The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused companies around the globe to adapt to today’s career and health protocols, often resulting in the employees’ wants to work remotely.
Although there are multiple benefits to working remotely, the most popular is the ability to travel while working. Portugal is quickly becoming one of the most popular spots for those working remotely to simultaneously enjoy the sights and attractions of the country in the process. To meet this need, the government of Portugal has been actively promoting its Digital Nomad Visa program for remote workers, freelancers, and anyone else wishing to spend some time working abroad in the country.
Before introducing you to all the information related to this Digital Nomad Visa Program, if you are considering options for relocation and you need help, contact us!. Our specialized team can help you with all your concerns. Click here
The Two Types of Portuguese Digital Nomad Visas
The Residency Visa (D7)
Otherwise known as the D7 “retirement” visa, the Residency Visa is perfect for anyone wanting to stay in Portugal for a longer duration of at least a year. The D7 is one of the best options for freelancers wanting to make Portugal their home base of operations in Europe. The Residency Visa additionally allows other applicants and family members to legally reside in Portugal.
Here’s what’s needed for the Residency Visa:
- A minimum passive income requirement of at least €635 per month (€7,620 per year)
- If married, your combined passive income should be at least €952.5 per month (€11,430 per year)
- For each dependent child, the minimum monthly passive income requirement increases by €190.50 (€2,286 per year)
- You’ll need to spend at least 183 interrupted days in Portugal to be considered
- At the time of application, the applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
- At the time of application, the applicant must show proof of accommodation in Portugal
What should I expect during the application process?
The application process for the D7 Residency Visa usually takes anywhere from 3-4 months.However, it has been known to take up to 6 months depending on applicant background.
The HQA Visa
A bit different from the D7 Residency Visa, the HQA Visa is a great option for those who simply aren’t ready to fully commit to a long-term residency move in Portugal yet. Ideal for those with business obligations in other countries, the HQA Visa is a flexible option for individuals wanting to invest in Portugal without feeling weighed down by the requirements of the D7 Visa.
The HQA Visa clients are given residency by founding a business in Portugal linked to an HQA university. Essentially, the HQA client coordinates the overall direction of their business, giving opportunity to those involved with the HQA project in Portugal and residency in return to the client. For business-minded individuals and natural entrepreneurs wanting an international flair to their operations and daily life, the HQA Visa is nearly perfect.
Here’s what you’ll need for the HQA Visa:
- Applicants must establish a new corporation or business in Portugal with a minimum investment of €175.000. In addition, support is needed for the applicant’s HQA business incubator.
- Applicants must participate in at least one government-approved business incubator for a minimum of at least 3 years.
- If wanted, applicants can include their spouses and up to two other individuals in their applications.
What should I expect during the application process?
The application process for the HQA Visa usually takes anywhere from 1-2 months. However, it has been known to take up to 3 months depending on applicant background.
The Benefits
Now that we’ve briefly overviewed both the Residency and HQA Visas, why should one even apply for either of these visas? What does Portugal have to offer for the applicants in this process? Why is it worth their time?
Below are some benefits for both visa programs:
- Ability to move freely in the European Union
- Low cost of living
- High quality of living
- A warm climate
- Bountiful investment opportunities
- Vast, changing landscapes, and more.
So, if you are interested in relocation being a Digital Nomad or Remote Worker , contact us today! Below this article you will find a link to set up a free fifteen-minute consultation with us to discuss your options further.
Also, if you want to access our other great content, subscribe to our YouTube channel! At Creimerman, our team of professional global citizens would be happy to help you with your personal or professional cross-border ventures and help make them a success.