed Internet access is available even in the most remote regions of the Republic.
You can enter the country with a regular tourist visa. If you’re visiting for sightseeing purposes, a visa-free regime is in place for up to 90 days within six months.
Specifics of Uruguay’s Freelance Visa
The relocation program (officially called “Hoja de Identidad Provisoria Nómada Digital”) is designed for self-employed individuals, owners of foreign companies, and employees working for companies registered outside the Eastern Republic of Uruguay.
Initially, applicants can apply for legalization in the country for a period of six months. To do this, a special online form is completed, and the digital nomad, under oath, provides guarantees of financial security during their stay in the country. The entry permit is received by email. After the legalization period ends, the status can be extended for another six months (or apply for permanent residency in the country).
What Taxes Does a Freelancer Pay
Digital nomads are exempt from paying income tax on income earned abroad. This rule applies even if the freelancer is formally recognized as a tax resident of the Eastern Republic of Uruguay.
In the foreseeable future, the country’s authorities plan to introduce a fixed income tax rate for IT professionals who are not residents of the country. It is expected to be 12%.
How Much Does the Visa Cost
When applying for legalization in the South American country, freelancers must cover the application processing fee, which is only $11.
The transaction can only be made from an account opened in a local bank. An important condition is that the visa fee must be paid no later than 24 hours after submitting the documents.
It is sometimes not easy to understand all the bureaucratic intricacies on your own, but our experts are always ready to review your case and help you on your way to a comfortable life.
Required Documents
To participate in the “Hoja de Identidad Provisoria Nómada Digital” program, the digital nomad must provide:
- Application;
- Passport;
- Written commitment confirming financial security;
- One photo (3.5 x 4.5 cm);
- Criminal record certificate;
- Employment agreement with a foreign employer;
- Vaccination certificate for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A;
- Receipt for registration fee payment;
- Health insurance.
Recent Changes in Uruguay’s Visa Policy
In 2024, the Eastern Republic of Uruguay offers the best relocation conditions for digital nomads on the South American continent.
The opportunity to avoid taxes, minimal bureaucratic barriers, and the absence of income requirements make the country highly attractive for relocation.
