The Portuguese program to attract digital nomads, launched in October 2022, has reached its first year with a positive balance. In all, 2,600 special visas were granted to workers from outside the European Union and the Schengen area who wish to work remotely from Portuguese territory.
The main countries of origin for digital nomads in Portugal are the United States of America, Brazil and the United Kingdom. These countries account for 42%, 24% and 12% of all visas granted, respectively.
The visa is available in two forms: one for temporary residence, valid for two years and renewable for another three, which requires an interview at the Aliens and Borders Service (SEF) after four months; and another for temporary stay, valid for one year and extendable for the same period, which does not require an interview at SEF and does not count towards applying for citizenship.
The main aim of the digital nomad programs is to contribute to the country’s economic development by attracting talent and innovation.