Portugal is doing a great job of attracting ex-pats from all over the world thanks to the array of visa options available

Planning to make the beautiful Algarve region in Portugal your new home? Before you embark on your journey and start enjoying the stunning beaches and vibrant culture, it's important to understand the various residency options available to you. Portugal offers a wide range of visas, making it an attractive destination for expatriates from around the world.

Digital Nomad Visa: Embracing the Beach/Work-Life Balance

Portugal has kept up with the global trend of accommodating digital nomads. In October 2022, the Portuguese government introduced the official Digital Nomad Visa, recognising the increasing popularity of this way of life.

So, what exactly is a Digital Nomad Visa?

This visa bridges the gap between a tourist visa and a long-term residency permit and is issued to foreign workers and entrepreneurs who can work remotely. This means you can work from anywhere with a reliable internet connection and a laptop, and you don't need to be employed by a local company. Typically, these visas grant residency rights for a duration of six months to two years, allowing you to legally work for foreign companies and support yourself without taking jobs from Portuguese residents.

Living and working as a digital nomad has gained popularity, and Portugal, with its natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, affordable cost of living, and welcoming atmosphere, has become a top choice for those who can work from anywhere in the world.

PORTUGAL'S DIGITAL NOMAD VISA

Portugal has long been known for making life easy for remote workers and individuals with passive income through its D7 visa, which was introduced in 2007. However, with the growing trend of remote work, Portugal created its own Digital Nomad Visa.

There are two options available, depending on how long you plan to stay:

Option 1: Temporary Stay Visa

This visa is valid for up to one year and can be renewed. It's perfect if you want to try out Portugal for a short time without committing to long-term residency. To be eligible, you'll need to prove that you have sufficient income to support yourself during your stay, which is set at four times the Portuguese minimum wage, or approximately €2,820 per month.

Option 2: Residence Visa (D8 Visa)

This option is for remote workers who want to stay longer in Portugal, with the goal of obtaining residency or Portuguese citizenship. You'll need a Portuguese NIF number, a bank account, a salary from remote work that meets the income requirement, proof of personal tax residence in Portugal, and an employment contract from an employer based outside of Portugal.

The application process involves two stages:

Submit your visa application at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country.

If your application is successful, you'll receive a double-entry visa valid for four months, and during this time, you'll need to apply for a residency permit at SEF, the immigration department in Portugal.

As a recipient of Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa, you can travel through the entire Schengen Area without dealing with border control. If you're interested in working in Portugal but don't meet the financial requirements, the D7 Visa could be an alternative option with lower income thresholds.

EU CITIZENS

If you're an EU passport holder, you have even more flexibility. You don't need a visa to work remotely from Portugal. You can enter the country freely and stay for up to three months without registering. If you plan to stay longer, you can declare your presence at the local municipality office and obtain a temporary residency certificate, typically valid for five years.

Portugal is ready to welcome you with open arms, whether you're a digital nomad, an EU citizen, or someone looking to start a new chapter in this beautiful part of the world. Make sure to explore our website for the visa options that best suit your plans and enjoy the incredible experiences Portugal has to offer.