Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8): 2025 Guide

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 11 June, 2025

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length One year

Possible to extend? Yes

Who can apply? Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

Minimum Income Requirements At least €2,800 per month for an individual

Time for visa applications 3-4 months

Want to know if you can apply?

Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!

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If you’ve ever dreamed of working remotely from Portugal—think ocean views, cobblestone streets, and pastel de nata on your coffee break—the D8 Visa might be your ticket.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to live and work legally in Portugal as a digital nomad.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) Overview

The Portugal D8 Visa, commonly referred to as the Digital Nomad Visa, is a residence visa created for remote workers, freelancers, and independent contractors who earn income from outside Portugal. Introduced in October 2022, the D8 allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to legally live in Portugal while working remotely.

There are two versions of the D8 Visa:

• Temporary Stay Visa: Valid for up to 1 year, renewable for short periods. Ideal for digital nomads who want to try living in Portugal without committing long-term.

• Residency Visa: Valid initially for 4 months, after which you apply for a 2-year residence permit. This option can be renewed and eventually lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a stable remote income, meet minimum earnings thresholds, and provide documentation proving they work for a foreign employer, operate a business, or freelance for international clients.

This visa is one of the most accessible digital nomad options in Europe, combining lifestyle perks with a clear path to longer-term residency.

Who Can Apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?

The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) is available to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who work remotely and earn income from outside Portugal. If you're a freelancer, remote employee, or business owner working with foreign clients or companies, and you meet the income requirements, you’re likely eligible to apply, regardless of your nationality.

U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders

U.S. citizens can apply for the D8 visa through their local Portuguese consulate. Green Card holders can also apply, but they must ensure their U.S. residency permit is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay in Portugal. All applicants must meet the minimum monthly income requirement of around €3,280/month gross.

Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand Citizens

Citizens of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are fully eligible to apply under the same terms as U.S. citizens, provided they meet the income and documentation requirements.

EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

If you're from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to live and work in Portugal. However, if you stay more than 90 days, you’ll need to register your residence locally (via AIMA, formerly SEF) within 30 days of arrival.

Citizens of Other Countries

If you’re from another country outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you can also apply for the D8 visa as long as you meet the eligibility criteria, including proof of remote income and accommodation in Portugal.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Requirements (D8 Visa)

Before applying for Portugal’s D8 Digital Nomad Visa, it’s important to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and have all your documents in order. Here's what you’ll need to qualify and apply successfully.

To qualify for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, you must:

• Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen

• Work remotely as a salaried employee, contractor, freelancer, or business owner for clients or companies outside Portugal

• Earn a monthly income of at least €3,280 (gross) — equivalent to four times the Portuguese minimum wage

• Have a clean criminal record

• Show proof of accommodation in Portugal for at least 12 months

Once you arrive in Portugal, you must also obtain a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and open a local bank account before applying for your residence permit.

Proof of Remote Income

You must show that you meet the income threshold. Depending on your work situation, you can submit:

• Remote employees: employment contract + last 3 months of payslips or bank statements

• Freelancers or business owners: client contracts, invoices, business registration certificate, and/or bank statements

• Retirees or passive earners: pension statements or investment income proof

If you’re bringing family, you must show additional income:

• +50% for a spouse (€1,640/month)

• +30% per dependent child (€984/month)

Proof of Accommodation

You must present a valid lease, hotel booking, Airbnb reservation, or a signed letter from a host in Portugal. Ideally, this should cover 12 months, but shorter stays (e.g. 6 months) with a written explanation may be accepted at the consulate’s discretion.

NIF (Portuguese Tax Number)

You’ll need a NIF to open a bank account and apply for residency. It can be obtained:

• In person at a Finanças (Tax Office) or Loja do Cidadão

• Via a local representative or lawyer if applying remotely

Required: passport, proof of address, and visa (if applicable).

Portuguese Bank Account

Open a bank account before your SEF/AIMA appointment. Most banks require:

• Passport

• NIF

• Proof of address

• Proof of income

Some expats use online-friendly banks like ActivoBank or Millennium BCP.

Full Health Insurance

Provide proof of health insurance valid in Portugal, covering:

• A minimum of €30,000

• You and any dependents for at least the first four months

You can switch to a local plan once your residence permit is issued.

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans for digital nomads here.

Criminal Background Check

Submit a clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence (and any countries where you’ve lived in the past 5 years). It must:

• Be issued within the last 90 days

• Include an Apostille

• Be translated into Portuguese (if not already) and legalized by the Portuguese consulate.

Minimum Stay Requirement

To maintain your D8 residence permit, you must spend at least 183 days per year in Portugal and maintain your tax residency there.

How to Apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps, both in your home country and once you arrive in Portugal. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you navigate the process:

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before applying, prepare the following required documents:

• Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)

• Completed national visa application form (available from your Portuguese consulate)

• Proof of remote income (contracts, payslips, or business documents showing at least €3,280/month)

• Bank statements from the last 3 months

• Proof of accommodation in Portugal for 12 months

• Proof of health insurance with €30,000 coverage

• Criminal background check (with Apostille + official translation if required)

• NIF (Portuguese tax number)

• Portuguese bank account details

• Cover letter explaining your remote work, reason for choosing Portugal, and intent to comply with visa terms

Step 2: Apply at the Portuguese Consulate in Your Country

You must apply for the D8 visa before entering Portugal, at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

• Book an appointment early — wait times can vary from a few weeks to a few months.

• Submit your documents in person at the appointment.

• Pay the visa fee, which is usually around €90–€120.

Once approved, you’ll receive a 120-day visa that allows you to enter Portugal and attend your residency interview.

Step 3: Travel to Portugal

After receiving your visa, you can enter Portugal and begin preparing for your residence permit application.

• You’ll need to attend an appointment with AIMA (formerly SEF) during your 120-day window.

• You may receive the appointment date in your visa documents or be asked to schedule it yourself.

Step 4: Attend Your AIMA (SEF) Appointment

At your appointment, you’ll submit your biometric data and finalize your residence permit application.

Bring the same documents you submitted for your visa, along with any updated paperwork. Your permit is typically valid for two years, renewable for an additional three years.

Step 5: Register as a Resident and Settle In

Once you receive your residence card:

• Register your local address at the town hall (Câmara Municipal)

• Enroll in Portugal’s tax system if you're staying 183+ days per year

• Switch to local health coverage or continue with private insurance

After five years of residency, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence or citizenship.

Timeline for Applying for a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

The entire process to apply for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa typically takes 2 to 4 months, depending on your country of residence and how quickly you gather your documents. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Document Preparation: 2–4 weeks (may take longer if you need background checks or apostilles)

• Visa Appointment & Processing: 4–8 weeks after submitting your application to the Portuguese consulate

• Travel & Residency Appointment in Portugal: Within 120 days of visa approval

• Residence Permit Issued: 2–6 weeks after your AIMA (formerly SEF) appointment

To avoid delays, start preparing your documents as early as possible and book your consulate appointment well in advance.

How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?

Applying for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa comes with a few necessary fees. While costs may vary slightly depending on your consulate and personal situation, here’s what you can generally expect:

• Visa Application Fee: €90–€120 (paid to the Portuguese consulate)

• Residence Permit Fee: Around €170 (paid at your AIMA appointment in Portugal)

• Additional Costs (varies by applicant):

  • Criminal background check and apostille

  • Document translations and notarizations

  • NIF registration (if using a service): ~€50–€100

  • Portuguese bank account setup (some banks charge opening fees)

Altogether, most applicants can expect to spend €300–€600 on required fees, not including travel and accommodation.

Paying Taxes on a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

If you stay in Portugal for more than 183 days in a 12-month period—or establish a habitual residence—you’ll become a Portuguese tax resident and will be subject to taxation on your global income.

Until recently, Portugal offered the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which allowed new residents to benefit from generous tax breaks for up to 10 years. However, the NHR program officially ended for most new applicants as of January 1, 2024, though some transitional rules still apply to those who registered before the deadline.

Without NHR, remote workers and digital nomads under the D8 visa will be taxed under Portugal’s standard personal income tax system, which is progressive up to 48%. That said, freelancers and independent contractors may be eligible for simplified tax regimes with reduced effective rates depending on their type of income.

Here are a few important tax notes for digital nomads:

• Cryptocurrency: Capital gains from crypto are tax-free if held for more than 365 days. Shorter holding periods are taxed.

• Foreign income: If you remain a tax resident in your home country or benefit from a double taxation agreement, you may not be taxed twice, but always consult a tax advisor.

• Social security: You might be exempt if you're already contributing to a social security system abroa,d and Portugal has a bilateral agreement with that country.

If you're planning to live in Portugal long-term under the D8 visa, it’s a good idea to speak with a Portuguese tax advisor early to make sure you’re set up for compliance and optimization.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Denial

If your Portugal Digital Nomad (D8) Visa application is denied, it’s usually due to missing documentation, not meeting income thresholds, or submitting unverified translations. Because of this, it’s essential to prepare all documents thoroughly—translated, notarized, and apostilled where required.

When a visa is denied, you will typically receive a written explanation from the consulate or embassy outlining the reason for the refusal. Common issues include:

• Incomplete or missing documentation

• Insufficient proof of income

• Unclear accommodation plans

• Criminal record concerns

• Errors in the visa application form

If your application was denied due to correctable issues (like missing financial proof or an incomplete business plan), you can file an appeal rather than starting from scratch. You must submit your appeal within 30 days of the denial notice.

To appeal:

• Write a formal appeal letter explaining your situation

• Address the reason for denial and attach updated documents

• Submit the appeal through the consulate where you applied

Appeals usually take 4 to 8 weeks to process. Submitting a complete and well-documented appeal increases your chances of success and avoids triggering an automatic refusal based on your prior denial.

If you're unsure how to proceed, it may be worth consulting with a Portuguese immigration lawyer or visa specialist to strengthen your appeal.

Other Visa Options for Digital Nomads, Remote Workers, and Retirees

Portugal offers several visa pathways for digital nomads and remote workers who want to live in the country—ranging from short stays to long-term residency. Below is a breakdown of the main visa types and what they’re best suited for.

D8 Digital Nomad Visa (Temporary Stay or Residency Visa)

The D8 Visa was introduced in October 2022 specifically for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who earn income from outside Portugal.

• Temporary Stay Visa: Best for digital nomads who want to stay in Portugal for up to 1 year. It’s renewable for short periods but does not lead to permanent residency.

• Residency Visa: Comes with a 4-month visa to enter Portugal, during which you apply for a 2-year residence permit that can be renewed and eventually lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

D7 Passive Income Visa

The D7 Visa is best suited for retirees and individuals with passive income such as pensions, dividends, royalties, or rental income—not active remote work or freelance income.

To qualify, you need:

• Proof of regular passive income equivalent to at least the Portuguese minimum wage annually (~€8,460/year for individuals in 2025).

• An additional 50% for a spouse (€4,230/year) and 30% per dependent child (€2,538/year).

• Proof of long-term accommodation in Portugal.

• A NIF and Portuguese bank account.

You'll first receive a 4-month visa to enter Portugal and apply for a 2-year residence permit. Like the D8, the D7 offers a path to permanent residency and citizenship.

D2 Entrepreneur Visa

The D2 Visa is aimed at entrepreneurs and independent professionals looking to launch or expand a business in Portugal.

To qualify, you must:

• Own a business, plan to start one in Portugal, or invest in a Portuguese business.

• Show a business plan that demonstrates economic viability and local benefit.

• Show funds to support yourself and your business (at least one year of minimum wage income, ~€8,460).

• You do not need to show a specific investment threshold, but €5,000+ is typically expected.

You’ll receive a 4-month visa to enter Portugal and apply for a 2-year residence permit. This visa is renewable and leads to permanent residency and citizenship.

Portugal Golden Visa

The Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program. It’s not intended for digital nomads, but is an option for those able to make a significant financial investment in Portugal.

Minimum investment options include:

• €500,000 in an investment fund (such as a venture capital fund supporting Portuguese companies).

• €250,000 donation to cultural heritage or €500,000 to scientific research.

• Job creation: Invest in a business that creates 10 new jobs.

Note:

• Real estate investment is no longer eligible under the Golden Visa as of 2023.

• You only need to spend 7 days per year in Portugal to maintain the visa.

• The visa leads to permanent residency and citizenship after 5 years, with minimal stay requirements.

Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Tourist Visa)

Citizens of many countries—including the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and Brazil—can enter Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

This visa is ideal for:

• Short visits or “workcations”

• Exploring Portugal before applying for a long-term visa

To apply (if needed), you'll need:

• A valid passport

• Round-trip travel reservations

• Proof of accommodation

• Travel insurance with at least €30,000 coverage

• Proof of financial means

• Visa application form and fee

Frequent travelers may apply for a multi-year Schengen visa, valid up to 5 years, with the same 90/180 rule.

Which Portugal Visa Type is Best for Digital Nomads?

For digital nomads, the D8 Visa is the clear winner. Unlike other visa types, the D8 was specifically designed for remote workers and freelancers who earn income from outside Portugal. It offers a straightforward legal path to live and work in Portugal while maintaining your foreign income, with both short-term (up to 1 year) and long-term residency options that can lead to permanent residence or citizenship. It also aligns better with how most digital nomads live and work—independent, location-flexible, and earning income online.

While the D7 Visa was previously used by remote workers, it’s now largely reserved for those with passive income like pensions or rental earnings. Applications from active freelancers or employees are increasingly rejected under the D7 category. Meanwhile, the D2 and Golden Visas target entrepreneurs and investors, not remote professionals. If you're working online, traveling light, and want a visa tailored to that lifestyle, the D8 is your best—and most appropriate—choice.

Living in Portugal as a Digital Nomad

Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe and matches a Mediterranean climate with a long Atlantic coastline. Even in the capital, you get the benefits of modern European facilities, but with a “small town” feel. The local cuisine is excellent, travel connections around the country are efficient, and from Portugal, you are free to explore the rest of the European Schengen area on your visa.

Capital Lisbon

Form of Government Unitary Semi-Presidential (part of the European Union)

Population 10.3 million (2020)

Climate Mediterranean

Language Portuguese

Currency Euro

25 people in Portugal!

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As a digital nomad in Portugal, you will find a safe country welcoming to foreigners and where many people speak English. Accommodation and food are affordable, and the internet speeds are excellent. You can even get GB connections in major centers such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.

Portugal’s digital nomad community is young but thriving as one of the most affordable countries in western Europe. Facilities are modern, and new options are appearing quickly. Lisbon has become a top digital nomad hotspot in the last two years.

Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Portugal

Lisbon

Lisbon is the country’s capital and the best place to get connecting flights to anywhere in Europe. Lisbon is like a big city with a small colonial town feel; if that small town was packed with cultural venues and lively night spots. Internet connections are excellent, coworking facilities are plentiful, and there are many other digital nomads to share your experience.

Porto

If you prefer a slower pace of life but don’t want to sacrifice creature comforts or work essentials, Porto is a great option. The city centers around the Ribeiro riverside, where you can drink Port made just meters away. Alongside Baroque churches, you’ll find some nice coworking spaces.

Braga

If you are keen to explore historic Portugal between conference calls and creative sessions, Braga is a nice city in the north. You will find plenty of historic castles and cathedrals, plus you are close to beaches and the famous Peneda Jeres National Park. Day trips to Spain will also be on your list.

Faro

The capital of the stunning Algarve region, this beach paradise is a bit more affordable than nearby Lagos (also a great destination). The sun shines most of the year on a city with lazy days, but which comes alive at night.

Madeira

If you are keen on the idea of living at the edge of the world, consider the idyllic Portuguese island of Madeira, though it is closer to Morocco than it is to Portugal. This village supports a close-knit community of digital nomads that fosters creative connections (and an island-wide Slack).

Attractions and Places to Visit

There are many unique natural and cultural wonders to explore in Portugal. But if you are making a bucket list for your time in the country, make sure these are on your list.

Peneda Jeres National Park

National park in Portugal

Striking mountains overlooking clear lakes and rivers where deer and Iberian wolves roam freely. Take a break to tackle hiking trails and swim through waterfalls.

Alto-Douro

Region in north-eastern Portugal

This river valley is a popular winemaking region that still uses historical methods for processing its grapes. Show up to help with the harvest and enjoy the wine festival (September).

Obidos Castle

Castle in Óbidos, Portugal

Medieval castle set in a landscape of vineyards and windmills, discover remarkably well-preserved 13th-century architecture.

Pena Palace

Castle in Sintra, Portugal

Located just outside Sintra, this abandoned monastery was rejuvenated in the 16th century and is now a colorfully painted castle in the mountains.

Abbey of Santa Maria

Cistercian monastery located in the Portuguese city of Alcobaça

Located in Alcobaca, this 12th-century abbey is the largest church in Portugal and supports some awe-inspiring gardens.

Praia da Marina Beach

Beach in Portugal

Located in the Algarve, this stretch of coast is characterized by island rocks, with plenty of local bays, caves, and grottoes to explore.

Aveiro

City in Portugal

This city is the Venice of Portugal, with many streets navigated by water channels.

Benefits of Working in Portugal as a Digital Nomad

Excellent Visa Conditions 🤗

It is relatively easy to get a long-term visa to live and work in Portugal, and these visas can be a gateway to permanent residence if you want to stay after the initial two years. Plus, since Portugal is part of the Schengen area, your visa gives you broad access to the rest of Europe.

Warm Climate 🌞

Portugal has a warm and sunny climate with hot summers made for the beach and mild winters. Temperatures rarely drop below 15 degrees Celsius in Lisbon, even in January. This climate also makes Portugal an ideal wine region, which means there is plenty of good quality affordable wine everywhere you go.

Affordable Cost of Living 💸

It is not just the wine that is affordable in Portugal, you’ll find that the cost of living is significantly lower than in other major western European countries, but you still get a comparable quality of life when it comes to essentials such as infrastructure and medical treatment.

Quality of Life ☺

Life in Portugal runs at a relaxed pace, and the community respects the need for a balance between work and leisure. You are never far from a beach or a bar serving excellent food and good wine. There is a vibrant cultural scene and plenty of activities such as hiking, surfing, and diving.

Cost of Living

Portugal remains one of the most affordable and attractive countries for digital nomads in Western Europe. As of 2025, the average salary in Portugal is approximately €21,500 per year, which is still lower than in neighboring countries.

Despite this, Portugal offers a high quality of life at a lower cost, especially outside of Lisbon and Porto.

As of mid-2025, €1 = approx. $1.08 USD, but exchange rates fluctuate.

Portugal vs Other Countries:

• ~40% cheaper than major U.S. cities like Houston or San Francisco

• ~10–15% cheaper than Spain (especially in housing and dining)

• ~25–30% cheaper than France, with similar quality of services

Digital Nomad Essentials

Internet (speed) 350Mbps – 1GBps

Time Zone GNT+1

Socket Type C and F type plugs

Calling Code +351

Recommended Coworking Spaces

• Lisbon – Heden, Outsite, WorkHub

• Porto – OP Lab, Porto i/o

• Braga – Factory Braga, Regus

• Faro – Alandra Square

• Madeira – Centro Cultural John dos Passos

Portugal is quickly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads wanting to base themselves in Europe, thanks to its good infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and generous visa scheme. Portugal acts as an excellent base for digital nomads hoping to explore the Schengen area.

FAQs about the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Does Portugal have a digital nomad visa in 2025?

Yes. Portugal launched its digital nomad visa on October 30, 2022. It allows remote workers to legally live and work in Portugal if they meet the minimum income requirements.

How much do I need to earn to qualify for the Portugal digital nomad visa?

You must earn at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage, which is €3,280 per month in 2025. This income must come from remote work or self-employment outside Portugal.

What is the difference between the temporary stay and residency options for digital nomads?

The Temporary-Stay Visa is valid for one year and renewable for up to five years. The residency route offers a renewable two-year residence permit that can lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

Can I apply for the Portugal digital nomad visa while abroad?

Yes. You can apply at a Portuguese consulate in a country where you have legal residence, even if it’s not your home country. However, all documents must be authenticated and translated as required.

How long does it take to get the Portugal digital nomad visa?

Processing can take 2 to 4 months, depending on the consulate and documentation. After arriving in Portugal, you must attend an appointment with AIMA (formerly SEF) to finalize your residency.

Is it possible to bring family members on the Portugal digital nomad visa?

Yes. You can apply for family reunification once your visa is approved. Spouses, children, and dependents can receive their own permits linked to your residency.

Can I get help applying for a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?

If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

Author

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

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Nadia Dardón is a content creator from Guatemala. She has worked fully remotely for the past six years as a copywriter, editor, and content creator, working for different industries. She started her digital nomad journey in 2022 and currently lives as an expat in Spain.