300x85.png)
Hong Kong
Singapore
China
Dubai
Thailand
United Kingdom
Mexico
The Golden Visa is ideal for investors seeking flexibility and minimal physical presence while the Digital Nomad Visa suits remote workers planning a full-time move. Choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle, financial situation, and long-term goals.
Discover the world’s top
health insurers.
Compare quotes with
a click of the button.
Are you considering a move to Portugal and wonder what the best visa is for you? Are you curious about investment options under Portugal’s Golden Visa, or do you have a remote job you hope you can bring with you to Portugal?
In this article, we’ll break down the key features, eligibility requirements, application processes, and costs of both visas and then compare which is best for you. Additionally, we’ll touch on the importance of securing international health insurance to ensure a smooth transition for your move.
Portugal’s Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa, officially the Residency Permit for Investment (RPI), is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU nationals to gain legal residency by investing in the country. It’s for individuals who want EU access without the need to live in Portugal full time.
Key Features of the Portugal Golden Visa
Golden Visa holders are required to spend an average of seven days per year in Portugal during the first year, and 14 days during the initial two-year period. This makes it ideal for those who travel frequently or reside elsewhere, making it a popular choice for investors and retirees.
After five years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship in Portugal, provided you meet language and legal requirements. The visa also allows family reunification, including spouses, children, and dependent parents.
Investment Options for the Golden Visa
Real estate was previously a popular option for Golden Visa applicants, allowing investments in properties to qualify for residency. However, this option was removed in January 2022 as part of a government effort to redirect investments toward other sectors of the economy.
Instead, applicants can choose from several qualifying investments:
- Invest €500,000 (USD $550,000) in regulated investment funds focused on Portuguese companies.
- Contribute €250,000 (USD $275,000) to cultural or artistic projects that preserve national heritage.
- Invest €500,000 (USD $550,000) in scientific research initiatives.
- Create at least 10 full-time jobs in Portugal.
- Transfer €1.5 million (USD $1.65 million) to a Portuguese financial institution.
Golden Visa Application Process and Costs
The process begins with obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and opening a local bank account. After completing the investment, applicants submit their documents online and attend a biometric appointment. Processing times range from 10 to 18 months.
Costs include an application fee of €7,730 (USD $8,500) per applicant, a renewal fee of €3,865 (USD $4,250) every two years, and legal and translation services that typically range from €5,000 to €10,000 (USD $5,500 to $11,000).
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the D8 Visa, is designed for remote workers and freelancers. It allows non-EU citizens to live in Portugal while working for foreign companies or clients. This visa is ideal for those seeking a full-time lifestyle in Portugal.
Key Features of the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
The D8 Visa grants a renewable residence permit, valid for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal for three more years. The visa includes access to public services such as healthcare and education and allows family reunification for spouses and dependent children.
Similar to the Golden Visa, holders of the Digital Nomad Visa can apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years of legal residence.
Eligibility Requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria that ensures they can sustain themselves while living and working remotely in Portugal. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old and a non-EU/EEA citizen.
- Earn a monthly income of at least €3,480 (USD $3,850).
- Have savings of at least €10,440 (USD $11,550).
- Provide proof of remote work and accommodation in Portugal.
- Maintain a clean criminal record.
- Secure health insurance with coverage of at least €30,000 (USD $33,000) for medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Digital Nomad Visa Application Process and Costs
Applicants submit documents to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in their home country. Once approved, they travel to Portugal and apply for a residence permit at the Agency for Immigration and Asylum (AIMA) office. The process typically takes three to four months.
Costs include a visa application fee of €75–€90 (USD $83–$99), a residence permit fee of €101.50 (USD $112) plus €28.50 (USD $31) for card delivery, and health insurance ranging from €20–€100 (USD $22–$110) per month. Legal assistance is optional but recommended.
Golden Visa vs. Digital Nomad Visa: Key Differences
While both visas offer a path to residency and citizenship, they differ significantly in terms of requirements, lifestyle, and flexibility. The Golden Visa is ideal for investors seeking minimal presence in Portugal, while the Digital Nomad Visa suits remote workers planning to live there full-time.
| Feature | Golden Visa | Digital Nomad Visa |
| Main Requirement | Investment (€250K–€500K) (USD $275K–$550K) | Remote income (€3,480+/month) ( USD $3,850+/month) |
| Physical Stay | ~Seven days/year in Portugal | Must live in Portugal full time |
| Work Rights | Not required to work | Can work remotely for non-Portuguese employers |
| Family Inclusion | Yes | Yes |
| Tax Residency | Optional | Typically required |
| Citizenship Timeline | Five years | Five years |
| Best For | Investors, retirees | Remote workers, freelancers |
How to Choose the Right Visa for You
Choosing between the Golden Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa depends on your lifestyle, financial situation, and long-term goals. It’s not about which visa is better—it’s about which one aligns with your vision for life in Portugal.
Choose the Golden Visa if:
- You want legal residency in Europe but prefer to live elsewhere most of the time.
- You are a retiree or semi-retiree who may not meet income requirements but who can make a qualifying investment.
- You are an investor seeking EU mobility and a path to citizenship without relocating full time.
Choose the Digital Nomad Visa if:
- You plan to live in Portugal full time and work remotely for a non-Portuguese company.
- You are a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee who wants to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture and enjoy a lifestyle shift.
- You are looking for a more affordable option with a lower financial barrier to entry.
Visa Requirements for Portugal
Both visas require a valid passport, a clean criminal record, proof of accommodation, and visa-compliant health insurance. The required health insurance coverage for each visa may differ.
For the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must show proof of medical insurance that meets Schengen requirements: minimum coverage of €30,000 (approximately USD $33,000), valid throughout the Schengen Area, and including repatriation. The coverage should be comprehensive and no deductible.
The Golden Visa also requires health insurance, though the specifics may vary depending on your residency plans.
Importance of Securing International Health Insurance
Health insurance is not just a visa requirement; it’s essential for peace of mind. International health insurance ensures access to Portugal’s healthcare system and protects you from unexpected medical expenses.
It’s essential for expats and digital nomads, offering coverage across borders and including emergency services, hospitalization, and outpatient care.
Get Expert Help from Pacific Prime
Whether you’re investing in Portugal or relocating as a remote worker, secure the right health insurance. Pacific Prime specializes in international health insurance for expats, families, and digital nomads. Our experts compare plans from top insurers and tailor coverage to your unique needs.
Contact Pacific Prime today to ensure your move to Portugal is protected every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Golden Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa?
The Golden Visa is designed for investors who require minimal physical presence in Portugal, while the Digital Nomad Visa is tailored for remote workers planning to live in Portugal on a full-time basis.
Can I bring my family with me on either visa?
Both the Golden Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa allow family reunification, including spouses and dependent children.
How long does it take to process each visa?
The Golden Visa typically takes ten to 18 months to process while the Digital Nomad Visa is processed within three to four months.
Do I need to learn Portuguese to apply for these visas?
Language proficiency is not a requirement for most Portugal visas. However, you may need to meet language requirements for citizenship after five years.
Can I switch from a Digital Nomad Visa to a Golden Visa later?
You can apply for a Golden Visa if you meet the investment criteria, but you will need to go through the application process separately.
At Pacific Prime, Grace focuses on simplifying complex concepts on international health insurance to make these topics easily accessible and understandable for our target audience. Being a Filipino born in Hong Kong, she understands the struggles of most immigrants and expats in finding the right insurance solutions while in another country. Her goal is to redefine most people’s perception of insurance, that it is an investment for one’s protection and future.
In her spare time, Grace is either at home or at Hong Kong Disneyland. She loves reading, watching movies and K-dramas, and attending dance classes.
- How to Find Digital Nomad Jobs in Thailand – October 22, 2025
- Top 12 Insurance Companies in Serbia for Expats – October 21, 2025
- Expat’s Guide: Pros and Cons of Living in Thailand – October 20, 2025
