Portugal's D8 — the digital nomad visa — lets remote workers and location-independent professionals live in Portugal while working for clients or an employer abroad. Here's how it works and which version you need.
Who the D8 is for
It targets non-EU remote workers: employees of a foreign company, or freelancers/self-employed people with foreign clients. The defining idea is that your income comes from outside Portugal while you live there.
Two routes: temporary stay vs residence
- Temporary-stay version — for shorter periods, without leading to long-term residence;
- Residence version — for those intending to settle, which leads to a residence permit and, over time, the usual residence/citizenship pathway.
Choosing the right one upfront matters, because they have different consequences for how long you can stay and what comes next.
If your goal is to settle in Portugal, the residence route — not the temporary-stay one — is what builds toward permanent residence. Decide before you apply.
The income expectation
You must show recurring remote-work income above a set multiple of Portugal's reference wage, plus savings. Document the income's source and regularity clearly.
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What you'll typically need
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts with foreign clients;
- Evidence of income and savings meeting the threshold;
- NIF, bank account and accommodation;
- Health insurance and a clean criminal record.
The steps
You generally apply at the Portuguese consulate in your country, enter Portugal, and (for the residence route) attend a residence-permit appointment. A lawyer can confirm which documents your consulate expects, as practice varies.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the temporary-stay and residence versions of the D8?
The temporary-stay version is for shorter periods and does not lead to long-term residence, while the residence version is for people intending to settle and builds toward a residence permit and, over time, the usual residence and citizenship pathway. Choosing the right one before you apply matters, because only the residence route counts toward permanent residence — decide based on whether you plan to settle.
Who qualifies for the D8?
It targets non-EU remote workers whose income comes from outside Portugal: employees of a foreign company, or freelancers and self-employed people with foreign clients. The defining feature is that you earn your money abroad while living in Portugal. You will typically need to show remote-work contracts, income and savings meeting the threshold, a NIF, bank account and accommodation, plus health insurance and a clean criminal record.
Can I take on Portuguese clients while on a D8?
The route is built around foreign-source income, so taking on local clients can change both your tax position and your immigration status. It is not something to do casually — get advice before adding Portuguese clients so you understand the consequences for your visa and your taxes.
How much do I need to earn to qualify?
You must show recurring remote-work income above a set multiple of Portugal's reference wage, together with savings. Because that multiple and the reference wage are set by rule and reviewed over time, treat any figure you have seen as approximate and confirm the current threshold with a lawyer before applying.
Can I work for Portuguese clients on a D8?
The route is built around foreign-source income; taking on local clients can change your tax and status position, so take advice before doing so.
How much do I need to earn?
A set multiple of Portugal's reference wage, plus savings — confirm the current figure with a lawyer.
Does it lead to residence?
The residence version does; the temporary-stay version does not. Choose accordingly.
Official sources
Rules, fees and thresholds change. Confirm anything in this guide with the official source before you act.
- Portal das Finançastax authority
- AIMAimmigration authority
- Ordem dos Advogadosbar association — verify a lawyer