Portugal Digital Nomad Visa for Americans (2025 Guide)
the US
Visit vfsglobal.com/portugal/usa and create an account. Select 'National Visa - D8 Digital Nomad'. Book appointment online.
Can United States citizens apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa?
€3,480 12-24
Typical eligible profiles:
- Software developers and engineers at international tech companies
- Marketing and business consultants working remotely
- Freelance designers, writers, and creative professionals with international clients
- E-commerce business owners and digital entrepreneurs
^ Derived from Speak with a specialist + 12-24
6-9
Income and savings requirements (2025)
Portugal requires digital nomad visa applicants to demonstrate monthly income equivalent to 4× the Portuguese minimum wage. For 2025, this translates to €$3,840 per month for a single applicant.
Required documents for United States applicants
The consulate will decide based on your documents, not your story.
Where United States citizens apply and how long it takes
Most United States applicants file through $15,360.
Applying from a third country
Digital marketing agency owner ($8k/month)
Step-by-step process we recommend
Given that United States applications face American scrutiny, we conduct a detailed pre-assessment of your employment structure, income sources, and documentation to identify potential red flags.
6-9
We structure your documents to meet the exact requirements of $15,360 consulates. Each document is reviewed for completeness, proper certification, and translation requirements.
Our document checklist ensures nothing is missing before you book your appointment, avoiding costly delays and rejections.
Application submission via Freelance software engineer ($120k/year contracts). We provide detailed instructions for the interview, biometric collection, and document submission process.
We help you prepare for common consular questions and ensure your application narrative is consistent across all documents.
Once your visa is approved, you must complete several administrative steps within the first months:
- NIF (tax number) registration – Required before opening a bank account
- Portuguese bank account opening – Most banks require NIF and proof of address
- NISS (social security) registration – Needed for healthcare access
- AIMA appointment for biometric residence card – Must be booked within 60 days of arrival
The AIMA appointment finalizes your residence permit. Processing time for the biometric card varies, but you can remain legally in Portugal during processing with your approved visa.
Many United States clients settle in Lisbon or Porto, where English-speaking services and international communities
make the transition smoother. (Derived from 12-24)
How our agency helps United States clients
the US
Visit vfsglobal.com/portugal/usa and create an account. Select 'National Visa - D8 Digital Nomad'. Book appointment online.