Georgia Tops List Of Easiest Countries For Digital Nomads
A new study by Holafly ranks Georgia as the easiest country to set up in as a digital nomad, due to its low bureaucracy and ease of opening a bank account, with Peru and South Africa following closely
Georgia has been ranked as the easiest country for digital nomads to set up in, according to a new study by Holafly. The Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026 analyzed 17 popular digital nomad destinations and found that Georgia has the lowest friction score.
The study looked at factors such as visa complexity, banking access, healthcare, connectivity, cost of living, and disruption risk. Georgia's low bureaucracy and ease of opening a bank account made it a top choice for digital nomads. The country has no mandatory residence registration and no tax ID requirement, making it a bureaucratic breeze.
Peru came in second place in the Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026, thanks to its Rentista residency category which allows for indefinite permanent residency with a low income threshold. However, Peru's exposure to earthquakes and El Niño prevented it from taking the top spot.
South Africa took third place, with no mandatory address registration or tax ID for non-residents. The top 10 countries for digital nomad set-up also included Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Croatia, Hungary, and Portugal. Thailand and Malaysia have purpose-built digital nomad visa programmes, making it easier for remote workers to set up shop.
## What makes a country digital nomad-friendly? The study highlights the importance of factors such as visa complexity, banking access, and cost of living in determining a country's digital nomad-friendliness. Countries with low bureaucracy and easy access to banking and healthcare services are more likely to attract digital nomads.
## Why it matters Becoming a digital nomad is a goal for many remote workers, but the process can be daunting due to varying bureaucracy and regulations. The Digital Nomad Friction Index 2026 provides valuable insights for those looking to set up abroad, helping them make informed decisions about their next destination. With the rise of remote work, countries that make it easy for digital nomads to set up shop are likely to attract more talent and investment.
The study's findings are a reminder that everyday logistics can make or break a digital nomad's experience. By shedding light on the hidden friction points, the study aims to help countries improve their digital nomad-friendliness and provide a better experience for remote workers.
