Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2024: The Ultimate Guide
Portugal Digital Nomad Visas allow remote workers and freelancers to get residency in the country. Residents from non-EU countries can apply for residency in Portugal through this visa type.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is a national type D visa. When you get your visa approval, you can reside in Portugal for at least a year. As a professional motivated to move to a nomad-friendly country, you can experience the advantages of living by the ocean and meeting like-minded people.
Remote work and flexibility often come together—many desire to make the digital nomad concept a reality. You can explore many new destinations while you carry on and improve your career at the same time. In Portugal, you can enjoy the country’s beauty and work from any part of the country. You can join the digital nomad community as well. If you are a remote worker, remember to consider this visa type and experience living in a foreign country.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) Requirements
Here are some of the main requirements to get a Digital Nomad Visa to Portugal:
- Your age must be over 18 years old.
- You need to have citizenship in non-EU and non-EEA countries.
- You will have fully remote work on a permanent contract or freelance.
- You will prove the total income from all sources that would be at least €3,040.
- You need to show your accommodation arranged in Portugal, at least a 1-year extended agreement for rented properties.
- It is possible to get citizenship application after five years.
- D8 Visa, or the Portugal Digital Nomad visa, lets applicants from non-EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens apply.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Types
To adapt to the growing trend of remote work, Portugal offers Digital Nomad Visas, which allow individuals to live in Portugal while working for employers located elsewhere. There are two types of visas available to digital nomads:
Temporary Stay Visa
- This visa allows you to stay in Portugal for a period of 12 months. It cannot be extended for residency purposes, although it can be renewed four times.
- Duration: Up to 12 months.
- Renewable: Yes, it is renewable up to four times.
- Income Requirement: Must earn at least €3,280 per month.
- Accommodation: Minimum lease agreement required for accommodation.
- Bank Account: A Portuguese bank account may be required by some consulates.
- Police Clearance: A clean criminal record is required.
- Family Reunification: This visa does not permit family reunification.
- This visa best suits non-EU/EEA citizens who can work remotely and meet the income requirements. It allows you to live in Portugal temporarily without committing to a long-term residency.
Long-Term Visa
- The Residency Visa is the name given to the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa for long-term residence.
- Validity: Initially valid for four months, you can apply for a two-year residency permit upon entering Portugal.
- Renewal: The residency permit is renewable for another three years.
- Income Requirement: You must earn more than €3,040 per month.
- Documents: You’ll need a valid passport, evidence of income, health insurance, and a clean criminal background, among other things.
- Application Fee: The application fee ranges between €75 and €90.
- Family: You are welcome to bring family members.
- This visa is appropriate for non-EU/EEA people who work remotely and wish to reside in Portugal while working for employers based elsewhere.
Remote workers in Portugal can expect a lifestyle that includes some of the following advantages:
- Work-Life Balance: The Portuguese culture places a high priority on work-life balance, which is compatible with the remote work lifestyle.
- A pleasant temperature: Portugal has a pleasant temperature with plenty of sunshine. It makes Portugal a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Living costs: It is often cheaper than in many other Western European countries, providing for a comfortable way of life.
- Cultural Experiences: A rich history, a diverse culture, and a diverse choice of leisure activities are available.
- Population: There is a growing population of digital nomads and remote workers in cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
- Language: Excellent English proficiency, particularly in metropolitan regions, which facilitates communication.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Application:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Be sure that you meet the monthly income requirement of at least €3,040 and get ready to prove that you have a remote work arrangement.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
- A valid passport.
- Photos for passports (4.5 x 3.5 cm).
- Contract or partnership agreement proving remote work.
- Bank statements displaying monthly earnings and savings.
- Proof of accommodation to show you are staying in Portugal.
- The required health insurance in Portugal
- A certificate of no criminal record translated into Portuguese.
- A NIF registration certificate (Portuguese tax identification number).
- A letter in English outlining why you are relocating to Portugal.
Step 3: Visa Application
- Fill out the visa application form. It is available from the Portuguese consulate or embassy.
Step 4: Submit the Application
- Make an appointment with the Portuguese consulate or embassy. Then, you can submit your application along with the required documents.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
- The processing time may vary. You will get a notification once your application is approved.
Step 6: Visa Issuance
- If your application is approved, the visa will be stamped on your passport, allowing you to travel to Portugal.
Step 7: Arrival in Portugal
- If you have a long-term visa, apply for a residence permit before your visa expires upon your arrival.
Top Places to Relocate in Portugal with a Digital Nomad Visa
Some of the most popular places to stay in Portugal as a Digital Nomad are the beautiful island of Madeira, Lisboa, O Porto or Braga. In our interactive map we have some recommendations of housing and places to visit.
The Wrap-Up
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) is a popular choice, especially for remote workers. If you actively earn income, offering flexibility and access to public services, you can consider applying for this visa type.
Unlike the D7 Visa, which is for passive income, the D8 Visa allows year-round residency in Portugal. This way, you have the option of a one-year temporary stay or a five-year resident visa with the alternative of renewal or exchange for permanent residency. After five years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship and possibly acquire an EU passport.
Don´t forget to visit our interactive map and forum to discover new places and connect with other digital nomads! ;)