Australia is a huge, diverse country that is quickly becoming a hot spot for digital nomads – thanks to its expat community, stunning beaches, and high quality of life.
The digital nomad scene in Australia is still relatively new, but it is growing rapidly, with new co-working spaces popping up all the time.
Australia should definitely be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a thriving expat community and good weather.
But, what about the visa situation?
Can you just pack your bags and move to Australia without any hassle?
Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.
In this guide, we’ll explore digital nomad visas in Australia and what are your options if you wish to stay longer than 90 days.
Wondering if you need a visa for Australia? Check on iVisa.
Visas In Australia
There are several types of visas available for those who wish to visit Australia.
You can apply for the Electronic Travel Authority Visa or the eVisitor Visa.
These are visas that allow you to visit the country for 3 months, it is not possible to extend either of these visas.
There is no fee to apply for or obtain either of these visas, which is a big plus and you can apply for both of these online.
The above mentioned visas are mainly for tourist travel to Australia.
Another option for a visa is the Working Holiday Visa which allows you to travel and work in Australia for up to 3 years. This will require you to do 3 months of regional farm work to extend it past the first year.
There are also several other visas available, however, they will require you to work locally in Australia and are not suitable for digital nomads.
Digital Nomad Visa
There is no such thing as a digital nomad visa in Australia.
Best Places To Live In Australia For Digital Nomads
Australia is an excellent country for digital nomads. It has a lot of beautiful places where you can work and live comfortably.
Here are some of the best places to live in Australia for Digital Nomads.
Melbourne
Melbourne was recently voted Australia’s most liveable city by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), and it frequently ranks in the top 10 of the best cities to live in the world.
It has been a firm favorite among expats, backpackers, and tourists for many years, resulting in an incredibly multicultural city.
Melbourne is often referred to as the cultural capital of Australia, thanks to worldwide influences, including Asia and Europe. As a result, you’ll find food from practically every country and many top-class restaurants.
Melbourne has a youthful and hipster vibe; thus, it is easily one of the best places to live in Australia for young expats and digital nomads.
The sprawling city has a picturesque riverside lined with hip bars and coffee shops where residents wind down after a long work day.
Sydney
There is a well-known rivalry between Melbourne and Sydney. People seem to love one city and dislike the other, so if Melbourne isn’t your cup of tea, chances are Sydney will be.
Sydney is a sprawling cosmopolitan city and the economic hub of Australia, which is why many people assume it’s the capital city. Sydney has the most job opportunities and is a top place for those setting up a new business.
There are many international companies in Sydney, so many expats here have transferred across from their home country’s office. In addition, a large community of ex-backpackers found work in Sydney and decided to settle here.
Sydney is not all work and no play, though, as there are some beautiful beach suburbs where residents relax on the weekend.
Perth
Perth may not have all the glitz and glam of Melbourne and Sydney, but it is still one of the best cities to live in Australia for foreigners as the largest expat community.
It is particularly popular with those looking for laid-back living as the city’s west coast location gives Perth a relaxed and remote feel.
Perth may be far away from other Aussie cities, but it has everything you could ever want or need. The city is clean, green, and beautiful, with stunning beaches and nature.
The climate is pleasant too, similar to Sydney with warm summers and mild winters.
Moreover, you won’t miss out on the cultural attractions, food scene, or sporting events of Sydney or Melbourne as Perth offers them all, although on a smaller scale. You also won’t have to deal with congestion and traffic jams.
Gold Coast
The Gold Coast has gained a reputation for being a sleazy party town, but there is much more to this region than the strip in Surfers Paradise. The Gold Coast sits on the east coast, roughly halfway between Melbourne and Cairns.
Its location gives it a sub-tropical climate where the weather is warm and sunny all year round, and the winters are almost non-existent.
The Gold Coast has a highly laid-back atmosphere, partly because it is a cluster of towns rather than a huge city with a busy center.
It is a popular tourist and backpacker destination thanks to its vibrant nightlife, immaculate sandy beaches, world-class attractions, and theme parks.
Still, there is a significant expat community on the Gold Coast, mainly from Britain, Ireland, the USA, and Canada. Many are ex-backpackers who fell in love with the gorgeous climate, chilled vibes, and slow pace of life and never left.
Adelaide
As a small city, Adelaide is much lesser known than Sydney and Melbourne, yet it is still one of the best cities in Australia for expats moving ‘down under.’
Its remote location in South Australia creates a unique but lovely blend between metropolitan and country life. In addition, many beaches, coastal towns, and wine regions are nearby, giving you plenty of fabulous weekend breaks.
Despite being the only major city in the state, Adelaide has everything you need. You’ll find rich music and festival scenes, an incredible and diverse range of food, many outdoor activities from hiking to surfing, along with tons of romantic things to do with your partner.
Adelaide is ideal if you want to live somewhere with high-quality facilities and amenities but with a slower pace of life than other big cities. Most expats in Adelaide opt to live in the outer suburbs or by the beach and commute into the city center.
Cost Of Living In Australia
The cost of living in Australia is high in comparison to other digital nomad hotspots around the world.
Of course, the prices vary across the country, but overall, it is an expensive country to be in as a digital nomad.
For example, a meal at a restaurant will cost around AUD 30 – 70.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney will be anywhere from AUD 2,000 – 4,000 per month.
Of course, the cost of living will vary depending on the city you choose to live in.
Some cities, like Melbourne, are more expensive than others.
Final Thoughts On Digital Nomads in Australia
Australia is a great country for digital nomads. It has a lot to offer in terms of infrastructure, food, and culture.
If you’re thinking of becoming a digital nomad, Australia is definitely a place you should consider. As long as you are earning enough to cover the cost of the expensive lifestyle there.
Not sure if Australia is the right destination for you? Read one of the following guides:
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