Remote working has become the new normal for many of us over the past year. But imagine if you could work from your laptop at a beachfront café with views of the ocean, or in a trendy coworking space in the city. This could be your reality with Portugal’s digital nomad visa (spoiler: you don’t have to be a nomad!). For property buyers with a smaller budget, this visa could be your ticket to Portuguese residency…
What is it?
Portugal’s digital nomad visa, more formally known as the D7 Passive Income visa, is a fantastic way to get your foot in the door to live in Portugal. Unlike other Portuguese visas – such as the Golden Visa – you don’t need to invest a large sum of money into Portugal. You will need to be working for a company based outside of Portugal, so make sure your employer is aware of, and happy with, your remote working situation.
The visa initially lasts for a year, however, after this, you can renew it every two years. After five years, you can apply for residency (subject to passing a Portuguese language exam).
It is a really viable option for property buyers with a smaller budget looking to stay in Portugal long term. Plus, you will have freedom of movement within the Schengen area, something that is particularly attractive after Brexit!
Requirements
- Earn at least €600 a month from a company based outside of Portugal or be self-employed with foreign clients
- Have a clean criminal record
- Have somewhere to live in Portugal
- Register with social security in Portugal
How to apply
The first step is to get a temporary D7 visa, which lasts four months. To obtain this, you will need to apply in your home country at the Portuguese embassy. Make sure to bring all the required documentation.
Once you have the temporary visa, you can make an appointment with the Portuguese Immigration and Border Services (SEF). This will take place in Portugal and will involve a personal interview and check of your documents.
Where to look for property?
The cities of Lisbon and Porto are extremely popular with digital and remote workers, and there is no shortage of chic cafes, bars and shared working spaces to make use of. The world’s first ‘digital nomad village’ also opened in Madeira earlier this year, so you will easily find like-minded friends!
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If you would like further advice on the buying process in Portugal, download your free Portugal Guide.
Why not split the cost and double the fun of owning a holiday home in Portugal by buying with family or friends? Read our guide to Buying Abroad with Family
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