“Digital Nomads” As a New Form Form of International Mobility Born By the COVID-19 Pandemic

The phenomenon of “digital nomads” was manifested during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people “hung out” in other countries, but continued to work for their employers online. Digital nomads are a socio-demographic cohort comprising predominantly young, creative, business and active people with high migration mobility and business activity, capable of generating innovative ideas, attracting investment and creating job places. Mostly digital nomads are men between 30 and 40 years old (64%). About 90% of digital nomads have a college degree. The study is based on the sociological method: secondary analysis of online survey data of digital nomads (Digital Nomad Database, 52160 cases); 45 in-depth interviews in 2022-2024 (ten countries).

Five socio-economic effects of digital nomad migration are highlighted. First, multiplier effects for the development of the digital economy (Estonia). Secondly, the recovery and stimulation of tourism, which is the most important economic sector of many developing countries and was severely affected during the COVID-19 pandemic (Thailand and Indonesia). Third, some countries and localities can partially “rejuvenate” the age structure of the population and compensate for the “brain drain” by attracting young and highly educated migrants, attracting representatives of the creative class, young people, increasing the level of education of the population, expanding cultural diversity, revitalizing the labor market, increasing the population (province of Estremadura in Spain). Fourth, generating direct and indirect revenues from digital nomads (Latin America). Digital nomads, while residing in the country, spend a significant amount of money on rent, running costs, and in addition, invest their own money in real estate, investments and development funds of the host countries. Fifth, attracting insurance funds into national health care systems (Malta, Costa Rica).

The study shows that the cohort of digital nomads, although small in number compared to other categories of migrants, is an important component of socio-economic development.