Why Portugal is a Prime Destination for Digital Nomads

Portugal is a top choice for digital nomads thanks to the specially designed visa, great remote work environment, and welcoming community. Joining them is easier than it seems. Elena Ruda, the Chief Development Officer at Immigrant Invest, explains the practical details.

Overview of Portugal’s Appeal for Digital Nomads

Diverse expat community. Thanks to Portugal residence visas, approximately 900,000 expats reside in the country. While Americans, Brits, and Brazilians are leading the statistics, nationals of other corners of the world flock to Portugal, and especially to Lisbon.

Citizenship opportunity. After 5 years of legal residency, foreigners, including digital nomads, can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Affordable living. Portugal is affordable compared to other Western European countries. Below are the average expenses to expect:

rent — €800 per month for a 1—bedroom apartment;
apartment purchase — €3.000 per 1 m²;
groceries — €200 per month;
utilities — €116 per month for an 85 m² apartment;

Internet — €35 per month;
mobile plan — €20 per month;
gas — €1.7 per 1 l;
taxi — €0.8 per 1 km
public transport passes — €40 per month.

High safety. According to the Expat Insider survey, 94% of expats feel safe in Portugal, compared to a global average of 83%. Portugal is also ranked 6th out of 163 countries on the Global Peace Index thanks to its low crime levels, political stability, and effective law.

Accessible healthcare. Portugal has a well-regarded healthcare system, Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS). Digital nomads with a residence permit can access the SNS at low costs. Services include general practitioner visits, specialist consultations, hospital treatment, and emergency care.

Pleasant climate. Portugal’s average temperatures range from 10°C in winter to 30°C in summer. The country has over 300 sunny days a year, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

How to Get a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa for Freelancers

Portugal visa for freelancers, also known as the Type D Visa or Digital Nomad Visa, allows remote workers to stay in the country for an extended period. The visa comes in two forms:

Long-term. A double-entry residency visa, valid for 4 months, allows applying for an extended stay: a 2-year Portugal residence permit.
Temporary stay. A multiple-entry non-resident visa, valid for 1 year.

After getting a long-term visa, digital nomads must visit the Immigration and Borders Service in Portugal and apply for a residence permit. With the temporary stay visa, it is not required. Otherwise, both visa forms have the exact requirements. Initial applications can be made remotely through a Portuguese embassy.

Requirements for applicants:

over 18:
not an EU/EEA national;
contracted remote worker/freelancer;
earns €3,280+ per month, income can be from multiple sources;
has €9,840+ in their bank account;
has a residential property in Portugal, either bought or rented for 1+ years
has health insurance and travel insurance.

Digital nomads can also invite their spouses, financially dependent unmarried children under 30, and parents in the application. These family members must submit their applications for accompanying visas.

Expenses for getting a Digital Nomad visa include:

€75 fee for the application for a temporary stay visa, or €90 — for a long-term visa;

€2,460 more on the applicant’s bank account per underaged family member if applicable;
€4,920 more on the applicant’s bank account per adult family member if applicable.

List of documents includes the following:

passport;
two recent 4.5 x 3.5 photos;
proof of remote employment, such as a contract;
bank statements and other documents confirming the €3,280 monthly income and €9,840 in savings;

cover letter explaining the purpose of relocation in Portuguese and English;
health insurance;
criminal record certificate translated to Portuguese;
proof of accommodation, such as a certificate of real estate ownership or a 1-year lease agreement.

The authorities may ask for additional documents: consult an immigration attorney to learn about possible scenarios.

Processing of each Portugal Digital Nomad visa application usually takes 60 days. When approved, nomads move to Portugal and register with the local authorities.

To get a 2—year residence permit, digital nomads apply to the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum of Portugal (AIMA) and pay the €80+ fee.