Portugal has long been a popular destination for retirees seeking a peaceful place to live in Europe. However, in recent years, the country has been attracting a new wave of expats: working professionals and digital nomads.
Why are people flocking to Portugal? The reasons are numerous:
- High quality of life
- Relatively low cost of living (compared to other Western European countries)
- Pleasant climate
- Rich cultural heritage
- Welcoming attitude towards foreigners
- Gateway to Europe (as part of the Schengen Area)
- Potential pathway to EU citizenship (after just 5 years of residency)
It’s worth noting that while Portugal offers many advantages, it’s not without its challenges. The Portuguese minimum wage is one of the lowest in Western Europe, standing at €820 per month as of 2024. However, Portugal remains popular for those looking for an easier EU country to move to.
Additionally, certain industries, particularly in the tech and startup sectors, may offer salaries significantly higher than the Portuguese average.
For non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens considering a move to Portugal for work, understanding the various visa options is crucial. Let’s explore three of the most relevant work visas: the D3, D1, and D8.
D3 Visa: For Highly Qualified Professionals
The D3 visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss individuals who possess unique skills and either have a job offer or an employment contract with a Portuguese employer.
Benefits of the D3 Visa:
- Fast-tracked application process (decision within 30-60 days)
- Eligibility for the EU Blue Card after 18 months of residency
- Ability to bring family members through family reunification
- Access to Portuguese public healthcare services
- Potential qualification for Portugal’s NHR tax regime
Requirements:
- Proof of highly qualified work (higher education degree or 5-6 years of relevant experience)
- Employment contract or promise of one, lasting at least 12 months
- Salary of at least 1.5 times the national average gross annual salary or 3 times the social support index
- Clean criminal record
Application Process:
- Secure a job offer or employment contract
- Gather required documents
- Submit application to Portuguese Consulate/Embassy or VFS Office
- Attend personal interview
- Upon approval, enter Portugal and attend AIMA interview for residence permit
D1 Visa: For General Work Purposes
The D1 visa is suitable for those who have secured employment in Portugal but may not meet the “highly qualified” criteria of the D3 visa.
Requirements:
- Work contract for at least 12 months
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Professional qualifications (if applicable)
- Proof of means of sustenance
- Travel insurance
- Clean criminal record
- Valid passport
Application Process:
- Secure a job offer or employment contract
- Gather required documents
- Apply at the Portuguese consulate in your home country or country of legal residence
D8 Visa: Digital Nomad Visa
The D8 visa, often referred to as the digital nomad visa, is ideal for remote workers and freelancers who can work from Portugal for non-Portuguese clients or companies.
Benefits of the D8 Visa:
- No need for a Portuguese company sponsor
- Ability to earn wages from outside Portugal while living there
- Flexibility for digital nomads and remote workers
Requirements (as of 2024):
- Monthly income of €3,280 (4x the minimum wage)
- Add 50% for a spouse
- Add 30% for each dependent child
This visa is particularly popular among professionals in their 30s and 40s, as well as those approaching retirement who can work remotely.
If you can’t work remotely but are interested in this visa, consider:
- Becoming a contractor
- Checking if your company has a Portuguese office
- Finding a job in Portugal
Moving to Portugal as an EU/EEA/Swiss Citizen
While the previous sections focused on visa options for non-EU citizens, it’s important to note that citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland have a significantly easier path to living and working in Portugal. Certain family members (e.g. spouses or partners and dependent children) will also have an easier time moving to Portugal if their partners are EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.
Freedom of Movement
As an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you benefit from the freedom of movement within the European Union. This means:
- You don’t need a visa to enter, live, or work in Portugal
- You can enter Portugal with just a valid passport or national identity card
- You have the right to work, study, or retire in Portugal without needing to apply for a specific visa
Registration Process
While you don’t need a visa, there are still some administrative steps to follow:
- You can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without any formalities
- If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you need to register your residence
- To register, you’ll need to obtain a Registration Certificate (Certificado de Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia, or CRUE) from your local town hall (Câmara Municipal)
The CRUE is valid for five years from the date of issue, or for the intended period of residence if this is less than five years. After five years of continuous legal residence, you can apply for a permanent residence certificate.
Employment Advantages
The ease of moving to Portugal without needing a visa does make it easier to find employers willing to hire you. As an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you have the same rights as Portuguese nationals when it comes to employment, working conditions, and social and tax advantages.
Language Considerations
Despite the easier entry into the Portuguese job market, it’s worth noting that most jobs in Portugal require you to speak Portuguese. This language requirement can be a significant barrier for many expats looking to work in Portugal.
However, there are certain industries and sectors where English is often the primary language of business, making it easier for non-Portuguese speakers to find employment. These industries typically include:
- Startups and tech companies
- International business and multinational corporations
- Telemarketing and call centers
- Real estate (especially in areas popular with international buyers)
- Tourism and hospitality
- English language teaching
Conclusion
Portugal offers a range of work visa options to suit different professional situations. Whether you’re a highly skilled worker, have a job offer in Portugal, or are a digital nomad, there’s likely a visa that fits your needs. As with any international move, it’s crucial to research thoroughly and consider seeking professional advice to ensure you choose the best option for your situation.
Remember, while the minimum wage in Portugal is relatively low, the country offers numerous other benefits that make it an attractive destination for professionals from around the world. With its combination of rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and growing opportunities in various sectors, Portugal continues to draw those seeking both career growth and an enhanced quality of life.