How to Become a Digital Nomad

Thinking of giving up your day job and hitting the road?

With the cost of living crisis leaving British people increasingly unfulfilled, it's estimated that around 60 million people will be digital nomads by 2030. If you're lucky enough to have transferable skills that can be used anywhere in the world, working on the move could be a viable solution for you.

Below, we’ve covered the steps involved in preparing yourself for a new life as a digital nomad.

1. Develop Marketable Skills

Firstly, you’ll need to develop and cultivate skills that are in demand for remote work. Popular industries for digital nomads include web development, graphic design, writing, or digital marketing.

Whether you choose to gain a qualification or join a course at your local college, enhancing your abilities increases your employability in the competitive remote job market.

2. Choose a Destination

Before you hand in your notice at work, you'll need to think about choosing the right destination to kickstart your career, for example, it's worth looking at local markets to see if there's a demand for your skills.

You also need to think about whether you want to be on the move continuously or if you're happy to stay in one place for a prolonged period.

Considering your industry and working preferences should come first, because choosing a location on a whim might not be the best answer for your earnings.

3. Apply for a Visa

The most recent legislation introduced after Brexit requires anyone leaving the UK for longer than 90 continuous days to apply for a visa.

You can do this online, but it depends on specific foreign office and local authority legislations. Visa terms will also vary according to each country, so it's worth doing some research to see if there's a visa that particularly suits your skills and preferences. Make sure to apply for the maximum possible stay length, too.

4. Learn the Local Language

Next, picking up some of the local dialect will help you to have a smoother and less challenging transition.

While your move might not be permanent, it's sensible to make sure that you can settle in as quickly as possible and communicate with local people as soon as you arrive. This will also help you to build a support network.

Don't let the language barrier hold you back. With consistency, you can pick up the basics in just a few weeks and familiarise yourself with how local conversation will sound. English is widely spoken but it's important not to assume that you can get by!

5. Plan Your Finances

Before you leave the country, it’s worth saving as much as possible. You might also consider exploring income streams like freelancing and trading. Selecting a reliable trading platform can provide flexibility and financial support before your travels.

You’ll also need to budget carefully in advance. Use an online banking app like Monzo or Starling to keep a close eye on your incomings and outgoings, all while avoiding foreign transaction fees.

6. Update Your CV and Find Work

Finally, it's very important to keep yourself as employable as possible – especially if you’re cutting ties with existing clients and employers.

This involves filling any gaps on your CV and covering your experience in detail. Provide portfolio examples where possible and ensure that you can offer strong references too.

Utilise online job platforms to find remote positions or freelance projects that align with your skills. Websites like Upwork and Remote.co point you to the latest opportunities across various industries.

Ready to Go

In conclusion, by developing relevant skills, securing remote work, and building a support network, you can successfully transition into the digital nomad lifestyle. Time to welcome the freedom and opportunities that come with working on the move!