How to Get a Portugal Visa?

Portugal’s D8 Digital Nomad Visa was launched in October 2022. It allows non-EU/EEA citizens including remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to live and work in Portugal for up to one year. This visa can be renewed or extended, and after five years, it may lead to permanent residency.

Portugal is a favorite spot for digital nomads because of its beautiful landscapes, modern infrastructure, low cost of living, and vibrant culture.

Main Requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Income: Monthly income must be at least €3,480 (four times Portugal’s minimum wage).
• Job: You need to show proof of remote or freelance work.
• Housing: You should have a place to stay in Portugal.
• Documents: A valid passport, health insurance, clean criminal record, and proof of €36,480 in savings.
• Who Can Apply: Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, including family members like a spouse, dependent children, or in some cases, parents.

Types of Visa:

1. Long-Term Residency Visa:

• Duration: 4 months at first, which turns into a 2-year residence permit upon arrival (renewable up to 3 years).
• After 5 years, you may apply for permanent residence or citizenship.
• Application Fee: Between €75 to €90.

2. Temporary Stay Visa:

• Duration: 1 year, with multiple entries, renewable up to 4 times.
• This visa does not lead to permanent residence, and family members can’t be added.

Benefits:

• You can stay in Portugal for at least one year (better than a 90-day tourist visa).
• Visa-free travel across Schengen countries for 90 days in every 6-month period.
• A path to European citizenship after 5 years (if you meet language and integration rules).
• Affordable healthcare, good education, and lower living costs.
• Many urban areas have excellent English-speaking services.

How to Apply:

1. Check if you qualify (you need €3,480 monthly income and remote work).
2. Gather your documents: passport, income proof, health insurance, criminal record, housing details, NIF (tax number), etc.
3. Submit your application to the Portuguese consulate or embassy.
4. Wait for approval, get the visa, and later apply for your residence permit in Portugal.

Monthly Living Costs in Portugal (for one person):

• Rent: €1,000–2,000
• Utilities: €180–184
• Groceries: €300–500
• Internet & Phone: €40–90
• Public Transport: €30–40
• Health Insurance: €20–100

D7 Visa: For people with passive income (minimum €820/month), renewable every 2 years.

D8 Visa: For people with active income from remote work (minimum €3,480/month), offers same route to residency or citizenship but requires a higher income.

Extra Info:

In January 2025, Portugal’s unemployment rate dropped to 6.2%, showing strong economic stability.

To open a Portuguese bank account, you’ll need an NIF (tax number), ID, proof of address, and proof of employment.