What you need to know before working remotely abroad
The idea of working from a beachside cafe in sunny Lisbon or a mountain lodge in Costa Rica is undeniably appealing. But successful remote work abroad requires more than booking a cheap flight and packing your laptop. From visas to avoiding double taxation, planning ahead is the difference between a smooth, productive adventure and a stressful scramble. If you’re planning to embark on the digital nomad lifestyle, here are the key steps you need to take to prepare, so you can focus on work (and enjoy that stunning view).
Sort out visas and tax obligations first
Before you start dreaming about your new routine abroad, check that you’re legally allowed to work there. Many countries such as Portugal and Estonia now offer digital nomad visas, but each each has different rules. Just as important, clarify your tax residency status well in advance with the Canada Revenue Agency - even if you’re working abroad, you might still be a resident for tax purposes and risk paying taxes in two countries.
Use a VPN to protect your data while abroad
Public Wi-Fi in cafés and airports is definitely convenient, but it’s also a hacker’s playground. Open networks can expose sensitive client work, company logins, or even your personal banking credentials. The solution is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection and keep your data safe. Install a VPN chrome extension for a simple way to shield your browsing and also access Canadian services (such as your bank accounts) that often block foreign IPs.
Bank smarter as a Canadian traveller
Telling your bank about your travel plans will avoid awkward account freezes the first time you pay for groceries abroad and the transaction is flagged as ‘suspicious’. For everyday spending, multi-currency accounts or fintech services often beat traditional banks since they offer lower fees and better exchange rates. Use money transfer apps like Wise or Revolut to help you get paid in Canadian dollars but spend in euros, yen, or pesos with minimal hassle.
Travel insurance vs. international health cover
Your provincial health card won’t help much once you leave Canada. While basic travel insurance might cover short holidays, longer remote work stints call for comprehensive international health insurance. Look for policies tailored to digital nomads, which cover extended stays and work-related incidents or emergencies – it can be the difference between a manageable bill and a financial nightmare if you end up in a hospital overseas.
Tools and tips to stay productive and connected
The remote work dream can quickly fade if your beachside bungalow has Wi-Fi slower than 90s dial-up. Always confirm internet speed with your host before booking. Think ahead about time zone differences too – 9:00am in Vancouver is 6:00pm in Berlin, which could change your routine and sleep times dramatically. And remember to bring along practical extras like a universal power adapter or noise-cancelling headphones to transform even the busiest café (or even a long bus ride) into a functional workspace.
Make your remote work adventure a success
Remote work abroad can be life-changing, but only if you plan smartly. Get your visas and taxes sorted, secure your digital workspace, organise your money, and protect your health. With the basics covered, you’ll be free to focus on your work and enjoy the perks of your new surroundings.