Digital Nomad Visa for Portugal

Portugal has become a hotspot for digital nomads, offering a unique combination of a mild climate, rich culture, and a relatively low cost of living. To cater to the growing community of remote workers, Portugal has introduced visa options that allow digital nomads to live and work legally in the country. One such option is the D8 visa, which is specifically designed for entrepreneurs and independent workers engaged in intellectual, technical, or scientific activities.

Understanding the D8 Visa

The D8 visa, also known as the "Passive Income Visa," is tailored for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who wish to reside in Portugal and have a stable income from intellectual, technical, or scientific activities. While it is not labeled exclusively as a "digital nomad visa," it serves the purpose well for digital nomads who can prove they have a sustainable income from their remote work.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the D8 visa, applicants must demonstrate that they have a regular and sufficient income from a location-independent profession. This income can come from property, intellectual property, financial investments, or business activities that can be managed remotely.

Application Process

The application process for the D8 visa involves several steps: 1. Gather Required Documentation: Applicants must prepare the necessary documents, including proof of income, a valid passport, criminal record certificate, proof of accommodation in Portugal, and health insurance. 2. Submit the Application: The initial visa application is submitted to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in the applicant's home country or country of legal residence. 3. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF): A NIF is required for all fiscal activities in Portugal. It can be obtained through a local tax office or with the help of a legal representative in Portugal. 4. Schedule an Appointment: After arriving in Portugal with the D8 visa, the applicant must schedule an appointment with the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) to apply for a residence permit. 5. Attend the SEF Appointment: During the appointment, applicants will provide biometric data and may be interviewed about their stay in Portugal. 6. Receive the Residence Permit: If the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit, which is typically valid for two years and renewable.

Official Departments and Agencies

The following are the official departments and agencies where digital nomads need to submit their information for the D8 visa: - Portuguese consulate or embassy in the applicant's home country for the initial visa application. - Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) for the residence permit application after arriving in Portugal.

Useful Links

Below are the links to the official websites where you can find more information and start your application process: Portuguese Visas - Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF)
ePortugal - Public Services of Portugal