➡ WHAT ARE THE FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS?
An income of €2,800+/month per month for an individual.
➡ HOW LONG CAN YOU STAY?
12 months, and it can be renewed for up to 10 years.
➡ WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who work remotely: freelancers or employees.
➡ HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The initial visa application fee amounts to approximately €180, and upon your arrival in Portugal, you can anticipate an additional fee of €320 for your residence permit. The whole process may take 3-4 months.
➡ HOW MUCH WILL YOU PAY IN TAXES?
Digital nomads with NHR status pay a set 20% tax rate on income created within Portugal, as opposed to the ordinary rate of up to 48%. Global Income is tax-free.
Nomad Visa Portugal 2024
Portugal has recently unveiled a fresh initiative aimed at attracting digital nomads—the Portugal Temporary-Stay Visa. This visa offers a pathway for remote workers to reside and work in Portugal, providing an enticing opportunity for those seeking a change of scenery.
One of the key options under this new visa framework is the D7 Passive Income Visa, tailored for individuals who can demonstrate an independent source of income. This visa category is ideal for retirees, freelancers, and remote workers who can showcase a steady stream of passive income, granting them the freedom to live and work in Portugal.
Additionally, the D2 Entrepreneur Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa present more permanent residency avenues, albeit through different routes. The D2 Entrepreneur Visa is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to establish or invest in business ventures in Portugal, fostering economic growth and innovation. On the other hand, the Portugal Golden Visa program offers residency in exchange for significant investment in the country, such as real estate acquisitions or job creation.
Digital Nomad Visas to live and work in Portugal
Portugal boasts a range of digital nomad visas tailored to various needs and circumstances:
- Temporary-Stay Visa: This visa caters specifically to digital nomads, granting them the opportunity to reside in Portugal while continuing their remote work generating at least €2,800 monthly. The visa is valid for one year, extendable up to four times for a maximum of five years. Notably, holders enjoy a reduced tax rate of 15% for the initial four years, compared to Portugal’s standard 25%.
- D7 Passive Income Visa: Originally aimed at retirees with passive incomes, this visa is ideal for digital nomads and remote workers. It initially grants a 120-day visa, after which applicants must obtain a residence permit from the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) valid for two years. The visa and residence permit provide access to the Schengen area, and family members can accompany the holder.
- D2 Entrepreneur Visa: Targeting entrepreneurs outside the EU, this visa promotes local investment. Applicants must demonstrate either ownership of a company in Portugal or the ability to establish one. Proof of financial resources and a viable business plan are required, along with sustaining income equivalent to Portugal’s minimum salary.
- Portugal Golden Visa: This investment visa requires a minimum investment of €500,000, offering residency rights akin to Portuguese citizens. Investors can choose from various investment options, including real estate, capital investment, job creation, or donations to national heritage or research and development.
- Tourist Visa: Residents of many countries can enter Portugal visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days. Others must apply for a Schengen visa. A 5-year visa is available for frequent travelers, allowing multiple 90-day stays within a 180-day period.
What Visa Is Most Suitable for Digital Nomads in Portugal?
When considering which visa type to pursue in Portugal as a digital nomad, the Temporary-Stay Visa emerges as the optimal choice for several reasons. This visa is uniquely tailored to accommodate the lifestyle and needs of digital nomads, offering a range of benefits that make it highly attractive for those working remotely while exploring new destinations.
One of the key advantages of the Temporary-Stay Visa is its duration and flexibility. Digital nomads who meet the income requirements can enjoy full access to the Schengen Zone for an extended period of up to five years, providing them with ample time to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture, explore the country’s diverse landscapes, and establish a comfortable routine for work and leisure.
Moreover, the Temporary-Stay Visa provides a sense of stability and security for digital nomads looking to establish a more long-term presence in Portugal. By obtaining this visa, nomads can avoid the hassle of frequently renewing short-term visas or facing uncertain immigration status, allowing them to focus more on their work and personal pursuits.
In addition to its duration and stability, the Temporary-Stay Visa offers practical benefits that enhance the overall experience for digital nomads. This includes the ability to easily open local bank accounts, access healthcare services, enroll in language classes, and participate in community events and networking opportunities.
Furthermore, the visa allows digital nomads to bring their family members along, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to experience Portugal’s lifestyle and culture as a family unit. This aspect adds to the visa’s appeal, as it promotes a sense of belonging and inclusivity for nomads and their loved ones.
Overall, the Temporary-Stay Visa stands out as the most suitable option for digital nomads seeking a seamless and enriching experience in Portugal. Its combination of duration, flexibility, stability, and practical benefits make it a preferred choice among remote workers looking to make Portugal their home away from home.
Portugal Temporary-Stay Visa Requirements
Before proceeding with your application for the Temporary-Stay Visa, it’s crucial to verify your eligibility and ensure that you have all the necessary documentation prepared.
The primary eligibility requirements for the Temporary-Stay Visa include:
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizenship (citizens from these areas do not require a visa).
- A minimum monthly income of €2,800 sourced from outside Portugal.
- A clean criminal record for both you and any dependents.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal for a period of one year, which can be evidenced through a rental agreement, hotel booking, or similar documentation.
Upon your arrival in Portugal, it is imperative to acquire a Portuguese NIF (Numero de Identificao Fiscal) and open a bank account in Portugal within 120 days before proceeding with your residency application. These steps are essential to ensure a smooth and successful transition to residency in Portugal under the Temporary-Stay Visa.
Documents for Tax Compliance in Portugal
To fulfill your tax obligations in Portugal, securing a NIF (Numero de Identificação Fiscal) is paramount. This identifier isn’t just vital for tax purposes but also mandatory for various financial transactions, spanning from opening a bank account to property acquisitions, internet subscriptions, and online purchases. Moreover, having a NIF is a prerequisite for initiating your residence permit application in Portugal.
Acquiring a NIF is a straightforward process, necessitating a visit to the nearest Tax Office or Citizen Bureau (Finanças or Loja do Cidadão). No prior appointment is needed; simply drop by during operating hours. The issuance of your NIF upon application incurs no fee. You’ll need to present valid identification (such as your passport), proof of residence (such as your visa), and evidence of your address, either in Portugal or your country of origin.
Requirements for Opening a Bank Account in Portugal
A local bank account is another essential requirement for your residency application. You can opt for a bank with local operations, an international bank with branches in Portugal, or a digital bank operating in the country. While the specifics vary among institutions and account types, you’ll typically need to provide valid identification (like your passport), proof of residence (such as your visa), evidence of your address in Portugal or your home country, and your NIF. Additional documents may be requested by your chosen bank.
Demonstrating Financial Self-Sufficiency for the Temporary-Stay Visa
When applying for the Temporary-Stay Visa, demonstrating financial self-sufficiency is crucial. This entails proving that you have adequate funds to support yourself and any dependents from income sources outside Portugal. The minimum required amount is equivalent to the country’s minimum salary, which is €8,460 per year. For spouses, an additional 50% of this amount (€4,230 per year) is necessary, and for dependent children, another 30% (€2,538 per year) is required.
Depending on your situation, you can submit various documents to substantiate your financial independence:
- Retirees: Proof of stable income from pensions or investments.
- Remote workers: Employment contracts detailing income and three months’ worth of bank statements.
- Self-employed individuals: Business registration certificates and three months’ bank statements.
- Freelancers: Recent bank statements and evidence of substantial savings.
Validating Accommodation Arrangements
A crucial component of your application process is providing proof of accommodation in Portugal for the initial 12 months of your stay. Accepted documents include rental agreements, Airbnb or hotel bookings, or a confirmation letter from a host offering accommodation during your time in Portugal.