Portugal D7 Digital Nomad Visa - Visa Application and Requirements

During the COVID-19 pandemic, companies started implementing remote opportunities for employees. As a result, Digital Nomad Visas have become increasingly popular amongst people who work from home and wish to travel. Portugal is a popular destination for remote workers as it provides an easy way to obtain a Digital Nomad Visa. In this post, we will guide you through the process of becoming a Digital Nomad In Portugal. After this post, you'll be able to effortless obtain a digital nomad residency in Portugal.

Suppose you are unsure whether a digital nomad remote work visa is perfect for you. In that case, you can check out our Portugal Visa Guide, in which we cover all the types of visas available for Portugal.

In this post, you'll find:

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Digital Nomads are remote workers who travel and work in different countries. They often live a nomadic lifestyle and use technology to complete their work responsibilities. Using their devices, such as smartphones and laptops, Digital Nomads can work in coffee shops, public libraries, or even from the comfort of their home. Remote working and self-employment are becoming increasingly popular as you have the opportunity to see many different countries.

There are other ways of making Portugal your adopted home.

One of these is through the investment in a residency program known as the Portugal's Golden Visa. This requires applicants to make a sizeable investment in Portugal, a minimum of 300,000 Euros. In exchange, they'll obtain residency for as long as the investment is active.

The permanent residency visa route is much less costly than the Golden Visa approach. Still, it is also more complicated and a pretty lengthy digital nomad residency process. Therefore, more and more travelers prefer the digital nomad visa because it allows flexibility. This type of Portugal Visa is commonly referred to as the Portugal D7 Visa.

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A Digital Nomad Visa is provided to remote workers, freelancers, and business owners who wish to travel and work in a foreign country.

The difference between a Digital Nomad Visa and a Tourist Visa is the amount of time allowed to stay in the country. Depending on the country, a Tourist Visa will allow you to stay up to 90 days. In contrast, a Digital Nomad Visa can extend your stay for up to a year or more. Generally, the Portugal Tourist Visa won't allow long stay digital nomad residency.

If you are a Digital Nomad who travels frequently, you can opt to apply for a tourist visa. However, suppose you wish to extend your stay in a country. In that case, it is more beneficial to consider a Portugal D7 Visa. This will allow you to remain in Portugal for a longer period until you decide to travel to another country.

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Some nationalities may enter Portugal without a visa. However, for non-EU citizens, you must apply for a Portugal Visa to enter Portugal. Depending on the duration of your stay, the type of Portugal Visa you need can vary.

• If You Are An EU Citizen
• If You Are An United States Citizen
• If You Are A US Green Card Holder
• If You Are A citizen from Canada, Australia, or New Zealand
• If You Reside In Any Other Country

If You Are An EU Citizen

It is straightforward for EU citizens to gain entry to Portugal. Portugal is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area. This means that EU citizens do not have to apply for any specific visa. EU citizens can work, visit, and live in Portugal freely.

If You Are An United States Citizen

If you are a US citizen, you will be happy to know that Portugal has specific agreements with the US. US citizens can enter Portugal for 90 days without acquiring any type of visa. This agreement only applies every 6 months, and you must leave Portugal after the initial 90 days. Digital Nomads seeking to reside in Portugal for more than 90 days will need to apply for a longer stay visa.

If You Are A US Green Card Holder

Things get a bit tricky for US Green Card Holders. Some US Green Card Holders don't need a visa, and others do. This all depends on your home country. For example, suppose your passport/country enjoys the benefit of visa-free travel. In that case, you don't need to apply for a visa if you plan to visit Portugal. However, suppose you're from a country that doesn't enjoy this benefit. In that case, you'll need to apply for a Schengen Visa.

If You Are A citizen from Canada, Australia, or New Zealand

Citizens from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand enjoy the same benefits as US citizens. Citizens from these nations can enter Portugal for 90 days without needing a specific visa. After 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa that provides a longer stay.

If You Reside In Any Other Country

Unfortunately, other countries do not share the same benefits as the countries mentioned above. Therefore, if you are a Digital Nomad seeking to live in Portugal, you will need to look at the types of visas available and apply for the one most suited to your preference.

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In Portugal, there is no official Digital Nomad Visa or Remote Work Visa, but there are 2 types of visas you can apply for to live in Portugal as a Digital Nomad.

• The Temporary Stay Visa
• The Residency Visa
• What Portugal Visa Type Is The Best Visa To Use For Digital Nomads?

The Temporary Stay Visa

The Temporary Stay Visa is perfect for those who do not seek a permanent residency but wish to live in Portugal for an extended period. The Temporary Stay Visa is valid for your entire stay (1 year or less). In addition, it will grant you multiple entries into the country.

With this visa, you can travel outside Portugal and experience other European countries if you like. However, an important requirement is to prove that you have a monthly income of €705. This will prove that you can provide for yourself during your stay and that you are not a burden to Portugal.

If your looking for mid-term digital nomad residency, the temporary stay visa is a good option.

The Residency Visa

The Residency Visa, also known as a retirement visa or D7 Visa, is for the Digital Nomad who wants to stay in Portugal for more than one year. Once you receive a Temporary Resident Visa, you can apply for a Permanent Residency Permit. Please note that after receiving your Residency Visa, it is only valid for four months. Within this time, you will need to apply for a Residency Permit within Portugal.

What Portugal Visa Type Is The Best Visa To Use For Digital Nomads?

The best visa for Digital Nomads wanting to reside in Portugal is the Portugal D7 Visa. This type of visa allows you to stay in Portugal for an extended amount of time. In this post, I will walk you through the Portugal D7 Visa application process as it's the most popular option for Digital Nomads traveling to Portugal.

I should mention that the process of getting a Portugal D7 Visa is complicated and takes some time to complete. For the purpose of this guide, I'll briefly explain how to apply for one. However, you can find the exact Portugal D7 Visa process and requirements here. It outlines the Portugal D7 Visa requirements, how to apply for one, and what steps you should take.

Important Note:

It's worth mentioning that the Portugal D7 Visa is a 2 part visa application. The first part is applying for the Portugal Residence Visa (known as the D7 Visa). Once you obtain your residence visa, you must travel to Portugal and schedule an interview with SEF. This is the part where you get your Residency Permit.

The Residency Permit is what allows you to stay in Portugal legally.

You can see why the Portugal D7 Visa can be complicated and a pretty lengthy process.

So, suppose you wish to live in Portugal as a Digital Nomad. In that case, I highly recommend you follow the steps outlined in this dedicated guide. After reading through the guide, you'll have an in-depth understanding of how to obtain digital nomad residency in Portugal.

The Portugal e-Residency Program will soon be available. Please check out our blogs for information about the e-Residency Portugal Visa program.

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Before you start your next Portugal D7 Visa application, you'll need consider the general Portugal digital nomad visa requirements:

Let's take a look at them:

• You Will Need To Get A Portuguese NIF Number
• You Will Need To Open A Portuguese Bank Account
• You Will Need To Prove Financial Self-Sufficiency
• You Will Need Proof Of Accommodation
• You Will Need Full Health Insurance
• You Have To Have A Clean Criminal Record
• You Will Need To Meet The Minimum Stay Requirement

You Will Need To Get A Portuguese NIF Number

If you plan to carry out any fiscal activities during your stay in Portugal, you will need to get a NIF. A NIF is a tax number used in Portugal. You can get it from the comfort of your home when using the provided link.

You Will Need To Open A Portuguese Bank Account

Once you have a NIF, you can open a Portuguese bank account remotely. Your Portuguese bank account will be used to make any related payments in Portugal. Without a bank account, you will not be able to carry out any fiscal activities. As a digital nomad, a bank account is very important.

You Will Need To Prove Financial Self-Sufficiency

Suppose you wish to stay in Portugal as a digital nomad. In that case, you will need to prove that you are financially stable to provide for yourself during your stay. You can use bank statements or other relevant documents to prove that you are financially stable. You can verify you meet this requirement on Atlys.

Furthermore, you must prove that you will have regular recurring income (passive income) during your stay in Portugal. So, to qualify for a Portugal D7 Visa, you need to meet the following passive income requirements:

• For the lead applicant: a minimum of €8 460 per year.
• For dependant applicants (like a spouse): a minimum of €4 230 per year.
• For any dependant children: a minimum of €2 538 per year.

You Will Need Proof Of Accommodation

You are required to secure adequate accommodation before you travel to Portugal. Although you do not need to buy property, you must have a long-term rental lease (minimum of 12 months). This is an essential Portugal digital nomad visa requirement as authorities are hesitant to approve short-term accommodation. As such, it's best to find suitable long-term accommodation before starting your application.

You Will Need Full Health Insurance

The primary applicant must have comprehensive EU-wide health insurance, including any dependents. Take note that the medical cover must be paid for in advance (12 months). Each applicant must have minimum medical insurance worth €30 000. Atlys is the best way to get the right insurance.

You Have To Have A Clean Criminal Record

A criminal background check is one of Portugal's digital nomad visa requirements. Without a clean criminal record, your application will be unsuccessful. Ensure that you obtain your criminal record before starting the application process. Schedule an online delivery here.

You Will Need To Meet The Minimum Stay Requirement

You must meet the minimum stay requirements if you plan to obtain a Residency Visa. You must stay in Portugal for a minimum of 183 days every year. Or not be absent for more than 6 months, or you can also opt to live a total of 8 months in Portugal with various annual breaks. Note that there are no minimum stay requirements for the Temporary Stay Visa.

If you're still unclear about the requirements and the required documents, I suggest you read through our dedicated Portugal D7 Visa guide. You'll find clear instructions on the required documents and how to get them (for example, FBI Criminal Record Certificate). Remember that for your Digital Nomad Visa, you'll apply for the National D7 Type Visa, which allows an extended stay.

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I have broken the Portugal D7 Visa process down into 7 simple steps you can use when you start your visa application to obtain digital nomad residency. If you are still unsure about the requirements or what to expect, read this official Portugal D7 Visa post. Here's how to register as a freelancer in Portugal:

• Step 1 - Acquire All The Necessary Documents
• Step 2 - Fill Out The Application Form
• Step 3 - Submit Your Documents
• Step 4 - Collect Your Residency Visa
• Step 5 - Schedule An Appointment At SEF
• Step 6 - Attend Your Appointment With SEF
• Step 7 - Get your Portugal Residency Permit

Step 1 - Acquire All The Necessary Documents

Before starting your visa application, we recommend gathering all the required documents, as this will make the process easier along the way. Furthermore, suppose you don't submit all the required documents at your visa appointment. In that case, your digital nomad visa application will most likely be denied.

• The Required Documents For A Portugal D7 Visa:

Before applying for your digital nomad residency permit, you'll need to understand the Portugal digital nomad visa requirements and document requirements. Next, I'll discuss the documents you must submit during the application process.

• The D7 Visa Application Form
• Your Valid Passport
• 2 Passport Sized Photographs
• Proof of Regular Income or Passive Income, known as proof of Sufficient Funds
• Proof Of Accommodation
• Proof that you have Legal Residency in the US (If Applicable)
• The FBI Criminal Record Certificate
• Request for Criminal Record Enquiry by the Immigration And Border Services (SEF)
• Proof of Valid Health Coverage
• A Cover Letter that indicates the reason for your request

Take note that you should make copies of all the documents needed as you will need them in the future.

Step 2 - Fill Out The Application Form

For your Temporary Stay Visa, you will need to fill out the visa application form or use Atlys to do it.

Once you have completed the form, you can submit it online. Ensure all the information is correct and the same as your passport.

Step 3 - Submit Your Documents

Next, you'll need to submit your application alongside all your supporting documents. You can submit your documents at the Portuguese Consulate/Embassy or mail them. Remember that due to COVID-19, you might not be able to submit it at the Embassy in person. Therefore, I recommend getting the appropriate shipping labels and mailing your application. This can be done when you use Atlys.

During this step, you'll also need to pay the appropriate visa fees. You can expect to pay around €75 for your Temporary Stay Visa. Keep in mind that these fees may change at any time.

Step 4 - Collect Your Residency Visa

As soon as you submit your application, the Embassy will process your visa and ensure that you meet the requirements. If your visa is approved, you must travel to the Embassy and collect your passport. Your passport will include your Residency Visa, which can be used to travel to Portugal and attend your SEF appointment (more about this next).

Step 5 - Schedule An Appointment At SEF

Once you have your new digital nomad visa (also known as the D7 Residency Visa), you will need to book an appointment with SEF in Portugal. This can be done by contacting SEF directly, or you can schedule an appointment online.

This is the step where you apply for your Portugal Residency Permit.

Note that you might find it challenging to schedule an appointment that suits your preferred date. This is another reason why acquiring a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa can take long. However, you'll find that some SEF offices in less crowded cities have more appointment slots available. Therefore, if you wish to get an appointment as soon as possible, I recommend scheduling an appointment at a SEF office located in smaller cities.

Step 6 - Attend Your Appointment With SEF

You will need to fly to Portugal and attend your appointment in person. Here you will have an interview with Portugal authorities. During this interview, your biometric information will be collected, and you must submit all supporting documents again.

Here are the supporting documents you'll need to submit at your SEF appointment:

• The Residency Permit Application Form
• 2 Recent Photographs
• Your Passport
• Your Valid Residency Visa
• Proof Of Sufficient Funds
• Proof Of Accommodation
• Permission To Check Your Criminal Record
• A Document Proving Your Tax Situation
• A Social Security Document
• Supporting Document That Proves You Have Medical Insurance

Our dedicated D7 guide will include everything about the SEF appointment and what you require. The steps mentioned above give you an idea of what to expect during the Portugal D7 Visa application process.

Step 7 - Get your Portugal Residency Permit

After completing your interview, authorities will process your application. Your Residency permit usually takes around 2 weeks to be processed. Once this is complete, Portugal authorities will contact you and inform you that you can collect your new Residency Permit.

You can legally live in Portugal as a digital nomad and enjoy all the benefits of your new Residency Permit.

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There are many amazing destinations in Portugal where remote workers can choose to work. We will list our Top Places to Work in Portugal.

• Ponta do Sol, Madeira: The Digital Nomad Village
• Ericeira
• Coimbra
• Lisbon

Ponta do Sol, Madeira: The Digital Nomad Village

The Digital Nomad Village is an initiative created by the Regional Government of Madeira and Startup Madeira. It is specifically designed for Digital Nomads and remote workers who wish to work in Portugal. The program's objective is to bring digital nomads and local businesses together to create a community of individuals who have a good social and economic influence on the village. If you want to get a sense of Madeira, we recommend going on one of the Nomad Escape tours to see what it's like to be a digital nomad!

There are many reasons why Digital Nomads choose Madeira over any other destination in Portugal. It boasts a rich culture, perfect weather conditions, nature activities, and many more. In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for Digital Nomads to socialize with other like-minded individuals from all over the world, making it a top destination for Digital Nomads.

Ericeira

Also known as the surfing capital of Europe, Ericeira offers many benefits for Digital Nomads. One main benefit is that Ericeira grants easy access to Lisbon, making it possible for Digital Nomads to travel between the 2 cities if needed. Ericeira also offers many co-working spaces and digital-friendly coffee shops. Here you can enjoy a cold drink while getting some work done.

Coimbra

Coimbra is a destination for those Digital Nomads who seek a quiet and relaxing work experience. You will be inspired by the amazing architecture, incredible blue skies, and Coimbra's deep history and culture here. Coimbra is an excellent destination if you wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a hotspot for Digital Nomads who enjoy city life. Lisbon offers delicious foods, incredible nightlife, plenty of co-working spaces, and multiple digital-friendly cafes. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy the capital of Portugal and work remotely. Lisbon is perfect for the extroverted Digital Nomad.

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Working in Portugal has many benefits that can make remote work in Portugal worthwhile. Here are a few reasons why Portugal is one of the best places to work as a Digital Nomad.

• Easy Access To Other EU Countries
• Portugal's Culture And History
• Low Cost Of Living
• Perfect Weather Conditions
• Fast WiFi And Great Co-Working Spaces

Easy Access To Other EU Countries

With your Temporary Stay Visa/Residency Permit, you can enjoy visa-free travel to countries within the Schengen Area. In addition, you have the opportunity to see and experience any of the exciting European destinations.

Portugal's Culture And History

One of the many things Portugal has to offer is its rich history and culture. Be inspired by Portugal's beautiful architecture and amazing culture. It is sure to inspire creativity while busy with your remote work.

Low Cost Of Living

One of the most significant benefits of Portugal is its low cost of living. As a result, Portugal is relatively affordable compared to other destinations worldwide, making it a top destination for freelancers, remote workers, and retirees.

Perfect Weather Conditions

Digital Nomads can relax in all the sunshine Portugal offers throughout the year. After completing all your work, you can enjoy many outside activities, thanks to the incredible weather Portugal offers.

Fast WiFi And Great Co-Working Spaces

For any Digital Nomad, these are 2 critical deciding factors. In addition, Portugal has reliable WiFi connections and numerous working spaces, making it a top destination for Digital Nomads.

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You will be happy to know that Portugal has plenty of accommodation options for all Digital Nomads.

Accommodation options include:

• Co-living Spaces
• Hotels
• Rental Properties
• Airbnb
• Hostels

Co-living Spaces

Co-living spaces are the perfect option for people who want to live with like-minded individuals. The benefit of co-living spaces is that the total cost is shared by all parties, meaning that the cost of accommodation can be relatively cheap. That said, there are many options to choose from. If you choose to live in fancier accommodation, you can expect to pay more.

In a co-living space, you can expect to have your own bedroom. Other common facilities will be shared amongst the group. This can include the bathroom, kitchen, living room, and dining room.

Hotels

Hotels are always a great option for Digital Nomads. Portugal has many hotels in many cities that you can choose from. Just be aware that hotels are not as budget-friendly as other accommodation options, making it expensive if you plan to stay for a long period.

Rental Properties

If you are planning to stay in Portugal for a long time, renting a property is possible. There are many excellent property options available in Portugal. Be aware that most property owners will require you to sign a rental agreement for at least a year. Be sure that you are financially able to rent a property before you do so, as you will be signing a rental agreement.

Airbnb

Airbnb is one of the most popular accommodation options in Portugal. This is because Airbnb has more flexibility regarding its terms and conditions. If you are planning to have a short trip, then Airbnb is the perfect option for you. Airbnb also allows extending your stay for longer if you wish to do so. Bargaining is part of Portugal's culture, making it possible for you to reduce the cost of accommodation. Before you book an Airbnb, ask politely if it is possible to reduce the price. In most cases, the host might expect this and reduce the price slightly.

Hostels

Within hostels, you are likely to find many beds in one room, which means there is little to no privacy. Hostels are an excellent option if you are a Digital Nomad who loves meeting and interacting with new people. Hostels are a perfect option for those who are only planning a short stay in Portugal. Another benefit of hostels is that they are relatively cheap, making them a budget-friendly option.