D8 Visa

The D8 Visa (Digital Nomad Visa) was created to allow non-EU/EEA/Swiss professionals to live legally in Portugal while continuing to work remotely for companies, employers, or clients based outside Portuguese territory.

It covers both remote employees (with an employment contract) and independent freelancers/contractors (with service agreements).

To qualify for the D8 Visa, the main applicant must demonstrate the remote nature of their work and meet the following criteria:

• Proof of Income: Proof of average monthly income generated outside Portugal equal to at least 4 national minimum wages.

• Remote Employment Proof: An employment contract, employer declaration confirming remote work, or service agreements with foreign clients.

• Proof of Accommodation: A long-term lease agreement, property deed, or proof of host accommodation in Portugal.

• Bank Funds: Sufficient savings deposited in a bank account to support initial settlement.

The D8 framework offers two pathways based on your long-term goals:

• Temporary Stay Visa: Valid for stays up to 1 year (renewable). Does not require strict permanent stay thresholds and does not lead to citizenship.

• Residence Visa (Residence Permit): Valid initially for 2 years (renewable for 3 more). Requires minimum stay compliance, allows family reunification, and leads to Portuguese citizenship eligibility after 5 years.

To maintain your residence status and qualify for citizenship in the future, title holders must comply with physical stay rules:

• Spend at least 6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months per year in Portugal.

The D8 Residence Visa process follows two main phases:

1. Consular Phase (Entry Visa): Submit the application at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence, including proof of foreign income from the last 12 months, employment contracts, and criminal background checks.

2. AIMA Appointment in Portugal (Residence Card): After arriving in Portugal with your 4-month entry visa, you attend your AIMA appointment for biometric collection and the issuance of your official Residence Card.

Relocating as a remote worker involves finding the right living environment and securing fast setup. De Brito Properties provides tailored assistance:

• Property Sourcing: Sourcing high-quality rental or purchase properties with high-speed connectivity.

• Local Setup Assistance: Guidance on obtaining your Tax ID (NIF) and opening a Portuguese bank account.

• Expert Network: Direct connection with immigration attorneys and tax consultants for cross-border tax planning.

Holders of the D8 Residence Permit have the legal right to extend residency to their family members:

• Spouse or registered partner.

• Dependent minor children (under 18) or dependent adult children.

• Dependent parents of either spouse.