Portugal D8 Visa - Digital Nomad Visa
The Portugal D8 Visa, also known as the Digital Nomad Visa, is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and digital professionals who want to live in Portugal while working for companies or clients abroad. This visa offers an excellent opportunity to experience Portuguese culture and lifestyle while maintaining your international career.
Key Requirements
- Proof of remote work or digital nomad status
- Employment contract or service agreements
- Proof of regular income (minimum €3,250 per month)
- Clean criminal record from your country of origin
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Health insurance coverage valid in Portugal
- Tax residency certificate from your current country
Financial Requirements
- Minimum monthly income: €3,250 for main applicant
- Additional income requirements for family members:
- Spouse: Additional €1,400 (50% of main income)
- Each dependent: Additional €840 (30% of main income)
- Bank statements for the last 6 months showing regular income
- Proof of tax compliance in current country of residence
Work Requirements
- Employment contract with foreign company, or
- Proof of self-employed status with foreign clients
- Company registration documents (if business owner)
- Portfolio of work or professional history
- Proof of qualifications or expertise
- Declaration from employer allowing remote work
Application Process
- Preparation of Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Employment/income documentation
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Tax documents
- Document Translation and Authentication
- Online Pre-Registration
- Submission to Portuguese Consulate
- Visa Interview (if required)
- Visa Decision (typically 30-60 days)
- Travel to Portugal
- Residency Permit Application at SEF
Visa Validity and Renewal
- Initial D8 visa validity: 4 months
- First residence permit: 2 years
- Renewal period: For 3 years
- Permanent residency eligibility: After 5 years
- Citizenship eligibility: After 5 years
- Minimum stay requirement: 183 days per year
Benefits of D8 Visa
- Work remotely while living in Portugal
- Path to permanent residency and citizenship
- Access to Portuguese healthcare system
- Family reunification options
- Access to Portuguese education system
- Visa-free travel within Schengen Area
- Tax benefits under NHR program
- Access to Portuguese banking system
- Right to purchase property
- High quality of life with lower cost of living
Family Reunification
- Spouse or legal partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent children over 18 (if studying)
- Dependent parents
- Siblings under 18 (if legal guardian)
Tax Considerations
- Eligibility for Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime
- Potential tax exemption on foreign income
- Special tax rates for certain professions
- Double taxation agreements consideration
- Requirement to file Portuguese tax returns
Important Information
The D8 visa is ideal for digital professionals seeking to maintain their international income while enjoying Portugal's quality of life. Applicants must demonstrate stable, regular income from foreign sources and maintain their primary professional activity with non-Portuguese entities. Regular monitoring of income and professional activity may be required during residence permit renewals.