If you’re fortunate enough to have a job that doesn’t require you to be in an office and allows you to choose where you work, then this is for you. Those who have the privilege of travelling while working value feeling welcome in the country that hosts them, even if only temporarily. It was with this aim in mind that a new visa for digital nomads was introduced in Portugal.
This type of visa began gaining traction in several countries during the pandemic, in response to the increasing prevalence of remote work. In Portugal, the measure may have arrived later than in other destinations, but since October 2022, digital nomads have been able to work from Portuguese settings.
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What are D8 Visas for Digital Nomads?
The D8 visa is intended for remote workers, also known as digital nomads, who are citizens of countries outside the European Union and the European Economic Area (including the Schengen Area) and wish to carry out their work from Portugal. In other words, these workers must provide services remotely to companies based outside Portugal and demonstrate an income four times higher than the Portuguese minimum wage, which is equivalent to at least €3,680 gross. If the main applicant brings a partner, the required income increases by €460 (50% of the Portuguese minimum wage); if children are included, the income requirement increases by €276 per child (30% of the minimum wage).
The D8 visa, more commonly known as the Digital Nomad Visa, has two options:
1- The first option, valid for one year, excludes family reunification. It suits those wanting a short-term stay or wishing to assess whether Portugal matches their lifestyle before making longer commitments.
2- The second option is the most popular and grants a longer stay. The entry visa is valid for four months. Afterwards, the applicant may apply for a residence permit. The first permit lasts two years and can be renewed for three more, totalling five years. After this period, it is possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Until October 2022, there was no straightforward way for these workers to enter Portugal and work remotely. It was common for digital nomads to rely on the Schengen visa (for stays of up to 90 days) or the D7 visa. The D7 visa is valid for four months and allows two entries into Portugal. During this period, the applicant must attend a scheduled appointment with AIMA (formerly SEF) to apply for a residence permit.
From that point onwards, they can remain in Portugal for up to two years, with the possibility of renewing for a further three years. This visa is intended for individuals who can demonstrate a stable, regular income superior to the Portuguese minimum wage (€920). This income may be derived from sources such as royalties, rental income, interest, or financial investments, among others.
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What is the digital nomad visa in Portugal, and what is it for?
As mentioned previously, before the introduction of this visa for remote workers, there was no clear solution for this community. Digital nomads had to rely on visas that were not suited to their needs.
Today, they can stay in Portugal for a defined period under a clear legal framework. They are not exempt from paying taxes, which can range between 13% and 48%. Income tax (IRS) is applied according to each individual’s earnings and personal circumstances, such as marital status.
What are the requirements to obtain the digital nomad visa?
In the first stage, applicants for the D8 digital nomad visa must submit their residence visa application in person at a Portuguese Consulate or at the consular section of the Portuguese Embassy in their country of origin or residence. Alternatively, they may use the E-Visa platform, depending on the availability of the relevant consulate. The application fee is €110, and the consulate has up to 60 days to issue the visa. Once the visa has been granted, the applicant must travel to Portugal to apply for a residence permit.
At this stage, the following documents must be provided:
- An employment contract or a service agreement with an entity based outside Portugal;
- Proof that the work can be carried out entirely remotely;
- Evidence of income at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (a minimum of €3,680 gross).
In a second step, during the appointment for the residence permit, biometric data will be collected, including fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature. The fee for this process is €133 for reception and analysis, and €307 for the granting of the residence permit. AIMA is expected to issue the residence card within 90 days. On the day of the appointment, the following documents must be submitted:
- Tax identification number (NIF);
- Proof of issuance of a Social Security number (NISS);
- Proof of accommodation;
- Proof of income.
Under this type of residence permit, it is possible to apply for family reunification. It also allows free movement within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days, without the need for an additional visa. In Portugal, you will have access to the National Health Service, among other benefits. During the validity of the residence card, you must not be absent for more than six consecutive months or eight non-consecutive months.
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Why do digital nomads choose Portugal as a destination?
Remote workers have the freedom to choose where they work, which is one of the main advantages of the digital nomad lifestyle. Without being tied to an office or rigid schedules, they can travel to new destinations, manage their time with greater flexibility, and achieve a better work–life balance — factors that make this way of living increasingly appealing. But what leads so many people to choose Portugal as a second home, even if only temporarily?
Comfort, an affordable cost of living, safety, cuisine, and the warmth of the Portuguese people are among the reasons many nomads choose this country. Still, there are other experiences that continue to attract these temporary residents. Portugal’s beaches and coastal towns stand out for their unique beauty, becoming key places for digital nomads to explore in their free time. Portuguese cuisine is another major draw: fresh flavours and simple yet rich recipes invite new experiences, such as cookery classes, tastings with friends, or visits to local markets.
Discover the best restaurants in the western Algarve.
Portugal has a rich history and culture, reflected in its wide range of landmarks, museums and festivals held throughout the year. Outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking and golf are highly popular, benefiting from a favourable climate that allows them to be enjoyed for most of the year.
In addition, Portugal has been gaining international recognition as one of the leading destinations for digital nomads. The country currently ranks 8th in the Digital Nomad Index, placing it among the top 10 countries offering the best visa conditions for this group of workers. This recognition reinforces Portugal’s position as an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking flexibility and a high quality of life while working remotely.
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What are the coworking spaces in the Algarve?
Coworking spaces have become increasingly popular among digital nomads. In the Algarve, new locations dedicated to remote working have been emerging, designed to meet the needs of these professionals.
If you’re not familiar with these spaces, they are shared working environments where people from different companies work and collaborate in the same place. They may offer shared desks or private offices, communal areas, and access to high-speed internet. Their main purpose is to bring together individuals with similar interests in a single setting, encouraging a sense of community. Coworking spaces are particularly suited to freelancers, remote workers, and start-ups.
If you are considering spending some time in the western Algarve, there are several coworking spaces in key towns, close to a range of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and the region’s well-known beaches. In Lagos, you will find coworking spaces such as CoLagos. In Portimão, there are three collaborative workspaces in key locations: HUB Ativo, Audaces Hub, and Startup Portimão.
Are you a digital nomad looking to rent a home in Lagos or Portimão?
Casas do Barlavento Rentals is here to help you prepare for your remote working stay, even before you arrive in Portugal. We offer a range of properties in our portfolio, available for short-term rental in both cities, where you can become part of a coworking community. Each property is fully equipped with everything you need for day-to-day living, providing all the comforts of feeling at home.
Find holiday homes in Lagos: Discover apartments or villas in the city centre or closer to Lagos’ award-winning beaches.
Explore holiday homes in Portimão: In Portimão, you can also find the ideal property for your remote working stay in Portugal. Browse the available options in Portimão or Alvor to find the perfect short-term rental.
Portugal has introduced a visa that allows remote workers to enter the country, making it easier to live there for a period of up to one year. This enables you to benefit from the conditions available to digital nomads while enjoying an affordable cost of living, safety, excellent cuisine, and the warmth of the Portuguese people.
If you are looking for a property for short-term rental in the Algarve, get in touch with us — we have the ideal option for you.
Discover holiday homes in Portimão: also, in Portimão, you can find the perfect home to spend your remote working season in Portugal. Explore the available options in Portimão or Alvor to find the perfect house for temporary rental.
Portugal has launched a visa that allows entry to remote workers. Now, it’s easier to enter the country for a year, benefit from the measures included in the digital nomad visa, and enjoy the low cost of living, safety, cuisine, and friendliness of the Portuguese. If you’re looking for a temporary rental house in the Algarve, get in touch; we have the ideal one for you.
