The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is quickly becoming one of the most popular options for remote workers seeking a European base. If you work remotely—whether as a freelancer or for a company outside of Portugal—the Digital Nomad Visa allows you to live and work in this beautiful, vibrant country while maintaining your career.
In this EU digital nomad visas guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this visa and how it can help you build a new life in Portugal.
What is a digital nomad?
A digital nomad is someone who uses digital tools to perform their job and is not tied to one specific location. These professionals can work from anywhere in the world, combining their career with travel and lifestyle flexibility.
Digital nomads typically rely on the internet for their work, enabling them to explore new destinations while maintaining their remote careers. This category includes freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees who work remotely for companies or clients based abroad.
For those planning to visit or travel across Europe, two primary entry permissions are available: the Schengen Visa and the upcoming ETIAS travel authorization.
Reasons to live as a digital nomad in Portugal
Portugal offers an appealing blend of work and leisure, making it an ideal location for digital nomads and remote workers.
Stunning landscapes: From the beaches of the Algarve to the cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto, Portugal provides picturesque surroundings that can make your workday feel like a mini vacation.
Rich cultural experience: Immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals, all while balancing your work-life schedule.
Co-working spaces: Portugal has a growing number of co-working spaces, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities. Whether you're looking for a collaborative environment or a quiet place to focus, you’ll find the perfect workspace.
Work-life balance: Portugal's slower pace of life encourages work-life balance. You can spend your weekends exploring vineyards in the Douro Valley, hiking in the Azores, or relaxing at a beachside café.
The yes's and no's you need to know about the Portugal Digital Nomad visa
Yes | No | |
Who needs the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa? | Remote employees working for a non-Portuguese company | EU/EEA citizens (they can register locally) |
Freelancers or entrepreneurs with foreign clients | Visitors staying in Portugal for less than 90 days | |
Professionals with a university degree or 3+ years of experience | Holders of an existing Portuguese residence permit | |
Individuals with sufficient financial means and health insurance | Individuals on short tourist or business trips | |
Family members: spouse/partner, dependent children, dependent parents | ||
What you can do with the visa | Live in Portugal legally for up to 1 year (renewable) | Work for a Portuguese employer as your main income |
Work remotely for foreign companies or clients | Exceed the limit of 20% of Portugal-based work | |
Travel freely within the Schengen Area | Work physically on-site in Portugal | |
Bring close family members (spouse/partner, children) | Claim Portuguese public benefits | |
Optionally apply for Portuguese health coverage | Use the visa for long-term tourist stays without actual remote work | |
Access Portugal's healthcare system with private insurance |
Portugal Digital Nomad visa requirements
To apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you will need to provide various documents to demonstrate your eligibility. Here's what you'll need to prepare:
Completed visa application form: A fully filled and signed visa application form.
Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date from Portugal. Don’t forget to include a photocopy of the biographical page.
Proof of income: You must prove you earn at least €3,480 per month, with supporting documents such as bank statements or pay slips for the last 3 months.
Accommodation proof: Evidence that you have accommodation in Portugal for the duration of your stay, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.
Health insurance: Proof of health insurance that covers you during your stay in Portugal.
Criminal record certificate: A certificate showing you have no criminal record in your home country or country of residence for the past year.
Tax residence roof: Documentation showing your tax residency in your home country, such as a tax return or certificate.
Cover letter: A letter explaining the purpose of your stay, your work situation, and why you want to live in Portugal.
Visa fee payment: Payment receipt for the visa application fee (usually around €180).
How to apply for Portugal Digital Nomad visa easily
At Any Visa, we can help guide you through the entire process, ensuring you meet all requirements and avoid delays. If you need assistance with your Portugal Digital Nomad visa application, we offer:
Complete application help: We’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure everything is in order.
Expert advice for tricky situations: If you face any issues with your application, we’ll help you find the best solution.
Fast-track options: Need your visa quickly? We offer solutions to speed up the process.
Support for freelancers, remote workers, and families: Whether you're applying alone or with family members, we’re here to assist.
