Picturesque places and ancient architectural treasures, a high standard of living, excellent service, and a healthcare system are the main reasons why the Land of the Navigators is at the top of the list. It is not the first year the country has shown stability in the political system and economy; unemployment is decreasing every quarter. It encourages the purchase of homes by both locals and foreigners.
There are many options on how to get a residence permit:
- working under a contract (working “admission”);
- as self-employed, freelancer – Portugal Digital Nomad Visa;
- student, guardian of a schoolchild, of his child (if he is in high school and has been accepted to study in the European Region);
- investor programs;
- for pensioners and simply wealthy, financially independent people if their passive income is 800–1000 euros.
The places worth moving to are Porto, Lisbon, Coimbra, Braga, and Funchal, the main port on the island of Madeira. The Danish platform named Lisbon the best city for freelancers in 2017, while Porto rounded out the top ten. Having purchased a home or invested in the spheres of the economy of the state, getting into one of the cities as a remote worker is even easier because the investment system allows you to realize the most outrageous dreams and have a backup plan B if your rights in your home country are ignored.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Benefits
Living close to the ocean, saving for a dream, enjoying the vast natural landscapes and charming architecture. Many remote workers imagine just such a life. All this is a reality if you plan to get an authorization stamp in your passport for entry. This “paper” is called a visa of category “D”. It gives the right to travel and to stay at any point in the republic. This time is limited to one calendar year. Depending on the type (long-term or standard), extending it for two to three years is possible, after which you can apply for citizenship.
No matter what your goals are regarding savings and freelance work (medical treatment, education, helping your family), they will pay off once you move in and enjoy freedom. Nomad (D8) gives any online project a chance to succeed. It is easy to appreciate the benefits of living in Portugal from the first minutes:
- resort conditions and pleasant, sunny climate: it means the health of all family members and availability of active recreation;
- excellent transport connections for all tastes;
- rich cultural heritage; lower cost of living compared to neighboring countries;
- free time and Schengen travel;
- most of the population speaks English, which makes communication easier;
- active clusters for freelancers;
- soft tax system;
- possibility of legalization, entrepreneurship, and prolongation of residence permits.
The government is interested in new beneficial communities, so territorial groups and communities of remote workers are regularly created far from metropolitan areas and community centers. Nomads gladly keep in touch with each other and do their freelance projects. These specialists include PR managers, programmers, visualizers, designers, copywriters, SMM, bloggers, writers, and other professionals.
Some cities, such as Madeira, offer discounts on rent and other comforts. In Ponta do Sol, there is an actual settlement of IT professionals, who are provided with a free Internet connection, workplaces, and lounges with all amenities. Meanwhile, on breaks, you can swim by the ocean or go to the local cafeteria or pub.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
The “pass” is suitable for non-Europeans. The primary condition is proof of financial ability and a monthly amount of about 2800 euros. At the same time, the stamp itself will be obtained practically free of charge. This fact is crucial; not everyone can afford this Portugal remote visa. You must be 18 years old; your CV should not have any criminal record and dangerous diseases. A passport and photos are among the requirements when submitting a completed application form.
 Digital Nomad Visa Application Process
First, you need to ensure your earnings are around 3000 Euros. All documents must be submitted online through the SAPA/SEF portal. You should upload scans of the following:
- Portuguese tax number;
- rental contract;
- proof of business registration;
- service contract (contract with the client);
- three months’ invoices issued in the Portuguese tax system,
- certificates of no criminal record;
- certificate of absence of indebtedness to the Portuguese social security (and social security number, respectively);
- health insurance.
Of course, you need to collect all these documents before doing this.
 Conclusion
It is essential to thoroughly investigate all risks and challenges and get professional advice before deciding. According to Vladlena Baranova (Immigrant Invest agency), those who have clear intentions to settle in this sunny country of the Iberian Peninsula will be able to take advantage of the Portugal visa for freelancer program and get the right to a temporary place of residence, if they prove their solvency. The foreigner must also provide proof of housing and fulfill some other requirements.
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