Digital Nomads

Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads due to its climate, culture, and infrastructure.

The digital nomad community in Portugal has grown significantly in recent years. According to a report from Nomad List, a website that ranks destinations for digital nomads, Portugal was the tenth most popular destination for digital nomads in 2019. In 2020, Portugal jumped to the fifth most popular destination, and in 2021, it was ranked as the third most popular destination.

Several factors have contributed to the growth of the digital nomad community in Portugal. One of these factors is the low cost of living in the country. Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads looking to save money. Another factor is the country's warm climate - Lisbon has the most sunny days per year among European capitals. Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, which means the weather is mild throughout the year. This makes our country a great place to live and work for digital nomads who want to escape the cold winters in their home countries. Portugal has one of the best communication infrastructures in Europe at competitive prices, allowing digital nomads to work from anywhere in the country and stay connected.

Lastly, Portugal has a strong community in the technology and startup field. Several successful technology companies, such as Farfetch, OutSystems, Feedzai, TalkDesk, Remote, and Unbabel, were born in Portugal and have a strong presence in our country. This has created a vibrant community for digital nomads working in the technology and startup industry.

Lisbon consistently ranks as one of the top destinations for digital nomads worldwide. In 2022, Lisbon was ranked as the sixth best city for digital nomads by Nomad List. The city was praised for its low cost of living, warm climate, and vibrant culture.

Statistics about Digital Nomads in Portugal

Here are some statistics about the digital nomad community in Portugal:

  • In 2021, it is estimated that there were around 100,000 digital nomads living in Portugal.
  • The average digital nomad in Portugal earns $3,000 per month.
  • The most popular destinations for digital nomads in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region.
  • The most popular digital nomad communities in Portugal are the Lisbon Digital Nomads Meetup group and the Lisbon Digital Nomads Slack channel.
  • The most popular technology and startup communities in Portugal are the Lisbon Tech Hub and the Lisbon Startup Weekend.
If you're considering becoming a digital nomad, Portugal is an excellent choice. The country has a lot to offer digital nomads, including a low cost of living, warm climate, and vibrant culture.

Residence visas for digital nomads

The D2 Visa - Migrant Entrepreneur or Independent Worker Visa, and the D7 Visa - Passive Income Visa are two popular options for those who wish to live and work in Portugal.

D2 Visa

Migrant Entrepreneur or Independent Worker Visa

The D2 visa is suitable for migrant entrepreneurs or independent workers who wish to establish a business in Portugal. To qualify for this visa, it is necessary to engage in some form of investment or business activity. The investor can open an individual company for their freelance business and is ready to start.

Requirements:

  • Demonstrate engagement in investment or business activities in Portugal;
  • Submit a business plan or service proposal, depending on the type of activity;
  • Minimum financial means per person: It is necessary to demonstrate the availability of sufficient financial resources to sustain oneself and invest in Portugal. Although there is no specific defined amount, it is recommended to have a considerable sum to ensure the viability of the planned enterprise or business;
  • Possess valid health insurance in Portugal;
  • No criminal record;
  • Comply with other specific requirements related to the business activity or entrepreneurship.
 

D7 Visa

Passive Income Visa

  • The D7 visa is suitable for individuals who have regular income from properties, financial investments, or pensions and do not need to work while in Portugal. It is necessary to demonstrate the ability to financially support oneself during the stay in Portugal. This visa is ideal for digital nomads who wish to enjoy the lifestyle in Portugal without the need to work in the country.

    Requirements:

  • Demonstrate possession of regular income from sources such as properties, financial investments, or pensions;
  • Minimum financial means per person: It is necessary to demonstrate possession of regular income from sources such as properties, financial investments, or pensions. The minimum required amount is €7,980 per year (€667.50 per month) for an individual;
  • Minimum financial means per couple: For couples wishing to apply for the D7 visa, the minimum required amount is €11,970 per year (€997.50 per month);
  • Possess valid health insurance in Portugal; No criminal record;
  • Comply with other specific requirements related to proving passive income.