Description:
Hey fellow digital nomads! 🌍 Planning to be country-hopping for the next 1-2 years while working remotely. I *think* I’ve got the basics covered for tax residency, but I’m paranoid about some obscure rule tripping me up. Any unexpected tax ‘gotchas’ or bureaucratic nightmares you’ve encountered that I should be super aware of? Specifically interested in experiences in SE Asia or Latin America if possible! Thanks a million! 🙏
8 Answers
Oh man, the '183-day rule' isn't as straightforward as it sounds in some places! 😫 Make sure you're counting days *exactly* as each country defines it. Some include travel days, some don't. Also, look into 'tie-breaker' rules if you risk being a resident in two places. Get a pro to look at your situation if you can afford it, seriously.
That sounds exciting, but are you sure you have the tax residency rules nailed down? It really depends on each country's regulations... You might think you’re safe, but what about factors like the number of days you stay in each place? Have you considered potential double taxation or local taxes? Also, some countries might require proof of income or even have strict visa requirements... Just be cautious and maybe consult a tax professional before diving in!
One thing that caught me off guard was how some countries treat digital nomads under their ''temporary visitor'' status but still expect you to pay VAT or sales taxes on certain services, even if you’re not technically a tax resident. For example, in parts of SE Asia, if you're buying local services like coworking spaces or renting gear, the tax might sneak in at checkout without much warning. Also watch out for changing visa rules—they can shift quickly and affect your ability to stay legally without triggering residency or work-permit issues. It’s less about income tax and more about the smaller, unexpected local levies that add up over time. Keep an eye on official sources regularly!
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