Long Stay Tourist Visa: Where You Can Stay Longer

Long Stay Tourist Visa: While this is not to be confused with the Schengen travel visa (which allows travel for only 90 days in a 180-day period), approach this as your new opportunity to legally reside in France for an extended period of time.

Important details:

You are not allowed to work.
Health insurance and accommodation verification.
Applications must come from your home country.

Portugal (Visa for Temporary Stay)

The D7 visa in Portugal is very common for extended stays by retirees and remote workers, but they also have a temporary stay visa for travelers who want to stay in the country up to 12 months.

Key details:

Valid from 6–12 months
May be able to be extended
Proof of funds required

Mexico (Visa de Residente Temporal)

Mexico allows the options for visitors to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa that can be issued for 6 months up to 4 years. It is great for anyone that wants to extend a stay while enjoying the comforts of home.

Important details:

The application must be started outside of México.
Financial means are necessary.
You do not have to leave every 90 days.

Thailand (Long Stay – Non-Immigrant O or Retirement Visa)

Thailand’s long stay visa options are popular among retirees and those on long vacations. the Non-Immigrant O-A Visa allows stays for one year.

Key Points:

Applicant must be 50 or older to apply for the retirement visa.
Proof of income or proof of account balance required.
Health insurance required.

Georgia (Visa Exemption for Extended Stays for Many Nationalities)

Georgia has several generous visa policies, including providing entry to citizens of more than 90 countries, including the US, EU, and Australia for up to 1 year without a visa.

Key Points:

No visa.
Perfect for remote workers or those traveling on a budget.
Easy re-entry and low cost of living.

Panama (Friendly Nations Visa & Short Term Visitor Visa)

Panama has long-term stay options through its Friendly Nations Visa and Short-Term Visitor Tourist Visas, up to 180 days.

Key Points:

Relatively easy process.
There is a visa option for digital nomads.
Minimal entry requirements for some nationalities.

Things to Consider Before Applying

Health Insurance

Many countries now require evidence of travel or global health insurance to obtain a long-term visa.

Proof of Financial Status

Most applications usually require evidence of bank statements, income, or bidders letter for assurance that you will be able to support yourself during your stay.

No Work Clause

Unless it’s a specific visa such as a digital nomad visa, most tourist visas prohibit you from working for pay. In some circumstances, remote work is permitted – read the details carefully.

Visa for Long Stay vs. Schengen Travel Visa

A Schengen Travel Visa gives you access to multiple European countries under one visa, however always remember the 90/180 rule, which states a limit of 90 days during any 180-day period. If you’d like to stay longer, you’ll have to follow through with a national visa in the relevant country (France, Portugal, or Germany).

Concluding

For the traveling community that embraces and loves long-term travel, long-stay visitor visas can be an easy and legal way to enjoy, or immerse yourself in a new country slow-paced. Give yourself the opportunity to drink an espresso in Paris, enjoy the beach in Mexico, stay in a cabin while working in the mountains of Georgia. The world is your oyster.

Just remember that visa changes and visa rules can change at any time. So please always check the official immigration, or consulate website before you submit your application.