Digital Nomad Visa – Your Guide to Living and Working in Portugal
What Is the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?
Portugal has introduced a new visa specifically designed for remote workers and freelancers. If you’re earning income from outside Portugal and want to live here legally for 1 year or more, the Digital Nomad Visa could be perfect for you.
This visa makes it easier than ever for digital nomads to live, work, and experience the beauty of Portugal — all while staying compliant with local immigration laws.
Visa Options: Temporary Stay or Residency
There are two types of Digital Nomad Visa, and the one you choose depends on how long you plan to stay:
Temporary Stay Visa
Valid for up to 1 year Renewable if needed Ideal for short to mid-term stays
Residency Visa
Starts with a 4-month entry visa, then converts into a 2-year residence permit Can be renewed and eventually lead to permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship
Basic Requirements
To qualify for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll need to meet a few key criteria and provide specific documents. Below is a breakdown of what’s expected and why each item matters.
Minimum Monthly Income: €3,040+
You must prove you earn at least four times Portugal’s minimum wage, which equals approximately €3,040/month (as of 2025).
This shows the Portuguese government that you can support yourself financially without relying on local jobs or public services.
How to prove it:
Bank statements from the last 3–6 months
Payslips or invoices
Employment or freelance contracts
Tax returns (optional but helpful)
Proof You Work Remotely for Non-Portuguese Clients or Employers
The visa is strictly for those working with international companies or clients, not for people employed by Portuguese firms.
You can provide:
A signed work contract with an overseas employer
Freelance agreements or client contracts
Screenshots or summaries of platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, etc.
A letter from your employer confirming your remote work arrangement
Supporting Income Documents
To back up your income claim, submit clear evidence such as:
Detailed invoices (freelancers)
Salary letters or employment contracts
Payment receipts or PayPal/Stripe payout history
Bank statements showing consistent deposits
The more consistent and traceable your income, the better.
Proof of Accommodation in Portugal
You must show where you’ll live once you arrive.
Accepted options include:
A rental lease (short- or long-term)
Airbnb reservation (minimum 1 month recommended)
Letter of invitation from a friend/family member you’ll stay with (plus their utility bill or ID)
Clean Criminal Background Check
You’ll need to submit a criminal record certificate from your country of residence. It must:
Be issued within the last 3 months
Include an Apostille or legalization
Be translated into Portuguese (if required by the consulate)
Valid Travel or Health Insurance
You must show you’re covered in Portugal for healthcare or emergencies.
Recommended coverage:
Minimum coverage of €30,000
Must include hospitalization and emergency treatment
Valid for the entire stay period (1 year minimum)
Some nomads use SafetyWing or Allianz Global Assistance.
Completed Visa Application Form
You must fill out and sign the official visa application form from your local Portuguese consulate’s website.
Don’t forget to:
Include a recent passport-sized photo
Attach all supporting documents
Sign and date the form correctly
How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa
01
Book an appointment
at the Portuguese consulate in your home country
02
Submit all required documents
(income proof, accommodation, insurance, etc.)
03
Get your visa approved
and travel to Portugal
04
Schedule your SEF (immigration) appointment
to get your residence permit (for long-term visas)
⚠️ Important Notes
This visa is not for people working for Portuguese employers
You must maintain tax residency in your home country (unless you opt into Portugal’s NHR tax regime)
You can apply solo or bring family members under family reunification options
Do You Need a Lawyer or Consultant?
No — you can do this yourself. But if you want help making sure your documents are correct, there are reliable immigration lawyers and relocation services who can make the process smoother and faster.
📥 Download Our Visa Checklist
Want a printable version of everything you need?
✅ Download our Digital Nomad Visa Checklist PDF to track your documents, requirements, and key deadlines.