Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Ultimate D8 Guide 2025

The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) is a residency visa that enables remote workers and freelancers to live in Portugal for at least one year.

The program caters to the growing wave of location-independent professionals seeking more than just a temporary escape; it offers a legal pathway to live and work in a country consistently ranked among the world’s best for quality of life, safety, and affordability.

With attractive benefits like access to the Schengen Zone, favorable tax policies, and an affordable cost of living, Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa has become a top choice for global professionals looking to combine work with the charm of European living.

In this article, we will explore the key requirements, application process, and advantages of securing the D8 Visa, helping you determine if Portugal is the right fit for your digital nomad journey.

You’ll also find out more about:

• What is the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?
• Portugal Digital Nomad types
• Benefits of the D8 Visa
• D8 Visa eligibility criteria
• Getting a NIF and bank account
• D8 Visa application process
• Digital Nomad Visa costs

What is Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa?

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially called the D8 Visa, is for non-EU/EEA remote workers wishing to live in Portugal while maintaining employment or contracts with companies outside the country. It’s open to both salaried employees and freelancers, as long as your income comes from abroad.

It’s valid for up to one year, with the option to renew if you meet the requirements, and allows you to live and work from anywhere in Portugal, whether you prefer a co-working space, a beachside café, or your own home.

You can also travel freely within the Schengen Area, up to 90 days within any 180-day period, making it ideal for those who want flexibility across Europe. According to our Global Intelligence Unit’s Digital Nomad Report, Portugal ranks 7th, scoring higher than countries like Canada, Japan, and Germany.

Benefits of Portugal's D8 Visa

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. 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 part of the Schengen Area. Digital Nomad Visa holders can travel visa-free to other European Union states.

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: Digital nomads can apply for permanent residence and Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residence in Portugal. To become a Portuguese citizen, you must pass a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level).

Family reunification: The long-stay version of the visa allows for family reunification. Portugal Digital Nomad Visa applicants can bring family members, such as a spouse or dependent child, to Portugal.

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.

1. Short Stay Visa

The short-stay visa is aimed at remote workers who want to stay temporarily in Portugal for up to one year. It affords you all the benefits of the visa, giving you enough time to decide if you want to remain in Portugal.

• Visa duration: Multiple entries up to 12 months.
• Renewals: Can be renewed up to four times.
• Minimum income: Applicants must show a monthly income of at least €3,480.
• Family eligibility: No.

2. Residency Permit (Long stay visa)

The second option is to apply for a residence permit or long-stay visa. This temporary residency permit is valid for two years and can be renewed for another three years thereafter. After five years, provided you fulfill all the requirements under Portuguese nationality law, you can apply for a permanent residency permit and Portuguese citizenship.

• Visa duration: Initially valid for 4 months, then you’ll need to apply for a 2-year residence permit.
• Extension: Renewable for an additional 3 years and citizenship after 5 years.
• Minimum income: At least €3,480 per month to qualify.
• Application fees: Between €75 and €90.
• Family eligibility: Yes.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet several basic requirements, which are:

• Be over 18 years old
• Be a non-EU and non-EEA citizen
• You must have fully remote work on a permanent contract or freelance.
• Your total income from all sources must be at least €3,480 per month.
• Have a clean criminal record.

The most important ones, especially regarding the required paperwork, involve proving you work remotely and meeting the minimum income threshold.

Proving remote work

You can demonstrate that your employment or business activities are conducted remotely and outside Portugal in several ways:

• Employment contract: If you work for a company outside Portugal, provide a valid contract showing your role is remote.
• Freelance agreement: Freelancers must submit contracts with foreign clients outlining the work, payment terms, and contract length.
• Business ownership: If you own a remote business, include proof of registration, a description of activities, and income records.
• Bank statements: Submit recent bank statements showing consistent income from your job, freelance work, or business.

Proving minimum income

This requirement is designed to demonstrate that you can live comfortably in Portugal without relying on local employment or social assistance, and can be done in the following ways:

• Minimum income: You must earn at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (currently €3,480.00) and have at least €10,440 in savings, which rises by 50% for a spouse or parent and 25% per child.
• Proof of income: Submit recent bank statements, payslips, or tax returns.
• Stable earnings: Show consistent income over the past 3–6 months.
• Foreign income source: Your income must come from outside Portugal.

Portugal D8 Visa Required Documents

• Proof of accommodation in Portugal
• Proof of valid health insurance coverage
• Work contract, letter of employment, or partnership agreement
• The latest three bank statements confirming your monthly income meet the minimum requirements
• Latest tax return or tax receipts
• Portugal D8 Visa application form
• Proof of Digital Nomad Visa fee payment
• Cover letter explaining the purpose of your Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa application
• Valid passport
• Two recent passport photos
• Certificate of a clean criminal record

If you wish to include family members in your Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, these additional documents are required:

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

Proof of accommodation

As part of your D8 Visa application, you must provide evidence of where you will stay in Portugal. The temporary stay visa requires a rental lease of at least four months, while the long-stay visa requires a lease of at least 12 months.

This can be a rental agreement, a lease, a property deed if you own a home in Portugal, or a letter of invitation from a host if you plan to stay with someone.

The documentation should clearly state the property’s address, the duration of the rental or stay, and the names of the tenants or occupants.

Health insurance coverage

By the time of the AIMA appointment, you must have health and travel insurance for the visa application.

The health insurance must cover you as a resident of Portuguese territory during the application period. Upon obtaining your residency in Portugal, you may apply to the Portuguese public health system.

Applying for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Applying for Portugal’s D8 Visa is relatively easy. It is similar to applying for a tourist visa, just with a few extra documents. Before you start your visa application, ensure you have all the necessary documents. If non-EU countries issued them, they must be officially authenticated by an Apostille from the country of issuance for use in a different country.

Step 1: Fill out an application form: Complete the Application for National Visa form with detailed personal and financial information. All cover letters should be signed and dated by the applicant or their legal guardian.

Step 2: Lodge your application: If there is a VFS Global branch in your country, book an appointment and submit your application with your supporting documents. If there isn’t, you must apply through the local Portuguese Consulate. Your biometric data will be captured, and you must pay the €93 Digital Nomad Visa application fee.

Step 3: Await your D8 Visa: It typically takes 60 days to process your visa. You will receive a confirmation email once your Digital Nomad Visa is approved.

Step 4: Approval: Upon visa approval, your passport with the visa can be collected, or you can choose to have it sent to you via secure post.

Step 5: Enter Portugal and register as a resident: You can now enter Portugal, and even though the visa is only valid for 120 days, AIMA will typically schedule a residency appointment for you during this time. The date of your appointment will be included in your visa documentation. If not, you can phone AIMA to make an appointment.

At this stage, you will need to prove that you have a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and a Portuguese bank account.

You must also submit a new residency permit application form, which is different from your original visa application. 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.

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.

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.

To open a bank account in Portugal, our guide 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.

Portugal D8 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.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Costs

The precise visa fees for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa may differ based on your country of application and local currency fluctuations. But generally, the application fee for the Digital Nomad Visa is €93, while the Digital Nomad Visa residence permit fee is €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.

Portugal Nomad Visa Taxes

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.

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.

1. Lisbon: Lisbon blends history and modern energy with ease, making it one of the most exciting places to live in Portugal.

2. Porto: Porto offers old-world charm, riverside living, and some of Portugal’s best wine. The Ribeira district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite for those lucky enough to live there.

3. Peniche: Peniche is Portugal’s surf capital and a favorite escape from the city. It’s home to Supertubos Beach, one of Europe’s top surf spots, and has a chilled, small-town vibe.

4. Braga: Braga is a quieter city in the north, known for its history, beauty, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s great for those wanting a more traditional Portuguese experience away from tourist crowds.

5. Sagres: At the southwestern tip of Portugal, Sagres is a dream for beach lovers and outdoor types. Surfers head north for the waves, while hikers explore the cliffs and nature trails.

6. Coimbra: Coimbra is a student city with a quiet charm that makes it ideal for focused work. It’s home to Portugal’s oldest university, so there’s also a youthful energy and decent nightlife.

7. Ponta do Sol, Madeira: Ponta do Sol is home to Portugal’s first official Digital Nomad Village, part of a government-backed project on Madeira. It’s a small town that welcomes remote workers with coworking spaces, networking events, and a strong community vibe.

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:

D7 Passive Income Visa

The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa, is targeted at 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. 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.

D2 Business Visa

The Portugal 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. After five years of holding the Portugal D2 Visa, you can apply for a permanent residency permit and later Portuguese citizenship.

Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa is the country’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.

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 the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Can you apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa while abroad?

Yes, you can. In fact, it is recommended to apply for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa while you’re still in your home country or country of residence. The application is usually made at the Portuguese Embassy or the VFS Global center in your country of residence.

What is the minimum income for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?

There is a minimum income requirement for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, which is currently €3,480 per month. This income requirement is in place to ensure that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Portugal.

How much does a Digital Nomad Visa cost in Portugal?

The initial visa application cost for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is approximately €180. This, however, does not include the cost for your residence permit once you arrive in Portugal, which is around €320. Please note that these fees are subject to change and may also vary depending on the country from which you’re applying. Additionally, there can be other costs related to document translation and certification.

What are the eligibility criteria for the Digital Nomad Visa?

You must produce an active employment contract or an official employer statement proving the relationship to be eligible.

If you are an independent contractor, you must submit an official contract for services, demonstrative documents of your services, or a company contract.

You also must meet the minimum income requirement of €3,480 per month.

What is the difference between Golden Visa and Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal?

The Golden Visa program offers residency in exchange for capital investment, typically by subscribing to an investment fund or investing in a local business. In contrast, the Portuguese Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers who wish to reside in Portugal temporarily without making a significant investment.

Can I work remotely in Portugal without a visa?

EU citizens can work remotely in Portugal without a visa. Non-EU citizens need a visa to work remotely in Portugal if they want to stay for over 90 days within a 180-day period.  If you’re a remote worker, the D8 Visa, also known as the Digital Nomad Visa Portugal, is one option you could consider.

Can I bring my family to Portugal with the Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes. If you have a dependent spouse or dependent child, you can also bring them to Portugal on the D8 Visa. Please note that, in that case, the income requirement will be higher for each dependent.

If you include family members in your application, you’ll be required to provide proof of your relationship with them, such as a marriage certificate for your spouse or birth certificates for depedent children.

How do I demonstrate my income for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?

To apply for the Portugal Remote Work Visa, you must prove that your monthly income exceeds the threshold of €3,480. Also, you must provide a bank statement with at least 12 Portugal’s minimal salaries on balance. In 2025, that amount equals €10,440. This income has to be active, not passive (such as rental income, pensions, dividends, royalties, etc).

What happens if I lose my remote job while on the Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa?

Losing your job as a remote worker on a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa requires quick action. Renewals of your residence permit rely on proof of income, so contact immigration officials to explore your options. Focus on finding new remote work that complies with your temporary stay visa rules. Consulting an immigration lawyer familiar with Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa would be advisable.

How does Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa compare to Spain?

There are several similarities between Spain vs Portugal Digital Nomad Visas. However, the biggest difference is the income requirement and the source of the income.