You're perhaps waiting for the pandemic to come to an end before moving abroad, but no one can tell how long it's going to take. Moreover, with current travel restrictions and border closures, and some countries being locked down once again following a new surge, especially in Europe and Asia, choosing your next destination can be a difficult task. Still, this hard turned out to be a blessing for some countries that are trying to boost their economy by attracting foreign nationals.
Antigua and Barbuda
Located in the West Indies, with idyllic landscapes and a welcoming population, Antigua and Barbuda kept their borders open during the global health crisis. Currently, anyone can move there, regardless of the purpose of their stay. Antigua and Barbuda are offering a new Nomad Digital Residence. This visa is valid for two years and is intended for remote workers and their families. With this visa, you can stay in the country and work remotely for an employer that is based outside the country. Foreign entrepreneurs are also eligible for this visa provided they meet the income requirements. However, all travellers are monitored by the Ministry of Health and Welfare for 14 days. The quarantine authority can decide whether quarantine or self-isolation is required in case travellers show COVID-19 symptoms. Besides, all travellers to Antigua and Barbuda have to produce a negative PCR test carried out within seven days prior to the trip.
Barbados
Barbados is also offering a similar visa. The Barbados Welcome Stamp is intended for remote workers and foreign entrepreneurs and is valid for 12 months and renewable. However, there are travel restrictions, mainly for UK nationals and those from high-risk countries. In case they are tested positive for COVID-19, they will be quarantined at their own expense in a designated establishment. Still, moving to Barbados means that you will be enjoying idyllic landscapes with beautiful sandy beaches, sunny weather almost all year round, as well as social stability and developed infrastructure. These contribute to providing an excellent quality of life to the inhabitants and residents.
Dominican Republic
According to a recent report, Punta Cana, a beach resort located in the east of the Dominican Republic, was one of the most popular searches in 2020 thanks to its location, pleasant climate, and heavenly beaches. The country provides excellent quality of life thanks to its people's hospitality, developed infrastructure, cultural and artistic wealth, and the number of relaxation and leisure options available. The country has kept its borders open to foreign nationals who wish to settle there. To boost its tourism sector, the Dominican Republic offered an insurance plan including coverage for COVID-19 testing, accommodation costs for extended stays and additional costs in case of flight change for infected people for free until December 31, 2020. Besides, foreigners arriving in the Dominican Republic must produce a health declaration confirming that they don't have any COVID-19 symptoms.
Mexico
Mexico is a popular retirement destination that kept its borders open throughout the crisis. International arrivals are allowed, regardless of the purpose of the stay. Still, there are restrictions for some nationalities and travellers from specific countries. Passengers have to produce a Cuestionario de identificación de factores de riesgo en viajeros to immigration officials on their arrival. It's worth noting that COVID-19 testing is not mandatory, and neither is quarantine on arrival. So if you're looking to a change of lifestyle, you could move to Mexico to enjoy its dynamic and historical setting, beautiful beaches, pleasant climate and unparalleled cuisine.
United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates remained an attractive expat destination throughout the crisis. It is also one of the few Middle East countries that were not affected by the expat exodus. By keeping its borders open, the United Arab Emirates is trying to boost both the tourism industry and its economy. Dubai, the most famous emirate, is currently offering a one-year remote work program. This new visa allows you to work remotely from Dubai for a whole year without having to quit your job in your home country. Your family can also accompany you and enjoy Dubai's thrilling ambience and the perks of living there. Another good news is that you won't have to pay income tax during this period. Travellers have to produce a negative COVID-19 test carried out within four days prior to their arrival, the trip, proof of medical insurance, a health declaration and a document stating that they have agreed to pay the quarantine and COVID-19 treatment costs if required.
Portugal
In spite of a partial lockdown, Portugal remains an attractive expat destination in 2021. Nationals of the European Union and Shengen area, as well as Australians, Chinese and South- Koreans, Japanese, New Zealanders, Rwandans, Singaporeans, Thais and Uruguayans, are allowed to enter the country, regardless of the purpose of their stay. They are also exempt from COVID-19 testing unless they are travelling to Madeira or the Azores archipelagos. Regarding the Britons, only residents are allowed to enter Portugal provided they test negative for COVID-19. So if you fancy a getaway to a Mediterranean country with a mild climate and a laid back lifestyle, Portugal could be the ideal place to be. This can also be an excellent opportunity to buy a property that can be your second home. However, property prices are rising gradually after the significant drop in recent months.
Morocco
Whether you're looking to work or retire abroad, Morocco has got it all. The country can boast of a very low COVID-19 mortality rate since the early days of the crisis. Morocco thus reopened its borders to visa-exempt foreign nationals and professionals under certain conditions since September 2020. If you intend to work in Morocco, you must have a signed and printed invitation letter issued by a company based in Morocco, including all the details of your stay. For the rest of the travellers, accommodation booking must be presented at the airport. They must also produce a negative COVID-19 test carried out within 72 hours of arrival in Morocco and a health declaration.
