2026 Schengen Remote Work Visas: Income from €2,333 – Bulgaria joins Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal & Hungary In The Race

For skilled professionals in India and Pakistan, the “European Dream” is no longer about finding a local sponsor. As of early 2026, the race to attract global talent has hit a fever pitch. With Bulgaria officially joining the Schengen arena, South Asian techies, consultants, and remote earners now have six distinct pathways to live in the EU while maintaining their global clients.

What This Means for You

If you are working remotely from Mumbai, Karachi, or Bangalore, these visas offer a hedge against currency devaluation.

• Schengen Access: Travel to 29+ countries (including France, Germany, and Switzerland) without a separate visa.
• Arbitrage: Earn in USD, GBP, or SAR while enjoying European infrastructure and safety.
• Family Security: Most of these routes allow you to relocate with your spouse and children.

1. Italy: The “Qualified Professional” Route

Italy is currently the “easiest” entry point in terms of monthly earnings for 2026.

• Income Needed: €2,333/month ($28,000 annually).
• The Catch: This is strictly for “Highly Qualified Workers.” You must have a legalized university degree or a professional license.
• Tax Advantage: Potential for a 5% – 15% flat tax if you register as a freelancer in Italy.

2. Bulgaria: The 2026 “Wildcard”

Bulgaria is the biggest news of 2026. As a new Schengen and Eurozone member, it is the value leader.

• Income Needed: ~€2,350 to €2,600/month.
• Tax Advantage: A flat 10% income tax—the lowest in the EU.
• The Catch: 100% of your income must come from foreign clients; you cannot serve Bulgarian companies.

3. Spain: The Popular “High Earner” Standard

Spain remains the top choice for South Asians due to its massive diaspora and the Beckham Law.

• Income Needed: €2,849/month (Single).
• Tax Advantage: Pay a flat 24% tax on Spanish-sourced income for 6 years.
• Path to Passport: 10 years for Citizenship; 5 years for Permanent Residency.

4. Portugal: The Fastest Path to a Passport

If your ultimate goal is a European Passport, Portugal is the fastest route.

• Income Needed: €3,680/month (The highest in this group).
• Savings: You must show at least €11,040 in a Portuguese bank account.
• Timeline: You can apply for citizenship after only 5 years.

5. Hungary: The “White Card” Solo Entry

Hungary is the fastest to process, provided you are traveling alone.

• Income Needed: €3,000/month.
• Tax Advantage: 0% tax if you spend less than 183 days in the country.
• The Catch: This is a “solo” visa. No family members are allowed.

6. Greece: The Lifestyle Choice

Greece offers a massive tax discount for those willing to commit to the Mediterranean lifestyle.

• Income Needed: €3,500/month.
• Tax Advantage: A 50% income tax reduction for up to 7 years.
• Path to Passport: 7 years of residency.