What is the D8 Visa?
The D8 Visa is an excellent option for remote workers and digital nomads who wish to live in Portugal while maintaining their professional activity for foreign companies. This visa allows residence in the country for more than 1 year, offering several benefits such as access to the healthcare system and the possibility of family reunification.
How does the D8 Visa work?
The residence visa is valid for a period of 4 months and allows two entries into Portugal. During this period, the visa holder must move to Portugal and appear before AIMA to provide biometric data for the issuance of the residence card.
It is possible to submit accompanying visa applications for close family members at the same time as the D8 visa request, so they can immigrate together with the main applicant. Proof of family ties must be provided when submitting the application.
What are the requirements to obtain the D8 Visa in Portugal?
To apply for the residence visa for remote workers, the applicant must meet certain requirements, namely:
- Professional relationship with a company or entity based abroad;
- Proof of a minimum average income of 4 Portuguese national minimum wages per month for the three months prior to the appointment.
Phase 1: Consulate – Issuance of the Residence Visa
The applicant must submit the application at the Portuguese Consulate or Consular Section of the Portuguese Embassy in the country of origin or in the country where they have been a resident for more than 1 year, either by email or through the E-visa portal (depending on the consulate).
In some countries, to manage the volume of applications, the Consulate may delegate responsibilities to VFS Global, a company authorized to receive residence visa applications.
Once the application is submitted, the Consulate has 60 days to issue the visa.
When the residence visa is issued, the applicant can travel to Portugal to apply for the residence permit.
Phase 2: AIMA – Issuance of the Residence Permit
In most cases, the residence visa is issued with the date and location of the appointment. If not, the applicant must request an appointment by phone, email, or using the appropriate form.
Once all documents are submitted, AIMA has 90 days to issue the residence card.
What documents are required to obtain the D8 Visa?
The D8 Visa involves two distinct phases of document preparation:
Phase 1 – Consulate
At the time of submission, the following documents must be provided, among others:
- Employment contract or service agreement with a company based outside Portugal;
- Proof of average monthly income of €3,680 (equivalent to 4 x minimum wage);
- Proof of means of subsistence to live in Portugal;
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal.
Fee: €110
Phase 2 – AIMA
At the appointment, the applicant will provide biometric data – photo, fingerprints, and signature – and submit the required documents, including:
- Tax Identification Number (NIF);
- Proof of Social Security Number (NISS);
- Proof of monthly income of €3,680;
- Proof of accommodation;
- Employment or service contract with a company based outside Portugal;
- Registration of activity with the Tax Authority (if applicable);
- Proof of means of subsistence.
Fee: €177.08
What is the validity of the Residence Card?
This residence permit is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance and can be renewed for successive periods of 3 years. After 5 years, the foreign citizen may apply for permanent residence.
What are the main benefits of the D8 Residence Visa?
- Family reunification;
- Access to a qualified and affordable healthcare system;
- Access to legal rights and courts;
- Possibility of free movement within the Schengen area.
Thinking about moving to Portugal?
If you are considering applying for the D8 Visa, make sure your process is well-prepared from the start. Contact us to begin your application with confidence.