Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) Guide 2024: Working Remotely in Portugal

The perks of living in Portugal have long been known, and over the last few years, the country has frequently featured in digital nomad wishlists.

Remote workers worldwide have been increasingly flocking to this European country due to its pleasant weather, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant expat community.

Furthermore, as of 30 October 2022, Portugal introduced its new Digital Nomad Visa. Also known as the Portugal D8 Visa, the program is aimed at foreigners actively working remotely, including freelancers, employees of foreign companies, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs. 

With Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, remote workers can easily live and work in Portugal for up to one year or apply for a residency card and stay for a longer period.

Key takeaways about the D8 visa

• The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa allows non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss citizens to live and work remotely in Portugal.
• Applicants must fulfill income criteria and adhere to a specific application process to acquire the visa.
• This visa offers a route to long-term residency and integration into Portuguese life for digital nomads

In this guide, we’ll arm you with everything that you will need to know about being a digital nomad in Portugal, providing information on the following:

• Overview of the new Digital Nomad Visa program
• Types of Digital Nomad Visa
• Alternative Digital Nomad Visas
• Digital Nomad Visa Portugal requirements
• Portugal Digital Nomad Visa application process
• FAQs

What's the Digital Nomad Visa Portugal?

The Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa or ) is a program introduced by the Portuguese government on 30 October 2022. This special visa is designed for remote workers seeking to live and work in Portugal.

The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is issued to non-EU nationals who are actively working remotely, including freelancers, employees of foreign companies, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs. 

In order to qualify for the Portugal D8 Visa, foreigners must demonstrate they have sufficient income to live and work in the country. This active income (from a remote job or through agreements with freelance clients) has to be four times the Portuguese minimum wage, which amounts to around €3,280 per month.

To apply, remote workers must also rent or buy residential properties in Portugal (and provide proof through a rental agreement or documentation of property ownership).

If you obtain a residency visa through the D8, you can apply for a permanent residency card and even Portuguese citizenship after five years, provided that you fulfill all the requirements. 

With an EU passport, you can live, work, and study in any European Union member country.

In the sections below, we’ll go into detail about Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa requirements, eligibility criteria, and the visa application process.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Types

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa is divided into two categories. Remote workers can either apply for a temporary stay (short stay visa) for up to one year or a residency permit that can be renewed for up to five years. 

The two Portugal Digital Nomad Visas are very appealing, whether you want a short-term temporary stay visa or want to obtain a residency visa and live longer in the country.

The Short Stay Visa

When applying for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you have two visa options. The first is a short-stay—or temporary–stay visa. This Digital Nomad Visa type is aimed at remote workers who want to stay temporarily in Portugal for up to one year.

Applicants for both Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa types will need to provide proof that they have sufficient income to live in the country, which is around €3,280. This option is perfect for expats looking to stay in the country in the short term.

The Residence Permit

The second option is to apply for a residence permit or long-term residency visa. This temporary residency permit can be renewed for up to five years. It is an excellent option for expats looking to stay in the country longer, effectively acting like a long-term residency visa.

If you obtain this Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, after five years, you can apply for a permanent residency permit and Portuguese citizenship, provided you fulfill all the requirements under Portuguese nationality law. This includes taking a basic Portuguese language test and holding a clean criminal record.

As with the short-stay visa, applicants must prove that their active income is four times the national minimum wage, which equals around €3,280.00

Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa Benefits

Here are some of the key advantages of Digital Nomad Visas in Portugal:

Right to live and work in Portugal

With this temporary stay visa, you can live in Portugal legally for a specific duration, typically up to one year. For comparison, the tourist visa (Schengen visa) allows you to stay in the country for 90 days every three months.

Visa-free travel across the Schengen Area

Portugal is a part of the Schengen Area. Digital Nomad Visa holders can travel visa free to other state members of the European Union.

Access to public services in Portugal

Holders of the Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa have access to public services in Portugal, including healthcare, education, and other social benefits.

Pathway to EU citizenship

After five years of legal residence in Portugal, digital nomads can apply for permanent residence and Portuguese citizenship. Please note that you must pass a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level) to become a Portuguese citizen.

Family reunification

This visa allows for family reunification. Portugal Digital Nomad Visa applicants can bring family members, such as the spouse or dependent child, to live in Portugal with them.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Eligibility Criteria

Below are the eligibility Requirements to apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. It includes details such as nationality, income levels, and the type of work that qualifies one as a digital nomad.

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Income: You must earn an active income from outside Portugal. The monthly income has to be at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage, around €3,040 per month.
• Employment: Provide evidence of remote or freelance jobs.
• Accommodation: The process requires you to secure accommodation in Portugal.
• Valid Passport: To enter Portugal, you must have a valid passport.
• Health Insurance: You must have travel insurance for your visa application and proof of health insurance coverage.
• Clean Criminal Record: Have a clean criminal record from your own country.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa income requirements

Single Digital Nomad Visa applicants need to demonstrate their means of subsistence and earnings. The average monthly income needs to be at least equal to four times the guaranteed minimum monthly wage in Portugal. For 2024, the amount is €3,280 per month for the applicant.

In addition to the earnings, the applicant needs at least €9,840 in their bank account. If applying with family members, the income requirement increases by 50 percent for a spouse or a parent and 25 percent per child.

The income proof can be obtained through their employment contract, demonstrating their average monthly income derived from their professional activity for the past three months.

Does the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa require health insurance?

The D8 Visa applicant must have health and travel insurance for the visa application by the time of the AIMA appointment (former SEF, Immigration and Borders Service). The health insurance must cover them as residents of Portuguese territory during the application period.

Many private health insurance plans are available in Portugal and can be paid via direct debits from your new Portuguese bank account.

Regarding health insurance, upon obtaining your permanent residency in Portugal, the applicant may apply to the Portuguese Public Health System. The digital nomad can then use their registration in the National Health System to renew their residence permit.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Required Documents

Here is a list of the documents required for the Digital Nomad Temporary Stay Visa:

• Temporary Stay Visa Application form
• Cover letter explaining the purpose of your Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa application
• Valid passport: You must have a valid passport that expires at least six months after the length of your intended stay in Portugal.
• Two recent passport photos
• Proof of regular income that meets the minimum requirements
• Latest three bank statements confirming the applicant’s monthly income of at least €3,280
• Latest tax return or tax receipts
• Work contract, letter of employment, or partnership agreement
• Latest three payslips
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal for at least a year (such as a rental agreement or proof of property purchase)
• Certificate of a clean criminal record. If your country is part of the Hague Convention, your clean criminal record certificate must be certified by Apostille. If not, you must legalize your criminal record certificate with the Embassy of Portugal.
• Proof of valid health insurance (for the first 12 months of your stay)
• Proof of Digital Nomad Visa fee payment

Additional documents are required if you wish to include family members in your Portugal Digital Nomad Visa:

• Marriage certificate (certified by Apostille)
• Birth certificate for dependents (certified by Apostille)

How To Apply for Digital Nomad Visa Portugal: Step-by-Step Guide

The following instructions detail the process of applying for a Portugal D8 Visa (temporary stay visa for Portugal). Although the process is somewhat similar when applying for the D7 Passive Income Visa, the D2 Entrepreneur Visa, and the Portuguese Golden Visa, these require extra documentation and significant investment; hence, consulting a Portuguese immigration lawyer is recommended.

You must apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Portugal for all four visas. Instructions on how to do this are provided below, and they also apply to EU/EEA/Swiss citizens wishing to register as residents in Portugal.

Step 1: Gather the required documents

Before you start your Portugal D8 Visa application, ensure you have all the necessary documents at hand. All documents issued by non-EU countries must be officially authenticated by an Apostille from the country of issuance for use in a different country.

Although you can complete your initial visa application in Portuguese, English, or your local language at your local Embassy, your documents must be translated into Portuguese and authenticated by the Portuguese embassy for your residency permit application in Portugal.

Keep copies of all your Digital Nomad Visa application documents, as you will need them again for your residency application.

Step 2: Fill out an application form and write a cover letter

Complete the Application for National Visa form with detailed personal and financial information. Ensure the information on the form aligns with your supporting documents.

Your application form should also specify how you would like your passport to be returned to you after the application process.

Your Portugal D8 Visa application must be accompanied by a cover letter that should detail the following:

• Your personal details
• Your reason for applying for temporary residence in Portugal
• Any connections you have to Portugal
• Your planned accommodation in Portugal
• How you plan to sustain yourself and any dependents during your stay in Portugal

Each applicant must write their own cover letter. However, cover letters for dependents can be shorter and should reference the principal applicant’s documentation.

All cover letters should be signed and dated by the applicant or their legal guardian.

Step 3: Lodge your application

Submit your application, supporting documents, and Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa fee at your local Portuguese Consulate. For some countries, you can book an appointment with VFS Global, which operates like a local Portuguese embassy as the official partner of the Embassy of Portugal

You will need to personally visit the consulate or application center for your fingerprints and photo to be taken by AIMA and submitted as biometric information.

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa application fee, which is currently around €93 per person, must be paid at this stage.

Step 4: Await your D8 Visa

You can track the progress of your Digital Nomad Visa application online with the reference number given to you. It typically takes 60 days for your visa to be processed. Once your Digital Nomad Visa is approved, you will receive a confirmation email.

Upon visa approval, your passport and Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa can be collected from the place where you applied, or you can choose to have them sent to you via secure post.

Step 5: Enter Portugal and register as a resident

Upon receipt of your Digital Nomad Visa, you can enter Portugal. This initial D8 Visa allows you to stay for 120 days.

AIMA will typically schedule an appointment for you when you apply for your Digital Nomad Portugal Visa. The date of your appointment will be included in your visa documentation. If not, you can phone AIMA to make an appointment.

For this stage, you will need to prove that you have an NIF (you should submit a NIF registration certificate) and a Portuguese bank account. A new application form, different from your original visa application form, must also be submitted. Your appointment will take about an hour, after which you will have to pay a fee of €170. Residence permits take around two weeks to process and will be mailed to your home address in Portugal.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Processing Time

The Digital Nomad Visa processing timeline varies depending on the country from which you’re applying, but typically, initial visa applications take about 60 days to be reviewed and approved.

When you receive your Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you will also be allocated an appointment date with AIMA to obtain your residence permit. Scheduling an appointment can take upwards of four months. Once your appointment is concluded, you should expect your residency permit to be delivered within 90 days.

To summarise the temporary stay visa processing time

• Approximately 60 days of processing time, depending on the country of origin
• Residency permit appointment with AIMA can take approximately four months
• Residency visa permit delivery within 90 days

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Cost

The precise visa fees may differ based on your country of application and local currency fluctuations. But here’s an overview of the expected Digital Nomad Visa costs in Portugal:

• Digital Nomad Visa application fee: €93
• Digital Nomad Visa residence permit: €170

Please consider additional costs for document authentication through Apostille, translation, and certification of translated documents. These expenses can vary considerably from country to country.

Getting a NIF Number and a Portuguese Bank Account

NIF Number in Portugal

The tax identification number in Portugal, also known as the NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal), is an essential requirement for applying for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. This nine-digit taxpayer number is also essential to comply with your tax obligations in the country.

Issued by the Portuguese tax authorities, the NIF number is crucial for various financial transactions such as signing contracts, opening bank accounts, leasing properties, and conducting other financial activities in Portugal. 

Our guide on how to get a NIF Number in Portugal will help you understand the importance of this number and how to request one as a digital nomad.

Opening a Portuguese bank account

Opening a local bank account is another essential step for Digital Nomads moving to Portugal. You can open a bank account after getting your Portuguese NIF number.

Although a few Portuguese banks offer the convenience of online account opening, most typically mandate in-person visits for banking applications, necessitating a trip to a local branch.

Our ultimate guide to how to open a bank account in Portugal will help you navigate the process seamlessly, providing step-by-step instructions, essential documentation requirements, and valuable tips to ensure a smooth and efficient experience tailored to your financial needs.

Tax Obligations on a Portugal Temporary Stay Visa

Do digital nomads pay taxes in Portugal?

When working as a digital nomad in Portugal, you’re subject to the same tax obligations as other residents. The tax system operates on a self-assessment basis, meaning it’s your responsibility to calculate and fulfill your tax obligations. Note that the Portuguese tax year spans from January to December.

Paying taxes and complying with tax obligations is compulsory for freelancers in Portugal. These obligations include annual income tax returns, value-added tax (VAT), and social security contributions.

So, if you reside in Portugal for an extended period, you will become a tax resident and be subject to income taxes. In Portugal, personal income tax can reach up to 48 percent.

Tax exemptions for digital nomads in Portugal

Nevertheless, as a Portuguese tax resident, you can apply for the Non-Habitual Resident tax regime (NHR). You must not have been a Portuguese tax resident for the five years preceding your application to qualify for this regime.

Under the Non-Habitual Resident Status, you can be exempt from tax on foreign-sourced income, although you might still have to pay taxes on this income in its country of origin.

Moreover, under this tax residency status, high-value-added activities are taxed at a 20 percent rate, while foreign-sourced pensions are taxed at a 10 percent rate.

Alternative Digital Nomad Visas in Portugal

Apart from the Digital Nomad Visa, a few visa categories are suitable for digital nomads interested in living and working in Portugal.

The alternative Digital Nomad Visas in Portugal are the following:

• The Short-Term Work Visa is the perfect choice for digital nomads intending to work from Portugal temporarily.
• The D7 Passive Income Visa is ideal for those planning to stay for up to two years. However, you must provide proof of passive monthly income (rental income, pensions, investments, etc) and that you are not actively working to earn a living.
• The D2 Business Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa program cater to individuals intending to invest in the Portuguese economy and desire a pathway to a permanent residency card.

D7 Passive Income Visa

Also known as the Passive Income Visa, this visa initially targeted passive-income retirees. However, it also suits digital nomads and remote workers if you can prove that you are receiving a passive income and not actively working. Passive monthly income can be generated by a pension, rental income, investments, dividends, royalties, and more.

The passive income visa is initially granted for 120 days, during which you must present at AIMA to receive a two-year residence permit. This permit grants full access to the Schengen area. You need to prove you have enough passive foreign income to support yourself and any accompanying family members.

Read more about the D7 Passive Income Visa here: Portugal D7 Visa Guide

D2 Business Visa

The D2 Visa is aimed at non-EU entrepreneurs and encourages local investment. You must demonstrate an operating company in Portugal or have the resources to establish one. You can provide proof of your resources or a bank loan from a Portuguese bank. Along with a comprehensive business plan, you must also show you have enough money to support yourself and your dependents. After five years of holding the D2 Visa Portugal, you can apply for a permanent residency permit and later Portuguese citizenship.

Portugal Golden Visa

The Golden Visa is Portugal’s investment visa. With an investment of at least €250,000, you can get a residency permit that allows EU travel. Your spouse and dependent children can also obtain similar rights. Several investment options are available, including investment funds, job creation, capital investments, and national heritage or research and development donations.

Pros & Cons of Living in Portugal as a Digital Nomad

A true haven for remote employment, Portugal has become an appealing destination for digital nomads.

Here are some pros of living in Portugal as a remote worker:

• Pleasant climate: Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm, sunny summers, making it an attractive location for year-round outdoor activities and a comfortable lifestyle.
• Affordable cost of living: Portugal is one of the more affordable Western European countries. Food, transportation, and leisure activities are generally more budget-friendly than in many other places around Europe.
• Scenic landscapes: Portugal boasts diverse and picturesque landscapes, including pristine beaches, rolling vineyards, historic cities, and serene countryside. The country’s natural beauty offers ample opportunities for exploration and outdoor adventures.
• Safety: Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe, providing peace of mind for residents and visitors. Read: Is Portugal Safe?
• Digital Nomad Visa: Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa program allows remote workers to live and work legally in the country, providing an opportunity to explore its beauty while maintaining a source of income.
• Strong expat communities: Portugal has a growing and active community of expats and remote workers, providing opportunities for networking and support.
• Easy travel access: Portugal’s central location in Europe makes it a convenient base for exploring other European countries and regions.

While Portugal is an attractive destination for many expats and digital nomads, like any other place, it has its cons and challenges:

• Economic challenges: While Portugal offers a lower cost of living compared to many other Western European countries, it also has lower average wages, which can be a challenge if you’re trying to find employment within the country.
• Bureaucracy: Dealing with Portuguese bureaucracy, especially when it comes to obtaining visas and permits, can be frustrating for newcomers. The process can be time-consuming and involve a fair amount of paperwork.
• Language barrier: Although many Portuguese people speak English, especially in urban areas and among the younger generation, the primary language is Portuguese. Not being proficient in Portuguese can be a barrier in certain situations.
• Limited job opportunities: The job market can be competitive, and it may be challenging to find well-paying job opportunities, especially in certain industries. Many expats and digital nomads rely on remote work or self-employment.
• Housing costs in major cities: While Portugal, in general, is affordable, major cities like Lisbon and Porto have seen rising housing costs due to increased demand from expats and tourists. Finding affordable and convenient housing can be a challenge in these cities.

Best Destinations for Digital Nomads in Portugal

There are several beautiful locations to live in Portugal, from the cosmopolitan capital of Lisbon to the historic city of Porto, from the quiet of the Silver Coast to the sublime beauty of the Algarve.

Here, we’ll review some of our favorites:

Lisbon

There’s just something about Lisbon. With its vibrant mix of tradition and modernity blending together fabulously, there is nowhere else in the world quite like it. Many entrepreneurs are coming to call Lisbon home, as its tech and startup scenes are booming, not least exemplified by Websummit, the largest tech festival in the world, moving to Lisbon. To be a digital nomad in Lisbon is an excellent option.

Although Lisbon has its own price tag compared to other parts of the country, it is still a very pocket-friendly city. You can head out for dinner for €20, grab a beer for €1-2, and get your coffee fix for as little as 60 cents.

Thinking of settling in the vibrant Portuguese capital? Then, check out this guide to the best neighborhoods in Lisbon.

Porto

If you stop by Porto, you will quickly conclude that the second largest city in Portugal is a very special place indeed. The cobbled streets, enchanting castles, and age-old traditions will make you believe you have stepped back in time.

If you are lucky, you may be able to find suitable accommodation in the Ribeira area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What’s more, the Douro wine will keep wine lovers happy, as the region houses some of the best wines in the world. With beaches close at hand, top surf spots, and cute restaurants and bars, there is something here for everyone.

Peniche

Peniche is a safe bet if you want to get out of the city. Peniche is a local surf town that is considered to be one of the best spots for surfing in Europe. Check out Supertubos Beach in the summer, and you’ll find countless surfers amongst the waves. There are also surf schools for beginners to be baptized in the sport.

Braga

The picturesque northern city of Braga is a must-see. If you are looking for a quieter city to enjoy the authentic side of Portugal, then this city is an excellent option. You will also find several lovely Airbnb apartments with excellent amenities.

Sagres

If you are considering the Algarve as your digital nomad stop-off point, we recommend Sagres. Uniquely positioned on the southwestern tip of Portugal, you will find beautiful beaches spread out in the east and top surf locations to the north.

There is also a vibrant array of resorts, bars, and restaurants to enjoy.

Nature lovers will find much to enjoy. There are many hiking opportunities in the region, and even in the autumn and winter months, you can spend the day outside in a t-shirt.

Coimbra

Coimbra is excellent for digital nomads who need to focus, as the city has a quiet-town vibe. Nonetheless, as a student city (with the oldest university city in Portugal), there are also many restaurants, bars, and a vibrant social scene.

Ponta do Sol, Madeira: The Digital Nomad Village

The autonomous island of Madeira is home to the Digital Nomads Madeira project, which is essentially an entire digital nomad village in Portugal. To be a digital nomad in Madeira is a very attractive option.

The Digital Nomad Village is located in the town of Ponta do Sol, which has a population of 8,200 and welcomes up to 1,000 remote workers at a time. It’s a joint initiative set up between Startup Madeira and the government of Madeira, with the primary aim to be community benefits from the social and economic impact of attracting passionate digital nomads onto the island.

In the Digital Nomad Village, you will have access to the Slack community, continuous fun activities, and events that foster networking and meeting new people.

Quick Tips for Digital Nomads in Portugal

Here are some tips for digital nomads in Portugal.

Portuguese healthcare

Portugal has an excellent healthcare system, and the faculty also extends to digital nomads. If you have qualified for all the residency formalities, you will be able to access the healthcare system in Portugal. You can also opt for private health insurance if you so wish. You’ll find private health insurance in Portugal to be quite affordable.

Buying property in Portugal

If you are thinking about a longer-term plan, it is relatively straightforward to buy property in Portugal. Given the popularity of Portugal, you can even get some very attractive returns on investments.

Saving money

To save money, don’t frequent the fanciest, most expensive bar every weekend. There are plenty of trendy bars that will not break the bank.

Also, try to shop locally and avoid buying imported products to save money. Country markets and stalls offer fresh produce, where you are helping local businesses and will often find cheaper products and establish relationships with the seller.

It can be a good idea to set up a Portuguese bank account if you are planning on living in Portugal. You will save money on currency exchange rates.

Why choose Global Citizen Solutions for your Immigration Visa?

GLOBAL APPROACH BY LOCAL EXPERTS

• GCS has offices located across Portugal.
• Members of the US-Portugal and UK-Portugal Chambers of Commerce in Portugal, and the Investment Migration Council (IMC).
• Our expert team can help you throughout your journey to secure your Visa. 

100% APPROVAL RATE

• Our successful track record in applications provides reassurance to applicants. 
• We have helped clients from more than 35 countries secure residency in Portugal.

ALL-ENCOMPASSING SOLUTION

• With a single channel of communication, our approach ensures that you have complete clarity on your application. 
• Our BeGlobal® Onboarding System allows for a total flow of information.

TRANSPARENCY AND PRIVACY

• Our pricing is clear and detailed, you will not face any hidden costs.
• All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.

Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal for Digital Nomads