Bermuda digital nomad visa launched in 2020 in response to dwindling tourist numbers gives remote workers access to arguably one of the most beautiful island nations on the planet. Though commonly mistaken for a Caribbean Island, Bermuda is located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1035 kilometers off the Unites States coast. Consisting of 181 islands and bridges connecting the main island, Bermuda is famous for its pink beaches and a laid-back lifestyle.
The island nation is a very popular destination and retains a unique facade as a travel destination devoid of the stereotypical features such as fast-food chains and a dedicated strip for cruise ships. Bermuda has an advanced infrastructure to help support a digital nomad community. The island offers an authentic experience that is the perfect getaway for remote workers looking for an escape.
Courtesy: Photo by Kino on Unsplash
Which Countries’ Nationals Can Visit Bermuda Visa Free?
Bermuda permits nationals from 107 countries around the world into the country without needing any visa for a short term stay as tourists. 1 These include all E.U countries, U.S and U.K citizens, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina and Australia. Nationals of these countries are granted a stay of up to 90 days and may extend it to a maximum of 6 months.
Nationals who require a visa to travel may obtain one from the Government of Bermuda. 2 Call (441) 295-5151 x1378 or email the Immigration Office for questions on how to obtain one.
Is Travel Authorization Required To Visit Bermuda?
Travel authorizations are no longer required to enter Bermuda as of November 14, 2022. 3 The Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) has instead reinstated the Bermuda Travel Card in digital form for visitors only. Apply for the Bermuda Travel Card online and fill the form with all the details. Download the form and present it to immigration officials for inspection.
There is no fee or approval process associated with this process.
Courtesy : Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash
Do You Need a Visa To Work in Bermuda?
Foreigners who need to take up employment in Bermuda need to obtain work authorization from the government of Bermuda. 4 There are several type of work permits in Bermuda which are outlined below: 5
Standard Work Permit—Allows organizations to hire foreigners provided that they can show a Bermudan or PRC holder is not qualified or available for the job.
Periodic Work Permit—This permit is for employees who are non-resident, making multiple visits to Bermuda with each visit lasting no longer than 30 days.
Short Term Work Permit—The short-term permit is for all employers including non-profit organizations, and charities for periods up to 6 months.
New Business Work Permit— This type of permit is given to new businesses automatically granting permits for its employees after the issue of its business permit.
Global Entrepreneur Work Permit (GE Permit)—The GE permit is issued for one year to employees for exempted companies and section 114B start-ups.
Global Work Permit— A global work permit allows persons who are employed by global companies in other jurisdictions to transfer to the office in Bermuda without needing to advertise the position. The permit can be valid for up to 5 years.
Fintech Business Work Permit—This is granted to new Fintech companies for up to 5 work permits and are granted up to 5 years.
Only employers and not employees can petition for work permits; additionally, visitors cannot seek employment while visiting on a tourist visa. 6 These are the fees associated with procuring a work permit. 7
Courtesy: Photo by Kino on Unsplash
Does Bermuda Have a Visa for Remote Workers? What is the Work From Bermuda Certificate?
Bermuda introduced a digital nomad visa known as the Work From Bermuda Certificate giving remote workers an opportunity to reside in the British island territory for an initial 12-month period with an option to renew it for another year. 8
Dependents such as spouses and children can accompany applicants, but must have their personal details in the application for the remote worker visa. This visa is offered with the Global Entrepreneur Work Permit (GE Permit) designed with high-net-worth individuals in mind. Applicants are permitted to engage in the following activities: 9
- Seeking appropriate Government or regulatory approval(s)
- Business planning
- Compliance meeting
- Capital raising
- Financial requirements
The Bermuda remote worker visa is applied easily online in as little as 15 minutes with a short approval window.
Can the Bermuda Certificate Be Renewed?
Yes, the Bermuda digital nomad visa can be extended for another 12 months.
Bermuda Remote Worker Visa vs. Tourist: Which Is Better?
For the digital nomad and remote worker, the Work From Bermuda Certificate is the better option than the tourist visa. This is because the visa allows its holders to legally work remotely on the island while being able to reside for a longer period. In addition, digital nomads can travel in and out of the country as they please.
Conversely, remote workers cannot stay in the county for extended periods of time, have multiple entries or work with authorization.
Eligibility & Requirements for the Work From Bermuda Certificate
There are several prerequisites that the Bermudan Government imposes on applicants for the digital nomad visa including proof of remote work and having a valid passport.
Valid Passport—The passport must be valid for the duration of stay.
Age Requirements—Applicants must be at least 18 years of age during the application.
Proof of Remote Work—Freelancers, remote workers and entrepreneurs must prove their source of income.
Income Requirements—The Bermudan government requires that digital nomads have a substantial salary. This vague requirement simply means that remote workers must have enough disposable income to support their stay on the island.
Letter of Enrolment— Students are eligible for the visa, but must prove that they are enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, research, or doctorate program.
Criminal Record—Applicants must have no crime record to be eligible for the Bermuda digital nomad visa.
Health Insurance— Digital nomads need to have health insurance coverage for their duration of stay.
Application Process To Obtain a Bermuda Digital Nomad Visa
The application for the Bermuda remote worker visa is conveniently done online using the following steps:
- Gather the supporting documents that satisfy the requirements above. These documents should be in English or translated where practical. Digitize these documents by scanning them since they will have to be uploaded to the online portal.
- Complete the application form for the Work From Bermuda Certificate and input the necessary details for the applicant. If there are dependents, this information will need to be captured at the same time as when the application is being lodged.
- Upload the documents and submit the application.
- Pay the necessary fees.
- Wait for the approval; the visa will arrive via email.
See these frequently asked questions for the application process for the remote worker. Applicants can also electronically message the Government of Bermuda or call them at (441) 295-5151.
Moreover, nationals who require a visa to enter Bermuda must apply for a separate entry visa. This can be done at any British Embassy or High Commission Office. This should be done 1-2 months from the intended travel date.
Courtesy : Photo by Michael Marcon on Unsplash
Costs & Processing Time for the Bermuda Freelancer Certificate
The costs for the Bermuda digital nomad visa are fairly low with the applicants paying US $263 for the completed online application. These fees are non-refundable. Visas are processed in a short time of 5 business days.
Life in Bermuda as a Remote Worker
Bermuda is a popular destination and for good reason—the island nation is known for its breathtaking pink sand beaches, incredible landscaping and clear turquoise water—it is truly a destination like no other. The island nation comprises 138 coral islands clustered in a 20 square mile area that forms the famous Bermuda Triangle; a location linked with famous superstitions and a site of where more than 50 ships and dozens of aircraft have disappeared. 10
In addition, Bahamas has grown to be a popular destination for digital nomads with an excellent infrastructure that supports high quality internet and a growth of coworking spaces. Bermuda provides the perfect destination for work and play.
While it is established that Bermuda is an exotic destination, the island has an Achilles heel that may not be appealing for digital nomads; it has a high cost of living.
Cost of Living of Living in Bermuda
Bermuda is among the most expensive countries to live in the world; the cost of living is 82% higher than the U.S., average rents on the island are twice of what you can expect in the United States. Clearly, it is not a destination for all digital nomads, but only a select few who earn enough to live as remote workers in the country. The government markets its digital nomad visa with the elite remote worker in mind and for good reason.
A single person can expect to pay a staggering US $3,300 rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city and US $2,200 outside the city—monthly living expenses without rent can top up at US $ 2,060 a month.
Remote workers finding Bermuda too costly can explore options like the Barbados digital nomad visa, granting access to equally stunning islands in the Caribbean, often at nearly 40% lower costs than Bermuda.
Best Places To Live in Bermuda
Since Bermuda permits nomads to live on the island for one year, with an extension for another year, remote workers should ensure that they have found a suitable place to live. This residence should give the remote worker access to amenities and be within the constraints of their budget. However, already seen, this country attracts higher tier income digital nomads which should make most of the island accessible.
Bermuda is made up of nine parishes spanning across 21 square miles. Here are some of the most ideal places to live in Bermuda.
Warwick Parish—Known for its natural landmarks including Warwick Long Bay, this location is one of the nine parishes of Bermuda and occupies part of the main island to the southeast of the Great Sound.
St. George’s Parish—This area covers the island’s eastern end and consists of St. David’s Island and Tucker’s Town. The town of St. George is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for cute cottages, cobblestone-lined streets and plenty of restaurants. 11 It has scenic bays such as Castle Harbor and beaches such as Ferry Reach, Clearwater Beach and Cooper’s Island.
Hamilton Parish—This parish, not to be confused by the city of Hamilton, is split into two by large Harrington Sound and offers one of the best scenic views on the island. It is home to luxury estates such as The Residence and Old Battery with superb privacy, tennis courts and exclusive beach access.
Paget Parish—Paget is the most central parish and as a result very much sought. It has a coastline of pink beaches and offers residents the opportunity to live on the waterfront or beachside. There are also housing opportunities with views of the Hamilton City skyline and the Great Sound.
Southampton Parish—The largest parish on the island, Southampton offers ample residential opportunities from beachfront luxury condos to private island estates. It is also home to the famous Horseshoe Bay, Church Bay, Jews Bay, Evans Bay and is surrounded by gorgeous water vistas.
Courtesy: Photo by Mark Harpur on Unsplash
Tourist Attractions in Bermuda
There is a reason why Bermuda is such a popular destination—it is largely due to its beauty and never-ending things to do and see. From pink sands to azure water and spas and duty free shops, the British overseas territory is among the most visited destinations in this part of the world.
Some of the key tourist destinations in Bermuda include:
- Horseshoe Bay Beach
- Crystal & Fantasy Caves
- Tobacco Bay Beach
- Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse
- Royal Naval Dockyard
- Front Street
- Jobson’s Cove Beach
- Bermuda Aquarium, Natural History Museum & Zoo
Tax Structure for Digital Nomads in Bermuda
One of the benefits of living in the country as a digital nomad under the Work From Bermuda Certificate is that remote workers aren’t required to pay income or any other taxes. In addition, digital nomads are provided with a BD $200 custom allowance on personal and accompanying goods. 12
Amenities for Digital Nomads in Bermuda (Internet Connectivity, Coworking Spaces, Banking, Healthcare)
Bermuda is a stunning destination that offers a wealth of amenities for digital nomads seeking to live and work remotely in paradise. However, as with any destination, having optimal amenities is a necessary ingredient to attracting and maintaining a significant digital nomad population. These amenities include having a stable internet connection and the availability of coworking spaces for freelancers.
Internet Connectivity in Bermuda
Bermuda’s internet connectivity is characterized by reliable high-speed broadband services accessible across urban and populated areas through cable and fiber optic networks operated by local ISPs like Digicel Bermuda, One Communications, and Logic Communications. Digital nomads can expect average download speeds of 49.03 Mbps from Digicel Bermuda.
The infrastructure is designed for reliability and redundancy, with ISPs providing responsive customer support to assist subscribers. Overall, Bermuda offers reliable and high-performance internet connectivity suitable for remote work, entertainment, and staying connected, ensuring a satisfactory online experience for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Courtesy : Photo by Bernard Hermant on Unsplash
Coworking Spaces in Bermuda
In Bermuda, coworking spaces provide flexible work environments equipped with essential amenities for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. 13 Popular coworking spaces include Ignite Bermuda and The Hub, offering comfortable workspaces, high-speed internet access, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities. These spaces cater to diverse professionals seeking collaborative and productive work environments, with options for short-term or long-term memberships.
Here are some popular coworking spaces on the island:
Ignite Bermuda: Located in the heart of Hamilton, Ignite Bermuda offers a modern coworking space with flexible memberships, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and business support services. It caters to individuals, startups, and small businesses looking for a collaborative work environment.
The Hub Bermuda: Situated in the City of Hamilton, the Hub Bermuda provides coworking spaces, private offices, and meeting rooms with amenities such as high-speed internet, printing facilities, and networking events. It serves as a hub for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to connect and collaborate.
Connectech: Connectech offers coworking space, private offices, and virtual office solutions for businesses of all sizes. It provides access to amenities like high-speed internet, conference rooms, and business support services.
Nineteen: Nineteen coworking space in Hamilton, Bermuda, offers flexible workspace options, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and community events. Located centrally, it fosters collaboration among entrepreneurs and freelancers thus providing a dynamic environment for professional growth and networking.
Suite Solutions: The Suite Solutions furnishes remote workers with a central hub for work and collaboration. Offering modern amenities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and flexible workspace options, Suite Solutions fosters productivity and networking opportunities. Its convenient location and professional environment make it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Center: This business complex in Hamilton offers coworking space, private offices, and meeting rooms for rent. It provides amenities such as high-speed internet, printing facilities, and onsite parking, catering to professionals and businesses seeking a central location.
Valley Room Co: Located in Devonshire, Valley Room Co offers coworking space and private offices with amenities such as high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and business support services. It caters to entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers seeking a collaborative work environment.
Banking in Bermuda
Banking in Bermuda caters to the needs of digital nomads relocating to the island, offering a range of services from local and international banks such as HSBC Bermuda, Butterfield Bank, and Clarien Bank. 14 Remote workers can access traditional banking products alongside specialized services like convenient internet and mobile banking services, offshore banking, wealth management, and investment opportunities.
To open a bank account, individuals who have a Work From Bermuda Certificate typically need to provide identification, proof of address, and may require a minimum deposit. Additionally, some banks may facilitate the opening of accounts from foreign countries, although specific requirements and procedures may vary. Bermuda’s currency is the Bermudian dollar (BMD), pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate, ensuring stability for financial transactions.
Courtesy : Photo by Jake Allen on Unsplash
Healthcare in Bermuda
Digital nomads in Bermuda have access to high-quality healthcare provided by modern medical facilities and well-trained professionals. While the island lacks a universal healthcare system, it offers several hospitals, including the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital in Paget Parish, along with specialized clinics and medical centers. Nomads need to secure health or travel insurance to cover potential medical expenses, as healthcare costs in Bermuda can be significant. Familiarizing oneself with local healthcare providers and emergency services is advisable for a smooth experience.
Benefits of Choosing Bermuda as a Digital Nomad Destination
While it is expensive to live in Bermuda, the island nation confers several benefits to the remote worker that chooses to live in this part of the world. These include access to one of the most beautiful islands in the world, a clean and safe country and plenty of networking opportunities.
Remote Work Paradise: Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore and spending your lunch break snorkeling in turquoise waters. With the Bermuda Digital Nomad Visa, you can turn this dream into reality by working from one of the most picturesque locations on earth.
Strong Internet Connectivity: Bermuda has reliable and high-speed internet connectivity, essential for digital nomads who rely on a stable internet connection to work effectively. Many accommodations, coworking spaces, and cafes offer Wi-Fi access.
Safe and Secure Environment: Bermuda boasts low crime rates, excellent healthcare facilities, and a stable political climate, providing peace of mind for digital nomads and their families.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Bermuda’s unique blend of British, African, and Caribbean cultures, savoring delicious cuisine, participating in local festivals, and learning about the island’s fascinating history.
Ease of Travel: Bermuda’s proximity to the eastern United States and its well-connected airport makes it easily accessible for travelers from North America and beyond. Additionally, the island’s compact size makes it convenient to travel and navigate, allowing digital nomads to maximize its exploration.
Tax Benefits: Bermuda is known for its favorable tax environment, with no income tax, capital gains tax, or corporate tax for non-residents. This can result in significant savings for remote workers earning income from online work or businesses.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals and entrepreneurs in Bermuda’s thriving digital nomad community, attending meetups, workshops, and networking events to exchange ideas and collaborate on projects.
Work-Life Balance: One of the benefits of a digital nomad life is having control of over one’s work and life balance. With its relaxed pace of life and abundant outdoor activities, Bermuda offers the perfect environment to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Spend your weekends exploring hidden coves, golfing on championship courses, or sampling the island’s famous beaches.
The Bermuda Digital Nomad Visa is not just a visa – it’s a gateway to a new way of life. Whether you’re a freelancer, remote worker, or entrepreneur, this visa offers you the opportunity to live and work in paradise while exploring all that Bermuda has to offer.
Alternatives in the Caribbean for Digital Nomads
Montserrat: The Montserrat Remote Work Stamp costs US $500 for individuals and US $750 for families, requires US $70,000 annual income. This island nation offers Montserrat digital nomad visa holders a one-year stay on an island with stunning beaches and lush forests.
Courtesy : Photo by Cole Marshall on Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Apply for the Bermuda Remote Visa Online?
To apply for the Bermuda Remote Work Visa online, visit the official website, complete the application form, submit required documents, and await approval.
Is US Immigration Cleared in Bermuda?
Bermuda’s L.F. Wade International Airport offers U.S. immigration pre-clearance facilities, permitting passengers traveling to the United States to complete immigration and customs procedures in Bermuda before departure thus streamlining their arrival process in the US.
Are Digital Nomads Taxed in Bermuda?
Remote workers in Bermuda typically enjoy tax benefits due to the absence of personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax for residents—individual tax obligations may vary.
How Long Is the Remote Worker Visa in Bermuda Valid For?
The Bermuda Remote Work Visa is typically valid for a period of 12 months, allowing digital nomads to live and work remotely on the island for up to one year.
Can the Bermuda Work From Home Certificate Be Extended?
Yes, the Bermuda Work From Home Certificate can be extended beyond the initial period, subject to approval from the Bermuda Department of Immigration.
What Are COVID 19 Regulations in Bermuda?
For remote workers, COVID-19 regulations in Bermuda may include mask mandates, social distancing guidelines, travel restrictions, and vaccination requirements, subject to change based on government directives.
References
[1] Wikipedia. (2024, March 3). Visa policies of British Overseas Territories. Retrieved 2024, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policies_of_British_Overseas_Territories
[2] Bermuda, G. o. (2023, August 11). Bermuda entry visas. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/bermuda-entry-visas
[3] Bermuda, G. o. (2023). Visitors. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/coronavirus-travellers-visitors
[4] Shield, U. D.-U.-U. (2023). Bermuda – Visa Requirements. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.privacyshield.gov/ps/article?id=Bermuda-Visa-Requirements
[5] Bermuda, G. o. (2023). Types of work permits. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/types-work-permits
[6] Bermuda, G. o. (2023). How to get a work permit. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/how-get-work-permit
[7] Bermuda, G. o. (2023). All Immigration Fees. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/all-immigration-fees
[8] Bermuda, G. o. (2023). Work from Bermuda Certificate. Retrieved 2024, from https://forms.gov.bm/WFB
[9] Bermuda, G. o. (2023). Get a Global Entrepreneur Work Permit. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/node/13081
[10] Administration, N. O.-N. (2023). What is the Bermuda Triangle? Retrieved 2024, from https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/bermudatri.html
[11] Convention, U. W. (2024). Historic Town of St George and Related Fortifications, Bermuda. Retrieved 2024, from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/983/
[12] Bermuda, G. o. (2024). Duty free allowances. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.gov.bm/duty-free-allowances
[13] Shield, U. D.-U.-U. (2024). Bermuda – Banking Systems. Retrieved 2024, from https://www.privacyshield.gov/ps/article?id=Bermuda-Banking-Systems
[14] Libraries, Chuah, Veronica (2016). Beyond the Core: The Role of Co-working Spaces in Local Economic Development. Retrieved 2024, from https://academiccommons.columbia.edu/doi/10.7916/D8JQ114T
Pingback: Montserrat Digital Nomad Visa | What You Need to Know
Pingback: St. Lucia Digital Nomad Visa | Applying for the Live It Program
Pingback: Grenada digital nomad visa | Application Process & Requirements