United States Digital Nomad Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- No official 'Digital Nomad' visa exists; applicants use B-1/B-2 category
- Allows for short-term stays to explore the country while working remotely
- Requires proof of primary residence and ties to a home country
- Income must be sourced entirely from outside the United States
- Applicants must attend an in-person interview at an embassy or consulate
- Strict prohibition on seeking or accepting local US employment
- Maximum initial stay of up to six months usually granted
- Visa validity can last up to 10 years for many nationalities
Processing time
3 - 6 months (due to interview backlogs)
Processing times vary significantly by embassy location and the time of year. Booking early is essential.
Estimated cost
$185 - $500+
- MRV Application Fee (Standard B1/B2)$185
- Reciprocity Fee (if applicable)Varies by nationality
Requirements
- Must be an employee of a company located outside the US
- Income must be paid into a non-US bank account
- Possession of a permanent residence outside of the United States
- Intent to leave the US at the end of the authorized stay
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover the entire stay without working locally
- Clean criminal record and no prior immigration violations
- Valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa foil
- Payment of the non-refundable MRV application fee
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport with at least six months validity beyond stay
- DS-160 online application confirmation page
- Recent digital passport-style photograph
- Evidence of employment and income from outside the US
- Copies of client contracts or remote work agreements
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Proof of ties to home country (e.g., property, family, job)
- Detailed travel itinerary and proof of accommodation
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Complete Form DS-160
Complete the online DS-160 application form accurately; this is the primary document used for your assessment.
- 2
Pay the Application Fee
Create an account on the official visa services website for your country and pay the non-refundable MRV fee.
- 3
Book your Appointment
Schedule your consular interview. Be aware that wait times can be significant in major cities.
- 4
Prepare your Document File
Collate all evidence of your remote employment, bank statements, and proof of ties to your home country.
- 5
Attend the Consular Interview
Attend the interview at the US Embassy or Consulate. Be prepared to explain your itinerary and remote work status.
- 6
Passport Collection
If approved, your passport will be kept for processing and returned via your chosen courier method.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Always be honest about your remote work; say you are visiting for tourism and remote work for your foreign boss.
- Ensure your bank statements show enough liquidity to support yourself for the full duration of your trip.
- Carry proof of a return flight or onward travel to demonstrate your intent to leave.
- Keep your responses during the interview concise and focused on your ties to your home country.
- Do not bring electronic devices or large bags to your embassy interview, as security is very strict.
- Check if your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) for shorter trips under 90 days.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.