Grenada, a picturesque island nation in the Caribbean, is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, welcoming inhabitants, aromatic spice plantations, and relatively low cost of living.
However, in recent years, the island has been making headlines for a different reason: its strategic push to attract digital nomads from around the world, which is a part of their extensive economy revival program after the COVID-19 pandemic aiming to revitalize the economy and foster a new wave of opportunities in the country.
Grenada offers an appealing work-from-anywhere base for location-independent professionals.
In 2021 – 2022, the government of Grenada launched a new digital nomad visa program to attract more remote workers to live and work on the island for extended periods. The visa allows eligible remote workers to stay in Grenada for up to 2 years with a single application and enjoy the country’s beauty with all the fantastic perks.
The digital nomad visa program is a testament to Grenada’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to embracing the future of work. It offers a unique opportunity for digital nomads to immerse themselves in a new culture, explore a beautiful country, and contribute to a vibrant local community while continuing their global careers.
In this article, we will delve into the specifics of this exciting program, providing an in-depth look at its benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process.
So let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
- Things to Know About Grenada
- Living in Grenada as a Digital Nomad
- Cost of Living in Grenada
- What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
- Eligibility Requirements for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Application Process for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Benefits of the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Renewing the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- The Process to Renew Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Family and Dependent Options for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
Things to Know About Grenada
Capital: St. George’s
Form of Government: Parliamentary representative democracy
Population: 126,183 (as of 2023)
Climate: Tropical
Language: English, Grenadian Creole, French (Patios)
Geography: Grenada is situated in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 100 miles north of Venezuela.
History: Originally inhabited by the Arawak people, Grenada later saw the displacement of the Carib people. In the 16th century, the Spanish colonized the island, followed by the French in the 17th century. It became a British colony from 1763 until it gained independence in 1974.
Economy: The economy relies on agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.
Culture: Grenadian culture is a rich fusion of African, European, and Caribbean influences.
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) – Want Help Converting?
Living in Grenada as a Digital Nomad
Becoming a digital nomad in Grenada means immersing yourself in the breathtaking paradise of the Caribbean, affectionately called the “Spice Isle.” You get so many unique places to visit.
Picture yourself surrounded by stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and a vibrant cultural tapestry.
Attractions and best places to visit on the island
Now, let’s take a sneak peek at the incredible life you can live as a digital nomad in this tropical haven.
Stunning capital
St. George’s, the capital, is a picturesque harbor town with a scenic waterfront, colorful homes, shops, restaurants, and historic sites like the 17th-century Fort George.
St. George’s Market Square comes alive on Saturdays with local vendors selling spices, crafts, and produce.
Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve
Grand Etang National Park & Forest Reserve, a lush wilderness teeming with vibrant plant and animal life, is a treat to witness.
Immerse yourself in its verdant rainforests, take a refreshing dip in Grand Etang Lake, and be enchanted by the serene landscape.
This sanctuary promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace nature’s harmony and create cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Underwater sculpture park
Another unique attraction is the Underwater Sculpture Park, located off the west coast.
This exhibit features over 80 sculptures submerged in the sea, creating an artificial reef that attracts marine life.
Beautiful beaches
Grenada has many gorgeous beaches perfect for relaxation and watersports. Here are a couple of recommendations that we can give about this fantastic place.
Grand Anse
The Beach is a two-mile stretch of white sand lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars. Grand Anse is Grenada’s crown jewel along the Caribbean coast.
You can enjoy powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and a vibrant underwater world. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Grand Anse offers a blend of excitement and serenity.
Explore beachfront cafes, savor local flavors, and immerse in the island culture.
True Blue
Discover True Blue, the hidden gem of Grenada, where sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant culture await.
Immerse yourself in friendly locals, thrilling marine adventures, and delectable cuisine. Whether it’s relaxation or excitement you seek, True Blue caters to every traveler’s dream.
Experience the magic of this tropical paradise and create cherished memories.
Great working atmosphere
Grenada Island provides a work-friendly atmosphere to digital nomads.
With its reliable Internet and modern amenities, Grenada beckons digital nomads to embrace an affordable Caribbean lifestyle that’s nothing short of extraordinary.
Internet Connectivity and Infrastructure
Grenada has relatively good internet connectivity and infrastructure compared to other Caribbean islands.
The country has a modern fiber optic network and 4G LTE mobile coverage across most islands.
Average internet speeds are around 25 Mbps, with speeds up to 150 Mbps available in some areas of St. George’s. WiFi is widely accessible in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces.
The primary internet providers are Flow and Digicel.
The connectivity is sufficient for most remote work needs like video calls, transferring files, and browsing.
Co-working spaces
There are a handful of co-working spaces in Grenada. We recommend the below two due to their incredible benefits, like desk space, private offices, meeting rooms, events, and community.
- The Hustle Hub
- Savvy Nomad Workation
Co-living spaces and communities
Our recommended co-living spaces for digital nomads are
- Sunnyside House
- Grand Anse.
A few remote worker communities and groups have formed in Grenada, with regular meetups and networking events. However, the digital nomad infrastructure is still developing compared to more established destinations.
Cost of Living in Grenada
The cost of living in Grenada is around 25% lower than in the US. The housing costs about $500-800 per month, while private apartments cost $800-1500.
Food, transportation, and amenities are relatively affordable. But imported goods tend to be pricier.
Overall, Grenada offers a moderate cost of living, cheaper than islands like Barbados but more expensive than Central America.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa allows remote workers and location-independent professionals to legally live and work in a foreign country for an extended period. Unlike others, a digital nomad visa provides benefits that make longer-term stays more feasible.
Digital nomad visa vs. tourist visa
The main advantage of a digital nomad visa is the ability to work while residing in a foreign country legally.
With a tourist visa, remote work is often prohibited or strictly limited.
Remote workers can carry out their duties without violating visa rules with a digital nomad visa. This provides more freedom and flexibility for professionals who want to travel while maintaining their remote job or business.
Another key benefit is the more extended validity period. While tourist visas may allow stays of only up to 90 days, digital nomad visas are designed for six months to 1 year. This enables remote workers to immerse themselves in a culture and establish a temporary home base without repeatedly leaving the country for visa runs.
Eligibility Requirements for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
To be considered to apply for a digital nomad visa in Grenada, applicants must meet several requirements, like having a valid passport, income proof, and criminal background check.
Let’s discuss the requirements in detail.
Who are eligible for a digital nomad visa in Grenada?
The applicant must be a remote worker. A company in Grenada must not employ him. This means that the applicant can be a freelancer, entrepreneur, or full-time remote employee for a company outside of Grenada.
The applicant must also provide proof of employment and income to be considered eligible for a digital nomad visa in Grenada.
Who is a remote worker?
Remote workers work outside of a traditional office environment, often from home or a co-working space, or they are self-employed individuals who offer their services on a contractual basis. Examples of remote workers could be:
- Freelancers
- Entrepreneurs
- Full-time remote employees
Income Requirement for Digital Nomad Visa for Grenada
The applicant must have an annual income of at least $37,000, equivalent to $3,083 per month, to be considered eligible for a digital nomad visa in Grenada.
Proof of income or employment can be shown through bank statements, payment receipts, or a letter from an employer.
The income requirement is based on the cost of living in Grenada. The government of Grenada wants to ensure that digital nomads who are granted a visa can support themselves financially while living in the country.
What if someone earns less than $37,000 a year?
The Grenada Department of Immigration may consider applications from applicants with an annual income of less than $37,000 if they can demonstrate that they have other sources of income, such as savings or investments.
Criminal Background Check
Criminal background check is another common eligibility requirement for a digital nomad visa.
The government of Grenada requires applicants to pass a criminal background check.
This is a standard procedure for many organizations to ensure the safety and integrity of their programs.
Proof of Health Insurance
Proof of health insurance is often a requirement for Grenada digital nomad visa.
This is to ensure that applicants have access to medical care and can cover any health-related costs that may arise. Health insurance can be from a private provider or a government program, depending on the country of residence.
- The health insurance has to be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Grenada.
- The insurance must cover all medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, and emergency care.
- The insurance must be from a reputable insurance company.
- The insurance must be in English.
Cost of health insurance for Grenada digital nomad visa
The price of health insurance varies depending on the insurance company and the level of coverage you choose. However, you can expect to pay around $1,000-$2,000 yearly for a comprehensive plan.
What if my employer already covers my health insurance?
Suppose an applicant is already covered by health insurance through an employer or a private plan. In that case, they may use that insurance to satisfy the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa requirements.
However, the applicant should check with the Grenada Department of Immigration to ensure your insurance is acceptable.
Application Process for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
The Grenada digital nomad visa application process is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, with most of the process conducted online.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the application process.
Documents Required for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the expiry date of your Grenada Digital Nomad visa.
- Two passport-sized photos: Your photos must have been in color and taken within the last three months.
- Completed application form: The applicant must fill out the form thoroughly. The form can be downloaded from the Grenada Department of Immigration website.
- Proof of employment or contract: You need to provide evidence that you are employed or have a job contract with a company outside the country you intend to stay in
- Proof of income: You must provide documentation that proves your annual income of at least $37,000. This documentation can include tax returns, bank statements, or letters from your employer or clients.
- Proof of health insurance: You must provide documentation proving you have valid health insurance for your stay in Grenada.
- Proof of vaccination: You must provide documentation that proves you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
- Application fee: The application fee for the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa is $150.
Step-by-Step Walkthrough of Grenada Digital Nomad Visa Online Application Process
You can complete the online application once you have all the necessary documents. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Go to the Grenada Department of Immigration website and click the “Digital Nomad Visa” link.
- Click on the “Apply Online” link.
- Create an account and log in.
- Download the form and fill it out completely.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the application.
- Please review your application thoroughly before submitting it. (Any errors or inconsistencies could lead to delays or even rejection of your application).
- Submit your application.
Processing Time for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
The time required to process the digital nomad visa is generally around five business days, but this may vary depending on the volume of applications the immigration department is handling. Applying well before your intended travel date is advisable to account for potential delays.
Benefits of the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
The digital nomad visa in Grenada offers several attractive benefits for remote workers looking to live and work abroad.
Therefore, Grenada digital nomad visa has been the top priority for individuals looking to work in a foreign country. According to the Grenada Tourism Authority, interest in the digital nomad visa has been high since its launch.
As of December 2022, over 1,200 applications have been received from interested remote workers worldwide. With its inviting environment and forward-thinking visa policy, Grenada seems poised to become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads in the years ahead.
Let’s discuss some fantastic benefits of becoming a digital nomad in Grenada.
Length of Stay
One of the most significant benefits of the digital nomad visa in Grenada is its length of stay.
The visa is valid for one year, providing substantial time for digital nomads to immerse themselves in the local culture, explore the country, and establish a comfortable living situation.
Furthermore, the visa is renewable, allowing digital nomads to extend their stay without the hassle of leaving the country to renew their visa, a common requirement with many tourist visas.
Ability to Work Remotely
The digital nomad visa in Grenada provides the legal right to work remotely.
This is a significant benefit as many countries prohibit foreign nationals from working on their soil without a work permit, even if the work is performed remotely for a foreign company.
With this visa, digital nomads can legally work from Grenada’s beautiful beaches or cozy cafes without worrying about violating immigration laws.
Tax Incentives
Grenada’s digital nomad visa also offers attractive tax incentives. Digital nomads residing in Grenada under this visa are not required to pay the country’s income or capital gains tax.
This can result in substantial savings, especially for high earners or those from countries with lofty tax rates. These tax incentives make Grenada an economically attractive destination for digital nomads.
Duty-Free Import of Personal Items
Another benefit of the digital nomad visa in Grenada is the duty-free import of personal items.
This includes professional equipment like laptops, cameras, and other tools of the trade, which results in significant cost savings, especially for digital nomads relying on high-tech equipment.
Renewing the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
To renew your digital nomad visa for another 12 months, you must apply at least 30 days before your visa expires.
Documents required to renew digital nomad visa
The required documents for renewal are similar to the initial application and may include:
- A copy of your valid passport
- A copy of your current digital nomad visa
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- A bank statement showing at least $15,000 in savings
- A letter from your employer or proof of employment stating your ability to work remotely
The Process to Renew Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
- Submit a renewal application: You must submit a renewal application at least six weeks before your visa expires. The renewal application can be submitted either by mail or online.
- Provide updated documentation: You must provide updated documentation to support your renewal application. This documentation may include updated proof of income, proof of vaccination, and proof of health insurance.
- Pay the renewal fee: The renewal fee for the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa is $1,400 for individuals and $1,900 for individuals with dependents.
- Wait for approval: The processing time for a renewal application is typically 4-6 weeks. You will be issued a new visa valid for one year when the application is approved.
Family and Dependent Options for Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
The Grenada Digital Nomad Visa allows applicants to bring their dependents, including spouses and children, to Grenada under the program. This makes it suitable for digital nomads who wish to move with their families.
Dependent Options
- Spouse: If you are married and wish to bring your spouse to Grenada, you can include them in your application as a dependent.
- Children: Children can also be included as dependents in your application. This consists of both biological and legally adopted children.
Documents Required
- Marriage Certificate: If you bring your spouse, you must provide a marriage certificate to prove your relationship.
- Birth Certificates: If sponsoring your children, you must provide them.
- Passports: Valid passports for all dependents.
- Passport-sized Photos: Two photos for each dependent were taken within the last three months.
- Proof of Health Insurance: You must provide proof of health insurance that covers all dependents for your stay in Grenada.
- Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate: Grenada requires all foreign visitors to be vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus. Therefore, each dependent must have a vaccination certificate when applying for the visa.
Fees required
$2,000 is the application fee for an individual and up to three dependents.
If you have more than three dependents, there is an additional fee of $200 per dependent.
The renewal fee for the visa is $1,400, with an extra $200 per dependent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Grenada Digital Nomad Visa
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about this visa program by Grenada.
The Grenada Digital Nomad Visa is a kind of visa that lets foreign nationals live and work remotely in Grenada for a certain period. It’s designed for professionals who can work on the Internet.
The visa is available to any foreign national who is employed or self-employed and can work remotely using telecommunications technologies. Applicants must possess a valid passport, sufficient funds to support themselves, and proof of health insurance.
The duration of stay varies, but typically, the Grenada Digital Nomad Visa allows you to stay for up to one year. It may be possible to extend this period.
The application process typically involves filling out an online application form and providing necessary documents such as proof of employment or business ownership, a copy of your passport, and proof of health insurance. There may also be an application fee.
Yes, dependents, including spouse and children, can typically accompany the primary visa holder. They may need to meet specific requirements and may also need to apply for their visas.
This depends on the specific tax laws of Grenada and your home country. It’s recommended to consult with a tax professional to understand your tax obligations.
Yes, the visa typically allows multiple entries into the country during its validity period. However, the total duration of stay must not exceed the visa limit.
The Digital Nomad Visa is typically temporary and does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, it may be possible to apply for a different type of visa or permit that could lead to permanent residence.
If your employment situation changes, you must notify the relevant Grenadian authorities. Depending on the case, you may need to apply for a different visa or leave the country.
The main benefits include the ability to live and work in a beautiful Caribbean country, a potentially lower cost of living compared to many Western countries, and the opportunity to experience a new culture and lifestyle.
