How to apply for a digital nomad visa for Portugal: Brazilians are at the top of the list
These days, more and more people are looking for ways to work remotely and do business without the need to be physically present in an office or specific location. With the advance of technology and the popularization of digital work, the concept of the digital nomad has emerged, i.e. people who work online and have the freedom to travel and live in different parts of the world. Many digital nomads choose Portugal as their destination because of its exceptional quality of life, low cost of living and vibrant community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
However, in order to live and work in another country, you need to obtain the correct visa that will allow you to stay there legally. For digital nomads, the digital nomad visa is an excellent option that allows you to work and undertake in Portugal without the need to settle permanently. In this article, we’ll show you how to apply for a digital nomad visa for Portugal and what the requirements are to be part of this lifestyle.
If you’re looking for more autonomy, flexibility and freedom in your career, the digital nomad visa could be the ideal option. With it, you can work remotely and do business in another country without being physically present in the office or specific location. Read on to find out how to apply for a digital nomad visa for Portugal and what the requirements are to be part of this increasingly popular lifestyle.
What is a digital nomad visa?
The digital nomad visa is a type of visa that allows remote workers and entrepreneurs to live and work in one country. It is especially attractive for those who want the freedom to move to another country according to their needs and preferences. Generally, this visa lasts for one year and can be renewed as long as the applicant meets the requirements. There are two options for applying for a digital nomad visa: for up to 12 months, known as a temporary stay visa, or for more than 12 months, as a residence visa.
In recent times, the digital nomad visa has gained popularity among people looking for a more flexible and independent way of life, without having to be tied to an office or fixed location. If you are a digital nomad or entrepreneur and are interested in finding out how to apply for a digital nomad visa for Portugal, read on to find out about the requirements and the application process.
Portugal: the ideal destination for digital nomads
Portugal is becoming increasingly attractive to digital nomads in search of a more flexible and independent lifestyle. The country offers an excellent quality of life, with a mild climate, stunning landscapes, tasty cuisine and plenty of culture and history. In addition, Portugal is one of the European countries with the most affordable cost of living, which is a positive point for those who want to undertake or work remotely.
An additional advantage of Portugal is the presence of a constantly growing community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs, which makes it easier to establish contacts, support and create a network of contacts. In addition, the country offers excellent internet connectivity and a suitable infrastructure for remote working. There is also a wide range of coworking spaces, coffee shops, hotels, bookstores and libraries with lounge areas and internet access. If you’re a digital nomad looking for a place to settle down, Portugal could be the perfect destination for you. Come and discover everything the country has to offer digital nomads and entrepreneurs!
Brazilians top the list of digital nomad visas in Portugal
Brazilians are at the top of the list of digital nomad visas issued in Portugal. This is partly due to the fact that Brazil is a country with a large population, but also because many Brazilians have a strong connection with Portuguese culture and language. It is worth noting, however, that the digital nomad visa is not exclusive to Brazilians and anyone can apply, as long as they meet the necessary requirements.
If you’re a digital nomad looking for a place to live and work remotely, Portugal could be an excellent option. As well as offering a great quality of life and adequate infrastructure for digital nomads, Portugal has a growing community of remote professionals who can help you adapt and feel at home.
How do I apply for a digital nomad visa for Portugal?
A. Requirements for a digital nomad visa in Portugal
To apply for a digital nomad visa in Portugal, you need to meet certain requirements, such as:
- Working for companies/clients not located in Portugal;
- Proof of monthly income for the last three months, from salaried or self-employed work, which is at least four times the monthly minimum wage.
- Document proving your fiscal address.
- If you are not a citizen of the country where you are applying for a visa, you must provide proof of legal and valid residence.
- Have an employment or remote service contract of at least one year;
- Travel insurance is required to cover urgent medical expenses and repatriation, unless there is a bilateral/international agreement between Portugal and the country of origin, as in the case of Brazil, which recognizes certain insurances;
- Have enough income to live in Portugal without having to work there;
- A criminal record certificate is required from the country of origin and any country where you have lived for more than one year (exempt for children under 16). The document must be in Portuguese and authenticated by the Hague Apostille or legalized, if applicable.
B. Application process for the digital nomad visa in Portugal
To apply for a digital nomad visa in Portugal, it’s crucial to follow these steps carefully and organize yourself. It is strongly recommended that you hire a legal advisor to ensure that you present a well-structured and consistent process:
- Gather the necessary documentation, such as a passport, proof of income, work or remote service contract, health insurance, etc;
- Fill in the online application form on the website of the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF);
- Pay the visa processing fee;
- Schedule an appointment at the Portuguese consulate closest to your location or VFS Global, depending on your country of residence;
- Attend the interview with all the necessary documentation and wait for the result.
Advantages of being a digital nomad in Portugal
Being a digital nomad in Portugal has many advantages, such as
- Vibrant community: Portugal has a growing community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs, which means it’s easy to make contacts and find support and networking.
- Exceptional quality of life: Portugal offers an excellent quality of life, with a mild climate, stunning landscapes, good food and lots of culture and history. In addition, the country has an affordable cost of living compared to other European countries, which is a positive point for those who want to undertake or work remotely.
- Adequate infrastructure: Portugal offers a good internet connection and adequate infrastructure for working remotely. This is essential for digital nomads, who need a good connection to carry out their daily activities.
- Access to rich and diverse culture: Portugal has a rich culture and many interesting activities, such as festivals, music and theater events, and museums.
- Possibility of travel: Portugal is a small country, but it offers many travel options, from sunny beaches to historic cities and stunning mountains.
- Mild climate: The climate in Portugal is mild and pleasant for most of the year, which is a plus for those coming from countries with harsh winters.
- Tax benefits: Portugal offers tax benefits for digital nomads and entrepreneurs, which can be an advantage for those wishing to undertake or invest in the country.
- Family reunification: Family reunification is possible, including spouses, minor children and economically dependent parents. This reunification can be requested as long as the applicant proves that they have the financial means to provide for everyone.
If you’re a digital nomad looking for a place to settle down, Portugal could be the perfect choice. With a multicultural community, excellent quality of life, solid infrastructure and a wide range of cultural options, Portugal has a lot to offer those looking for remote work, a more flexible and independent life. In addition, Portugal has consistently been voted one of the best tourist destinations year after year, which is testament to its attractiveness and quality of life.
Digital nomads with support if they move inland
An interesting trend in the community of digital nomads in Portugal is the migration to the interior of the country. Many digital nomads are discovering the advantages of living in Portugal’s smaller towns and rural areas, where the cost of living is even more affordable and the quality of life is excellent. In addition, the Portuguese government has offered incentives to attract digital nomads and entrepreneurs to the interior of the country, such as tax reductions and other support measures.
If you’re a digital nomad looking for a place to settle in Portugal, consider the options in the interior of the country. As well as offering a quieter, more authentic life, these areas can offer more support and incentives than big cities. With the right infrastructure and a growing community of digital nomads, Portugal’s rural areas could be the perfect place for you to live and work remotely.
Conclusion
In short, the digital nomad visa is an excellent opportunity for those who want to work remotely or do business in another country without having to settle permanently. Portugal has become an increasingly attractive destination for digital nomads, thanks to its excellent quality of life, affordable cost of living and vibrant community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
If you want to apply for a digital nomad visa for Portugal, make sure you meet the requirements and follow the application process correctly. With a little planning and research, you can enjoy all that Portugal has to offer as a successful digital nomad.