Portugal has become a magnet for remote workers and digital nomads, attracting individuals seeking a high quality of life, beautiful landscapes, and a welcoming expat community. The Digital Nomad visa, introduced in October 2022, provides a streamlined path to residency for those working remotely and earning a substantial income. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to successfully navigate the Digital Nomad visa application process, empowering you to turn your dream of working and living in Portugal into a reality.
Understanding the Digital Nomad Visa
The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for individuals who:
Work remotely for a foreign company or are self-employed, meaning you must generate income from sources outside of Portugal.
Have a proven income of at least €3,280 per month, based on four times Portugal’s minimum wage.
Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa Benefits
Right to Live and Work in Portugal: This visa allows you to live legally in Portugal for a specific duration, typically up to one year.
Visa-Free Travel Across the Schengen Area: Enjoy the freedom to travel throughout the Schengen Area without additional visas.
Access to Public Services in Portugal: Gain access to Portugal's public services, including healthcare and education.
Pathway to EU Citizenship: This visa can lead to permanent residency and eventually EU citizenship.
Family Reunification: Bring your family along with simplified processes for family members.
Types of Digital Nomad Visas
Short-Term Visa: Allows you to stay in Portugal for up to 12 months but does not grant residency. Ideal for shorter stays.
Long-Term Visa: Grants a residence permit, allowing you to stay in Portugal for over a year and opens the door to potential future citizenship.
Key Requirements for Digital Nomad Visa Application
Proof of Income: Freelancers must provide contracts with clients, bank statements showing payments received, and tax declarations with proof of income tax payments. Employees must provide a work contract, an employer’s certificate confirming remote work capabilities, bank statements reflecting salary payments, and a tax return or certificate from the employer regarding taxes paid.
Accommodation: Typically, a 4-month rental contract is required, but many consulates ask for a one-year contract.
Certificate of No Criminal Record: Provide a certificate of no criminal record from your country of citizenship and any countries lived in for over a year after the age of 16. This certificate must be translated into Portuguese, notarized, and apostilled.
Savings: Show at least €9,840 in savings per person to demonstrate financial stability. For long-term visas, a larger deposit of 12-16 thousand euros can strengthen your application. For family applications, show 50% of the minimum annual income for your spouse (€4,920) and 30% for each underage child (€2,952).
Health Insurance: For the D visa, standard travel insurance for 120 days is sufficient.
Airplane Ticket Reservations: Show proof of reservations for the approximate date of arrival in Portugal. Ideally, this should be 1.5-2 months after your visa application submission.
Motivation Letter: This optional but recommended letter provides an opportunity to explain your reasons for choosing Portugal, highlight your financial stability and future plans, and present a strong case for your visa application.
Family Members: Each family member, including minors, requires a separate application form.
Step-by-Step Guide to Digital Nomad Visa Application
Appointment with Consulate or VFS Global
Certificate of No Criminal Record
Proof of Accommodation
Proof of Monthly Income
Savings
Health Insurance
Tickets to Portugal
Family Documents
Motivation Letter
Application to Consulate or VFS
Arrival in Portugal and Application to AIMA
Receive Your Residence Permit Card
Once the visa holder arrives in Portugal, they can use it to apply for a 2-year residence permit. If a digital nomad stays in Portugal for over 183 days a year, they will be able to renew their permit for another 3 years. After that, they can obtain permanent residency or citizenship in Portugal.
Why Choose Red Migration?
Navigating the visa application process can be complex and time-consuming. Red Migration simplifies this journey with our expert team and personalized service. Our legal team in Portugal is adept at handling local regulations and requirements, ensuring a smooth and efficient application process.
Our Process
Consultation: Begin with a thorough consultation to understand your specific needs and circumstances.
Document Preparation: Our team helps you gather and prepare all necessary documents to meet Portuguese authorities’ standards.
Application Submission: We assist in getting embassy appointments through VFS and handle the submission of your application and keep you updated on its progress.
Follow-Up: Our legal team in Portugal follows up with the relevant authorities to track your application.
Post-Approval Support: After your visa is approved, we provide guidance on settling into Portugal, including finding accommodation and understanding local customs.
Start Your Journey Today
Ready to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle in Portugal? Contact Red Migration today to schedule your free consultation and begin your journey to a vibrant and fulfilling life in Portugal.
At Red Migration, we turn your dreams of working remotely from Portugal into reality. Let us handle the complexities of the visa process while you focus on making the most of your new adventure.
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