Digital Nomads in Portugal: Complete Guide

Digital Nomads in Portugal

Are you thinking of moving to Portugal, or already living here, and wondering if your child can join and work as a digital nomad? Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, who bring with them the experience of traveling the world while working remotely.

🌍 What is a Digital Nomad

A digital nomad is someone who chooses freedom over a fixed life in the same country, city, or office. Thanks to the nature of their work, they can perform their activities from anywhere, as long as they have access to reliable Wi-Fi.

💻 Growth of Digital Nomadism

The rise of digital nomads has fueled the creation of coworking spaces—temporary workplaces with high-speed internet and opportunities for networking. In Lisbon, for example, dozens of such spaces are spread across the city. Many digital nomads choose not to own assets such as a house or car, maintaining flexibility to move freely.

🛂 Visas for Digital Nomads

Portugal has introduced a specific program for digital nomads, offering two main options:

• Temporary Stay Visa: allows stays of up to 1 year, renewable.

• Digital Nomad Residence Visa: ideal for those seeking a longer stay, residency, or even citizenship.

Key Requirements:

• Be a citizen outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland.

• Have a minimum income of 4 times the Portuguese minimum wage (around €2,800 per month).

• Work as a freelancer or be employed by a company outside Portugal.

Once resident, applicants may qualify for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, and after 5 years of residence, they can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

🔒 Safety

Portugal is widely regarded as a safe country, free from armed conflicts and with low crime rates. These factors weigh heavily in the decision of digital nomads seeking a territory where they can live and work without security concerns.

🏥 Healthcare

Another essential aspect is the quality of healthcare services. In Portugal, medical care is available throughout the country and maintains high standards, offering reassurance to anyone settling here.