For long-term travellers: the documents that trip up nomads most are proof of onward travel at check-in, accommodation details on arrival cards, and insurance that actually covers remote work abroad.
Proof of onward travel
Airlines check entry rules (via IATA Timatic) before letting you board. If you have a one-way ticket to a country that requires onward travel — for example Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, Peru or Costa Rica — you may be asked to show a flight out. Read our onward travel guide and prepare an itinerary with the onward ticket tool. Where the airline insists on a verifiable booking, use a refundable fare.
Accommodation for arrival cards
Many arrival and e-visa forms ask for your first address. Keep a reservation document or your real booking handy offline.
Insurance
- Check that the policy covers the countries you visit and the length of your trip.
- Look for medical evacuation cover.
- Remote work visas often require specific minimum coverage.
Remote-work (digital nomad) visas
Dozens of countries now offer nomad visas. They usually require proof of remote employment or clients, a minimum monthly income, health insurance and a clean criminal record. Requirements change often — check the official immigration site of each country.
Keep copies
- Scans of your passport, visas and insurance in cloud storage and offline.
- PDF copies of itineraries and reservations on your phone.
