Portugal digital nomad visa exclusively for remote workers was recently introduced in late 2022, but there have been other visas available for nomads working remotely. For a long time, the D7 has been an option for those who had a passive and independent income.
This South Western European nation located on the Iberian Peninsula has been a magnet for tourists and remote workers alike and for good reason. Portugal enjoys an average of 300 sunny days annually with a pleasant and mild winter. It is also a country of immense beauty with its location on the Mediterranean basin affording it the 3rd most diverse hotspot for flora anywhere in the world.
Portugal is also known for a wide-ranging climate ranging from a Mediterranean one at the coast, a warm desert climate and a subtropical climate in the western part of the county.
Known to be one of the oldest countries and civilizations in Europe, Portugal has embraced modernism with an ambition to be considered a digital nation—many government services are digitized and it is also a member of the digital nations—naturally, this makes it the perfect hotspot for the digital nomad. 1
What Nationalities Need a Visa To Enter Portugal?
The general rule of thumb is that many non-EU nationals need to obtain a visa to enter Portugal except some nationalities such as Americans and Canadians—on the other hand, EU citizens and members of the Schengen area can enter Portugal without any restrictions.
EU Citizens—Citizens of the European Union can enter Portugal without obtaining a visa. Moreover, they can live, work and visit in Portugal without any restrictions.
U.S Citizens and Permanent Residents— U.S. citizens can enter Portugal visa free and stay for a duration of 90 days but can only do so every 6 months. 2 Once the 90 days have elapsed, they must leave Portugal; if they choose to live and work in the country for an extended period of time, they will need to obtain a resident permit.
Some U.S. permanent residents (green card holders) may enter Portugal without needing a visa, but this all depends on their country of origin. Consult with the Portuguese embassy to determine if your home country meets the eligibility; if not, then a visa will be required to gain entry into Portugal.
Canadian, Australian and New Zealanders—Citizens from these countries enjoy the same benefits as U.S. citizens being able to stay for 90 days visa free, but will need to acquire a longer-term visa for extended stays.
Non- EU Citizens—Persons who are not EU nationals will need to apply for a tourist visa to travel to Portugal or the other longer-term visas.
Tourist Visa vs. Temporary Visa: What Are the Differences?
The Portuguese tourist visa is designed to have visitors stay for short durations in the country—up to 90 days and they are not permitted to take up employment or partake in privileges reserved for residents such as opening a bank account or obtaining a tax status. Visiting Portugal can be helpful for individuals who are in the process of learning how to become a digital nomad to check if it is a destination that can suit the lifestyle they are aspiring for.
Temporary visa also known as the D8 visa is a longer-term visa giving its holders one year of residence in Portugal. They may also extend this for up to five years. Holders of this visa can work remotely, open bank accounts and enjoy the benefits of the country’s healthcare and education system.
What Work Visas Are Available in Portugal?
Portugal does not have an official visa that is dedicated to the immigrant worker—visas that can be used for work purposes are typically short stay visas that allow work for a short period of time (less than 90 days) or temporary resident permits that allow foreigners to live and work in the country for more than 90 days.
This broad classification places Portugal work visas as either residency visas or temporary stay visas—examples of these include the Portugal work visa, independent work visa and EU blue card.
Portugal Work Visa—This is the most common visa for workers who are employed in Portugal. It is a one-year visa which can be extended up to 5 years. Individuals that have work contracts that exceed one year will typically opt for this visa.
Independent Worker Visa (Digital Nomad Visa)—This visa is the official visa for digital nomads and is a temporary stay or resident visa. This Portugal digital nomad visa is for remote workers who work online and are not generating income from a company based in Portugal—this is expounded upon below and is the basis for this post.
EU Blue Card—The EU Blue Card is a visa option available for non-EU workers with specialized skills that are in demand in Portugal such as web developers, real estate agents and doctors. 3 It is valid for one year and can be extended for another two years.
Highly Qualified Worker Visa—Highly qualified worker visa is another visa for non-EU nationals who have specialized skills such as engineers, scientists and medical professionals. 4 It is valid for two years.
Are There Any Work Visas for Digital Nomads in Portugal?
Other than the recently introduced temporary visa also known as the D8 visa, the D7 visa has for a long-time option for digital nomads. Remote workers may also opt for the D2 visa also known as the Entrepreneur visa.
Each of these visas suit the needs of digital nomads and making a choice of which one to choose will depend on the length of stay desired, whether or not the remote worker is looking to make Portugal a permanent home and their income levels. These visas are discussed in detail in the following section.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Types of Visas for Digital Nomads
There are several visas that are on offer for the remote worker that are issued by the Portuguese government—the latest one introduced in late 2022, the D8 is one specifically tailored and targeted toward the digital nomad.
D8 Visa (Temporary Visa)
D8 Visa is Portugal’s latest offering for remote workers—an exclusive residence permit that has been introduced specifically for the digital nomad. It was launched due to the popularity of the D2, D7 visa and the popularity of Portugal as a digital nomad destination. The visa comes in two options; one that is valid for twelve months and the other valid for two years.
Unlike the popular D7 visa, this visa has higher income requirements but can be renewed for another three years. It should therefore prove popular with remote workers albeit shutting off a section due to the higher monthly income stipulations.
D7 Visa (Passive Income)
The D7 Visa has been in the past a primary choice for digital nomads looking to live in Portugal legally for an extended time—this changed with the introduction of the D8 visa mainly because the government began rejecting applications for the D7 for qualified remote workers.
D7 visa is a resident permit that is targeted at individuals with passive income such as retirees and pensioners who want to migrate to Portugal. Individuals that have a net and regular passive income such as pensioners can obtain residency in Portugal without needing to invest substantially in the country.
The visa must be renewed at the end of the first year and thereafter every two years. Except for justified reasons, the holder should not exceed six consecutive months or eight non-consecutive months being out of Portugal Additionally, it is possible to be eligible for a special tax status known as the NHR (non-habitual tax resident) which grants the holder the privilege of not being taxed for 10 years.
This resident permit is advantageous for would-be immigrants because after five years of holding, the holder can either apply for permanent residency or citizenship after passing a basic Portuguese language test. It also confers the following benefits:
- Family can join the holder in Portugal
- Free movement within the Schengen area
- Eligible to apply to the NHR tax program
- Enjoy rights conferred upon Portuguese citizens such as education, healthcare and social security.
D2 Visa (Entrepreneur)
The D2 Visa also known as the entrepreneur visa is for non-EU nationals who intend to open a business in Portugal. They can purchase an existing business, acquire its shares or create a division of an existing business—entrepreneurs may also set up a completely new company in the country.
There is no set minimum investment requirement but the entrepreneur should at least have enough funds to live in the country and set at approximately US $10,000; the validity of visa is two years. Like the other visa, dependents may accompany the applicant.
In addition to the D2 Visa, there is also a Portugal Startup Visa which is meant for individuals setting up an innovative business in the country but don’t quite have the business yet, but just have an idea. 5
Golden Visa
The Portuguese Golden Visa is a resident permit that is issued to persons that invest in the country with the minimum investment of US $270,000. There are seven investment options available to be eligible for this visa, but most applicants opt for buying a residential and commercial property.
Applicants and their families are eligible to apply for a resident permit immediately and will need to spend at least 14 days in Portugal every two years to maintain the validity of the residency. Once five years elapses, they may then sell the property.
Application Process, Document Requirements & Costs for the Portugal Remote Worker Visa (D7, D8, D2)
The document requirements and application process are somewhat similar for these three visas, but there are marked differences such as the minimum income requirements.
Document Requirements for the D7, D8 & D2 Visa: The table below gives a snapshot of the documents that each visa will require making it easier to compare between the visas.
| D7 Visa | D8 Visa | D2 Visa |
| D7 Visa application form | D8 Visa application form | D2 Visa application form |
| Passport sized photos (two) | Passport sized photos (two) | Passport sized photos (two) |
| Valid passport and copy | Valid passport and copy | Valid passport and copy |
| Proof of sufficient funds in the form of passive or regular income proved in a statement of responsibility Applicants are required to have a minimum income of US $9,000 annually. An additional US $4,500 for a spouse and US $2,700 for child dependents. | Documents showing the amount of income which exceeds the minimum monthly of US $3,300.This is demonstrated using a statement of responsibility. An additional US $1,650 for a spouse and US $900 for child dependents. | Proof of income using a statement of responsibility and bank statements. Applicants are required to have a minimum income of US $9,000 annually.An additional US $4,500 for a spouse and US $2,700 for child dependents. If not, a business plan and a statement from the Bank of Portugal on funds available to start a company with a minimum of US $5,000. |
| FBI Criminal Record Certificate | Criminal record certificates from the county of origin where the applicant has resided for more than a year. | Apostilled criminal record certificate. |
| Request for Criminal Record Enquiry by the Immigration and Border Services | Request for Criminal Record Enquiry by the Immigration and Border Services | Request for Criminal Record Enquiry by the Immigration and Border Services |
| Proof of planned accommodation | Proof of planned accommodation | Proof of accommodation such as a lease or proof purchase of a property. |
| Valid health insurance (minimum of $30,000 worth of medical insurance) | Valid health insurance (minimum of $30,000 worth of medical insurance) | Valid health insurance (minimum of $30,000 worth of medical insurance) |
| Applicant should open a Portuguese Bank Account | Proof of a Portuguese Bank Account | |
| Obtain a Portuguese NIF Number | Obtain a Portuguese NIF Number | Obtain a Portuguese NIF Number |
Application Process for the D8 Visa
- Collect all the documents and complete the prerequisites outlined above and fill the D8 Visa Application Form online and proceed to the nearest Portuguese Embassy or Consulate who can grant the visa. The embassy or consulate have 60 days to inform the applicant of their decision once all documents and the application has been submitted. This visa costs US $100.
- The consular service in charge will then obtain a legal binding opinion, after the submission of the application from the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Police (SEF).
- Upon a receipt of response from the SEF, the embassy will request the passport upon which a Portugal digital nomad visa will be stamped. This will allow the applicant to enter Portugal.
- Once in Portugal, the D8 visa holder will await the appointment date from the immigration department where the temporary visa will be converted into residence permit (D8 residence visa) valid for a year. This can then be renewed every two years and can be converted into permanent residence after five years. Total cost for the D8 residence permit is US $165.
- Make sure to obtain the PT Tax Number (NIF) and open a bank account.
Application Process for the D7 Visa
- Collect all the documents and complete the prerequisites outlined above and fill the D7 Visa Application Form online and proceed to the nearest Portuguese Embassy or Consulate. The embassy or consulate will have 60 days to inform the applicant of their decision once all documents and the application has been submitted. The D7 visa costs US $80.
- The consular service in charge will then obtain a legal binding opinion, after the submission of the application from the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Police (SEF) .
- Upon a receipt of response from the SEF, the embassy will request the passport and stamp, giving the applicant an entry document to enter Portugal.
- Once in Portugal, the D7 visa holder will await the appointment date from the immigration department where the temporary visa will be converted into residence permit (D8 residence visa) valid for two years. The D7 residence permit costs US $100. This residence permit can then be renewed every two years and can be converted into permanent residence after five years.
Application Process for the D2 Visa
- Gather all the above documents and complete the requirements, and proceed to the nearest Portuguese embassy to complete the D2 Visa Form or via the E-Visa Portal through the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate. This step can also be done while in Portugal. Cost for the consular fee is US $100.
- Upon approval of the application with the above documents, an interview is set up at the embassy or consulate and if successful, a 4-month visa stamped on the passport will be issued allowing the applicant to enter Portugal.
- When in Portugal, the applicant can now file for a residence permit with the immigration authorities, SEF. A date for a SEF appointment is included in the visa and even if it exceeds the four months, the applicant will still be in good immigration standing. The resident permit costs US $170.
- Open a business in Portugal by obtaining the relevant licenses and transfer funds into a Portuguese company bank account. Additionally, draw a business plan for the intended company.
What Visa Type Is Best Suited for Digital Nomads?
Before the advent of the D8 visa late in 2022, the D7 visa was the de facto choice for digital nomads who wanted to live in Portugal for extended periods of time. The government had no qualms issuing this visa to digital nomads in spite of it being geared to individuals with passive income such as the elderly on pensions or individuals with steady income such as rentals. When the D8 visa was launched, the Portuguese immediately began rejecting D7 visa applications lodged by digital nomads.
Therefore, as it now stands the most ideal digital nomad visa is the D8 as it was designed for remote workers. Of course, its income requirements are much higher than the D7 which made that visa popular and easier to attain. However, the D8 visa still gives the option to permanently immigrate to Portugal as the D7 does, if that is the wish for the digital nomad.
If a digital nomad is an entrepreneur and wants to establish a business, then the D2 visa would be their best choice. The golden visa may be out of reach for most remote workers and may be more suited to high-net-worth individuals who are looking to obtain second citizenship and obtain the benefits of having a Portuguese passport.
What Should I Do if My Visa Is Denied?
Portugal has a fairly high rate of visa approvals at 70%—but what if your application ends up being among the 30% that don’t get through? There are several steps and options available to an applicant should they end up being unfortunate to experience a denial.
They may choose to reply for the visa afresh. Make sure to reassess your documents and find what may have been the reason for the denial. In cases like these, getting in touch with an immigration lawyer can help increase the chances of an approval.
It is possible to lodge an appeal against the decision that was issued by the embassy. This can be done by submitting documentation and in writing to the embassy or consulate. If this does not yield any results, then apply for the visa again.
Life in Portugal as a Digital Nomad
Portugal has always been a magnet for foreigners through its history and has of late became a major player in the digital nomad community. Its popularity as a tourist destination with its pristine Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts and varying ecosystems has made it a popular European option for short and long-term visitors.
The country has a fairly low cost of living compared to its European neighbors, is safe, and provides a sound infrastructure to support a dynamic nomad community. It has mouth watering cuisine, an excellent transportation system and visa holders have the added benefit of being able to travel in the Schengen area without any restrictions just like Portuguese citizens.
All categories of the visas including the exclusive D8 Portugal digital nomad visa can allow the holder to either become a permanent resident or citizen of Portugal.
Still, Portugal still has a lot to offer the digital nomad when they are away from work such as the Peneda Jeres National Park and the Praia da Marina Beach.
Cost of Living of Living in Portugal
Compared to the rest of Europe or the U.S and Canada, Portugal has a fairly low cost of living which is among the primary reasons that places it at the top of the list of digital nomad destinations.
It is a well-known fact that compared to the rest of Europe, Portugal has a significantly lower cost of housing without compromising on the quality of accommodation. As with anywhere else in the world, the location to live in and the type of housing will be a determining factor in the cost of renting or property value. Most digital nomads will rent initially before deciding to fully integrate into life in Portugal and perhaps buy a house.
Cost of living in Portugal is 40% lower than it is in the U.S. with average rents being up to half of what they are in America.
Rents are higher in the capital city Lisbon but on average, remote workers should expect to pay approximately US $860 and US $650 in rent outside of the city. Monthly living expenses hover around US $700 per month. It’s fair to see that Portugal is an affordable destination for a majority of remote workers.
Tourist Attractions in Portugal
Portugal’s popularity as a tourist destination is a testament to its natural beauty and pleasant weather, enjoying more than 300 sunny days annually which can sometimes make winter seem like spring. 6 Among the popular tourist destinations is the Peneda Jeres National Park. This nature area is littered with majestic mountains with clear lakes in between making it the perfect place to unwind to hike the many trails or cool off in the waterfalls.
Praia da Marina Beach is a pristine beach that is in Algarve and bounded by high cliffs and has plenty of small secluded beaches. Its stunning setting and turquoise sea waters makes it the perfect getaway from the glare of your laptop. Aveiro is a must-see city—dubbed the Venice of Portugal; most of its streets are navigated by water canals similar to those in the Italian city.
Digital nomads who enjoy medieval settings won’t be disappointed with the Abbey of Santa Maria which is a 12th century church located in Alcobaca with breathtaking gardens. Portugal is a shining example of bringing to light the numerous benefits of a digital nomad life.
While this summary of destinations is far from being exhaustive, other Portugal tourist attractions include:
- Obidos Castle
- Alto-Douro
- Pena Palace
- Oceanário de Lisboa
- Ponte de Dom LuÃs I
- Torre de Belém
- Praca do Comercio (Terreiro do Paço)
- Bairro Alto
- Monte Palace Madeira
- Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
- Zoomarine Algarve
Locations To Live in Portugal
Portugal offers varying terrain options when it comes to where digital nomads want to settle during their time in the country. Most remote workers flock to Lisbon, its capital due to the robust nature of the city’s ability to support a digital workforce. Some may venture out to other cities once they feel comfortable around the county and have also obtained their resident permits and other documents.
Lisbon—The capital is the main hub for nomads who enjoy city life, yet Lisbon still offers its visitors a small city with colonial hints. Other than offering digital nomads’ crucial amenities such as coworking spaces and fast reliable internet, it is also famed for cultural venues and lively nightspots. The digital nomad community here is large, ensuring a solid support network.
Ponta do Sol, Madeira— Ponta do Sol is the brainchild of the Regional Government of Madeira and Startup Madeira and is a specifically designed village for the digital nomad. The program helps bring remote workers and local businesses together and also helps digital nomads network and socialize together. Madeira has ideal weather conditions, rich culture and has Ericeira, dubbed the surfing capital of the world.
Porto—Porto marries a slower pace of life with digital nomad essentials and creature comforts. It has plenty of coworking spaces and cafes along the Ribeiro riverside.
Coimbra—Like Porto, Coimbra has a laid-back setting and is a place of rich culture and history. This city provides a relaxed location for digital nomads seeking serenity away from the noise and crowds of the bigger cities.
Other ideal locations for digital nomads include Faro, Tomar, Funchai, Chaves, Braga and Lagos, Algarve.
Tax Structure for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Digital nomads who are temporarily in the country are typically charged 20% tax or less but this rate is adjusted according to the income of the remote worker. However, the biggest benefit of being a digital nomad in Portugal is that they can qualify and obtain a Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) which has these benefits:
- No taxes on foreign incomes.
- Income earned in Portugal is charged at 20% tax compared to 48% for citizens.
- A social contribution of 10% which is less than the norm.
The NHR status is valid for 10 years, which means there is no need to pay tax during this time—digital nomads only need to confirm their status every year—however, only new tax residents qualify for NHR.
To qualify for NHR status, digital nomads must live in Portugal for at least 183 days in a year and either rent or own property.
Before NHR status is granted, register as a taxpayer in the NIF system and apply for the status no later than March 31 of the year after which residence has been changed. 7
Amenities for Remote Workers in Portugal (Internet Connectivity, Coworking Spaces, Banking, Healthcare)
Portugal is among the top locations for digital nomads not only because of its excellent climate and relatively lower standard of living, but the support infrastructure it has in place to support remote workers thus ensuring a thriving digital nomad community. These amenities include superior internet connection and abundant coworking spaces.
Internet Connectivity in Portugal
Portugal has an efficient internet connection compared to the rest of Europe with some locations boasting up to 1GB in download speeds. Speedtest rates Portugal as having the 29th fastest average internet speeds in the world with fixed broadband download speeds rated at 126.09 Mbps and 43rd in the world in terms of mobile speeds with an average of 51.66 Mbps. There are many major 1GB connections in cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve
Coworking Spaces in Portugal
Portugal has a well-developed infrastructure in place that supports coworking spaces and has a flourishing ecosystem for this type of office space. A coworking space is an office-like setting where workers from different companies share an office space and amenities like Wi-Fi, equipment and in some cases reception, custodian and mail acceptance services. 8
Coworking spaces are an essential service for digital nomads to work from efficiently rather than working from home or off their hotel rooms.
Most of the major cities in Portugal have plenty of coworking spaces including Lisbon, Porto and Braga. Examples of Coworking spaces in Portugal include:
- Lisbon– Heden, Outsite, WorkHub, Lisbon-Cowork, MU Workspace and Village Underground Lisboa.
- Porto— Selina Navis CoWork, Temporada, Synergy Porto and Facts Coworking.
- Braga– Factory Braga, Regus and Green Utopia.
- Faro— Alandra Square
- Madeira—Cowork Funchal, Centro Cultural John dos Passos and Quinta de Cabeço Alto
Banking in Portugal
The official currency of Portugal is the Euro and the country has an advanced banking system with the country’s central bank, Banco de Portugal at the helm of the system. A majority of Portuguese banks allow non-residents to open bank accounts with foreign addresses.
Not all banks allow certain nationalities such as U.S. citizens to open bank accounts, it is therefore best to contact the institution beforehand; there are also tax related considerations that must be taken into account. Portugal digital nomad visa holders should not have any issues opening bank accounts in the country as they are considered legal long term residents.
Portuguese banks typically allow individuals to open accounts remotely which is ideal for digital nomads who are still yet to fly into Portugal. Additionally, most of these banks allow online and mobile banking as is customary in advanced economies.
There are well over 150 banks in Portugal, some of which are international banks but the list below is a reference and starting point for the choices available to remote workers.
- Activo Bank
- Banco Montepio
- Banco Português de Investimento (BPI)
- Caixa Geral de Depósitos
- Millennium BCP
- Novobanco
- Abanca (International)
- Banco Santander Totta (International)
- Barclays Bank (International)
- BNP Paribas (International)
- Citi Portugal (International)
- Deutsche Bank (International)
Opening a bank account in Portugal generally requires three documents: valid ID such as a passport, proof of address such as a utility bill and a NIF number.
Healthcare in Portugal
Portuguese citizens enjoy good health and have increased life expectancies due to all residents (citizens and legal residents) having access to the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), the Portuguese national healthcare system. 9 This effectively gives citizens and legal residents free health care.
In spite of the requirement of health insurance, once digital nomads obtain their resident permit, they may register with the SNS and request an SNS number and are entitled to a European Health Insurance Card. 10
While medical care is free, some nominal fees will need to be paid when visiting a doctor or the emergency room and they range in the US $6.00 to US $22.00 range. The health professionals in Portuguese healthcare institutions are highly qualified and hospitals have state-of-the-art resources and medical equipment.
The downside of free medical care is that emergency rooms are packed and there may be a wait of a few hours to see a doctor.
Benefits of Holding a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
There are many benefits of holding a Portugal digital nomad visa such as being able to travel in the Schengen area—they are summarized below.
- A fast and easy application process that can lead to a visa in 2-5 months for the applicant and their family.
- Visa free travel in the Schengen area as enjoyed by Portuguese citizens.
- Ability to migrate to Portugal by becoming permanent residents or citizens.
- Eligibility to obtain a tax-free status for ten years through the Portuguese Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) Program.
- Access to free high quality health care and education.
- Children born to digital nomads who have been resident for one year are automatically granted Portuguese citizenship.
Can a D8, D7 or D2 Visa Holder Become a Permanent Resident and Become Naturalized?
All categories of the visas outlined earlier including the exclusive D8 Portugal digital nomad visa can allow the holder to either become a permanent resident or citizen of Portugal. Resident permits can be renewed every two years after the first-year renewal. Once an individual has been a legal resident of Portugal for five years, they may either apply for a permanent residency or choose to become citizens.
Digital nomads who choose to become naturalized must be able to pass a test to demonstrate that they have a basic grasp of the Portuguese language. Portugal allows for dual citizenship and there is no need to give up the citizenship of your home country.
Alternative Countries in Europe That Offer Digital Nomad Visas
Other than this extremely popular destination with digital nomads, Europe has plenty of offerings for remote workers. From Germany to Albania, this continent offers more digital nomad options than any other in the world. Here is a list of countries that Portugal digital nomad visa holders can choose as their next destination.
Georgia—Georgia has two visas that are ideal for digital nomads and allow the remote worker a stay for up to a year. The first one needs the digital nomad to make US $2,000 a year but after 183 days of consecutive residency, they will be taxed 20% of their income. The second option is the Individual Entrepreneur Program that taxes only 1% of business incomes that top US $155,000.
Croatia—Croatia has a residence permit that is valid for a year and costs only US $90 to apply. Digital nomads need to bring in US $2,232 monthly and add 10% for a spouse or dependent.
Czech Republic—The Czech Republic’s digital nomad offering is the Zivno which is valid for 1 year that is free to apply but the applicant must have a trade license from one of these trades. Monthly income requirements are set at US $1,500.
Estonia—Estonia was the first country in Europe and the world to offer a digital nomad visa known as the digital nomad and freelancer visa. The visa has two options, one being valid for 90 days and costing US $80 and the other having giving remote workers twelve months of residency in the country and priced at US $100. The Estonia digital nomad visa gives remote workers access to a digital economy of unparalleled beauty.
Iceland—Iceland’s long term visa can be utilized by digital nomads and is valid for 6 months if applied within Iceland and 3 months if sought in the Schengen area. It has a very high monthly income requirement at US $7,777, well beyond the reach of many nomads.
Germany—Germany’s answer to a remote visa is the Aufenthaltserlaubnis für selbständige Tätigkeit that is valid for a whooping 3 years but with an alternative 6 months option that is renewable. The visa costs US $106 but there are no clearly defined income requirements. However, since Germany has a high standard of living, it must be assumed the income prerequisites would incline towards the higher side.
Norway—Norway has a visa that is not catered but is rather suited to the digital nomad known as the Independent Contractor Visa and is valid for 2 years, but can be extended to make it 3 years. It costs US $610 and has an annual income requirement of US $39,000, well within the reach of many remote workers and freelancers.
Spain—Spain has finally launched a digital nomad visa in 2023. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to 5 years, which means just like its neighbor Portugal, a digital nomad can transition into permanent residency and eventual citizenship. Monthly income requirements for now are set at US $2,600 and it costs US $90 to procure the visa.
Malta—This Mediterranean nation’s digital nomad visa known as the Nomad Residency Permit is issued for one year but can be renewed. Applicants have to prove they make US $3,000 every month and the visa costs US $300.
Greece—This popular tourist European destination has two digital nomad visa programs, but the Greece digital nomad visa for non-EU/EEA citizens has an appeal for many remote workers since they mostly tend to come from outside the Eurozone. It is valid for one year but can be extended up twice giving it a grand total of 3 years. Applicants must prove they make US $3,700 and the visa costs US $160 inclusive of administrative costs.
Romania— Romania’s digital nomad visa is valid for one year and requires the holder to prove they make US $3,500 per month.
Hungary—Hungary’s white card has a low monthly income requirement of US $ 2,200 and is valid for one year and can be extended for another year. It is only ideal for single remote workers as it does not give the option to move with dependents whether spouses or children.
Cyprus—Cyprus’s digital nomad visa program is unique in that it has a limited number of permits that are issued to just 500 making it an exclusive offering. It is valid for one year but has an option to extend it for two more years. It costs US $75 for the visa and an additional fee that is applied to the alien registry.
Latvia—Latvia’s digital nomad visa is only eligible for remote workers whose employer or business is registered in a Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) country. Examples of OECD countries include the U.S., U.K. and Canada. The visa is valid for 12 months but can be extended for another year. This digital nomad visa costs US $65 and US $130 for an expedited application; the applicant should make 2.5 times the average wage of a Latvian which is US $1,050.
Albania— This Eastern European nation has launched a visa that is valid for 1 year and can be extended up to 5 years. Remote workers are eligible for permanent residency after 5 years. Cost for the program and income requirements have still not been published, but will be updated as soon information is out.
The Portugal digital nomad visa gives remote workers access to one of the most digital, low cost of living and picturesque countries in Europe—it also gives the option to permanently settle in the country for digital nomads that cannot resist its allure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Minimum Salary Requirements for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?
The D8 which is the designated Portugal digital nomad visa has a minimum salary requirement of US $3,300 and an additional US $1,650 for a spouse and US $900 for child dependents. If digital nomads opt for the D2 or DB, then they are required to have a minimum of US $9,000 annually with an additional US $4,500 for a spouse and US $2,700 for child dependents.
Can I Apply for the D8 Visa Abroad?
Yes, the visas are applied for at embassies or consulates in foreign countries. Residence permits are then issued a few months upon arrival in the country. It is also possible to apply for the visa in Portugal, but the applicant cannot leave the state for two years.
Is It Possible To Work for a US Company in Portugal Remotely?
Yes, remote workers are allowed to work for foreign companies including the U.S. when holding a visa.
Portugal vs Spain: Which Is the Better Destination for a Digital Nomad?
This depends on the goals and preferences for the remote worker. Those looking to migrate have a better option in Portugal since they can eventually become residents or citizens in a shorter time. For residents to become Spanish citizens, they must have lived in the country for ten years as opposed to five years in Portugal. However, both countries are cultural, have great food scenes and similar weather.
What Is the Processing Time for the D2 Visa?
The D2 visa is typically processed within 60 days upon which the visa is stamped onto the passport.
Are the D7 Visa Requirements Difficult To Meet?
Anyone can qualify for the D7 visa as long they fulfill the minimum income requirements and satisfy other prerequisites such as not having a criminal history.
Can Dependents and Spouses Be Included in the Visa?
Yes, dependents and spouses can be included in the visa and receive the same privileges as the applicant.
What Is the Cost of the D8 Visa in Portugal?
It costs US $100 to procure the D8 visa and an additional US $165 to obtain the resident permit once in Portugal. These costs do not however factor in other expenses such as obtaining an NIF Portuguese Tax number.
What Is the Validity for the Portugal Remote Worker Visa?
The D8 digital visa is valid for one year, but can be extended up to 5 years after which the holder can opt to become a permanent resident or citizen.
Can the D8 Visa Be Extended?
Yes, the Portugal digital nomad visa can be extended up to five years.
What Are the Differences Between the Portugal Temporary Visa and a Tourist Visa?
A Portugal temporary visa (D8) allows the holder to live and work remotely in Portugal for up to a year with an option to extend this to five years. Tourist visas on the other hand are shorter stay affording the holder 90 days and they may not work or perform certain activities such as opening a bank account.
Do You Require COVID 19 Tests or Certificates To Enter Portugal?
A Covid 19 test or proof of vaccination is not required to enter Portugal.
Is Portugal Safe and When Is the Best Time To Visit?
Portugal is among the safest countries in the world with very low crime rates. The best time to visit Portugal is during the months of March to May and September with gorgeous weather and a peaceful atmosphere.
References
[1] Government, P. (2022, June 1). “Portugal’s ambition is to be considered a true digital nation”. Retrieved 2023, from https://www.portugal.gov.pt/en/gc23/communication/news-item?i=portugals-ambition-is-to-be-considered-a-true-digital-nation
[2] State, U. D. (2023, July 26). Portugal International Travel Information. Retrieved 2023, from https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html
[3] Commission, E. (2023). Am I eligible to apply for a Blue Card? Retrieved 2023, from https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/blue-card/portugal_en
[4] Commission, E. (2023). Portugal – Highly-qualified worker. Retrieved 2023, from https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/portugal-highly-qualified-worker_en
[5] Affairs, R. o.-M. (2020). Startup Visa. Retrieved 2023, from https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/startup-visa
[6] Portugal., T. d. (2013). Winter Sun. Retrieved 2023, from https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/winter-sun
[7] Portugal, e. -G. (2023). Applying for a taxpayer identification number (NIF) for a natural person. Retrieved 2023, from https://eportugal.gov.pt/en/servicos/pedir-o-numero-de-identificacao-fiscal-para-pessoa-singular
[8] Travis Howell, C. B. (2019, March). COWORKING SPACES: WORKING ALONE, TOGETHER. Retrieved 2023, from https://www.kenaninstitute.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Coworking_04042019.pdf
[9] Pedro Pita Barros, S. R. (2011). Portugal. Health system review. Retrieved 2023, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22222781/
[10] Portugal, G. o. (2023). Migrants: Healthcare in Portugal. Retrieved 2023, from https://eportugal.gov.pt/en/migrantes-viver-e-trabalhar-em-portugal/migrantes-cuidados-de-saude-em-portugal