Where do programmers from Central Asia move: top 7 countries for IT relocation in 2026

For this list, we looked at three things: the availability of a current visa for remote work or skilled specialists, the country's position in startup rankings, and how suitable the country is specifically for IT specialists, not just tourists with a laptop.

USA

The USA remains the main startup hub in the world: in StartupBlink and Startup Genome rankings, the country maintains leadership or is among the strongest startup markets. For programmers, this is not just a "dream country," but a market with the most companies, funds, B2B/SaaS ecosystems, and high salaries.

Getting a visa to the USA is more difficult than using Digital Nomad programs in other countries. Therefore, most specialists relocate through employers — on H-1B, O-1 visas, or through intra-company transfers — L-1 to an international company.

United Kingdom

The UK consistently holds a top position in global startup rankings and remains one of the most attractive destinations for IT specialists. London is a large market for FinTech, AI, and enterprise-tech, which means it is also attractive for developers, analysts, and DevOps specialists.

For relocation, the Skilled Worker visa and other employment routes are usually considered, rather than the digital nomad format, but after relocation, the country offers strong access to career opportunities and an English-speaking environment.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka unexpectedly became a fresh player on the digital nomad relocation map this year: the country officially launched its digital nomad visa in February 2026. The conditions require showing a minimum income of $2000 per month from abroad, the visa is issued for one year and can be renewed, but working for local companies is not allowed.

Israel

Israel traditionally ranks among the world's strongest technological ecosystems, and in 2026 it maintains high positions in global startup rankings. For programmers, this is a market with a strong concentration of R&D, cybersecurity, deep tech, and AI projects.

The downside is that relocation here usually goes through employment at a specific company, rather than through a universal digital nomad visa.

Singapore

Singapore is one of the most convenient Asian hubs for IT and startups, and in recent rankings it continues to strengthen its position and enters the global top group. This is especially a good choice for those who want to be closer to Southeast Asian markets, work in FinTech, infrastructure, B2B, and product teams.

Visa-wise, Singapore is not the easiest, but it remains one of the most "institutionally clear" markets for strong specialists and startup founders.

Canada

Canada remains one of the most straightforward countries for IT relocation thanks to a strong job market, English-speaking environment, and a stable startup ecosystem. In 2026, it retains its place in the top global startup countries, and for IT professionals, Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are particularly important.

For relocation, employment programs are more commonly used rather than a digital nomad visa, but the country is well-suited for those building long-term immigration rather than a temporary coworking escape.

Portugal

Portugal remains one of the most popular destinations for remote workers thanks to the D8 visa for remote workers and a more relaxed lifestyle. For IT specialists, this offers a convenient balance: you can live in the EU, work for a foreign employer, and at the same time avoid the strictest bureaucratic regime right away.