8 Dream Destinations Where Aussies Can Work Remotely in 2026

Dreaming of working from paradise? In 2026, more countries than ever are offering digital nomad visas, tax breaks, and sun-soaked lifestyles for Aussies. Discover the top 8 destinations, from Spain and Greece to Costa Rica and New Zealand - where you can live, work, and explore the world without quitting your career.

✈️ The New Way to Work and Wander

Imagine trading your home office for a seaside café in Spain, a whitewashed terrace in Greece, or a tropical jungle backdrop in Costa Rica.

More countries than ever are inviting remote workers to stay longer, work legally, and actually live like a local. Offering visas, tax perks, and the chance to turn “work from home” into “work from wherever.”

It’s not all palm trees and prosecco, though. Each country has its own rules, income requirements, and quirks. But for those with a little flexibility and a lot of curiosity, 2026 could be the year your office view comes with a cocktail umbrella.

🇪🇸 Spain – Sun, Sangria & Seamless Wi-Fi

Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live in the sunshine for a maximum period of three years, extendable up to five. You’ll need to earn approx au $4113.00 per month (or 200% of Spain’s minimum wage). You will also need a University degree or at least 3 years experience in your current field.

Cities like Valencia and Málaga offer brilliant lifestyles - expect rent around au $1,560 a month (excl. utilities). Warm weather, easy community living, and tapas after work? Sí, please.

🇬🇷 Greece – Work with a View of the Aegean

Greece’s digital nomad visa is one of Europe’s easiest to apply for. You’ll need to earn au $6,100 per month, and once approved, you can stay for 1 year (not renewable). For longer you will need to apply for a Residence Visa of up to 2 years (which is renewable) and this will cost au $1738.00. If you forego applying for the Greece digital nomad visa from abroad, you will have to register for a residence permit when you enter the country. This is a quicker and often more affordable method to relocating to Greece as a digital nomad. Holding a residence permit could also put you on a path to obtaining Greek citizenship!

Rent in Athens averages around au $1,600 a month, with smaller islands offering cheaper options. Add friendly locals, incredible food, and nearly year-round sunshine and it’s easy to see why so many never leave.

🇮🇹 Italy – Espresso Breaks and Tuscan Dreams

Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed. Upon arrival in Italy, applicants must apply for a residence permit to maintain legal status in the country and is valid for self-employed professionals earning at least au $49,000 a year. Applicants should demonstrate they are highly skilled workers, typically through a university degree or significant professional experience, especially in fields like Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Rent in major cities like Rome or Milan averages $1,700 a month. You’ll need private health insurance and proof of steady work. But with Italian coffee, culture, and countryside as your daily backdrop, you’ll hardly notice the paperwork.

🇭🇷 Croatia – Adriatic Bliss Without the Tax Bill

Croatia’s digital nomad visa now allows up to 18 months residency if you earn at least au $4,419 per month.

Overall the cost of living in Croatia is 32.6% lower than in Australia. A one-bedroom apartment in Split sits around $1,300 a month. The Adriatic lifestyle - beaches, history, and a laid-back rhythm makes Croatia one of Europe’s most underrated spots to “work from home.” Bonus: unmarried partners can apply too, as long as you’ve been together for three years.

🇹🇭 Thailand – Work, Swim, Repeat

Thailand’s digital nomad visa is valid for 5 years and is perfect for those wanting warmth, affordability, and great food. You’ll need $21,000 in savings held for three months before applying.

Living modestly, rent and daily costs can come in under $950 a month. You’ll only pay tax on foreign income if it’s brought into Thailand the same year, a huge win for long-term stays. Thailand has excellent Wi-Fi, coworking hubs, and cafes with stable connections across major cities.

🇨🇷 Costa Rica - Pura Vida Living

Costa Rica’s one year digital nomad visa (extendable) means no tax on overseas income, if you earn at least $5,221 per month.

As a digital nomad in Costa Rica, you’ll pay 10% to 20% income tax on your earnings to the local government during the visa period. Tax rates and rules can change, so make sure you’re clear on the tax rate which will apply to you before you start the application process.

Health insurance is required, and rents average $2,800 a month.

Between the jungles, beaches, and wildlife, you’ll soon understand the locals’ favourite saying: pura vida, “the pure life.”

🇦🇪 Dubai – The Glamorous Nomad Life

United Arab Emirates digital nomad visa lets you stay for a year, tax-free, if you earn $8,685 a month. The application fee is $420, with a quick medical check on arrival. As a digital nomad in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll pay 0% income tax on your earnings to the local government during the visa period.

Apartments start around $1,900 a month, so it’s not cheap. But for digital creatives, marketers, or influencers, it’s a dream mix of sunshine, opportunity, and modern luxury.

🇳🇿 New Zealand – Close to Home, Far from Ordinary

New Zealand now welcomes remote workers for stays up to nine months, letting you earn from overseas clients while enjoying a slower pace of life.

Big cities like Auckland can be pricey, but smaller towns such as Nelson or Dunedin are more affordable. And when your “after-work plans” include wine country drives or glacier hikes, it’s hard to complain.

🌏 Final Thoughts

Working from overseas isn’t just for daydreamers anymore. It’s a real, exciting option for Australians who crave a change of scenery without giving up their career.

Every destination has its own rules and fine print, so a little planning goes a long way.

Whether you’re drawn to Mediterranean laneways, Thai beaches, or the Kiwi countryside, 2026 could be your year to make it happen.

Because sometimes, the best office isn’t an office at all, it’s a place where you can close your laptop and dive straight into the sea.