Are you thinking of going to Portugal for an unforgettable digital nomad experience?
Well in this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know and be aware of before you head off for your digital nomad adventure in Portugal.
Traveling to be a digital nomad in Portugal is an exciting and rewarding experience. This beautiful country offers a unique blend of history, culture, breathtaking landscapes and an ever-growing digital nomad community.
If you’ve already made up your mind to head out there, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your digital nomad trip to Portugal.
You need to think things through before you go. Being a digital nomad in an unfamiliar country can be exciting, and at the same time you can be overwhelmed with doubt and uncertainty. Take a deep breath, and let’s go for it.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Tips for being a digital nomad in Portugal
We have created a list of the essentials to bear in mind when you go to live in Portugal as a digital nomad.
The most basic thing is the digital nomad visa. Then we need to think about accommodation and the advantages of the coworking spaces you can find in Portugal.
Let’s go!
Visa and Entry Requirements:
If you want to be a digital nomad in Portugal, you need to know the entry requirements.
Like many of the countries that encourage digital nomads, Portugal has a digital nomad visa. This visa is mandatory if you want to work as a digital nomad from Portugal.
There are some legal requirements to get this visa. Here are some of them:
- You have to prove that there is an employment relationship. You have to submit an employment or service provider contract.
- The visa is for 1 year with the option to extend for up to 5 years. You will have the option to apply for a permanent visa.
- You must show proof of income within the last 3 months. This income must be 4 times higher than the minimum wage in Portugal. The income requirement is to make sure you have the means to live in Portugal without any problems.
- You must submit a document proving your tax residency.
- You must fill out this form on the Portuguese Ministry’s website.
- You need to have travel insurance.
- And you need a certificate to prove that you have no criminal record.
Internet Connection:
One of the most vital things for a digital nomad is to have a reliable, high-speed Internet connection. Fortunately, the telecommunications infrastructure in Portugal is excellent and provides extensive internet coverage throughout the country.
Most accommodation, cafes and coworking spaces offer stable Wi-Fi connections.
You can also buy a Nomada eSim. This will give you a reliable connection wherever you are.
eSims give you unlimited data, and you can cancel the contract whenever you want. If you want more details to help you find the data plan for you while you’re in Portugal, click on this link to find everything you’ll need.
Places in Portugal for digital nomads:
Portugal has a wide variety of cities and regions that are just right for digital nomads.
- Lisbon, the capital, is known for its creative buzz, its startup scene and its vibrant community of digital nomads.
- Porto is known for its quaint architecture and delicious wines.
- Faro in the Algarve region, has beautiful beaches and a laid-back lifestyle.
- You might also want to consider smaller places like Sintra, Aveiro or Lagos, with their easy-going and charming atmosphere.
Wherever you choose, the next point is very important. Being a digital nomad turns you into an experienced finder of places to stay.
Accommodation:
In Portugal there is a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Your choice of one place or another will depend on what you plan to do.
- Lisbon in particular offers a wide choice of apartments and shared rooms that are available for short-term stays.
- Porto and the Algarve also offer different accommodation options that are suitable for digital nomads.
You can use online platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com or nomad-specific websites to find something to suit your needs.
Always make sure the site is trustworthy and reliable. Of course you should explain clearly how long you’ll be staying and that you’ll be working as a digital nomad.
Cost of living:
The cost of living in Portugal is very affordable compared to other countries in Europe. Accommodation, food and public transport are generally cheaper than cities like London or Paris.
However, bear in mind that prices may be a bit higher in more touristy areas. Being a digital nomad lets you strike a balance between quality of life and cost, and you can choose less touristy places and explore local options to save money.
It depends on what you want to do, but our advice is that accommodation is where you should try to save. You might find yourself slightly out-of-the-way, but you’ll be able to get out and about whenever you want to explore Portugal.
Coworking spaces and cafeterias:
Portugal has a great selection of coworking spaces that provide excellent facilities for digital nomads.
Lisbon and Porto, in particular, have a huge range of well-equipped coworking spaces where you can work and meet other professionals.
There are also many cafes with free Wi-Fi up and down the country, so you’ll have the option of working in more relaxed surroundings while enjoying a Portuguese coffee.
And you can always work from anywhere with a Nomada eSim. Whether you’re at the beach or on the road.
Activities and lifestyle for digital nomads:
Portugal has a lot to offer when it comes to activities and lifestyle. From exploring the narrow, cobbled streets of Lisbon to enjoying the beach in the Algarve, there is always something exciting to do.
It is also famous for its delicious cuisine and world-class wines. And you’ve simply got to try the cod, the classic Portuguese custard tarts and the famous Port wine while you’re there.
Being a digital nomad does not mean that you should miss out on its amazing gastronomy.
The Digital Nomad Community:
Portugal has become a popular destination for digital nomads and its community is growing.
You can use online groups, events and meetups to connect with other digital nomads and take advantage of networking opportunities. The community will welcome you and always be ready to share tips, experiences and collaborations.
Before you head out, we suggest you find and get involved with a community to help you settle in. No doubt, they’ll also share Portugal’s many secrets with you.
Portugal for digital nomads
In short, traveling to Portugal as a digital nomad is an excellent choice. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, top class internet connections and a booming digital nomad community, Portugal has everything you need for a rewarding experience.
Remember to check the entry requirements, make sure you have a good internet connection, choose the best accommodation for your needs, explore the different destinations and enjoy the Portuguese lifestyle.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as a digital nomad in Portugal!
