(A desi-friendly guide for UK-based Indians dreaming of remote work across Europe)
Working from a Paris café? Logging into Zoom from a Croatian beach? If you’re part of the digital nomad lifestyle, you’re probably wondering: “Do I still need a Schengen Visa to hop around Europe?”
At ScottishIndian.com, we help Indian students, professionals, and freelancers living in the UK make the most of their opportunities — whether that’s finding part-time jobs or unlocking European work-and-travel adventures.
Let’s break it down, especially if you’re an Indian passport holder in the UK looking to explore the EU while working remotely.
🌍 What Is a Digital Nomad?
A digital nomad is someone who works online while traveling from place to place. With flexible jobs in tech, marketing, content, design, or customer support — many Gen Z and millennial workers now live the “work from anywhere” dream.
But, your laptop lifestyle still needs to follow visa rules.
❓So, Do You Still Need a Schengen Visa?
Yes, if you’re an Indian passport holder, even if you’re:
- Living in the UK
- Holding a Student or Skilled Worker visa
- Working remotely and not seeking local employment
The Schengen Zone (which includes countries like France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy) doesn’t automatically allow free entry just because you live in the UK.
You’ll need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) unless:
- You’ve got a passport from a visa-free country (which India isn’t), or
- You’ve been issued a valid long-term residence permit in the EU itself
🧾 Can You Work While on a Schengen Visa?
Technically, yes — but only remotely.
The Schengen Visa allows tourism and business, not local employment. So you can:
- Log in to your job based in the UK or India
- Freelance for non-EU clients
- Attend meetings, conferences, or networking events
But you cannot:
- Work for a local company in the EU
- Sign local contracts
- Extend your visa for remote work without applying for a long-stay visa or digital nomad visa
🛂 What About Digital Nomad Visas?
Several EU countries now offer specific Digital Nomad Visas, including:
- 🇭🇷 Croatia – 1-year visa for remote workers
- 🇪🇸 Spain – up to 12 months with income proof
- 🇵🇹 Portugal – popular among remote workers for its low cost and vibe
These visas require:
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts
- Minimum monthly income (varies per country)
- Valid travel insurance
- Criminal background checks
📌 Note: You usually apply from your home country or current country of legal residence (i.e. UK for many of you reading this on ScottishIndian.com).
💼 Final Thoughts from ScottishIndian.com
The digital nomad lifestyle is 100% possible for Indian professionals based in the UK — but you’ll need the right visa setup. A standard Schengen Visa is great for short workations (up to 90 days), but for anything longer or recurring, a dedicated nomad visa is smarter.
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re here to guide UK-based Indians on everything from visas and finance to cultural hacks and career moves.
📩 Want help choosing between a Schengen Visa or Digital Nomad Visa?
DM us or check out our Get Moving blog section for tailored guides and tips!
Your remote European adventure starts now. 💻✈️🌍
