One of the greatest things about remote work is the possibility to do it from almost any place. This opens up the world and gives a perfect chance to travel and explore other regions while staying employed person.
Moreover, many countries provide special offers and so-called digital nomad visas for such workers. Here we explore a Portugal visa for freelancer, its key features, benefits, and drawbacks. Due to this data, one can make an informed decision and reach the goal of working abroad relatively easily.
What is Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
To begin with, a Portugal visa for remote workers was introduced by local authorities in 2022. Since that time, more than 2400 applicants successfully obtained it, forming a real expat community in this pleasant sunny country.
The local authorities grant two types of this permit:
- a temporary 1-year option without a possibility of extension, renewal, or submitting a request for residency but with no limits for moving in and out of the state;
- a long-term option that is valid for 4 months during which a holder should apply for 2-years residency.
All employed full-of-age citizens of the non-EU region may request both permits. Additional eligibility criteria are as follows:
- remote work that provides a minimum of 3,280 euros per month;
- booked apartment for at least 3 months or better for a year;
- bank statement with available savings of 9,840 euros.
It is possible to include close relatives in the request. For this, one should provide 4,920 euros of savings for an adult and 2,460 euros for an underaged child.
The processing of a request for a Portugal visa for remote workers by the authorities usually lasts for up to 60 days. It is a relatively short period, which is appreciated by those who are interested in the program.
Pros of the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Why it’s worth considering this option and even prefer it over others? Callan Richardson, an expert on Imin Portugal, gives the next reasons:
- Quick processing time and relatively low threshold for participants. The obligatory fees associated with the program comprise 260 euros, the cost of the insurance, and the apartment. As for the required income, the majority of modern workers easily comply with these numbers.
- Access to the whole European region without a need to obtain other permits. The holder of the temporary visa can move in and out of the state any number of times. The same applies to those who get a long-stay option and then obtain residency.
- Tax benefits and the ability to open local bank accounts without long bureaucratic procedures.
- An ability to apply for citizenship after 5 years of subsequent participation in the program.
Other benefits of living in Portugal as a digital nomad include the strong community of remote workers, high-quality convenient infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and vibrant cultural life. This region is well-known for its prevalence of sunny days, awesome local nature, clean ocean, etc.
Therefore, it is possible to organize daily routine in such a way as to explore different cities and places, as well as local traditions and customs, and get fond of this choice.
Cons of the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
There is no way to state that living in Portugal as a digital nomad is associated with some special disadvantages. Still, the concept in general is associated with the following drawbacks:
- The need to plan everything in advance, gather documents, book an apartment, etc. This process takes time and requires a lot of attention and energy, especially if it is your first time applying for such a program.
- Time difference. Depending on your country of origin you may experience some challenges after arriving here and starting to live in another time zone.
- The need for a stable contract and income. Remote workers enjoy many benefits but sometimes their projects are short-termed and there are no guarantees that the next one will come right after the one that is finished. It’s important because one can’t work in the country with this permit and in case of loss of a stable income, the stay will be terminated.
Some consider moving and logistics as a possible disadvantage. However, those who select this lifestyle should be ready for it. Even more, some people really enjoy constant moving. They believe staying in one place is boring and don’t experience problems with this issue.
Weighing the Benefits Against the Drawbacks
Altogether, there is no universal solution for everyone. A visa for a digital nomad is a perfect chance to explore the world and work remotely in pleasant conditions that one selects and creates by oneself. Still, there is a need to study rules, gather documents, go through an application process, etc.
Among many states that provide this offer, Portugal has a low threshold, accessible eligibility criteria, and a friendly environment for those who decide to try this option. Consider your own desires and prospects and don’t hesitate to learn more with the help of an expert.
