A practical, step-by-step guide to staying longer in Europe’s most remote-work-friendly country

Portugal is one of the most welcoming countries in Europe for remote workers. Thanks to its Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) — officially known as the “D7 Visa for Remote Workers” or the “Temporary Stay Visa for Digital Nomads” — you can legally live, work remotely, and explore Portugal for an extended period.

This guide breaks it all down simply: requirements, documents, steps, costs, and tips.

🧭 Which Visa Do You Need?

Portugal offers two pathways for digital nomads:

1️⃣ Temporary Stay Visa (Up to 1 Year)

Perfect if:

You want to stay less than 12 months

You don’t need residency

You want simple, shorter paperwork

2️⃣ Digital Nomad Residence Visa (1–5 Years)

Ideal if:

You want long-term stay

You want to rent an apartment

You want access to healthcare, tax residency, etc.

You may want to apply for permanent residence later

📋 General Requirements (for Both Visa Types)

You’ll need:

A remote job or freelance income

Minimum income: approx. €3,040/month gross (changes slightly each year)

Proof of steady income for 3+ months

Accommodation in Portugal (rental, Airbnb reservation, host letter, etc.)

Valid passport

Travel insurance

Police clearance certificate

Completed visa application forms

Bank statements (usually 3–6 months)

🪪 Step-by-Step: How to Apply

STEP 1: Gather Your Documents

Prepare:

Passport (valid 6+ months)

Proof of income (contracts, invoices, payslips)

Bank statements

Remote work contract or client letters

Accommodation proof

Travel insurance

Criminal background check

Application form from your local consulate website

Tip: Portugal values clarity — organize your documents neatly with labels.

STEP 2: Book Your Appointment

Visit the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country.
South Africans apply through the VFS Global Portugal Visa Centre.

Appointments fill quickly, so book early.

STEP 3: Attend Your Visa Interview

At the appointment you will:

Submit all documents

Give biometric data

Pay the visa fee

Answer short questions (type of work, income, why Portugal, where you plan to stay)

It’s straightforward, friendly, and rarely stressful.

STEP 4: Wait for Approval

Processing takes:

~2–12 weeks depending on the country and backlog

You’ll receive your passport with:

A visa allowing you to enter Portugal

Instructions for the next steps

STEP 5: Enter Portugal & Finalize Your Residency (For the Long-Stay Visa)

Once in Portugal:

Register your local address

Attend your SEF/AIMA residency appointment

Collect your residence card (valid 1–2 years and renewable)

This card allows:

Travel across Schengen

Tax residency options

Long-term rental agreements

💰 Costs to Expect

💡 Tips for a Smooth Application

Show more income than the minimum — aim for €3,500–€4,000/month.

Prepare a simple cover letter explaining your work, clients, and plans.

Book accommodation for at least 1–2 months to strengthen your case.

Use a proper bank account (not only app-based fintech wallets).

Double-check apostille and translation requirements for your country.

Portugal designed this visa for people exactly like you: remote workers, creatives, freelancers, and digital nomads looking for a safe, beautiful, friendly place to thrive.

From the cobblestoned alleys of Porto to the beaches of the Algarve and the vineyards of the Douro, this country invites you not only to visit — but to belong.