Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) in 2025

Portugal, one of the most attractive destinations for remote professionals, introduced the Digital Nomad Visa in 2022. In its first year alone, over 2,000 applications were submitted, highlighting the growing interest in relocating to this sunny country.

What is Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa?

This visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in Portugal while maintaining employment with international companies. It is exclusively created for remote work.

The D8 visa is issued at the Portuguese consulate in an applicant’s country of registration.

How does it differ from other visas?

Unlike ordinary work visas, the Digital Nomad Visa offers greater flexibility in choosing a place of residence. Holders are not required to be employed by a Portuguese company, making it ideal for those working for foreign employers. In contrast, work visas necessitate a job offer from a Portuguese firm.

Advantages of Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa

Portugal is an excellent place to live and work. According to Global Citizen Solutions, the country ranks among the top 10 best destinations for digital nomads, due to its tax advantages, infrastructure, sunny climate, and affordability compared to other European nations.

Benefits of a Portuguese residence permit for digital nomads

• The initial residence permit is valid for two years, with the possibility of renewal.
• No investment required.
• Freedom to travel within the Schengen Area.
• Eligibility for citizenship after five years of residency.
• Access to free education and healthcare in Portugal.
• Family members (children, spouses, and parents) can also obtain a residence permit.

Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa

The key criteria for applicants include:

• Proof of a stable income from remote work over the past three months. The income must be at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (a minimum of €3,480 per month).
• Evidence of working remotely outside Portugal.
• A rental agreement (minimum one year) or proof of property ownership. This address will be used for receiving mail and the residence permit card.
• Proof of health insurance.
• A clean criminal record.
• A Portuguese bank account and an individual taxpayer number (NIF).

Documents Required for a Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal

• Completed visa application form (for minors and individuals lacking legal capacity, it must be signed by a legal guardian).
• Two passport-sized photos.
• A passport valid for at least three months beyond the expected return date.
• Health insurance policy.
• Proof of residence in Portugal (e.g. a rental contract).
• Proof of income and employment (e.g. employment contract, service agreement, or an official statement from an employer confirming the work arrangement).
• A criminal record certificate issued by the competent authority in the applicant’s country of citizenship or any country where they have lived for over a year.

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa Cost

Migration specialists typically provide full assistance, including document verification, application submission, attending consular appointments, opening a bank account, and helping with accommodation arrangements. Additionally, costs for health insurance and government fees must be considered.

Estimated Costs:

Stages of Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa

Initial Security Check and Document Preparation

Immigration experts assess the applicant’s eligibility for the Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal and ensure all necessary documents are correct.

Obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF) in Portugal

NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is essential for financial transactions in Portugal, such as renting property, signing contracts, opening a bank account, or accessing medical services. To obtain a NIF, applicants must visit the Portuguese tax office. Alternatively, it can be acquired remotely via a legal representative under a power of attorney.

Purchasing or Renting Property in Portugal

Tranio specialists offer residential properties in popular locations such as Lisbon and Porto, tailored to the applicant’s needs.

Buy property in Portugal 1,407 listings on Tranio

From 1,300,000 €

Three-level townhouses in a renovated building a few steps from the Tagus River, Lisbon, Portugal

Completion in: 2024.III Total of 5 apartments

From 280,000 €

New apartments for a residence permit with a guaranteed yield of 4% in São Pedro do Sul, Portugal

Built in 2021 Total of 22 apartments

From 1,100,000 €

Modern apartments with terraces, a swimming pool and river view, Belem, Lisbon, Portugal

Built in 2021 Total of 57 apartments

From 1,200,000 €

Apartments in a modern residential complex with swimming pools, Cascais, Portugal

Total of 15 apartments

From 500,000 €

Fully equipped new apartments in Lisbon, Portugal

Total of 17 apartments

From 481,000 €

Apartments with sea and river views in a new residential complex, Oeiras, Portugal

Built in 2022 Total of 9 apartments

550,000 €

Spacious apartment in a new residence with a garden and a swimming pool, in the historic center of Porto, Portugal

Total area 179 m² 2 bedrooms

From 540,000 €

Apartments with panoramic views, in the historic city center, Lisbon, Portugal

Total of 19 apartments

Submitting the Digital Nomad Visa Application

Applicants must pay the required fee and submit their complete application package to the Portuguese Consulate in their country of residence. If they are already in Portugal, the application can be submitted directly to the Migration Office.

Biometric Data Collection

Once the application has been submitted, applicants must complete the biometric procedure in Portugal, which includes fingerprinting and a photograph. Biometric data enhances security and prevents identity fraud.

Receiving the Digital Nomad Visa and Entering Portugal

The Portuguese Consulate reviews the application, and once approved, the applicant receives a visa. This visa includes a specified date for attending the Portuguese migration service to apply for a residence permit. The D8 visa is valid for four months, during which the applicant must enter Portugal and begin the residence permit process.

Obtaining a Residence Permit in Portugal

At the scheduled appointment, the applicant visits the Migration Agency (AIMA) to submit their documents. Once the application is approved, a residence card is issued, granting the right to live in Portugal for two years, with the possibility of renewal.

Opening a Bank Account in Portugal

Some non-EU residents may only be able to open a Portuguese bank account after obtaining a Portugal residence permit. This account simplifies financial management. Banks may request proof of income and proof of residence in Portugal.

Tranio’s immigration experts provide full support at every stage of the process.

Submit your application

Opportunities for Digital Nomad Families

The family can live and work in Portugal under the Digital Nomad Visa.

Eligible Family Members for the Application

• spouses;
• children under 18;
• unmarried children over 18 who are financially dependent on the main applicant;
• financially dependent parents.

Additional Requirements for Family Members

Family members applying for a visa must provide proof of relationship and proof of financial stability.

Additional Income Requirements for Family Members:

• spouse — minimum monthly income of €1,740 (50% of the primary applicant’s required income);
• children — minimum monthly income of €870 per child (25% of the primary applicant’s required income).

Income can be demonstrated through savings (bank statements) or included in the applicant’s salary.

Reasons for D8 Visa Refusal and Potential Challenges

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection:

• insufficient income;
• incomplete or missing documentation;
• criminal record of the applicant.

How to Appeal a Visa Refusal?

The most straightforward option is to submit an appeal to the consulate within 15 days of receiving the rejection notice.

Applicants may also choose to file a claim with the administrative court without waiting for the outcome of the appeal.

The administrative cost of processing an appeal and challenging a visa decision is 75 euros.

To avoid rejection, it is crucial to understand the requirements, gather all necessary documents in advance, and consider seeking advice from an immigration lawyer.

Challenges in Applying for a Residence Permit

The number of foreign nationals living in Portugal has risen by 130% over the past two years, leading to delays in AIMA’s immigration processing system. As a result, the Portuguese government has extended the validity of visas and residency documents for immigrants by several months.

The good news is that to accelerate residence permit and citizenship applications, AIMA is introducing a digital document processing system and increasing its staff.

Tips for a Smooth Transition to Life in Portugal

Before moving, it is essential to familiarise yourself with life in Portugal, including local customs. For example, siesta is a common practice where some shops and businesses close in the afternoon for an extended break.

Many foreigners find Portuguese challenging to learn due to regional accents and pronunciation. However, if you do not plan to learn the language, English is widely spoken by both locals and expats.

Joining digital nomad communities is highly recommended for networking and support. These are most active in Lisbon and Porto, where numerous co-working spaces and regular networking events are available.

When it comes to accommodation, it is more cost-effective to opt for long-term rental contracts rather than short-term or daily rentals.

The Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website provides useful information on laws and regulations for foreign residents.

Author: Julia Naymushina