Uruguay Digital Nomad Visa: Complete 2026 Guide (No Income Requirement)

What is the Uruguay Digital Nomad Visa? {#overview}

Uruguay’s Digital Nomad Visa—officially called the “Provisional Identity Card” (Hoja de Identidad Provisoria)—is a residency permit that allows remote workers and self-employed individuals to live and work legally in Uruguay for up to 12 months. Launched in May 2023, it has quickly become one of the most accessible digital nomad visas in the world.

What makes Uruguay’s program remarkable is what it doesn’t require: there is no mandatory minimum income threshold. Unlike most digital nomad visas that demand proof of substantial monthly earnings, Uruguay simply asks applicants to sign an affidavit declaring they have the means to support themselves financially.

:::info[Key Facts]

• Visa Type: Provisional Identity Card (Hoja de Identidad Provisoria)
• Initial Duration: 6 months
• Extension: Additional 6 months (12 months total)
• Income Requirement: None (self-declaration only)
• Application Fee: Under $10 USD
• Application Method: Online, after entering as tourist
• Work Rights: Yes, for foreign employers/clients :::

According to Uruguay XXI, the government’s investment promotion agency: “Uruguay’s digital nomad residency is for people who work for themselves or for companies abroad. The permit has a nominal cost (under ten dollars) and is received by email.”

The program reflects Uruguay’s broader strategy to attract global talent. As Howdy.com notes: “Like many countries post-pandemic, Uruguay has signaled its desire to attract more foreign workers to its shores.”

Why Uruguay Appeals to Digital Nomads

Uruguay offers a compelling combination of factors for remote workers:

Strategic Time Zone: Uruguay operates on UTC-3, positioning it ideally between US and European business hours. As digital nomad Chris Roe explained to Live in Uruguay: “Uruguay is in the sweet spot between the US West coast and Eastern Europe. I have a new client from Dubai and when we meet: it’s 9am for me in Uruguay and 4pm for him.”

Reliable Infrastructure: Uruguay has invested heavily in digital infrastructure. According to Citizen Remote, the country offers “reliable internet” and has developed a reputation for connectivity. Remote workers report finding “it easy and very affordable to connect on high-quality wifi anywhere in Uruguay—from the beach to the hills as well as the city.”

Stability and Safety: Uruguay consistently ranks as one of the safest and most stable countries in South America. Golden Harbors describes it as “one of the safest and most underrated destinations in the continent, known for its vibrant culture.”

Welcoming Local Culture: Unlike many digital nomad destinations where expats form isolated communities, Uruguay offers genuine local integration. Chris Roe noted: “The locals in Uruguay are actually willing to help and they want to meet you. It’s so refreshing.”

Tax Benefits: Perhaps most significantly for tech workers, Uruguay exempts the export of technology services from income tax—a major advantage for digital nomads working in the tech sector.

Who Qualifies for the Uruguay Digital Nomad Visa? {#eligibility}

The Uruguay Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers and self-employed individuals who earn income from sources outside Uruguay. The eligibility criteria are notably straightforward compared to other digital nomad programs.

Eligible Applicants

According to Citizen Remote, the visa is available to:

• Remote workers employed by companies based outside Uruguay
• Freelancers serving international clients
• Self-employed individuals with foreign income sources
• Entrepreneurs running businesses that operate outside Uruguay

:::tip[The Key Distinction] Your income must come from outside Uruguay. If you plan to work for Uruguayan companies or serve local clients, this visa is not appropriate—you would need a standard work visa instead. :::

What Makes Uruguay Unique: No Income Threshold

The most distinctive feature of Uruguay’s program is the absence of a minimum income requirement. As Nomads Embassy explains: “Unlike many other digital nomad visas, Uruguay’s program is notably accessible, with minimal requirements and no mandatory minimum income threshold.”

This stands in stark contrast to other popular digital nomad destinations. For comparison, according to Remote Talents:

Country	Monthly Income Requirement
Uruguay	None (self-declaration)
Portugal (D7 visa)	Approximately $3,264/month
Croatia	$2,500/month
Estonia	$3,700/month
Mexico	$2,595/month

This makes Uruguay particularly attractive for:

• Digital nomads with variable income
• Those just starting their remote careers
• Freelancers between major contracts
• Anyone who finds other programs’ income requirements prohibitive

Nationality Requirements

Uruguay’s digital nomad visa is open to citizens of most countries. However, you must be able to enter Uruguay as a tourist first—the visa application happens after you arrive.

Most Western nationalities can enter Uruguay visa-free for 90 days, which provides ample time to complete the digital nomad permit application. Citizens of countries requiring a tourist visa should obtain that first before planning their digital nomad application.

Family Members

According to Citizen Remote: “Family members cannot be included in a single visa application. Every member has to submit an individual application.”

This means spouses and children who wish to accompany you would each need to apply separately for their own permits.

Requirements {#requirements}

Uruguay’s digital nomad visa requirements are refreshingly minimal, reflecting the program’s accessibility-first approach.

Financial Requirements {#requirements-financial}

No Minimum Income Threshold

Unlike virtually every other digital nomad visa, Uruguay does not require proof of a specific monthly income. According to Uruguay XXI: “At this time there is no salary requirement but this—and other requirements—may change in the future.”

Instead of income documentation, applicants sign an affidavit (declaración jurada) stating they have sufficient means to support themselves during their stay.

Practical Budget Considerations

While there’s no official requirement, Citizen Remote notes that “many budget around USD $1,500–$2,000 per month” for a comfortable lifestyle in Uruguay. This is a practical consideration, not a visa requirement.

Document Checklist {#requirements-documents}

The initial 6-month application requires minimal documentation:

For the Initial 6-Month Permit:

1. Valid Passport

   • Must be valid for your intended stay
   • You’ll need your passport number for the online application

2. Personal Details

   • Full name, date of birth, nationality
   • Contact information
   • Address in Uruguay (or intended address)

3. Signed Affidavit

   • Self-declaration that you have means to support yourself financially
   • Completed as part of the online application

For the 6-Month Extension:

The extension requires additional documentation. According to Uruguay XXI:

1. Criminal Background Check

   • Required from all countries where you’ve lived for more than six months in the previous five years
   • Must be apostilled/legalized

2. Vaccination Certificate

   • Must be issued in Uruguay
   • Obtained from local health authorities

:::warning[Extension Documentation is More Extensive] Don’t assume the extension is as simple as the initial application. The criminal background check requirement, in particular, can take weeks to obtain and authenticate. Start this process early if you plan to stay the full 12 months. :::

Health Insurance

While not explicitly required for the visa application itself, having adequate health insurance is strongly recommended. Uruguay has both public and private healthcare systems, and many digital nomads opt for international health insurance policies.

Application Process {#process}

One of the most appealing aspects of Uruguay’s digital nomad visa is the fully online application process. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Enter Uruguay as a Tourist

You must first enter Uruguay legally as a tourist. Most Western nationalities receive 90 days visa-free upon arrival. According to Live in Uruguay, citizens of countries requiring a tourist visa should apply at the nearest Uruguayan consulate before traveling.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Once in Uruguay, you apply through the government’s online portal. According to Uruguay XXI: “To apply to stay for six months as a digital nomad, after entering Uruguay as a regular tourist, applicants complete an online form with personal details and sign an affidavit that they have the means to support themselves financially.”

The application is submitted through Uruguay’s government services website. The form is in Spanish, but browser translation tools work effectively.

Application Steps:

1. Navigate to the government portal
2. Create an account or log in
3. Complete personal information
4. Sign the financial self-sufficiency affidavit
5. Pay the nominal fee
6. Submit application

Step 3: Receive Your Permit

According to Uruguay XXI: “The permit has a nominal cost (under ten dollars) and is received by email.”

The permit arrives digitally—no embassy visits or in-person appointments required for the initial 6-month permit.

Step 4: Extension (If Desired)

After six months, you can apply for a 6-month extension. This requires the additional documentation mentioned earlier (criminal background checks, vaccination certificate).

According to Citizen Remote: “To renew the visa, a clean criminal record from countries where you’ve resided for over six months in the past five years is required.”

Step 5: Consider Permanent Residency

If you fall in love with Uruguay and want to stay longer, the digital nomad visa can serve as a stepping stone. Uruguay XXI notes: “After six months, applicants can apply for a further six-month extension or—if they love Uruguay and want to settle—permanent residency.”

Costs {#costs}

Uruguay’s digital nomad visa is one of the most affordable in the world.

Government Fees

Fee Type	Cost
Initial 6-month permit	Under $10 USD
6-month extension	Under $10 USD
Total (12 months)	Under $20 USD

According to Uruguay XXI: “The permit has a nominal cost (under ten dollars) and is received by email.”

Comparison with Other Digital Nomad Visas

Uruguay’s fee structure is remarkably competitive. For comparison, according to various sources:

Country	Visa Fee
Uruguay	Under $10
Croatia	~$120
Portugal D7	~$80 + service fees
Estonia	~$120

Additional Costs to Consider

While the visa itself is nearly free, budget for:

• Criminal background checks (for extension): Varies by country, typically $50-150 plus apostille fees
• Translations (if needed): $20-50 per document
• Health insurance: Varies widely based on coverage
• Vaccination certificate (for extension): Minimal cost through Uruguayan health system

Cost of Living in Uruguay

Uruguay is moderately priced by South American standards—more expensive than neighboring Argentina but offering excellent value for the quality of life. Costs vary significantly between Montevideo, beach towns like Punta del Este, and smaller interior cities.

:::info[Cost Note] Cost of living varies significantly based on location and lifestyle. Montevideo is generally more expensive than interior cities, while beach resort areas like Punta del Este can be significantly pricier, especially during summer season (December-February). :::

Timeline {#timeline}

Uruguay’s digital nomad visa offers one of the fastest processing times available.

Processing Time

According to Citizen Remote: “Time for visa applications: 1–3 weeks (varies by processing method).”

Many applicants report receiving their permits within days of applying, though the official guidance allows for up to three weeks.

Complete Timeline

Phase	Duration
Enter Uruguay as tourist	Day 1
Complete online application	30 minutes - 1 hour
Processing time	1-3 weeks
Receive permit via email	Within processing window
Initial permit validity	6 months
Extension application	Before initial permit expires
Extension processing	1-3 weeks
Total possible stay	12 months

Factors Affecting Processing Time

• Application completeness: Errors or missing information cause delays
• System load: Processing may slow during high-demand periods
• Extension documentation: Criminal background checks can take weeks to obtain from your home country

Tax Implications {#taxes}

Uruguay offers significant tax advantages for digital nomads, particularly those in the technology sector.

Foreign Income Taxation

According to Citizen Remote: “Digital nomads earning from foreign entities won’t be subjected to income tax in Uruguay.”

This territorial tax system means income earned from work performed for foreign clients/employers is generally not taxed by Uruguay.

Tech Services Exemption

Uruguay XXI highlights a specific advantage: “It is worth noting that in Uruguay the export of technology services is tax-exempt. A great advantage for digital nomads working in tech.”

This makes Uruguay particularly attractive for:

• Software developers
• IT consultants
• Digital product creators
• Tech entrepreneurs

Tax Residency Considerations

According to WFA.team: “Foreign income is exempt from local tax for up to 183 days, but staying beyond this or having family members living with the employee in Uruguay can trigger tax obligations.”

:::warning[Consult a Tax Professional] Tax situations are highly individual and depend on your home country’s tax treaties, your specific income sources, and your residency status. The information above is general guidance—consult with a tax professional familiar with both Uruguayan and your home country’s tax law before making decisions. :::

Home Country Tax Obligations

Remember that your home country may still tax your worldwide income regardless of where you live. US citizens, for example, remain subject to US taxation on global income. The Uruguay visa doesn’t change your obligations to your home country’s tax authority.

Common Mistakes & Gotchas {#gotchas}

Despite being one of the easiest digital nomad visas to obtain, applicants still encounter pitfalls. Here’s what to watch for:

Gotcha #1: Underestimating Extension Requirements

The initial 6-month application is remarkably simple. The extension is not.

The Problem: Many digital nomads apply for the initial permit without considering extension requirements, then scramble when they realize they need apostilled criminal background checks from every country they’ve lived in for 6+ months over the past five years.

The Solution: If you think you might want to stay the full 12 months, start gathering criminal background checks before you leave your home country. Apostille services can take weeks, and some countries require in-person applications.

Gotcha #2: Spanish-Only Application System

The government application portal is entirely in Spanish.

The Problem: While browser translation tools help, critical legal declarations and form fields can be confusing when translated automatically.

The Solution:

• Use Google Chrome’s built-in translation
• Have a Spanish speaker review your application before submitting
• Take screenshots of everything for your records
• Consider hiring a local facilitator if you’re not comfortable with the process

Gotcha #3: Assuming the Permit Equals Tax Residency

Having a digital nomad permit doesn’t automatically make you a Uruguayan tax resident—but staying too long might.

The Problem: According to WFA.team, staying beyond 183 days or having family members living with you in Uruguay can trigger tax obligations you didn’t anticipate.

The Solution: Track your days carefully if tax residency matters to you. Consult with a tax professional before the 183-day mark to understand your specific situation.

Gotcha #4: Banking Difficulties

Opening a Uruguayan bank account as a digital nomad can be challenging.

The Problem: Most Uruguayan banks require proof of local income or residency beyond the digital nomad permit. This can make everyday transactions complicated.

The Solution:

• Bring sufficient funds accessible via international cards
• Use services like Wise (TransferWise) for currency exchange
• Some digital banks may be more flexible—research current options before arriving

Gotcha #5: Seasonal Price Swings

Uruguay’s beach areas experience dramatic seasonal price changes.

The Problem: Punta del Este and other coastal areas can be 3-4x more expensive during summer season (December-February) when wealthy Argentinians and Brazilians vacation there.

The Solution:

• If budget is a concern, base yourself in Montevideo or interior cities
• Book accommodation well in advance if visiting during summer
• Consider the shoulder seasons (March-April, November) for better value

Gotcha #6: Requirements May Change

Uruguay XXI explicitly warns: “At this time there is no salary requirement but this—and other requirements—may change in the future.”

The Problem: The program is relatively new (launched May 2023), and the government has indicated requirements could evolve.

The Solution: Verify current requirements through official channels before applying. Don’t rely solely on guides (including this one) that may become outdated.

Gotcha #7: Individual Applications for Family Members

Unlike many digital nomad visas that allow family inclusion, Uruguay requires separate applications.

The Problem: Each family member needs their own application, fees, and documentation. This can complicate family moves.

The Solution: Budget time and resources for multiple applications. Ensure all family members have the necessary documentation before traveling.

After Approval: What’s Next? {#after-approval}

Receiving your digital nomad permit is just the beginning. Here’s what comes next:

Immediate Next Steps

1. Save your permit: The permit arrives via email as a PDF. Save multiple copies—cloud storage, email, phone, and printed.

2. Register your address: While not always strictly enforced, registering your Uruguayan address is good practice.

3. Set up daily life:

   • Obtain a local SIM card for mobile data
   • Explore coworking spaces in your area
   • Connect with the expat/digital nomad community

Finding Your Community

Uruguay has a growing digital nomad community, particularly in Montevideo. According to Howdy.com: “Montevideo often tops international ‘Best Cities for Digital Nomad’ lists.”

Resources for connecting:

• Coworking spaces in Montevideo and Punta del Este
• Expat Facebook groups
• Nomad List community forums
• Local tech meetups

Path to Permanent Residency

If you decide Uruguay is home, the digital nomad visa can be a stepping stone to permanent residency.

According to Citizen Remote: “This visa opens doors to permanent residency.”

The general path involves:

1. Complete your digital nomad permit period
2. Apply for temporary residency
3. After meeting residency requirements, apply for permanent residency
4. Citizenship may be available after additional years of permanent residency

:::info[Residency Path Note] The exact requirements and timelines for permanent residency and citizenship involve additional criteria beyond the digital nomad permit. Consult with an immigration attorney in Uruguay for current requirements specific to your situation. :::

Renewal vs. Permanent Residency

After 12 months on the digital nomad permit, you cannot simply renew for another year. Your options are:

1. Leave and return: Exit Uruguay, potentially reapply after some time abroad
2. Apply for temporary/permanent residency: Transition to a longer-term immigration status
3. Explore other visa categories: Depending on your situation, other residency options may be available

Frequently Asked Questions {#faq}

Can I work for Uruguayan clients on this visa?

No. The digital nomad visa is specifically for those working for foreign employers or clients. If you want to work for Uruguayan companies or serve local clients, you need a different visa category.

Do I need to show bank statements or proof of income?

No. Uruguay is unique in requiring only a self-declaration (affidavit) that you can support yourself. No bank statements, tax returns, or income proof required.

Can I bring my family?

Family members cannot be included on your application. Each person must apply individually for their own permit.

What happens if I want to stay longer than 12 months?

The digital nomad permit maxes out at 12 months (6 months initial + 6 months extension). To stay longer, you’ll need to apply for temporary or permanent residency through Uruguay’s standard immigration process.

Is the application really online-only?

Yes, for the initial 6-month permit. You apply through the government’s online portal after arriving in Uruguay as a tourist. The extension also appears to be handled online, though it requires additional physical documentation (apostilled criminal background checks).

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Not officially required, but highly recommended. The application is in Spanish, and while browser translation helps, daily life is much easier with at least basic Spanish. English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger Uruguayans, but it’s not as prevalent as in some other expat destinations.

What’s the best city for digital nomads in Uruguay?

Montevideo is the most popular choice, offering the best infrastructure, coworking options, and digital nomad community. Punta del Este is beautiful but expensive (especially in summer) and very seasonal. Smaller cities offer lower costs but less infrastructure.

Can I open a bank account with the digital nomad permit?

This can be challenging. Most Uruguayan banks have additional requirements beyond the permit. Many digital nomads rely on international banking solutions and cards during their stay.

What if requirements change while I’m there?

Changes typically apply to new applications, not existing permit holders. However, extension requirements could potentially change. Stay informed through official channels and expat communities.

Is Uruguay safe?

Uruguay consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in South America. As with anywhere, exercise normal precautions, but violent crime against foreigners is rare.

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Summary

Uruguay’s Digital Nomad Visa stands out as one of the most accessible options available in 2026. With no income requirement, a fully online application, fees under $10 USD, and processing times of just 1-3 weeks, it removes many of the barriers that make other digital nomad visas challenging to obtain.

The program is ideal for remote workers who want to experience South America without the bureaucratic hurdles common elsewhere. Uruguay offers a unique combination of stability, quality infrastructure, tax advantages for tech workers, and a welcoming culture that genuinely integrates foreigners.

Key Takeaways:

• No minimum income requirement—just a self-declaration
• Application fee under $10 USD
• 6 months initial, extendable to 12 months total
• Fully online application after tourist entry
• Tax exemption on foreign income, especially tech services
• Extension requires criminal background checks—plan ahead
• Path to permanent residency available

Whether you’re testing the waters of international living or looking for a base to explore South America, Uruguay’s digital nomad visa offers a low-risk, low-cost entry point that’s hard to match anywhere else in the world.