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If you are a freelancer or a remote worker looking to live and work in Europe, Portugal offers one of the best digital nomad visa options. The Portugal D8 Visa, also known as the Digital Nomad Visa, allows independent professionals to reside legally in Portugal while working remotely. This visa is an excellent opportunity for freelancers, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs to enjoy the benefits of living in Portugal while continuing their work globally.
In this blog post, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of applying for the Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa from Bangladesh.
Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you must ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. The basic criteria include:
- Proof of being a freelancer, remote worker, or self-employed professional.
- A minimum monthly income of €3,040 (four times the Portuguese minimum wage in 2024).
- Proof of remote work contracts or ongoing freelance projects with international clients.
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Health insurance that covers your stay in Portugal.
- A clean criminal record certificate.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Once you confirm your eligibility, you need to gather the necessary documents. These typically include:
- A completed Portugal D8 Visa application form.
- Valid passport and copies of all used pages.
- Recent passport-size photos.
- Proof of remote work or freelancing, such as contracts, invoices, or bank statements.
- Bank statements for the last six months, showing sufficient income.
- Proof of tax payments in your home country (if applicable).
- Health insurance covering Portugal and Schengen Zone.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental agreement, hotel booking, or invitation letter from a resident).
- Criminal record certificate from Bangladesh.
Step 3: Book an Appointment at the Portuguese Embassy
Once your documents are ready, you need to book an appointment at the Portuguese Embassy in Bangladesh. Due to high demand, it is advisable to schedule your appointment as early as possible.
Steps to book an appointment:
- Visit the official website of the Portuguese Embassy in Bangladesh.
- Find the Visa Application section and select the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.
- Fill out the online application form and upload required documents.
- Choose an available date and confirm your appointment.
- Pay the visa application fee (usually around €90 but may vary).
- Attend the appointment and submit your documents.
Step 4: Attend the Visa Interview
During your visa appointment, you will need to attend an interview at the Portuguese Embassy. The consular officer may ask questions about your work, income, and reasons for choosing Portugal.
Common questions asked during the visa interview:
- What type of work do you do as a freelancer/remote worker?
- How long do you plan to stay in Portugal?
- Do you have sufficient funds to support yourself?
- Why did you choose Portugal instead of another country?
- Do you plan to apply for permanent residency in Portugal?
Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing
After submitting your application, the processing time usually takes 4 to 8 weeks. You may receive an update via email or phone. If your visa is approved, you will receive a D8 Visa stamp in your passport, allowing you to travel to Portugal.
Step 6: Travel to Portugal and Apply for a Residence Permit
Once you arrive in Portugal, you need to apply for a residence permit at the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) office. This permit allows you to stay in Portugal legally beyond the initial visa period.
Steps to apply for a residence permit:
- Book an appointment with SEF online.
- Submit your D8 Visa and supporting documents.
- Provide proof of address in Portugal.
- Pay the residence permit processing fee.
- Receive your residence card, valid for one or two years (renewable).
Why Choose Portugal as a Digital Nomad Destination?
Portugal is one of the best countries for digital nomads due to its affordable living costs, warm climate, and excellent work-life balance. Some key benefits include:
- Access to the Schengen Zone, allowing travel across Europe.
- Low cost of living compared to other EU countries.
- A thriving expat and freelancer community.
- Potential pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.
