Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa | Sarıoğlu & Avcı Law Firm

The Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa is a residency program that allows applicants to live and work in Portugal by demonstrating an eligible income. This residence permit, which came into effect on October 30, 2022, is designed for non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals. The Digital Nomad Visa is suitable for individuals who can demonstrate active income, including self-employed professionals, remote workers, and independent contractors. Unlike the D7 Visa, which is based on passive income, the D8 Visa is an ideal alternative for those earning an active income from employment or freelancing while residing in Portugal.

What is the Portugal D8 Visa and Who is Eligible?

The D8 Digital Nomad Visa is a specialized program designed for professionals who wish to reside in Portugal while working remotely or managing their own businesses. This visa is particularly suitable for individuals offering services to companies or clients based outside of Portugal. The following groups are eligible to apply for the D8 Visa:

Individuals with Active Income: Those who can demonstrate active earnings from outside Portugal, including salaries, freelance income, and other business-related income.
Remote Workers: Employees working for foreign companies remotely.
Freelancers: Independent professionals providing services to international clients.
Independent Entrepreneurs: Business owners registered outside Portugal who derive their income from foreign sources.

Advantages of the D8 Visa

Grants the right to live and work in Portugal.
Allows free movement within the Schengen Area.
Provides access to tax benefits.
Offers access to Portugal's healthcare and education systems.
Enables eligibility to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years.

Eligibility Requirements for the D8 Visa

To qualify for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 18 years old.
Have a clean criminal record (apostilled and translated into Portuguese).
Provide proof of a residential address in Portugal (a six-month rental contract or property ownership).
Demonstrate a stable active income from remote work or self-employment.

Minimum Income Requirements for the D8 Visa

Applicants for the Portugal D8 Visa must prove that they earn at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage per month. As of 2024, this amount is set at €3,280 per month.

Additional income requirements for dependent family members:

Spouse or Dependent Parents: An additional 50% of the minimum wage.
Dependent Children: An additional 30% of the minimum wage.

For example, if applying with a spouse, the applicant must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €4,920.

D8 Visa Application Process

Preparation of Required Documents
Submission of the National Visa Application
Entry into Portugal and Residence Permit Application
Residence Permit and Citizenship Process
- The initial residence permit is valid for two years, followed by a three-year residence permit renewal.
- After five years of residency and proof of A2-level Portuguese proficiency, applicants may qualify for permanent residency or citizenship.

Minimum Stay Requirements in Portugal

To maintain their residence permit, D8 visa holders must spend a minimum amount of time in Portugal:

During the initial two-year residence period: A minimum of 16 months in Portugal.
During the subsequent three-year renewal period: A minimum of 28 months in Portugal.
To qualify for permanent residency: At least 30 months in Portugal within five years.

Work Authorization under the D8 Visa

As the D8 Visa is designed for individuals earning active income, holders of this visa have the right to engage in full-time employment or self-employment in Portugal.

This allows visa holders to set up a business, work remotely, or provide freelance services while residing in Portugal.

Conclusion

The Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa offers a flexible and attractive residency option for remote professionals seeking to live and work in Europe. It provides a secure legal framework for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees of foreign companies who wish to relocate to Portugal while maintaining their remote work.

At Sarıoğlu & Avcı, we offer full legal assistance throughout the entire Portugal D8 Visa process. Our services include obtaining a tax identification number, opening a bank account, preparing the application file, and handling SEF applications, ensuring a seamless and efficient process for our clients.