Since the covid situation, we have seen a growing interest in the digital nomads lifestyle, travelling and working at the same time has never been so popular especially among freelancers and remote workers.
Portugal is always listed at the top of digital nomads destinations, indeed Portugal has a lot to offer.
For example, the first European village to welcome digital nomads from all over the world has been launched in Portugal, in the coastal town of Ponta do Sol on Madeira (elected Best Island Destination in Europe 2020) by Start Up Madeira, in partnership with the regional government of Madeira providing coworking spaces with high speed internet, accommodation and suggestions for activities.
Portugal is a welcoming country, with a contagious sweet way of life, the quality of life is unmatched !
With high-quality infrastructures, a relative stable political environment and one of the highest Global Peace Index in Europe.
Digital nomads are usually attracted by the nice weather, the great local food and the fact that Portugal offers a full range of activities: between sea and mountain, Portugal is a beautiful country with an excellent geographic situation where you can find so many varied landscapes, here’s a short list of the most popular spots in Portugal:
Porto
The second largest city in Portugal, Porto is known for its wine and its gentle way of life. The large squares, the pedestrian streets, the Douro river and its boats make you want to relax and walk.
Lisbon
Bustling , day and night, Lisbon is one of the most authentic capitals in Europe. Its soul is certainly in the Alfama district, where it is pleasant to get lost to admire the azulejos of the facades and to listen Fado music.
The Algarve region
This region of southern Portugal is surrounded by the South and West ocean and bathed in sunshine almost all year round, is one of the favorite destinations for travelers.
Madeira Island
Luxuriant vegetation, exotic flowers, and wonderful landscapes , Madeira Island will blow your mind.
Coimbra
Coimbra was the capital of Portugal in the Middle Ages. From this glorious past, the city has maintained a strong identity and an important cultural influence.
Sintra
Sintra is a Unesco World Heritage Site. A source of inspiration for many writers, including the famous Lord Byron, it is a true gem surrounded by nature. Don’t miss the Pena Palace, one of the most important monuments in Portugal.
Which visa do you need to be a digital nomad in Portugal ?
Unless you are an EU citizen or travelling for essential purposes, you will need a visa to work in Portugal as a digital nomad.
Although, there is currently no specific visa for those who want to establish themselves as digital nomads, we strongly recommend that you apply for the D7 visa, which is the most suitable visa for this status. Our team will be glad to help through this process.
What is the main requirements of the D7 visa ?
The government requires a minimum revenue, you will need a proof showing that you have sufficient money to support your stay in Portugal (trust funds, investments, employer abroad, self-employed)
Applicants must have the following means of subsistence for 12 months (according to articles 2, n. 2 and 5, n.6, paragraph b) of Decree 1563/2007 of 11 December):
– First adult: 14x National Minimum Wage (665€ in 2021) = 9,310€;
– Second or more adults: 14x 50% of the National Minimum Wage (€665 in 2021) = €4,655;
– Children under 18 and older dependent children: 14x 30% of the National Minimum Wage (€665 in 2021) €3,105.
The D7 Visa must be requested from the Portuguese consular representation in the applicant’s country of residence and is valid for four months. During this four month period, the applicant may enter Portugal to apply for the respective residence permit. In the application the applicant must already present proof of rent and if possible a Portuguese bank account.
Upon arrival in Portugal with the Visa, an appointment will be made by telephone with SEF to collect biometric data (photograph and fingerprints) to issue the temporary residence permit card.
Once your temporary residence permit has been issued (for 2 years and renewable for 3 more years), you can apply for family reunification. Finally, after 5 years, you may request a permanent residence permit or even apply for nationality. To keep these residence permits you must stay in Portuguese territory at least 185 days per year.
For more info about the visa process for digital nomads, please fill the form below, our team will be glad to assist you: