Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Everything You Need to Know

While digital nomads have been around as long as the internet, the term was popularized in 1997 by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners. These days digital nomad visas have gained popularity in recent years as more people have embraced remote work and are looking to combine their work with travel and exploration.

These visas are often offered in several countries as a way to:

• Attract skilled professionals
• Boost the economy
• Promote tourism

The rise of remote work opportunities, advancements in technology, and changes in work culture have contributed to the popularization of the nomad lifestyle. The Portugal digital nomad visa was created with these changes in mind.

These individuals are often able to work from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing them to explore different cultures, experience new environments, and maintain a work-life balance that suits their preferences. So keep reading to find out what it takes to become a digital nomad in Portugal.

What Is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa allows individuals to live and work remotely in a foreign country for an extended period of time. This visa is specifically designed for people who work online, telecommute, or engage in freelance work and do not need to be physically present at a specific workplace.

Portugal has two visa types suitable for digital nomads:

• A Temporary-stay-visa
• A D7 Passive income visa

The Portugal digital nomad visa requirements for these types may differ, so it is advised to research the available options that will suit your needs best.

The Temporary-Stay Visa

The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (Temporary Stay Visa) was launched on 30 October 2022 by the Portuguese government. Your employment organization must be registered outside the country to be eligible for this visa option.

This visa type was designed specifically for digital nomads. The Temporary-stay visa allows individuals to reside in Portugal while continuing their remote work, provided they generate a minimum monthly income of €3,040.

This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed up to four times, allowing for a maximum stay of five years. During the first four years of your stay, you’ll enjoy a reduced tax rate of 15%, as opposed to the standard Portuguese rate of 25%.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Temporary Stay Visa, you have to meet a few requirements. These requirements include, but are not limited to:

• You have to be 18 years or older
• Proof of remote or self-employment
• Proof of financial resources
• Clear criminal record
• Travel and medical insurance, as requested

The D7 Passive Income Visa

This visa type was initially tailored for retirees with passive incomes. The D7 Passive income visa can also be an option for digital nomads and remote workers.

Initially granted for 120 days, you’ll need to visit the SEF (Servico de Estangeiros e Fronteiras) within this period to receive a two-year residence permit.

This visa and residence permit provide unrestricted access to the Schengen area, similar to the privileges of an EU citizen. You can include your spouse and dependent children, extending the benefits of the visa to them.

Demonstrating sufficient external income to sustain yourself and your family is mandatory. This requirement equates to a minimum annual income of €8,460. If accompanied by a spouse, an additional 50% of that amount (€4,230 per year) is needed, along with a supplementary 30% for a dependent child (€2,538 per year).

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient passive income or financial resources to support themselves and any dependents without needing to work locally in Portugal. This is included in your needed Portugal nomad visa documents.

The visa is typically intended for individuals with passive income sources, such as investments, rental income, pensions, or other sources of income generated outside of Portugal. You’ll need proof of this passive income to qualify.

You need to show that your passive income is above a certain threshold to support your living expenses. This minimum income requirement might vary and should be confirmed with the relevant authorities.

Applicants should not intend to seek employment in Portugal during their stay.

Having valid health insurance that covers medical expenses during your stay in Portugal is generally a requirement. You might also need to provide a clean criminal record certificate from your home country.

If you’re granted an initial visa, you’ll need to visit the SEF to obtain a residence permit, which allows you to stay in Portugal for a longer period.

Application Process

The application process to become a digital nomad in Portugal include documents like:

• Proof of income
• Health insurance
• Criminal record check

It’s important to note that visa requirements and eligibility criteria can change. The different types of digital nomad visas also have different requirements.

It’s recommended to check with the official Portuguese government website for the most accurate information. You can also contact the consulate or embassy to ask about Portugal digital nomad visa requirements.

Consider a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Whether you are already living in Portugal or simply looking into the requirements for a Portugal digital nomad visa, you have to consider your options. You have to have all your Portugal nomad visa documents ready to ensure your digital nomad visa gets approved. It’s also important to consider the different types of digital nomad visas, as they might have different requirements.

We’re always looking to get in touch with our readers, so contact us today with any forum questions or article ideas. Our content is mainly written by expats who want to share their knowledge.