According to the Nomad Report 2023 from the rental housing platform Flation, Portugal has emerged as the best choice for digital nomadswith 27% of survey participants selecting this country as the most attractive destination.
Portugal is an excellent place to live. The crime rate is low and the cost of living is cheap. Portugal is not only known for its gastronomy, stunning architecture, beaches and breathtaking ocean views.
The country consistently ranks first on the list of countries with the highest comfort levels. In addition, According to Nomadlist.com, Lisbon is the most popular city for digital nomads for the third year in a row.
But not only that, with the largest community of digital nomads hosting the weekly Meetup platform organizes a variety of events in Lisbon, including dinners, volunteer opportunities, comedy shows, open mic nights, co-working days, seminars, workshops and panel discussions.
Closure of the non-habitual residence (NHR) tax law.
Portugal’s non-habitual residence (NHR) program will close new applicants in 2024 and face changes in tax laws.
The move will end the program that grants foreigners a 10-year period of lower income tax rates in an effort to stimulate the housing market.
According to Prime Minister Antonio Costa, the change is due to the fact that NHR is considered to have fulfilled its function and should no longer be a factor in the increase in housing costs.
“In 2024, the special taxation for non-ordinary residents will end. Whoever has it will keep it Costa said.
Nevertheless, individuals currently benefiting from the NHR scheme will continue to enjoy their tax benefits for the ten-year period. This adjustment could encourage digital nomads to move to Portugal in the coming months to make the most of the current tax framework before it expires.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal offers one visa for digital nomads allowing foreigners to stay there and work remotely for companies abroad. Portugal offers two types of visas for digital nomads:
- Residence visa: Initially a stay of four months is allowed, but upon arrival in Portugal you have the option to apply for a residence permit for two years.
- Temporary residence visa: This visa entitles you to a stay of 12 months in Portugal. It is non-renewable and not eligible for residency conversion, but you can renew it up to four times.
Who can apply for a Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?
The following conditions must be met to obtain a Digital Nomad visa in Portugal:
- Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Eligibility for Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country.
- Monthly income requirement: Your monthly salary must be higher than € 3,040.
- Employment conditions: You must have a remote or freelance employment contract.
- Housing arrangement: You must be assured of accommodation in Portugal.