Portugal has several residence permits that make it possible for freelancers, consultants, and remote workers to live and work legally in the country. While there’s no official visa in Portugal called the Freelance Visa, the term is often used as a catch-all to describe these visa options, each designed for different kinds of independent professionals.
You may qualify for one of several visa categories depending on how you earn your income and where your clients are based. The most common are the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, for remote workers who earn from abroad; the D2 Entrepreneur Visa, for self-employed professionals or small business owners establishing an activity in Portugal; and, in some cases, the D7 Visa, for those with consistent freelance income that meets passive income criteria.
This guide breaks down how each of these visas works, who they’re best suited for, and what’s involved in setting yourself up as a freelancer in Portugal.
Can I move to Portugal as a freelancer?
Yes, you can move to Portugal as a freelancer, but there are some requirements you must fulfill. Non-EU/EEA citizens need to apply for a visa to live and work in the country through their local embassy. After your visa has been granted (and depending on the length of your stay), you must apply for a residency permit once in Portugal.
So, before making the move, it's essential to understand the process of becoming a freelancer in Portugal. Here's a quick step-by-step guide:
- Obtain a work permit: If you're not a citizen of the European Union or the European Economic Area, you'll need a work permit.
- Obtain a NIF: A NIF is a tax identification number required for freelancers and anyone earning income in Portugal. Apply for your NIF at your local Finanças office or through a Portuguese tax representative like GetNIF.
- Set up a Portuguese bank account: Opening a local bank account is crucial for conducting business and receiving payments as a freelancer in Portugal.
- Register as a freelancer: Register your freelance activity with the Portuguese tax authorities and associate it with your tax identification number.
Getting a residency permit
After arriving in Portugal, the next step is to apply for a residence permit for work through Portugal's Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA). This permit is crucial as it allows you to stay in Portugal for an extended period legally.
If you receive a work visa through the Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate, they will make an AIMA appointment for you. You need to inform them of your intended location and move-in date in Portugal.
A residence permit allows you to live and work in the country for a period of one to two years. To apply for this permit, you must provide the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself while in Portugal
- A police clearance certificate
- A signed work contract or proof of income from freelancing (through bank statements, invoices, or pay slips)
Types of Freelance Work Visas
Portugal D8 Visa (Digital Nomad Visa)
The D8 Visa, also known as the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, was introduced in 2022 to attract remote workers and freelancers who earn their income from outside Portugal. It allows non-EU citizens to live in Portugal while continuing to work for foreign employers or clients.
To qualify for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must demonstrate a stable remote income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (around €3,480 per month) and show that their work can be performed entirely online.
This residence visa is ideal for professionals who want to be working remotely in Portugal, enjoy Portugal’s lifestyle without tying their residence to a local business or client base. It grants temporary residency for one year, renewable for up to five years, and offers a pathway to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.
Portugal D2 Visa (Entrepreneur Visa)
The Portugal D2 Visa is designed for entrepreneurs, independent professionals, and self-employed individuals who wish to establish or relocate their business to Portugal.
Unlike the D8, it centers on local economic activity — applicants must submit a solid operational plan that demonstrates how their work will contribute to Portugal’s economy, whether through investment, innovation, or job creation.
While there is no fixed minimum investment, applicants must prove they have sufficient funds to operate their business and cover personal living expenses for at least a year.
For freelancers offering professional or creative services, the D2 Visa provides a more permanent framework for operating within Portugal’s economy. It grants full residency rights, access to public healthcare and education, and eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
Portugal D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa)
The Portugal D7 Visa, also called the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, is designed for individuals who earn a stable, recurring passive income without the need to actively work — such as from pensions, dividends, or property rentals. However, over time, it has also become a viable option for certain freelancers or self-employed professionals whose income is consistent and predictable. Most critically, any income must be foreign-sourced.
For freelancers, this distinction is key. Under Portuguese law, the D7 Visa is governed by Article 58 of Law no. 23/2007, which sets the framework for residence permits based on sufficient means of subsistence.
If your freelance income is recurring, well-documented, and not reliant on clients within Portugal, you may qualify under the D7 as a passive income earner rather than as an entrepreneur. Applicants typically provide proof of recurring income (such as long-term contracts or regular invoices), along with bank statements showing funds sufficient to cover a year’s living expenses.
Requirements for Portugal Freelance Visa Application
Portugal offers several residence permits that make it possible for freelancers, consultants, and remote workers to live and work legally in a European country known for its quality of life and business-friendly environment.
While there isn’t a visa officially called the Freelance Visa, the term generally refers to programs such as the D8 Digital Nomad Visa, D2 Entrepreneur Visa, and D7 Passive Income Visa — all designed to accommodate independent professionals. Below are the general requirements you’ll need to meet when applying for a Portugal's Freelance Visa through a Portuguese consulate:
1. Valid passport and passport photos: Applicants must hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond their intended stay in Portugal. You’ll also need to include a set of passport photos that meet biometric standards, which are required for visa and residence permit documentation.
2. Proof of income and financial stability: You must demonstrate a regular and reliable income that supports your living expenses in Portugal.
- Digital Nomad Visa D8: Requires a monthly income of at least €3,480.
- D7 Visa: Requires recurring income of at least €870 per month.
- D2 Visa: Requires proof of sufficient funds to establish and sustain your business activity for one year.
Include client contracts, bank statements, or invoices showing consistent earnings to strengthen your application.
3. Proof of accommodation or real estate ownership: All applicants must present proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract, property deed, or hotel booking. Ownership of real estate in Portugal can also serve as proof and demonstrate stronger ties to the country — an advantage for those planning long-term relocation or permanent residency.
4. Background checks and clean criminal record: Applicants are required to provide background checks or criminal record certificates from their country of residence and any other country they have lived in for more than a year. These documents must be apostilled or legalized and translated into Portuguese by a certified translator.
5. Health insurance or travel insurance: Applicants must present proof of health insurance or travel insurance valid for at least six months, covering medical emergencies and repatriation if necessary. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended for freelancers, as it ensures coverage until you can register for the Portuguese national healthcare system.
6. Portuguese Tax Number (NIF): A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is mandatory to handle all financial matters in Portugal, from renting property to opening a bank account. Non-EU/EEA citizens must appoint a fiscal representative to obtain a NIF before applying.
7. Proof of funds in a Portuguese bank account: You must demonstrate financial readiness by providing proof of funds in a Portuguese bank account, typically enough to cover living expenses for at least one year. This is particularly important for D2 and D7 visa applicants.
8. Business plan (for D2 Applicants): If you’re applying through the D2 Visa, you’ll need a detailed plan showing how your freelance or entrepreneurial activity contributes to Portugal’s economy — whether through innovation, job creation, or investment in local industries.
9. Pathway to permanent residence: Holders of D2, D7, or D8 visas may apply for permanent residence after five years of legal stay in Portugal, provided they have maintained their visa status and met tax obligations. This pathway ultimately leads to eligibility for Portuguese citizenship, allowing you to live and work freely anywhere in the European country network of the EU.
Freelance Taxes and Financial Responsibilities
Understanding your tax and financial obligations is crucial if you plan to work as a freelancer in Portugal. Portugal has a well-defined tax framework that applies to both residents and non-residents, and complying with it is essential to maintaining legal status in the country. Below, we outline the key aspects of the Portuguese tax system and the financial steps you’ll need to take to work independently.
Income Tax (IRS)
Freelancers in Portugal are taxed under the Personal Income Tax (Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Singulares – IRS) system. The country applies a progressive tax rate ranging from 14.5 percent to 48 percent, depending on total annual income.
Once you begin your freelance activity, you must register with the Portuguese tax authorities (Finanças) and file an annual income tax return declaring all worldwide income if you are a tax resident.
To contribute to the social security system, you’ll need to apply for a NISS (Número de Identificação da Segurança Social), Portugal’s Social Security Identification Number.
Contributions are typically around 21.4 percent of your taxable income, though this may vary depending on your professional category and deductions. You will also need a local bank account to make these payments and receive client transfers.
Value Added Tax (IVA)
Freelancers in Portugal may also be required to register for Value Added Tax (Imposto sobre o Valor Acrescentado – IVA). Registration becomes mandatory once your annual income exceeds €13,500. Below this threshold, you may operate under the IVA exemption regime (Artigo 53 do CIVA), meaning you do not charge VAT on your invoices and cannot reclaim VAT on your expenses.
Once registered, you must apply the appropriate VAT rate — generally 23 percent, though 13 percent and 6 percent apply to specific goods and services — and file quarterly IVA returns through the Portal das Finanças. Even if your clients are located outside Portugal, reporting obligations still apply.
Corporate Income Tax (IRC)
If you decide to formalize your freelance activity as a company (such as a sole proprietorship or limited company), you’ll be subject to Corporate Income Tax (Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Coletivas – IRC). The standard corporate tax rate is 21 percent, but small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may benefit from reduced rates on the first portion of taxable income. Setting up a company can benefit those earning higher or variable income, as it allows greater flexibility in deducting business expenses and efficiently structuring taxes.
Fiscal representation
Foreign freelancers often need a tax representative (representante fiscal) to interact with the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária). This is a legal requirement for all non-EU/EEA nationals who hold a NIF or have financial ties to Portugal — for example, owning property, operating a business, or receiving Portuguese income. Certain individuals who may need to appoint a fiscal representative include:
- Non-resident individuals who are legally connected to Portugal, such as those who have purchased property or a car registered in Portuguese territory
- Non-resident individuals who conduct business or earn income in Portugal, such as self-employed individuals or those with a Portuguese work contract
- Applicants for a NIF (tax) number who are from outside the EU/EEA
If you need a fiscal representative in Portugal, GetNIFPortugal can provide ongoing fiscal representation services, including forwarding messages from the Portuguese tax authority until you are assigned a new NIF tax representative, charged at an annual fee of €350. We offer our services to every nationality, ensuring that tax representation doesn't hold you back from pursuing your business goals in Portugal.
Registering as self-employed
Before starting your freelance activity, you must ensure that your residency, social security, and tax registrations are complete. This includes obtaining your residence permit, NIF, and NISS. Once these are in place, you can register your freelance activity (atividade independente) through the Portal das Finanças or in person at a Loja do Cidadão.
This registration allows you to issue invoices (recibos verdes), make quarterly social security contributions, and ensure you’re fully compliant with Portuguese labor and tax laws. Registering a business entity may also be advantageous for freelancers who intend to operate long-term or expand into a company structure.
Life as a Freelancer in Portugal
Living in Portugal offers freelancers a rare balance of professional flexibility and personal comfort. The country’s strong digital infrastructure, affordable rental properties, and high quality of life make it one of the most appealing destinations for digital nomads and independent professionals in the European Union.
Many freelancers start with a temporary residence permit and transition to permanent status after 5 years of legal stay. During that time, it’s important to remain compliant with tax laws, maintain valid private health insurance, and pay taxes annually.
For non-EU citizens, these responsibilities are key parts of the legal process to apply for a residence and secure full rights to live and work in the country.
In terms of accommodation, most newcomers begin with a rental agreement or lease agreement before exploring real estate investment. Options range from a one-bedroom apartment in the city center to rural homes that offer more space at a lower cost.
If you plan to stay long term, purchasing property can strengthen your case when renewing a residence permit or applying for permanent residency.
Day-to-day life is designed for convenience. Portugal has excellent high-speed internet, competitive mobile phone plans, and reliable coworking spaces in every major city center. Freelancers can travel freely across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, giving them the flexibility to work across Europe while maintaining their visa in Portugal.
Healthcare and lifestyle standards remain some of the best in Europe. Freelancers can access public healthcare after registering for social security, but many prefer private health insurance for faster appointments and broader coverage.
Families relocating together also find Portugal accommodating—family members of residents can join under reunification programs, often tied to the main applicant’s residence permit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal's Freelance Visa
What is Portugal's Freelance Visa?
Portugal's Freelance Visa or the self-employed visa Portugal are both terms for a visa that allows non-EU/EEA citizens to work legally as freelancers or self-employed persons in Portugal. To be eligible, you must obtain a Portuguese tax number called the Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF), register your freelance activity with the local tax office, and meet the requirements for the specific visa type (e.g., Digital Nomad Visa or D2 Visa) that suits your situation.
Is the D7 Visa (Portugal Passive Income Visa) for freelancers?
The D7 Visa is not designed specifically for freelancers. It is intended for individuals with stable passive income, such as pensions, investments, or rental income. However, some remote workers or freelancers with consistent income may still qualify if they meet the income thresholds set by Portuguese authorities.
Does Portugal offer a Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, Portugal offers a Digital Nomad Visa under the D8 Visa category. This residency visa allows remote workers earning at least €3,480 per month to live and work in Portugal. Applicants must show proof of remote employment or self-employment and meet income and accommodation requirements.
Can I bring family members on a Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, you can bring family members with you on a Digital Nomad Visa. Your spouse and any dependent child can apply for family reunification visas, allowing them to join you in Portugal. They will need to provide the necessary supporting documents, such as valid passports, marriage certificates, and proof of funds to support themselves while in Portugal.
Can I get Portuguese citizenship with a Digital Nomad Visa?
You cannot get citizenship directly with a Digital Nomad Visa. The visa allows temporary residence, but citizenship requires legal residency for at least 5 years, integration into Portuguese society, and passing a language test. You must switch to a qualifying residency permit before applying for citizenship.
Who can apply for the Portugal Freelancer Visa?
Freelancers and independent service providers outside the EU can apply for the Portugal Freelancer Visa. Applicants must prove contracts with Portuguese or international clients, earn at least Portugal’s minimum wage monthly (€820+), and show accommodation and health insurance. A clean criminal record is also required.
