Digital Nomad Visa Portugal: Essential Things You Need to Know

Interested in applying for the new digital nomad visa in Portugal? If so, you'll first need to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements set out by the Portuguese government. Portugal's newly-announced digital nomad visa effectively bridges the gap between a standard tourist visa and an indefinite residency visa. It enables foreign workers to legally spend time in Portugal while working remotely, and supporting themselves without taking jobs from Portuguese employers. The digital nomad lifestyle has become particularly popular since the pandemic, with millions of people having found new ways to support their lifestyles without the need for fixed workplaces. Some have reached agreements with their employers to work 100% remotely, while others have set up their own businesses online, or gone into business as freelancers. In all instances, digital nomads enjoy the freedom to work from any location in the world, using nothing but a laptop computer and a reliable Internet connection. Given its fabulous climate and comparatively low living costs, it's easy to understand why so many have set their sights on living and working (temporarily or otherwise) in Portugal. To date, 11 countries within the EU have introduced some sort of digital nomad visa. Portugaisng the most recent, and is once again at the forefront of EU nations making it as straightforward as possible for remote workers to enter and reside in the country legally.

There are several different entry pathways to Portugal for remote workers, each with its own eligibility requirements and entitlements where granted. The Temporary Stay Visa provides successful applicants with the right to stay in Portugal for up to a year, and can be renewed as many times as necessary. It is open to freelancers, self-employed individuals, and business owners, who are permitted to travel in and out of Portugal as they like, with no specific restrictions. Eligibility for this digital nomad visa is assessed primarily on the basis of income level. Guidelines published by the Portuguese government state that digital nomads must earn four times the national minimum wage to qualify, equating to just over 2800 per month. Bank statements and/or tax returns may need to be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Portugal as part of the application process, as proof of sufficient earnings.

Alternatively, a Residence Visa is aimed at those who intend to stay in Portugal for a more extensive period, ultimately paving the way for permanent residency. It can also be the ideal pathway for anyone who would like to eventually obtain Portuguese citizenship. Eligibility requirements for this particular visa are more extensive, as it is aimed more at individuals in conventional employment. Along with earning a minimum of 2800 per month, the applicant must also have a NIF and Portuguese bank account, provide proof of personal tax residence in Portugal, submit a copy of an employment contract from a registered employer based outside the country, and sufficient payslips or bank statements to verify their monthly income. In order for freelancers or self-employed workers to qualify under this pathway, contracts must be provided to prove they are working with clients.

Another potential pathway into the country for non-EU citizens working as digital nomads is the Portugal D7 Visa—aka Passive Income Visa. As the name suggests, this visa is aimed at digital nomads who have passive income from abroad, which can include any combination of pension income, dividends, rental income, or royalties. Eligibility requirements under the D7 pathway are slightly different, as the applicant only needs to provide evidence of passive income on the same level as the Portuguese minimum wage—currently 705 per month. This increases by a further 50% if looking to bring a spouse into Portugal under the same pathway, and 30% more for every dependent child. In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Portugal will expect to see evidence of sufficient savings to support yourself and your family in Portugal, in the event that your passive income is for any reason cut off. All such money must be deposited and readily available in a qualifying Portuguese bank account—typically to a minimum of one year's salary (plus 50% more for a spouse and 30% more for every dependent child).