Portugal creates digital nomad visas to attract workers to the country

No need to go back to the office? Now you can live and work in Portugal with a new visa for digital nomads.

The Portuguese government is introducing a residency permit for workers to stay in the country for up to a year.

Officials released new details this week indicating that the program, initially announced in July, will come into effect on October 30.

Portugal has become a favorite destination for Americans wishing to travel or relocate abroad.

Its Golden Visa program (which offers a pathway to European citizenship) has gained popularity recently while generating criticism for its weak oversight.

Until now, however, there was no simple way for temporary residents to work remotely from within the country.

Previously, expats had to apply for a D7 visa, aimed primarily at retirees.

“Digital nomadism is a trend that has been gaining ground since the early 2020s, and with the Covid-19 pandemic, telecommuting became a reality for many workers,” said Patricia Casaburi, managing director of Global Citizen Solutions, an investment migration firm.

“This visa will simplify procedures for citizens from other countries who want to come to Portugal, and the country will benefit from attracting a new labor market and more human resources.”

Individuals applying for the digital nomad visa will be required to provide proof of tax residency and their employment contract or, if self-employed, another form of employment proof.

The average monthly income for the last three months must be equivalent to at least four times the national minimum wage in Portugal, which is currently €705 (US$684) per month.

With information from Bloomberg

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