With the rise of remote work and the increasing popularity of Portugal as a top destination for digital nomads, the Portuguese government introduced the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa in October 2022.
This visa, officially known as the D8 Visa, provides non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens with the opportunity to live and work remotely from Portugal while enjoying the country’s high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and affordable living costs.
In this article, we’ll explore the key details of the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and the benefits of choosing Portugal as your remote work destination.
What is the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) allows non-EU/EEA remote workers to live in Portugal while working for companies or clients outside the country. It offers a long-term residency option with an initial stay of up to one year, renewable for longer stays.
Visa holders can work from anywhere in Portugal, access public services like healthcare (with insurance), and travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. The visa also supports family reunification, allowing spouses and dependents to join under certain conditions.
Types of Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa
There are two types of Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, each designed to cater to different needs and lengths of stay for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who wish to live in Portugal while maintaining employment or business activities with companies based outside the country.
Short-Stay Visa
The Temporary Stay Visa is perfect if you don’t want to apply for permanent residency, but you would like to stay in Portugal for an extended period.
The Visa is valid for one year and can be extended for another two years. The temporary visa allows multiple entries, enabling travel within and beyond Portugal to explore other European countries.
Residence Permit
The Residency Visa is a good solution if you want to stay in Portugal for more than one year. Digital Nomad Visa is valid for four months; within this, apply for a temporary residency permit.
The temporary resident permit is valid for a period of two years and can be renewed for additional three-year period. After 5 years you have the option to apply for a permanent residence permit or Citizenship.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Vs. Tourist Visa
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa differs from the Tourist Visa based on the duration of your stay in the country. Tourist Visa allows a maximum 90-day stay in Portugal, subject to nationality and visa terms.
This is suitable for shorter visits or vacations. In contrast, a Digital Nomad Portugal Visa offers a significantly more extended stay option, allowing you to remain in the country for up to a year or even longer, provided you meet the visa’s requirements and renew it as necessary.
For digital nomads who frequently travel and have no intention of staying in Portugal for an extended period, opting for a simple Tourist Visa may be the more convenient choice. It offers flexibility for short-term visits while avoiding the additional documentation and requirements associated with the Digital Nomad Visa.
Eligibility Criteria for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa
To be eligible, you need to meet the following Portugal Digital Nomad Visa requirements:
- Be a non-EU citizen.
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself.
- Self-employed or employed at a company based outside of Portugal
- Have travel insurance.
- Have a clean criminal record.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal.
Benefits of the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Mobility
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) grants visa-free entry and movement within the Schengen Area, allowing stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period across 29 European countries.
Live, Work, Study
Once you become a resident in Portugal, you can legally work as an independent professional or freelancer. You also gain access to the National Education Service, including public schools and vocational training programs.
Access to Healthcare
Being a resident in Portugal you gain access to National Healthcare, also called SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) and covers primary and secondary healthcare needs.
Family Reunion
You are entitled to bring your family members who are already in Portugal or who will be joining you in Portugal. You may request family reunification in AIMA (former SEF) at the same time as your visa application, or after you have received your visa.
Path to Citizenship
The D8 Visa serves as a pathway to Portuguese citizenship. After five years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship, provided you meet requirements such as language proficiency (A2 Portuguese), integration, and a clean legal record.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
1. Income Requirements
The minimum income requirement for the D8 Visa is a key criterion that ensures applicants have sufficient financial means to support themselves while living in Portugal. This requirement is intended to confirm that you can sustain your lifestyle without relying on local employment or government assistance.
The minimum income threshold is set at four times Portugal’s national minimum wage, currently €3,480 per month. In addition to meeting the monthly income requirement, applicants must have at least €10,440 in savings. If applying with family members, the financial requirement increases by 50% for a spouse or parent (€1,740 extra per month) and 25% per child (€870 extra per month).
To prove financial eligibility, applicants must submit bank statements, pay slips, or tax returns from the past three to six months, clearly showing that their earnings meet or exceed the required threshold.
The income must be consistent and stable, with regular deposits from an employer, clients, or business activities. Providing a steady flow of income over time will help confirm financial security.
The income must come from sources outside Portugal, such as a foreign employer, freelance contracts, or an internationally operating business. This requirement ensures that applicants are financially independent and do not depend on the Portuguese labor market or social welfare system.
2. Demonstrating Remote Work
To qualify for Portugal’s D8 Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must provide proof that their employment or business activities are conducted remotely and based outside of Portugal.
For those employed by an overseas company, a formal employment contract is required. This document must confirm that the position is fully remote and does not involve a physical presence in Portugal. It should also specify key details such as the job title, salary, and length of employment.
Freelancers must submit contracts or agreements with clients located outside Portugal. These agreements should outline the scope of work, contract duration, and payment terms. Providing multiple active contracts can help demonstrate a steady and sustainable freelance income.
Entrepreneurs and business owners must present proof of ownership of a company registered abroad. Required documents may include business registration records, financial statements, and a description of business operations. It should be evident that the company is managed remotely and does not rely on the Portuguese market.
3. Proof of Accommodation
As part of your D8 Visa application, you must provide proof of accommodation in Portugal. This can be a rental agreement, lease, property deed if you own a home, or a letter of invitation from a host if staying with someone.
Temporary stay visa, you must show a rental lease of at least four months.
Long-term visa requires a lease of at least 12 months.
The documentation should clearly include the property address and duration of the stay. If renting, the agreement should also specify the rental amount and payment terms. If staying with a friend or family member, a signed declaration from your host may be required.
4. Documents required
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa requires the following documents:
- Digital Nomad Visa Application Form
- Your Valid Passport
- Two recent passport-size photos
- Criminal Record certificate
- Valid travel insurance, including medical coverage
- Document showing self-employment or employment at a company based outside of Portugal
- Prove of average monthly income of €3,480 of the last three months
- Documentary evidence of having accommodation in Portugal
- Proof of sufficient means in Portugal (latest 3 months bank statements)
- Declaration with reasons for requesting Portuguese Residency
5. Visa Travel Insurance
To apply for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa), you must have valid travel or health insurance that covers your stay in Portugal. This requirement ensures that you have adequate medical coverage and financial protection in case of emergencies.
Your travel insurance for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa must provide medical coverage of at least €30,000, including expenses related to illnesses, accidents, and hospitalization. It should also cover emergency medical evacuation and repatriation in case of serious health issues.
The policy must be valid for the entire duration of your visa, with a minimum of four months for a temporary stay visa and 12 months for a long-term visa. Additionally, the insurance must be valid within the Schengen Area, ensuring you can travel freely across the region while being covered in case of emergencies.
How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa Portugal
Short-Stay Visa
Applying for a temporary-stay visa in Portugal is a relatively straightforward process, particularly if your stay is intended to be shorter than 183 days, as this avoids establishing fiscal residency.
One notable advantage in this case is that you won’t typically need a Portuguese taxpayer number (NIF) or a Portuguese bank account, simplifying the application process.
However, there are still essential requirements you must meet. Firstly, secure accommodation for a minimum of four months, which can be in the form of a rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from a host.
Secondly, you’ll need to obtain comprehensive travel visa insurance that complies with the Portuguese government’s specific requirements.
With these prerequisites in place, you can proceed to submit your visa application to the nearest Portuguese consulate or embassy. It’s crucial to carefully review their specific application requirements and processing times, as these can vary depending on your home country.
When your temporary-stay visa is approved, you are then free to make your travel arrangements and head to Portugal.
Residence Permit
The Portugal Resident Permit Digital Nomad Visa Application process involves the following steps:
Step 1 – NIF and Bank Account
To apply for the Portugal Remote Worker Visa, you need to obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) and open a bank account in Portugal. To obtain a NIF, you can apply online or in person at a tax office in Portugal. Opening a bank account can be done remotely. You also need to appoint a tax representative in Portugal.
Step 2 – Secure your Accommodation in Portugal
To be eligible for the Portugal Remote Worker Visa, you need to demonstrate that you have secured accommodation in Portugal. This can be in the form of a rental agreement signed at least for one year or proof of property ownership.
Step 3 – Get your Travel Visa Insurance
To obtain a digital nomad visa for Portugal, applicants are required to have valid travel insurance coverage as part of their application. This travel insurance must include minimum coverage for medical expenses and repatriation, as well as coverage for the entire duration of the stay in Portugal.
Step 4 – Submit your Visa Application
To apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you need to submit your application at the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy, or VFS Global in your home country but never in Portugal. You will need to provide several documents, including your passport, proof of income, travel insurance, and proof of accommodation.
Step 5 – Apply for a resident permit
Once you arrive in Portugal, you will need to apply for a resident permit at The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA). This will allow you to stay in Portugal for the duration of your visa.
Portugal D8 Visa Processing Time
When considering a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa application, it’s crucial to be aware of the expected processing times, as they can vary depending on the country where you submitted your application.
After you’ve submitted your visa application, it’s typical to anticipate a waiting period of up to 60 days for the authorities to review and process your application. This timeframe allows immigration officials to assess your eligibility and conduct the necessary background checks.
For those who choose to apply for a residence permit after entering Portugal, there’s an additional step to consider. To initiate this process, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA). It’s worth noting that this appointment is not something you need to arrange independently.
Instead, the consulate where you submitted your initial visa application will assist you in directly booking your appointment with AIMA (former SEF).
Minimum Stay Requirements for Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
If you apply for a temporary stay visa in Portugal with no minimum stay requirement, you have the flexibility to stay in the country for up to one year.
In the case of the Resident permit, you need to stay be in the country at least 16 months per the first 2 year period and per the subsequent 3 years period provided no absence for more than 6 consecutive months, otherwise your permit can be invalidated.
Cost of the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
The cost of this visa is relatively low and varies depending on the consulate where you apply, but you may expect to pay:
- €80 for your entry visa application at the Consulate in your home country
- €170 to submit and receive your resident permit from the AIMA in Portugal
You should have to consider some additional costs regarding flight tickets, travel insurance, relocation services, accommodation, paperwork including translations or documents apostille.
Taxes for Digital Nomads in Portugal
One key aspect of taxation in Portugal is the determination of tax residency. If you spend more than 183 days within Portugal during a given tax year, you will be considered a tax resident in the country.
This declaration encompasses all sources of income, not only those earned within Portugal but also income generated abroad. This thorough reporting is essential for complying with Portuguese tax laws.
However, Portugal offers a noteworthy option for tax optimization known as the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) regime. Under the NHR, individuals can benefit from exemptions on foreign income that they might otherwise be obliged to pay in their home countries. This provides a significant tax advantage for digital nomads who generate income from abroad.
Furthermore, the NHR allows eligible individuals to enjoy a flat tax rate of just 20% on their Portuguese-sourced income for an extended period of ten years. This flat rate can be substantially lower than the progressive tax rates applied to regular Portuguese tax residents that can range from 14-48%.
Best places for Digital Nomads in Portugal
Lisbon
Lisbon is one of the most popular cities for digital nomads in Portugal. With its mild climate, beautiful architecture, and friendly people, it’s no wonder why. There are plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and parks where you can work from.
Plus, Lisbon is home to a vibrant startup scene and a community of remote workers, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to network and meet other like-minded people.
According to Pordata, Lisbon has a population of 2,884,170 with 343,995 foreigner residents, making up 11.9% of the total population.
The average cost of renting a 75 sqm. apartment in the city center is €1,440.
Porto
Porto is another popular city for digital nomads in Portugal. It’s known for its beautiful riverfront, colorful architecture, and amazing food and wine. Porto also has a growing startup scene and a number of co-working spaces, cafes, and libraries where you can work from.
The city is a bit smaller than Lisbon, but it’s still a great place to meet other remote workers and explore all that Portugal has to offer counting 57,970 foreigner residents.
The average cost of renting a 75 sqm. apartment in the city center is €1,125 (21% cheaper than Lisbon)
Braga
Braga is a beautiful historic city in northern Portugal. It’s known for its stunning Baroque architecture, medieval streets, and lively cultural scene.
Braga is also home to several universities, which means there are plenty of opportunities to meet other young people and entrepreneurs. The city is relatively small, but it has a number of coworking spaces and cafes where you can work from.
The average cost of renting a 75 sqm. apartment in the Braga city center is €607.
Aveiro
Aveiro is a charming coastal city located south of Porto. It’s known for its beautiful canals, colorful boats, and amazing seafood.
The city has a number of coworking spaces and cafes where you can work from, and it’s also home to several universities, which means there are plenty of opportunities to meet other young people and entrepreneurs.
The average cost of renting a 75 sqm. apartment in Aveiro is €615.
Sagres
Sagres is a small town located in the Algarve region of Portugal. It’s known for its stunning beaches, surfing, and relaxed atmosphere.
Sagres is a great place to go if you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back environment to work from. There are a few coworking spaces and cafes in town, but the real draw is the amazing natural beauty of the area.
Madeira
Madeira is a beautiful island located off the coast of Portugal. It’s known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and subtropical climate.
Madeira is a great place to go if you’re looking for a peaceful, natural environment to work from. There are a few coworking spaces and cafes on the island, but the real draw is the amazing outdoor activities and relaxed lifestyle.
Madeira has a total population of 252,297, with 10,405 foreigner residents, accounting for 4.1% of the population, according to the last figures.
The average cost of renting a 75 sqm apartment in Madeira island is €892. If you are looking for a place to rent in Funchal, the cost might slightly increase.
Best co-workings to work in Portugal
Ávila Spaces
Ávila Spaces is a modern co-working space with two locations in Avenidas Novas neighborhood in Lisbon. It offers a range of flexible plans, including shared workspaces, private offices, and meeting rooms.
The space are equipped with high-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, and other amenities to support productivity. They also offer virtual office services for those who need a professional address and mail handling.
Outsite
Outsite is a popular co-working and coliving company that provides digital nomads with comfortable and well-equipped spaces to work and live in while traveling.
With locations all over the world, Outsite has become a go-to option for remote workers who want to work and travel simultaneously.
In Portugal, Outsite has several locations such as Cais do Sodré and Intendente in Lisbon and for those looking to explore other parts of Portugal, Outsite has locations in Cascais, Porto, Sagres, Ericeira, and Madeira.
Porto i/o
Porto i/o is a popular coworking company in Porto, Portugal, with three different locations throughout the city.
The first location is in downtown Porto, offering a central location close to many cafes, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The second location is in the riverside area of Porto, which is known for its stunning views of the Douro River.
The third location is in the seaside town of Matosinhos, just a short distance from Porto. This location offers a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, with easy access to the beach and plenty of opportunities for surfing, or just enjoying the sun and sea.
Faro Avenida Business Center
Faro Avenida Business Center is a modern and well-equipped coworking space located in the heart of Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in Portugal.
The center provides a range of workspaces to suit different needs and budgets. This includes private offices, dedicated desks, and hot desks. The private offices are fully furnished and equipped with high-speed internet, phone lines, and printing facilities.
The workspace is just a short walk from the historic center of Faro, where remote workers can explore the charming streets, historical landmarks, and cultural events.
Digital Nomads Madeira
Digital Nomads Madeira is a coworking space located in the charming village of Ponta Do Sol, Madeira. It offers a relaxed and inspiring work environment, with stunning ocean views, high-speed internet, and a comfortable lounge area.
The space also hosts regular events and workshops to help its members network and learn.
Alternative Digital Nomad Visas Portugal
If you’re thinking about moving to Portugal but find that you don’t meet all the requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa, don’t worry; there are alternative pathways to make your dream of living in Portugal a reality. Here are some of the most popular options:
D2 Visa Portugal
D2 Visa Portugal in case you are an entrepreneur looking to start or develop a business in Portugal, which allows you to obtain a residence permit for up to two years.
Portugal D7 Visa
Portugal D7 Visa, which is perfect for retirees or those with passive income. This visa requires proof of regular income or savings, and the ability to support yourself without working in Portugal.
Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa program in Portugal, also known as the Residence Permit Program, is an investment immigration program that grants residency and citizenship rights to foreign investors who make a significant economic contribution to the country such as contribution of €500,000 or higher, for the acquisition of units of investment funds or cultural heritage contribution, a donation of a minimum of €250,000 for investing in artistic output or supporting the arts, for reconstruction or refurbishment of the national heritage.
For more videos about investing or moving to Portugal, explore our YouTube channel here: YouTube Channel Portugal Residency Advisors.
Why choose to work with us
Local Expertise
We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.
Holistic Approach
One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle.
Transparent Service
We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.
Simple Process
Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
What is digital nomad visa in Portugal?
The digital nomad visa in Portugal is a type of visa that allows remote workers to live and work in Portugal for up to 12 months. It was introduced in 2022 to attract digital nomads to Portugal, which has become a popular destination for remote workers in recent years.
Who is eligible for a Digital Nomad Visa Portugal?
To be eligible for a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you must be a remote worker who works for a company based outside of Portugal or be self-employed in a profession that can be done remotely.
How long does a Portugal Nomad Visa last?
A Portugal Digital Nomad Visa lasts for up to 12 months. After that, you may apply for a renewal.
How Can I Become a Digital Nomad in Portugal?
Starting from October 30, 2022, the Digital Nomad Visa allows individuals to live and work in Portugal, requiring a minimum monthly income of around €3,280, equivalent to four times the national minimum wage.
Can I bring my family with me on a Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal?
Yes, you can bring your family with you on a Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal. Your spouse or partner and children under the age of 18 may also apply for a visa as your dependents.
Can I travel outside of Portugal while on a digital nomad visa?
Yes, you can travel outside of Portugal while on a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. However, you must have a valid visa or other required documentation for any other countries you plan to visit.
Is Portugal good for digital nomad?
Portugal can be a great destination for digital nomads due to its welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and growing digital infrastructure, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
How many digital nomads are there in Lisbon?
According to Nomad List, there are already approximately 16,000 digital nomads residing solely in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon.
Do digital nomads pay tax in Portugal?
Once an individual spends more than 183 days in Portugal, they are considered tax residents and are required to pay taxes. Upon obtaining tax residency, digital nomads have the option to apply for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status, which allows them to be exempt from paying taxes on income earned abroad and instead pay a flat rate of 20% on income generated within Portugal, as opposed to the potential 48% tax rate.
Where do digital nomads stay in Portugal?
The best destinations for digital nomad s are Lisbon, Porto, Peniche, Sagres, Coimbra and Madeira.
Why Lisbon become so popular for digital nomads?
Due to its European setting, pleasant climate, and comparatively affordable living expenses compared to other European urban centers, numerous digital nomads have chosen to establish a temporary residence in Lisbon and relish the vibrant atmosphere of Portugal’s capital city.
What is the nomad tax in Portugal?
How long can I stay in Portugal without paying tax?
Under the Portuguese tax law in effect since January 2015, an individual is considered a tax resident in Portugal if they meet either of the following criteria: spending more than 183 days, whether consecutive or not, in Portugal during any 12-month period that begins or ends within the relevant fiscal year.
Where do I apply for a nomad visa in Portugal?
Schedule an appointment at your local Portuguese Consulate, submit your digital nomad visa application, and pay the necessary fee.
