Portugal offers a clear legal path for remote workers who want to live in Europe. US citizens who work online can now apply for a Digital Nomad Visa and live in Portugal for up to five years. This visa is a good option for anyone looking for stability, legal residence, and a low cost of living — without giving up their US income.
Zlata Erlach, Head of the Austrian office, Caribbean Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains how the visa works, what benefits it gives, and how to apply for Portugal Digital Nomad Visa.
What is Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Legal path for remote work. Portugal introduced the Digital Nomad Visa in October 2022. It allows remote workers to live in the country while working for companies or clients outside Portugal. This visa is part of Portugal’s broader immigration reform to attract international talent.
Two visa options. There is a short-term visa for stays up to 12 months and a long-term residence visa, which leads to residency cards valid for two years, renewable up to five. Most applicants choose the long-term route because it gives access to public services and future citizenship.
Who qualifies. You must be self-employed or work for a company that allows you to work remotely. Your employer or clients must be outside Portugal. Freelancers and business owners are eligible too, as long as they can show regular foreign income.
Where you can live. The visa allows you to live anywhere in Portugal — Lisbon, Porto, Madeira, or smaller coastal towns like Lagos or Ericeira. You don’t need to live in a big city.
Here you can find out more about Portugal Digital Nomad Visa.
10 benefits of residence in Portugal
- Legal stay in Europe. With this visa, you live legally in Portugal and can travel visa-free across the Schengen Area.
- Low cost of living. Living expenses in Lisbon are about 40% lower than in New York. In smaller cities, they’re even lower.
- Access to public healthcare. After registering as a resident, you can access Portugal’s SNS public healthcare system by paying a small annual fee, usually under €100.
- Safe and stable country. Portugal consistently ranks in the top 10 in global safety indexes. Gun violence is rare, and political stability is strong.
- High quality of life. The country has over 300 days of sun a year in the south, clean beaches, good air quality, and a slow lifestyle.
- Friendly for English speakers. In cities and tourist areas, English is widely spoken. You don’t need Portuguese to get by, though it helps with paperwork and integration.
- Family reunification. Your spouse and children can apply under your visa. Their application is tied to yours, and they don’t need to show separate income.
- Path to EU citizenship. After five years of residence, you can apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship. You’ll need to pass a basic language test and show ties to the country.
- No need to renounce U.S. passport. Portugal allows dual citizenship. You don’t have to choose between American and Portuguese citizenship.
- Simple and digital-friendly process. Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum of Portugal, AIMA, and consulates increasingly accept online appointments and digital uploads. This reduces paperwork and waiting times.
Document requirements
Income proof. You must earn at least €3,480 per month. Accepted documents include pay stubs, bank statements, client contracts, or tax returns. Consulates usually ask for proof over the last 3—6 months.
Proof of US tax residency. This may be your last tax return, IRS statement, or certificate of tax residence.
Valid passport and visa form. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. You must fill out the national visa application form.
Accommodation proof. Lease agreement, hotel booking, or letter of invitation from a Portuguese resident. Some applicants use Airbnb bookings or lawyer-issued address declarations.
Insurance with coverage. Health insurance must cover at least €30,000 in expenses and be valid in the Schengen zone. Travel insurance is acceptable for the initial application.
Application fees. The consular visa fee is usually around €90. Once in Portugal, the residence permit application at AIMA costs around €170.
How to apply for Portugal Digital Nomad Visa for US citizens
- Get your documents ready. This step takes the most time. US background checks with an apostille can take several weeks. It’s best to start with those.
- Book your consulate appointment. Find your nearest Portuguese consulate. Common ones for US citizens are in Washington D.C., San Francisco, New York, and Boston. Some consulates let you submit documents by mail.
- Attend your visa interview. You’ll submit the application in person. If everything is correct, you’ll get a 120-day visa to enter Portugal.
- Enter Portugal and register with AIMA. After arriving, schedule a meeting with the Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum of Portugal, AIMA. Bring your documents again and give biometric data.
- Get your residence card. Your first card is valid for 2 years. It takes about 2—4 weeks to arrive by post.
- Renew or apply for citizenship. After 2 years, renew your permit. After 5 years of legal stay, you can apply for permanent residence or a passport.
- Open a Portuguese bank account, optional. Some consulates ask for a Portuguese bank account with a minimum balance. This is not always required but helps your application.
Conclusion
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa gives U.S. citizens a legal and simple way to live in Europe while keeping their remote jobs. You get safety, public services, tax benefits, and a path to citizenship — without cutting ties to the US.
It’s a strong Plan B if you want legal long-term stay in the EU with full rights.
