The mild and comfortable climate, the measured pace of life, and the hospitality of the local population of Portugal attract foreigners no less than the exceptional advantages of the Portugal digital nomad visa. The terms and conditions of the program provide obligations for applicants. The criteria, requirements, and privileges for migrants will be discussed in more detail in this article.
Overview of Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Last October, foreigners were given the opportunity to reside in the region and operate as remote employees. The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is suitable for freelancers who have an income of four times the minimum wage of locals. There are two variants of this permit: short-term and long-term stay. The first document allows one to stay on the state’s territory for up to one year, and the second permit implies obtaining the right to long-term residence with the possibility of extending the period up to five years.
Portuguese digital nomad visa with the possibility of extension allows foreigners to obtain a permanent residence permit and subsequently get a passport as a citizen of this country. Immigrant Invest specialist Zlata Erlach calls the permit for freelancers an excellent alternative to a passive income visa.
Eligibility Criteria
Obtaining authorization requires the applicant to meet specific criteria. The following requirements apply to the lead applicant:
- 18 years of age or older;
- no criminal record;
- remote collaboration agreement;
- income exceeding four times the minimum wage;
- renting and buying a place to live.
With the freelancer, his closest relatives can get the permit: husband or wife, children, and parents of the couple. The relationship of the partners must be officially registered, and parents and children over 18 years of age must be dependent on the main applicant. Also, adult heirs may apply for authorization as part of the family only if they are not married.
Regarding family applications, the head’s income must cover an additional 380 euros per month for each adult dependent and 254 euros per child. According to the program rules, the rental agreement is concluded for a minimum period of one year.
Application Process
The procedure starts with the collection of the necessary documents. Note that all documents must be apostilled and translated into Portuguese. The list of documents required for the application is as follows:
- application form;
- a letter of explanation as to the purpose of the permit;
- valid passport;
- two photographs;
- proof of financial status;
- rental and home purchase agreement;
- evidence of no criminal record;
- health insurance;
- visa fee payment receipts.
Family applications will require documents from all members and papers proving parentage.
The application package must be submitted to the local Portuguese Embassy. It takes 12-14 weeks to consider the request. If the application is approved, the applicant receives a confirmation and can pick up the documents. Upon arrival in Portugal, it is necessary to visit the SEF to obtain a residence permit. An appointment is usually scheduled within 120 days.
Duration, Extension, and Limitations
A short-term permit is valid for one year. It cannot be extended or used to obtain a permanent residence permit. Getting a long-term permit allows one to extend it for five years and, at the end of this period, apply for a permanent residence document. If all conditions are met, the applicant can apply for a citizenship certificate after another five years and discover visa-free countries with a Portuguese passport and other related benefits. Citizenship will provide ample opportunities for both the main applicant and all members of their family.
Advantages of Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Moving to Europe is not the only benefit of getting a visa. Portugal is a quiet and safe place. The low crime rate and political stability here attract many foreigners. A residence permit provides the opportunity to travel to other regions of the European Union with the right to stay up to 180 days there. Migrants with families get the chance to provide their heirs with quality education in prestigious institutions. In addition, applicants have access to high-level medical services in the best European clinics. Cosmopolitans receive preferential tax status after living for more than 183 days. This allows them to optimize taxes and improve their financial situation.
Conclusion
Digital nomads can obtain a residence permit in Portugal with the right to work remotely. The program’s conditions are simple; meeting them will allow one to move to a calm and stable country. The region is famous for its hospitality, mild climate, and leisurely lifestyle. All conditions for comfortable living have been created here. The cost of living at its high level is much lower than in other European regions. Portugal is a paradise for wealthy freelancers and their families. Get your ticket to a happy life now!
