Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Your Ultimate Guide to Working Remotely

Portugal has become hugely popular among those who want to live, work, or retire in a foreign country. Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa is an attractive prospect for those who can do their jobs online.

As of 2022, the Portugal Digital Nomad (D8) Visa caters to the growing number of remote workers, allowing them to secure residency by demonstrating a monthly income of around €3,040. This visa allows digital nomads or remote workers to legally reside in Portugal while working for foreign clients or companies. The key requirements include providing a stable income and documentation such as employment contracts or proof of self-employment.

In this article, we’ll explore why this visa offers an excellent opportunity for digital nomads, the requirements for a successful application, and some of the best places to live in Portugal as a remote worker.

Digital Nomad Portugal Income Requirements

The minimum income requirement for the D8 Visa is a crucial criterion that ensures applicants have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in Portugal.

This requirement is designed to demonstrate that you can live comfortably in Portugal without relying on local employment or social assistance.

Minimum Amount: The minimum income requirement is set at four times the national minimum wage in Portugal, which is currently €3,280. Additionally, the applicant needs to have 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.

Proof of Income: In order to fulfill this requirement, you must submit proof of your income for the recent months. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or tax returns. The documents should clearly demonstrate that your income meets or surpasses the necessary threshold.

Consistency of Income: It’s crucial to show that your income is consistent and stable. For instance, providing bank statements for the past three to six months that display regular deposits from your employer, clients, or business activities will help confirm that you have a reliable source of income.

Source of Income: The income should come from a source outside of Portugal, such as a foreign employer, freelance clients, or a business you own that operates internationally. This ensures that your financial support is not dependent on local Portuguese resources.

Proof of Accomodation for D8 Visa

You must provide evidence of your accommodation in Portugal, which 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.

For a temporary stay visa, you need a rental lease of at least four months, and for a long-stay visa, you need a lease of at least 12 months. The documentation should clearly state the address of the property, the duration of the rental or stay, and the names of the tenants or occupants. If you are renting, the agreement should also include the rental amount and payment terms.

If you are staying with a friend or family member, you may need a signed declaration from your host confirming that they will provide accommodation. This declaration should include their address, the duration of your stay, and their contact details.

How to find a place to stay in Portugal?

When it comes to finding the best places in Portugal for digital nomads, there are several options to consider. Do you want to live alone, with other digital nomads, or in shared accommodation? Keep in mind that prices will vary based on your preferences and the location you choose.

The real estate market in Portugal has seen significant investment, especially in Lisbon and Porto. In these cities, you can find new Airbnb units that are perfect for digital nomads. In coastal areas, there are comfortable hotels and hostels just a short walk from the beach.

If you venture further inland, it may be more challenging to find suitable accommodation. To help with your search, there are a couple of websites you can use, which we show below. You can also find apartments through a quick Google search, on Booking.com, and on Facebook. Additionally, consider joining digital nomad Facebook groups, as there are a few in Lisbon and Porto.

Airbnb

Expats and digital nomads have more choices than they once did when it comes to accommodation options. Portugal has invested heavily in real estate and infrastructure. Lisbon has ample chic apartments in the heart of the city, as does Porto. Increasingly other cities are picking up speed, such as in Braga, where you can also find exceptional Airbnb apartments. 

Some important tips when using Airbnb in Portugal are the following:

• You may find better deals if you book for a longer time period. 
• Negotiate with the host for a better deal. 
• Try to book early to avoid busy seasons (e.g. visiting tourists in summer). 

Digitalnomads.pt

Digitalnomads.pt is a portal that was built by nomads for other nomads and has listings that you will not be able to find on other websites. The range of apartments is very good in all manner of locations — city or beach.  They are also tailored towards digital nomads, so they will likely have fast internet, nice amenities, and comfortable beds. 

D8 Visa Application Process

The process for applying for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa is somewhat similar to applying for the D7 Passive Income Visa, the D2 Entrepreneur Visa, and the Portuguese Golden Visa. In all instances, you must gather the required documents and apply through the Portuguese Consulate or VFS in your country.

Step 1: Before you begin your Portugal D8 Visa application, make sure you have all the required documents ready. If you are using documents issued by non-EU countries in another country, they need to be officially authenticated by an Apostille from the country of issuance. In addition to the various requirements outlined above, you must also include the following documents in your application:

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

Step 2: Complete the Application for National Visa form with detailed personal and financial information. Make sure that the information on the form matches the details in your supporting documents. Also, specify how you would like your passport to be returned to you after the application process.

Step 3: Remember to submit your application, supporting documents, and the Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa fee at your local Portuguese Consulate. In some countries, you can book an appointment with VFS Global, which operates as the official partner of the Embassy of Portugal and functions like a local Portuguese Embassy.

Step 4: Your visa is usually processed in 60 days. After your Digital Nomad Visa is approved, you will receive a confirmation email. You can collect your passport and Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa from the location where you applied, or you can choose to have them sent to you via secure post. You can now legally enter Portugal and start working as a Digital Nomad.

Digital Nomad Visa cost

The exact visa fees for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa may vary depending on your country of application and local currency fluctuations. However, the application fee for the Digital Nomad Visa is generally €93, while the residence permit fee is €170.

Please note that there may be additional costs for document authentication through Apostille, translation, and certification of translated documents. These expenses can vary significantly from country to country.

What are the Benefits of Portugal’s Digital Nomad 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. 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 member of the Schengen Area, allowing for passport-free travel across many European countries. Those holding a Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal can enjoy the benefit of traveling visa-free to other EU member states.

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
The long-stay version of the 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.

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.

Living in Portugal

As an expat in Portugal, the cost of living is relatively affordable —and is considered one of the key draws for many retirees, families, freelancers, and independent workers.
Both eating out and cooking from home are very affordable. While it varies largely by region, you should be able to have lunch, coffee, and dessert for as little as €5 – €7 in local eateries. Public transport is also relatively cheap, making it easy to get around in the cities and across the country.

Note that Lisbon has its own price range. While still considered very affordable by many expats, the prices are notably different from other areas of the country. 

Internet

Portugal has the 17th fastest internet connection in the world, with an access speed of 34.5 megabits per second. There is an extensive network of Wi-Fi hotspots, excellent internet cafés and brunch places, and hostels. 

Banking in Portugal

If you are a digital nomad planning to move to Portugal, be advised to register with one of the international banks in the country. They will have an advanced banking system that includes one of the most advanced collaborative bank networks in the world through Multibanco.

You are able to open a bank account online, and the important digital banks to consider are N26, Bunq, and Revolut. You can have constant access to your funds and instant updates on your accounts. 

Transportation

Portugal has a well-developed and affordable transportation system, and it is very easy to get around the country. The three main airports are Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. The bus and train services are also very good, enabling you to get across the country easily.

Lisbon and Porto each have a very fast metro system in place, making it quick to get around the cities. Uber and taxis are also widely available in larger cities. You can also rent a car at an affordable rate, particularly if it is off-season. This is particularly useful for visiting some of Portugal’s stunning beaches. 

Leisure and lifestyle

When it comes to lifestyle in Portugal, you can expect to find a relaxed pace of life, where the small things are greatly appreciated. The Portuguese are very good at taking time to enjoy a coffee in the morning with a sweet treat, such as a pastel de nata, or going for drinks in the early evening to enjoy a glorious sunset.  

The country has an excellent cuisine, typical of the Mediterranean with fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish at the center of their dishes. Music and art are also greatly appreciated in the country, and we expect to find many exciting exhibitions in Lisbon, Porto, and other larger cities. 

The climate is perhaps one of the key draws for expats in Portugal. Indeed, it is largely possible to spend time outside every month of the year because of the mild climate and abundance of sunny days.

This is excellent for the adventurous types of watersport lovers as there is always something to get involved with — cycling, surfing, hiking, and the list goes on. You also have many places to enjoy yoga, cooking classes, and many types of musical events, from concerts with international stars to quiet nights of Fado music.

The beautiful beaches and landscapes are outstanding and, as Portugal is a relatively small country, you should find it easy to explore the country. 

Best Destinations for Digital Nomads in Portugal

Portugal boasts an array of stunning destinations, from the vibrant energy of Lisbon and the historical charm of Porto, to the serene coastal towns along the Silver Coast. There is much to entice expats and we will highlight some of our top picks.

Lisbon

There is no place in the world like Lisbon. With excellent food and popular nightlife, there is a vibrant buzz around Lisbon that makes it very difficult not to enjoy yourself in the city. Whether you are looking for a historic, quiet neighborhood or a more happening neighborhood, the capital of Portugal will have you covered. You can see our guide to the best neighborhoods in Lisbon.

Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is nothing short of a gem. Porto is more affordable than Lisbon, and it is said that the people in the North of Portugal are the friendliest in the country. One thing is for sure: The Douro River and the lit-up wine houses make the city very special, and the abundance of coworking spaces make it a favorite with expats.

Ericeira and Peniche

Ericeira probably tops the list for being a digital nomad on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Ericeira is popular with surfers and is gradually becoming a digital nomad hub with excellent accommodation and coworking spaces to enjoy. An added bonus is that Ericeira is less than an hour away from Lisbon, so you will also be able to enjoy the perks of the city; plus, the Ericeira Portugal real estate market offers a range of property types, with many offering stunning ocean views. Peniche is also an excellent location, a quiet place to live that feels very local, but that also has very good surf spots.

The Algarve

There are many locations in the Algarve that are geared up for digital expats. From Faro in the center of the Algarve to Lagos, in the west, the Algarve provides you with the sun, beaches, vibrant nightlife, watersports, and a very good nightlife scene.

Coimbra

Coimbra is probably the best for digital nomads who really 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 the social scene can be excellent. To top it off, Coimbra has some of the best architecture in the country, excellent for inspiration and to get ideas flowing. To the northeast of Coimbra, Guarda is also a top city to consider relocating to, with properties in this part of Portugal extremely affordable. Check out our article on Buying Property in Guarda for more information.

Best Co-Working Spaces in Portugal

Across the country, there are many coworking places in Portugal. However, they do tend to be focused in Lisbon, Porto, Ericeira, Peniche, and other locations that are popular with expats. Here we’ll provide you with some of our favorites. 

Porto i/o

Porto i/o is a good option in Porto, where you can get to know and socialize with other digital nomads. The offices have four locations: Douro Riverside, downtown, Santa Catarina, and by the seaside. Get your creative juices flowing by attending their regular schedule of lectures, workshops, and informative talks. 

Liberdade229

Liberdade229 is located in central Lisbon and has spacious offices with plenty of natural life. With a communal kitchen, it is easy to meet fellow digital nomads here. 

Largo

Largo is a friendly and affordable coworking hub in a quiet area of Peniche. Alongside these, there is Avila Spaces Lisbon, Typographia in Porto, Base Cowork in Leiria, and Factory Braga. Make sure you dig a little deeper into ones that are of interest to you, to find the best possible coworking space for your needs. 

Quick Tips For Digital Nomads In Portugal & How to Save Money

Working out the ins and outs of any country can be difficult at first, and Portugal is no different. Here are some tips and tricks for making the most of being a digital nomad in the country.

• Portugal has a very good healthcare system, and the faculty also extends to digital nomads. If you have jumped through all the residency formalities, then you will be able to access the healthcare system 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.
• Try to shop locally and avoid buying imported products to save money.
• Country markets and stalls offer excellent produce, where you are helping the local businesses and will often find cheaper products and establish relationships with the seller.

Other Residency Visa Options

How to get Portuguese residency other than through the Digital Nomad Visa? If you think that you will spend more than one year in Portugal, then consider the Portugal D2 Visa and the Portugal D7 Visa.

A third type, the Portugal Golden Visa, is also an option if you are looking to invest a substantial amount of money into Portugal in return for residency. There are a variety of investment options, such as job creation, investment funds, or the cultural production visa Portugal, whereby you can secure a Golden Visa by investing in an eligible cultural project.

The Portugal D2 Visa

The Portugal D2 Visa is perfect for you if you are looking to establish a business presence in Portugal or carry out business activities in the country. Some form of investment is needed and business activities qualify. This visa type is good for entrepreneurs who intend to use Portugal as their base country. You can also apply for the Portugal D2 Visa as an independent worker. To be eligible, you will need to show proof of your services.

Portugal D7 Visa

The Portugal D7 Visa allows you to live in Portugal without the need to have any investment activities or business presence in the country. This visa is very good for retirees, but as a digital nomad, you can still benefit from this visa type.

You will simply need to show that you have passive income amounting to €820 per month and show your bank statements for the past six months to testify this. Passive income can include investment funds, rental income from properties that you own, share dividends, and royalties. In essence, you need to demonstrate that you are able to live in Portugal through your passive income.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

• Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
• Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
• Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
• Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.