For many people, traveling means much more than just rummaging about sights and getting a Country stamp in the passport. You’re traveling to see differences and maybe even appreciate where you’ve come from and what privileges you’ve even been given to travel at all. Here I would like to present you a few countries for long time travelers.These presented countries have more laxer regulations than many other places in the world and many travelersappreciate it.
In this article, I’d like to introduce you to 13 great countries that let you travel for a longer period of time.
I had a look for you and checked out the best conditions with a Mexican, US-American, Canadian, South-African, Australian, or European residence. Most of these presented nations can be compared with each other and have often the same immigration regulations. In addition, some of these perpetual destinations are also really affordable for the wallet. I focused a lot to check out the differences between the nations and also included a few exceptions. Therefore I always found some suitable alternatives for the less predestined passport holders in the specific case.
Therefore, stay curious, sit back and plan your next trip as backpacker or digital nomad! Have fun!
#13 Armenia
Let’s start with a real exotic place. For most of you out there this country is probably still a gray spot on the tourist map. This could have something to do with the genocide that let the country behind for a long time. However, despite the difficult times that have been there and that still need to get reflected, the country offers immense sights of ancient Roman and Ottoman dynasties of bygone days. Otherwise, this place is also suitable for extensive trekking tours.
The cost of living is affordable and, except of Mexico and South Africa (120 days visa upon arrival), the other passport holders can stay without a visa for up to 180 days in the country.
#12 Japan
In general Japan is very popular as a tourist destination, although it’s very expensive. Still, you must have been there at least once in your lifetime. Whether it’s the cherry blossom in early spring or the snow monkeys during the winter season – Japan is one of the destinations that can offer something in spite of very lavish prices and in all seasons. Which other nation can offer something equal?
Many travelers to Japan become repeat offenders and come back again and again. Whether it is the fascinating flair of the big fish markets, sushi delicacies or the technology-innovative cities of Tokyo and Osaka next to contemplative Kyoto. There is so much to see in this fascinating country. Additionally, you should not miss the Next Generation High-speed Train between the big cities and stunning landscapes.
In Japan, somehow everything is more crass and progressive than anywhere else in the world.
The big surprise for Mexicans: No other of the nations has more flexibility to travel longer and more extensive in Japan then the people from the land of cacti. Up to 6 months without a visa through the country, this is already unique in the world.
Unfortunately, South Africans cannot be so optimistic and unfortunately need a visa to enter.
# 11 Jamaica
There are so many Caribbean islands with very lax entry requirements for most travelers from the major industrialized and out-reach states. South Africa and Mexico belong to the latter named group of states and both nations can stay in the country for up to 6 months.
Jamaica offers a lot of culture, beaches and an interesting mixture of cultures. For me personally Jamaica is one of the most interesting countries in the whole Caribbean and still very high on my must-visit-list.
The underwater world is just as diverse as the lush green surface of the island. Divided into 3 eco-zones you can expect to see huge seagrass beds and offshore coral reefs with endangered marine life. Those zones are increasingly protected in Jamaica. As you can see, this nation offers so many good dive sites and its therefore much more valuable than just a short stop for a normal beach holiday.
# 10 Peru
I have traveled so often to this country in the past and in totally I had five really amazing times in this diverse Andean nation. Not only has the abundant culture fascinated me again and again. It’s also the varied innovative cuisine that let it be easy for me to stay longer in the same place.
For me, Peru is the country with the best cuisine in Latin America. I love Ceviche, Causa Limena and Ajo de Gallina. There are so many great dished and I could name you a few more deli that are true delights.
In addition, there are world unique sites as Machu Picchu, the Nasca Lines, Choquequirao and many colonial cities such as Arequipa and Cusco. So many places that need to get discovered.
Furthermore, Lima is one of the most beautiful and, above all, the most interesting metropolises on the continent and should therefore be at the top of your agenda.
You can spend up to 183 days a year in this fascinating country and you should take advantage of it.
And if you have even stated at the airport that you have been in the country for one to three months and still need to extend afterwards, don’t worry! You do not need to run straight to the authorities to extend your stay, just head to neighboring Bolivia and get back to Peru again.
# 09 Panama
“Oh, how nice is Panama”
The small Central American country between Costa Rica and Colombia is probably one of the most developed countries in Latin America.
Especially for offshore offices and location-independent business deals, this nation is increasingly interesting in for digital nomads.
That is one of the advantages of such a small states like Panama and people from there know really well of how to make use of it. And yet, there are so many other reasons to stay for up to 6 months a year.
There is the fascinating Panama Canal, the island archipelago of Bocas del Toro and San Blas, Panama City and the Quetzal trail. In addition, in the very south of the country there is still one of the most impenetrable jungle areas in the world. The rainforest of Cape Darien is probably one of the richest regarding of its variety of species.
So, let’s move to Panama! One of the countries for long time travelers.
# 08 Colombia
If you would ask me now for my places where I want to go at next, I would rank this country as my absolute number one on my personal must-visit list of countries, where I have not traveled so far.
Tropical lush green rainforests, the friendliest people in South America, digital nomad hotspots like Medellin and Cartagena de Indias: I promise a lot from this country and I’ll do my best to travel to this great destination in the near future.
Similar to Peru, you can stay in the country for up to 180 days. Some of the nations have to pay a small fee after 3 months while others need a visa for the extension. But in any way, it does not seem to be hard work.
A fact about Colombia interests me more than in Peru regarding a longer and more extensive stay.
I love the warm weather of the tropics in evergreen surroundings of coastal rainforests overlooking the sea.
Of those spots, Colombia’s Pacific coast and especially the Caribbean coast offers probably plenty of beautiful places.
In addition there are abandoned cities in the jungle (Ciudad Perdida).
So it seems to be right: The only risk is wanting to stay!
# 07 Malaysia
Now I would like to take a look onto a nation in Southeast Asia- It could be interesting for the long-term travelers in this part of the world. I’m talking about Malaysia. This country is considered to be one of the most flexible states in Asia and offers an infinite natural treasure on the island of Borneo.
There, you can encounter endangered orangutans that still live there in the wild.
Even with up to one meter in diameter you’ll also see the largest of carrion flower plants in the world in its native habitat on Borneo.
Another face of this diverse country awaits you on the mainland of Malaysia.
Kuala Lumpur is one of the most modern cities in Asia. The skyscrapers of the capital form a clear contrast to the houses of Dutch colonial style in the more southerly Malaka or the resorts in beautiful beach towns of Penang.
The advantage in contrast to countries of South America are the much shorter distances, which is why you need to take less time from A to B.
Nevertheless, you will need plenty of time to even explore Malaysia for up to 3 months.
Exceptions are unfortunately the Mexicans, who can only stay in the country for up to 30 days.
# 06 Great Britain
What bothers Mexicans to stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days and not more?
Mexico itself offers just as much biodiversity like Malaysia, so much culture as well, but much better food.
I wouldn’t see it as a disadvantage that Mexicans can ONLY stay for up to 30 days in Malaysia.
In particular, Mexico and the North Americans in general have very good opportunities to spend up to 6 months in Good Old Europe. E.g. England, the mother of football and the cradle of the global industrialization, is so diverse in culture.
Dou you want to know how to travel more cheaply in London and around? Then have a look at this article. It might have some tips for you – at least for cheaper eating out or more affordable accommodations.
Oh yes, unfortunately, Great Britain is very expensive and therefore probably not suitable for everyone who wants to spend a long time in this destination. Nevertheless, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are certainly tourist attractions next to London and other major attractions in England. There is so much to see and Great Britain has so much to offer that an up-to-6-month-long-stay would be a great idea.
You can also stay and travel in Europe for as long as possible and it could be wise to visit 6 months UK and then the other Schengen countries for a few more months. What do you think?
# 05 Canada
Especially for us as Europeans, it is very interesting to stay a few months longer in Canada. We can travel in Canada for up to 6 months and only need the computer-generated eTA for this step.
6 months Canada is probably necessary because of the dimension of the second largest country in the world. Nature lovers will get their money’s worth, because you can discover sea tank forests on the east coast, the breathtaking Rocky Mountains and the tundra in the North. There are so many diverse life zones in this liberal country.
In addition, Canada has a few places that are considered as the most liveable cities in the world.
Edmonton, Vancouver and Toronto are arguably among the best known of these world cities. Successfully considered for years by the Mercer study.
The one and only disadvantage seems that Canada isn’t affordable for long-time travelers on a budget and therefore probably not in the favor of all.
However, the country maintains some bilateral relationships with many European countries and some others around the globe. Therefore Canada is also well suited for a longer stay from up to 12 months (like Work & Travel) One of the countries for long time travelers.
# 04 Tunisia
There is even one country on the African continent with lax entry requirements for citizens of different nations. The country is one of the most popular medium-haul destinations for Europeans.
Due to the effects of terrorism, tourism in this country has almost disappeared in the last years and is slowly recovering. However, due to its proximity to Europe, the beautiful beaches and desert landscapes are worth a trip to this Maghreb state in the Mediterranean.
You can expect low cost of living and permanently good weather.
In winter it is normally a bit milder in Tunisia. Therefore it is probably just too cold then to take a bath in the sea.
Nevertheless, it is above all the variety of charming oriental cities, such as Tunis or abandoned places like Carthage. That are suitable and easy on your money.
Depending on your nationality, you can often spend 3 months in Tunisia without any problems, but in most cases even up to 4 months.
# 03 The Caribbean States
The most Caribbean states depend on exports and therefore these small island countries are probably only partially suitable for a longer stays. Yet, these states are often perfect for finding a job in the tourism industry.
Many travelers have already succeeded to build a location-independent business because of the usually very low taxes. So if you are traveling with the right aim and the mental attitude to one of these many Caribbean states, you can try out your business purpose during an up to 6 month’s trial period within these places.
One of the advantages is the constant tropical weather, small rain forests and beautiful beaches. Attractive destinations with up to 6 months entry time are for example Antigua & Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica and St. Kitts & Nevis.
The French Antilles (Guadeloupe, Martinique) even belong to the overseas territory of the European Union. Those places make it possible for Europeans to stay there indefinitely. Nevertheless, the high prices are not suitable for the most of us. On the other hand there is Puerto Rico as the whole equivalent and insular area of the Americans.
Which island do you choose?
# 02 Mexico
In Lulu’s country it is quite easy to travel for a long time. That makes it possible for so many nations around the globe to benefit from long stays.
Whether South Africans, Canadians, Americans, Europeans, Australians or New Zealanders. Everyone can easily stay in Mexico for up to 6 months.
Mexicans love it when you travel to their country. A journey through Mexico alone is like a whole trip around the world. In the north, the fascinating desert and the bizarre succulent landscapes of Baja California can be expected. On the other hand you’ll find the Yucatan Peninsula in the far southeast, which was formed millions of years ago.
Over 8000 kilometers of coastline and several thousand kilometers of beaches. Ruins of the Aztecs and Mayas, sensationally good food and even better Micheladas. The cosmopolitan city of Mexico City, whale shark diving off the coast of Playa del Carmen or the sighting of the beautiful Quetzals. In Mexico, there is something for everyone.
Despite all opinions Mexico is safe to travel. In even a year living in a suburb of Mexico City and extensive travels around the country not even something happened to me.
Therefore, you should travel to the country as soon as possible and discard all your prejudices, which you hear from the news or from a certain president from the northern neighboring country.
In 6 months you have enough time to explore the country very well.
Therefore and without any doubts and due to the very, very lax entry requirements for all examined nations Mexico gets the second place.
# 01 Georgia
It could hardly be better than Mexico. However, there is one more exception.
This exception is called Georgia. A small country in the Caucasus region and surrounded by such fascinating countries as Azerbaijan or Turkey.
Georgia has only really been in the sights of the world public for the past years. For a long time this destination was mainly associated with the era of Stalin and was long considered as one of the most unknown countries in the world on the tourist map.
But the country has recognized its signs of the times well and allows to a majority of nations to stay in the country for up to 1 year.
This makes Georgia the only state in the world to guarantee your stay with no time limit per year.
That is by far not the only fascinating thing about the country.
Many digital nomads are now looking for the most appropriate opportunity to save as many taxes as possible. Not to travel around the world on a time-bound basis.
Georgia is ideal for those independent travelers who need a bank account from somewhere.
This amazing country is the only place in the world where you can open an account without proof of address.
Furthermore, Georgia is culturally and financially a real grenade for a neat low-budget life as a traveler.
Here you can experience many surprises from the capital Tbilisi to the mountains of the Caucasus.
Not just a few people think that Georgia is the biggest surprise among frequent travelers.
From these facts regarding entry requirements and easier ways for business opening possibilities Georgia is the undisputed number one among the 13 laxest countries that make long-time travel possible.
Please note: We are not ambassadors or responsible for the changing regulations of entry conditions.
The entry into other countries may change abruptly due to political situation etc. Which is why we cannot guarantee completeness and correctness at this point either.
This article is only for your information. We advise you to contact your local Foreign Office for any entry or visa question/issue.
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