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Can Freelancers or Remote Workers Apply for a Portugal Work Visa?

September 4, 2025 Work Pass & Visa

Yes — Portugal offers a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss freelancers, independent contractors, and remote workers employed by foreign companies to legally live and work in Portugal while earning income from abroad.

What Is the Digital Nomad Visa (D8)?

    •    Introduced in 2022, the D8 Visa is designed specifically for remote workers and freelancers.
    •    Two Options:
    ?    Temporary Stay Visa – Valid up to 1 year, suitable for short-term stays.
    ?    Residence Visa – Grants a 4-month entry visa, after which applicants can secure a renewable 2-year residence permit. After 5 years, this can lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

Who Is Eligible?

Freelancers and remote workers can apply if they:
    •    Are non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
    •    Work remotely for companies or clients outside Portugal.
    •    Earn a monthly income of around €3,280–€3,480.
    •    Have sufficient savings to prove financial stability.
    •    Provide proof of accommodation in Portugal.

Key Benefits

    •    Legal residency in Portugal while working remotely.
    •    Opportunity for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.
    •    Family reunification options for spouses, children, and dependents.
    •    A strong digital nomad community in cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira.

Tax and Regulatory Considerations

    •    Freelancers registered as independent workers in Portugal must comply with tax and social security obligations.
    •    Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax scheme was an attractive option, but it ended for new applicants in 2024.

Application Process

    1    Prepare documents – valid passport, proof of remote work or freelance contracts, bank statements showing income and savings, proof of accommodation, and health insurance.
    2    Apply at a Portuguese consulate in your home country.
    3    For residence visas, after arriving in Portugal, apply for a residence permit with the national immigration office.

Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and requirements in Portugal may change. Always confirm the latest information through official authorities or professional immigration advisors before applying.

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