17 | From Stateless to Global Citizen – Bogdan Danchuk on Identity, Community, and Nomad Life

This episode of the Nomad Summit Podcast takes us on a remarkable journey with Bogdan Danchuk. Born in Ukraine, raised in Israel, and stateless for much of his youth, Bogdan has navigated questions of identity, belonging, and citizenship in ways few of us can imagine. Today, he is not only a global citizen but also a community builder and entrepreneur helping others design their own borderless lives.

Growing Up Without a Passport

For the first 18 years of his life, Bogdan lived without a passport. The complex legalities of emigration left him in limbo, unable to officially claim Ukrainian or Israeli citizenship until adulthood. The day he finally received his passport, he was on a plane six hours later – a symbolic leap into the freedom he had always dreamed of.

Building Community in Madeira

Madeira became Bogdan’s anchor point in 2021, when he helped transform a hotel into a co-living hub for digital nomads. What started as a temporary project during COVID turned into one of the most vibrant nomad communities in Europe. Over two years, more than 200 people from 50+ countries passed through, many choosing to make Madeira their long-term base.

From Entrepreneur to Global Mobility Expert

Bogdan’s personal struggles with citizenship and residency inspired his professional path. Today, he runs Easily Global, a consultancy that helps nomads and entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of residencies, taxes, and legal setups. His stories of clients are a testament to how diverse the nomad community has become – from food critics and musicians to remote doctors and gaming entrepreneurs.

The Evolution of Nomadism

Bogdan reflects on how digital nomadism has changed over the last 15–20 years. From the early café culture of Berlin to today’s thriving hubs in Madeira, Chiang Mai, and Da Nang, the movement has matured. Many “OG” nomads are now seeking permanent bases while maintaining their independence, shifting from constant travel to a lifestyle of “location-independent professionals” with chosen homes.

Looking Ahead

For Bogdan, Portugal now represents the balance he has always sought – a culture that bridges his Ukrainian roots and Israeli upbringing. With new dual-citizenship laws in Ukraine, he also sees the possibility of reconnecting legally with his homeland. His story highlights how identity, belonging, and freedom intertwine in the life of a global citizen.

Sponsor’s note

This episode is brought to you by COVRD.EE’s new VisaFlex feature: A comprehensive international health insurance which meets the requirements of all digital nomad visas out there.
And now brand new: You will only need to start paying for it once your visa application actually gets accepted and you start traveling.

Key Takeaways

• Bogdan’s path from statelessness to becoming a global citizen.
• The origins of Madeira’s thriving digital nomad community.
• Surprising careers that nomads have built on the road.
• Why long-term nomads are increasingly seeking bases alongside travel.
• Insights into residencies, taxation, and building a borderless lifestyle.