Ultimate Guide: Working Remotely in Portugal – Visa Residency by Investment

As a blog traveller who has spent years living and working abroad, I can honestly say that there are few places in the world that can match the beauty and charm of Portugal. From its stunning coastline to its rich history and culture, this country has so much to offer for those seeking a new adventure.

But what if you could have it all? What if you could live in Portugal and work remotely? Well, I am here to tell you that it is not only possible but it is becoming increasingly popular among expats and digital nomads.

I myself have experienced the benefits of remote work in Portugal firsthand. I have spent countless hours working from cozy cafes in Lisbon, taking breaks to explore the city’s vibrant street art scene and indulge in mouth-watering pastel de nata.

But Portugal is more than just Lisbon. It is a country with a diverse landscape, from the lush greenery of the north to the sunny beaches of the Algarve. And with a low cost of living and affordable housing options, Portugal is an attractive destination for remote workers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

So, in this article, I will be sharing my top tips for working remotely in Portugal, including the best places to work from, the legalities of working as an expat, and how to make the most of your time in this beautiful country. Get ready to pack your bags and embark on a new adventure in Portugal, all while keeping your job and income intact.

Can I remote work in Portugal?

Are you considering a move to Portugal but unsure about the job prospects? Well, the good news is that Portugal has become a hub for remote workers, and it is possible to work remotely from this beautiful country.

As an expat who has been working remotely in Portugal for years, I can attest to the fact that Portugal has a lot to offer to remote workers. From high-speed internet to affordable living costs, Portugal ticks all the boxes for anyone who is looking for a great work-life balance.

What are the requirements for remote work in Portugal?

To work remotely in Portugal, you will need a few things. Firstly, you will need a reliable internet connection. Portugal has excellent internet connectivity, and you can easily find high-speed internet in most parts of the country.

Secondly, you will need to have a valid visa to stay in Portugal. If you are an EU citizen, you don’t need a visa to stay and work in Portugal. However, if you are a non-EU citizen, you will need to apply for a visa that allows you to work remotely in Portugal.

How to apply for a remote work visa in Portugal?

To apply for a remote work visa in Portugal, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Apply for a long-term visa at the Portuguese embassy in your home country.
2. Provide all the necessary documents, including your passport, proof of income, and a work contract or a letter from your employer stating that you will be working remotely.
3. Once your visa application is approved, you can travel to Portugal and start working remotely.

What are the benefits of remote work in Portugal?

Working remotely in Portugal has several benefits. Firstly, Portugal has a low cost of living compared to other European countries, which means you can live comfortably on a lower salary. Secondly, Portugal has a great work-life balance, which means you can enjoy your free time exploring the country’s stunning beaches and historic cities.

Moreover, Portugal has a vibrant expat community, which means you can easily connect with like-minded individuals who can help you settle into your new life.

Does Portugal tax remote workers?

If you’re considering making a move to Portugal, and you’re working remotely, you might be wondering if you’ll be taxed by the Portuguese government. The answer is, it depends.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that Portugal has a non-habitual resident tax regime in place, which means that if you are a tax resident in Portugal but haven’t been resident for tax purposes in the previous five years, you can benefit from a low tax rate of 20% on your income. However, this tax regime only covers income derived from high value-added activities, such as engineering, architecture, and management consulting.

So, what about remote workers? If your income is derived from a high-value added activity, and you meet the requirements for the non-habitual resident tax regime, then you may be eligible for the low tax rate.

However, if your income is derived from other sources, such as investments or rental income, or if you’re working in a field that isn’t considered high value-added, then you’ll be subject to the normal income tax rates in Portugal, which can be as high as 48%.

It’s also worth noting that if you’re working remotely for a company outside of Portugal, and you’re not physically present in Portugal for more than 183 days in a tax year, then you may not be subject to Portuguese income tax at all. However, you should seek professional advice to ensure that you’re complying with all tax obligations in both your home country and Portugal.

While the non-habitual resident tax regime can be a great benefit for some, it’s not applicable to all remote workers.

As a remote worker myself, I can attest to the benefits of working in Portugal. The vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people make it an ideal location for anyone looking to live and work abroad. However, it’s essential to understand the tax implications before making the move, to ensure that you’re not caught off guard by unexpected taxes.

What is the remote work policy for Portugal?

If you’re considering working remotely in Portugal, you’ll be happy to know that the country has a welcoming and supportive remote work policy. With a growing number of digital nomads and remote workers flocking to Portugal, the government has taken measures to make it easier for them to live and work in the country.

One of the most significant changes to Portugal’s remote work policy came in 2021 when the government introduced a new visa program specifically designed for digital nomads. The visa, known as the D7 visa, allows remote workers to live and work in Portugal for up to one year. To be eligible, you must be able to prove that you have a steady income and health insurance.

Another aspect of Portugal’s remote work policy is the country’s excellent digital infrastructure. With high-speed internet available throughout the country, remote workers can stay connected and productive no matter where they choose to live.

In addition to the D7 visa, Portugal also offers a Golden Visa program for investors looking to move to the country. The program allows individuals to obtain residency in Portugal by investing in the country. The investment can be made in various forms, including real estate, and can lead to citizenship after a certain period.

Aside from the government’s remote work policy, Portugal is also an attractive destination for remote workers due to its affordable cost of living, excellent climate, and laid-back lifestyle. The country has a rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal place to live and work.

With a welcoming government, excellent digital infrastructure, and a high quality of life, Portugal is a top choice for anyone looking to live and work abroad.

Can I work remotely in Portugal without a visa?

If you’re considering a move to Portugal to work remotely, you may be wondering if you need a visa to do so. The short answer is, it depends.

Non-EU/EEA citizens

Non-EU/EEA citizens will need a visa to work remotely in Portugal. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

If you’re a digital nomad, meaning you work remotely for clients outside of Portugal and don’t have a contract with a Portuguese company, you may be able to apply for a temporary stay visa under the “freelancer” category. This visa allows you to live and work in Portugal for up to 90 days, with the option to renew for an additional 90 days.

It’s important to note that this visa does not allow you to work for a Portuguese company or offer services to Portuguese clients. If you plan on doing so, you’ll need to apply for a work visa.

EU/EEA citizens

If you’re a citizen of an EU/EEA country, you have the right to work remotely in Portugal without a visa or work permit. This is due to the freedom of movement within the EU/EEA area.

Practical tips

Regardless of whether or not you need a visa, there are some practical tips you should keep in mind when working remotely in Portugal:

  • Make sure you have a reliable internet connection. Many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, but it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan.
  • Consider joining a co-working space. This can be a great way to meet other remote workers and have a dedicated workspace.
  • Be mindful of the time zone difference if you’re working for clients in a different country.
  • Stay organized and keep track of your finances. Depending on your situation, you may need to pay taxes in both your home country and Portugal.

Final thoughts

Working remotely in Portugal can be a great option for those looking to enjoy the country’s beautiful weather, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. While non-EU/EEA citizens may need a visa, there are options available for digital nomads. And for EU/EEA citizens, the process is relatively straightforward. Just be sure to stay organized and connected, and you’ll be able to enjoy all that Portugal has to offer while working remotely.

Working remotely in Portugal can be an enriching and fulfilling experience for any expat seeking a change of scenery and a better quality of life. With its welcoming culture, vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, and numerous investment opportunities, Portugal is a prime destination for remote workers looking to establish themselves in Europe. From navigating the legalities of visas and citizenship programs to immersing oneself in local customs and cultural events, Portugal offers a multitude of experiences and opportunities for expats to explore and grow. So, if you’re considering making the move to Portugal, don’t hesitate to take the leap and embrace the adventure of expat life in this beautiful country.

 

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