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Here at Nomad Deals, we hate wasting money…especially on something as avoidable as ATM withdrawal fees.

Read more in this week’s newsletter about how to stop paying those fees forever with cards from Betterment, Schwab, and more.

This Week in Nomad Deals

🛂Passport Renewal Update: U.S. citizens can now renew passports entirely online.

🌎Nomad Visa Updates: Here’s what’s cooking when it comes to digital nomad visas in 2024.

💳ATM Fee Hacks: These six debit cards will save you from paying ATM fees ever again while traveling.

U.S. Passport Renewal Goes Digital

Great news for U.S. travelers: renewing your passport by mail is now (for the most part) a relic of the past.

Previously, we reported that the U.S. State Department was beta testing online renewal on a limited basis. Now, the system is open for virtually anyone.

What to Know

You can complete the entire application process online, including uploading a digital photo and paying fees. While processing times may vary, online renewals can often be processed more quickly than traditional mail-in applications.

Currently, the online system is only available for routine passport renewals. First-time applications, passport replacements, and expedited service will still be conducted through snail mail. Read more on the State Department’s online passport renewal page.

Getting a U.S. Passport Fast

Need your passport right away, or don’t have time to wait the normal 2-3 weeks for expedited delivery? Then check out our guide to getting a same-day U.S. passport.

What’s New With Digital Nomad Visas

So far in 2024, eight countries have announced or implemented digital nomad visas for the first time. Here’s an update on the latest doings.

• Thailand: Back in July, we covered Thailand’s new digital nomad visa when it initially opened. Applicants might want to check out this new Destination Thailand Visa info page, which includes an eligibility questionnaire, Q&A message board, and links to Facebook groups.

• South Africa: South Africa is preparing to launch its new digital nomad visa within the next 30 days, according to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber. The visa will remain valid for up to 3 years, with a $4,580 monthly income requirement.

We will continue to update you on a rolling basis. In the meantime, check out our Ultimate Guide to Digital Nomad Visas for information on all of the world’s long-term remote work visas.

Best Debit Cards for Travel in 2024

If there’s one thing that I wish someone told me before I went abroad, it’s that paying ATM fees is like flushing money down the toilet. That’s why every heavy traveler needs a debit card that reimburses you for ATM fees.

Our new article on the best debit cards for travelers provides up-to-date comparisons of six leading options. The key features considered are ATM fee rebates, foreign transaction fees, account fees, annual percentage yield (APY), and customer service.

Here's a summary of the top-rated cards:

Schwab Bank Visa® Platinum Debit Card: Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, no foreign transaction fees, and no account fees. It also has excellent customer service and physical locations (though you need to open a free brokerage account).

Betterment Visa® Debit Card: Provides unlimited ATM fee rebates, no foreign transaction fees, and no account fees. It's easy to apply online, and you can learn more about Betterment’s services below👇

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Fidelity Cash Management Card: Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, no account fees, and a high APY of 2.6%. However, it has a 1% foreign transaction fee and may not automatically refund all ATM fees.

USAA Debit Card: Offers up to $10/month in ATM fee rebates, no account fees, and physical locations. However, it's only available to U.S. military and their families and has a 1% foreign transaction fee.

NB Debit Mastercard®: Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, no foreign transaction fees, and no account fees. It also has physical locations in the Boston area. However, the APY is low and customer service is not available on Sundays.

E*TRADE Max-Rate Checking Debit Card: Offers unlimited ATM fee rebates, a high APY of 3%, and no fees for wire transfers or stop payments. However, you must maintain a $5,000 balance to avoid the monthly account fee, and it has a 1% foreign transaction fee.

Ultimately, the best debit card for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as where you will be traveling, how often you will need to withdraw cash, and whether you value a high APY or other benefits.