Applying for Portugal's D8 visa, step by step

Portugal's remote-work visa (the D8) comes in two forms: a temporary stay visa for up to a year and a residence visa that leads to an AIMA residence permit. These guides take you from the first document to the visa in your passport.

• Step-by-step checklist for the Portugal digital nomad visa (D8)The Portugal D8 visa in 8 steps: income of €3,680/month, proof of remote work, FBI check, insurance, accommodation, filing at your post or VFS, then AIMA.
• Does Portugal have a digital nomad visa?Yes. Since 2022 Portugal grants remote-work visas (the D8) to non-EU workers earning €3,680+/month from abroad: a 1-year stay visa or a residence visa.
• D8 temporary stay visa or residence visa: which should I get?Portugal's D8 comes as a temporary stay visa (up to 1 year, no AIMA) or a residence visa (4 months, then an AIMA permit). How to choose.
• What is the official website for the Portugal digital nomad visa?Official D8 sites: vistos.mne.gov.pt for rules, Vistos Online for the form, VFS or your consulate to file, aima.gov.pt after arrival.
• How long does the Portugal D8 visa take?D8 timing from the US: documents (4 to 8 weeks), appointment wait, decision (legal deadline for residence visas: 60 days), then AIMA. Plan 3+ months.
• How much does the Portugal D8 visa cost in total?Portugal's national visa fee is €110 (MNE). Add VFS service fees, FBI check, apostilles, insurance, NIF help and the AIMA permit fee.
• Does travel insurance count for the Portugal D8 visa?Yes for the visa: the MNE asks for travel insurance covering medical expenses, urgent care and repatriation. What to check, and what changes after AIMA.
• Do I need a lease before applying for the Portugal D8? Can I use an Airbnb?Posts ask for proof of accommodation. A lease is safest for the residence visa; Airbnb bookings are often accepted for temporary stay. What else works.
• How do I get an FBI background check for the Portugal D8 visa?Americans need an FBI Identity History Summary, apostilled by the US State Department, for the D8. How to order it and keep it valid for your appointment.
• Has Portugal changed the D8 visa requirements in 2026?D8 in 2026: minimum wage rose to €920, so the income bar is €3,680/month; family reunification and nationality rules changed too.