Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa): The Ideal Residency Pathway for Remote Workers

Portugal has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads and remote workers, thanks to its high quality of life, affordability, and favorable residency options. The D8 Visa, often referred to as the Digital Nomad Visa or Remote Worker Visa offers non-EU citizens the opportunity to live in Portugal while working remotely for foreign companies or as self-employed professionals.

This guide outlines the key requirements, application process, and stay obligations for those considering this visa as a pathway to residency in Portugal.

Who Is Eligible for the D8 Visa?

The D8 Visa is designed for remote workers who wish to reside in Portugal while maintaining employment or self-employment income from abroad. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial stability by meeting the minimum income threshold, which is four times the Portuguese minimum wage.

Minimum Income Requirement for 2025:

Applicants must show an average income over the past three months of at least €3,480 per month.
While this is the baseline requirement, higher income levels may strengthen the application as consular officers have discretionary power in approving visas.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining the D8 Visa

Applying for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa involves several steps, beginning at the Portuguese Consulate in the applicant’s country of legal residence.

1. Preparing for the Application

Before applying, applicants must:
✔ Obtain a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF) – Required for opening a bank account and conducting financial transactions in Portugal.
✔ Open a Portuguese bank account – Some consulates may require proof of financial means deposited in a Portuguese bank.
✔ Secure long-term accommodation – This can be done by purchasing property or signing a long-term lease agreement in Portugal.
✔ Gather necessary documentation – Each Portuguese Consulate may have slightly different requirements, so checking with the specific consular office is recommended.

2. Submitting the Visa Application

✔ Apply at the Portuguese Consulate – Even if an applicant’s nationality allows visa-free entry into Portugal, the residence visa must still be obtained before moving.
✔ Schedule and attend an interview – Depending on the consulate, applicants may be required to provide further details about their work and income sources.
✔ Wait for processing – Visa approval times vary, but once granted, the residence visa is issued for up to two entries into Portugal and allows a stay of up to four months.

3. Moving to Portugal and Applying for a Residence Permit

✔ Enter Portugal with the residence visa within the validity period.
✔ Apply for a residence permit at an AIMA office (Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service).
✔ Submit all required documents and pay government fees to receive the official residence permit.

D8 Visa Stay Requirements & Path to Permanent Residency

Once granted, the D8 residence permit follows a structured timeline toward permanent residency and even Portuguese citizenship.

Permit Validity & Renewal Timeline

First residence permit: Valid for two years.
Renewal: Extended for an additional three years.
After five years: Eligible for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, provided the applicant passes a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level).

Minimum Stay Requirements

Applicants must spend a minimum amount of time in Portugal each year to maintain their residency status:

First residence permit (2 years): At least 16 months in Portugal, with no absence exceeding 6 consecutive months.
Subsequent permits (3 years each): At least 28 months in Portugal over the three-year period, with no absence exceeding 6 consecutive months.
Permanent residence (5 years): At least 30 months in Portugal, with no absence exceeding 24 consecutive months.

Note: In specific cases, extended absences may be permitted due to critical circumstances.

Family Reunification Under the D8 Visa

Immediate family members can join the primary applicant under Portugal’s family reunification rules (D6 Visa). They may apply for residency permits without requiring a separate visa. However, if a spouse also has a stable income, applying for the D8 Visa together may be a faster alternative to waiting for the family reunification process after arrival.

Why Consider Portugal’s D8 Digital Nomad Visa?

✔ Tax Benefits: Portugal offers favorable tax regimes, such as the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax status, which can reduce tax liabilities for new residents. To know more about Portugal NHR 2.0 please refer to this article:
✔ Visa-Free Travel: Portuguese residency grants access to the Schengen Area, allowing free travel within 27 European countries.
✔ Pathway to Citizenship: After five years, applicants may apply for Portuguese citizenship, gaining one of the world’s most powerful passports.
✔ Quality of Life: Portugal ranks among the safest countries in the world, boasts an affordable cost of living, and offers excellent healthcare and infrastructure.

Final Thoughts

Portugal’s D8 Visa provides a flexible and accessible pathway for remote workers and digital nomads seeking European residency. Whether for tax benefits, lifestyle advantages, or a long-term relocation strategy, this visa offers one of the most attractive routes to living in Portugal.

For further details on residency options like Golden Visa or investment strategies, 3 Comma Capital is available to provide guidance tailored to your situation.