Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

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  • Portugal Digital Nomad Visa D8 The latest changes (Sep 2025)

    Portugal Digital Nomad Visa D8 The latest changes (Sep 2025)

    Updated on August 22, 2025. This guide focuses on Americans and Canadians and is useful for other non EU and non EEA nationals as well.

    Portugal D8 Guide

    What the D8 is and how it works

    Portugal’s Digital Nomad visa allows non EU and non EEA citizens to live in Portugal while working remotely for employers or clients based abroad. The law created a specific residence pathway for remote workers, now referenced in Article 61 B of the Foreigners Law and its regulation. Proof of a real employment or service relationship outside Portugal is required.  

    There are two pathways. A temporary stay visa aimed at stays under one year, and a residence visa that lets you apply for a residence permit after arrival. A temporary stay visa remains valid for the entire period you request, generally up to twelve months, with multiple entries. A residence visa is valid for four months with two entries, during which you must apply for your residence permit at AIMA.  

    Income Requirement

    The income threshold you must hit in 2025

    Portugal requires D8 applicants to show average monthly income equal to four times the national minimum wage for the three months before application. In 2025 the minimum wage is 870 euros, which sets the D8 bar at 3,480 euros per month. This figure is gross income and must come from outside Portugal.  

    If you apply with family, expect the consulate to ask for higher income to reflect dependents. The exact increments can vary by post and are grounded in the means of subsistence rules, so check the checklist for your location before you submit.

    Required Documents

    Documents you can expect to provide

    Consulates and VFS centers follow the Foreigners Law and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs document lists. You should be ready with a passport, clean criminal record certificates, proof that you work remotely for an employer or clients outside Portugal, bank statements and or pay stubs for the last three months that meet the income rule, proof of accommodation in Portugal, and health coverage that fills any gaps before you join the national system. Many posts ask for accommodation that covers a longer initial period and for financial resources that cover at least twelve months. Requirements are harmonized by law, yet presentation standards differ by post, so always check the checklist that applies to you.  

    On health coverage, national visa applicants are expected to hold travel medical insurance that is valid in Portugal and includes urgent treatment and repatriation. Schengen short stay guidance sets a familiar floor of thirty thousand euros, and many national visa checklists mirror that practice for the initial period.  

    Fees And Timing

    Fees and timing in 2025

    Portugal’s national visa fee is now 110 euros per applicant. Where VFS Global collects your file, a separate service fee applies and is paid in local currency.  

    By law, the decision time for a temporary stay visa is up to thirty days after the file is considered complete. The general decision time for residence visas is up to sixty days. Real processing can be faster or slower depending on the post and season. 

    After You Land

    Getting from visa to residence card

    After landing with a residence visa, you must apply for your residence permit with AIMA. AIMA’s page for remote workers explains that the first residence card is valid for two years and renews in three year increments as long as you still qualify. In 2025 AIMA introduced online self scheduling for people who arrive with a residence visa issued by a Portuguese consulate, a change that removes much of the uncertainty around first appointments.  

    Renewals moved online in mid 2025

    AIMA launched a renewals portal in July 2025. At first it opened for residence titles expiring in July with a phased expansion planned to August and beyond. The Justice Ministry also confirmed the rollout and reminded residents that documents remained valid through October 15 2025 as part of the transition.  

    AIMA communications state that renewals handled in the portal require your Portuguese tax number and your social security number to be on file for titles that expire after June 30 2025. If either number is missing, AIMA directs residents to submit corrections using its contact form before attempting the online renewal. This is very relevant to remote workers who never needed a NISS previously. Plan ahead and get both numbers in place before your renewal month.  

    For Americans and Canadians

    Americans and Canadians, read this before you file

    Background checks and apostilles are often the items that delay a strong application. FBI Identity History Summary results must be apostilled by the US Department of State for use in Portugal. Canada joined the Hague Apostille Convention on January 11 2024, which means Canadian public documents now receive an apostille rather than traditional legalization. These changes make document preparation clearer, but you should still budget time for federal processing.  

    Tax and banking setups in Portugal are separate from immigration. You will need a Portuguese tax number early in your move and, if you will work as an independent contractor, you will eventually register for Portuguese tax activity. None of that changes the core D8 rule that your income source must be outside Portugal.

    Travel Updates

    Travel planning around the ninety day rule, EES and ETIAS

    Non EU and non EEA nationals from visa exempt countries such as the United States and Canada can still spend up to ninety days in any one hundred eighty day period in the Schengen Area for tourism or business without a visa. Two European systems are about to change how you cross the border. The Entry Exit System starts on October 12 2025 and will phase in fingerprint and facial image capture on first entry, replacing passport stamps. ETIAS, a low cost electronic travel authorization for short visits, is planned for late 2026. Neither system replaces the D8. They matter if you scout neighborhoods before you file or if a spouse travels separately for short stays.  

    Temporary stay or residence visa, which one fits

    Choose the temporary stay version if you want to live in Portugal for up to a year without becoming a resident card holder. Choose the residence visa if you intend to settle, enroll kids in school, or sign a longer lease, since it leads straight to a residence card and later renewals. In both cases, the work must remain outside Portugal.

    Common reasons D8 files get stuck

    Income proof that does not clearly meet the four times rule is the first reason. Inconsistent bank statements or a mismatch between contracts and deposits leads to requests for more evidence. Accommodation proof that does not match the intended length of stay also creates delays. Finally, background check timing often causes scramble, so plan that step first if you have moved around in the last five years.

    Step By Step

    What to do after approval

    Secure a tax number if you have not done so already, open a Portuguese bank account if your personal setup requires one, register your address with the local parish when you move in, and enroll in health coverage as soon as you have your residence card. Keep income flowing from outside Portugal and retain documentation in case AIMA requests updated materials at renewal time.

    Bottom line for September 2025

    The D8 is stable and fully defined in law. The big updates this season relate to the income floor that rose with the 2025 minimum wage, the national visa fee increase, AIMA’s new online tools for first appointments and renewals, and the approaching launch of the Entry Exit System. If you can document stable remote income at or above 3,480 euros per month and you prepare your records with apostilles and clear contracts, Portugal remains accessible for North American remote workers.  

    Works cited

    Ministério dos Negócios Estrangeiros types of national visas and D8 category

    https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/pt/vistos-nacionais/informacao-geral/tipo-de-visto

    Decreto Regulamentar consolidado that implements Article 61 B income rule four times minimum wage

    https://diariodarepublica.pt/dr/legislacao-consolidada/decreto-regulamentar/2007-116373592

    Lei 23 2007 English consolidation with Article 61 B creation for remote work

    https://files.dre.pt/StaticContent/Lei_23_2007_EN.pdf

    Portugal minimum wage 2025 government page

    https://www.portugal.gov.pt/pt/gc24/governo/comunicado-de-conselho-de-ministros?i=2024-10-10

    (If unavailable use archived or ministry releases confirming 870 euros from January 2025)

    https://www.portugal.gov.pt/pt/gc24/comunicacao/documento?i=salario-minimo-2025-870-euros

    AIMA news self scheduling for consular residence visa holders

    https://aima.gov.pt/pt/noticias/agendamento-para-titular-de-visto-de-residencia-com-visto-consular-nao-cplp

    AIMA renewals portal announcement and notes

    https://aima.gov.pt/pt/noticias/o-portal-das-renovacoes-ja-esta-disponivel

    https://aima.gov.pt/pt/noticias/portal-de-renovacoes

    Justice Ministry service note on renewals during the 2025 transition

    https://justica.gov.pt/Servicos/Renovar-Autorizacao-de-Residencia

    AIMA page for the D8 residence permit validity and basics

    https://aima.gov.pt/pt/trabalhar/autorizacao-de-residencia-para-o-exercicio-de-atividade-profissional-prestada-de-forma-remota-com-visto-de-residencia-para-o-exe

    National visa fee official schedule

    https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/national-visas/general-information/fees

    VFS Global United States Portugal pages on service fees and national visa handling

    https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/portugal/usa/english

    Decision time limits for national visas

    https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/pt/vistos-nacionais/informacao-geral/prazos

    https://sites.google.com/site/leximigratoria/artigo-58-o-visto-de-residencia

    VFS checklist examples for D8 residence visa and national visa insurance wording

    https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/portugal/india/english/pdf/d-residence-visa-digital-nomads.pdf

    https://www.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/portugal/uae/english/pdf/residency-visas-pt.pdf

    EU Entry Exit System official page and launch date confirmation

    https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees

    https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/news/commission-set-launch-date-entryexit-system-12-october-2025-2025-07-30_en

    ETIAS official site confirming start in late 2026

    https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias

    AIMA guidance about updating personal data including NIF and NISS for renewals

    https://m.facebook.com/AgenciaAIMA/photos/para-as-renova%C3%A7%C3%B5es-que-se-ven%C3%A7am-ap%C3%B3s-a-data-de-30-de-junho-de-2025-e-que-ser%C3%A3o-/122203485218097229

    Government of Canada apostille implementation and service guidance

    https://www.international.gc.ca/gac-amc/about-a_propos/services/authentication-authentification/apostille-convention.aspx

    https://www.hcch.net/en/news-archive/details/?varevent=953

    US Department of State authentication and apostille instructions

    https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/replace-certify-docs/authenticate-your-document/requesting-authentication-services.html

    Schengen travel medical insurance requirement reference

    https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/en/short-stay-visas-schengen/required-documentation/travel-medical-insurance

    Constitutional Court decision and news coverage regarding attempted 2025 changes to the Foreigners Law and family reunification

    https://pt.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/08/08/tribunal-constitucional-considera-inconstitucionais-varias-normas-da-lei-de-estrangeiros

    https://www.rtp.pt/noticias/pais/tribunal-constitucional-chumba-alteracoes-a-lei-de-estrangeiros_n1675118

    https://www.reuters.com/world/portugals-top-court-blocks-bill-restricting-immigration-2025-08-09

  • Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa FAQ for Americans (2025 Mega-Guide)

    Updated 11 July 2025 — This monster FAQ condenses the most-Googled questions U.S. citizens ask before, during, and after their D8 application.

    Table of Contents

    1. Eligibility & Basics
    2. Money & Proof of Income
    3. Documents & Apostilles
    4. Booking & Processing
    5. Family & Dependents
    6. Life in Portugal After Arrival
    7. Remote-Work Practicalities
    8. Common Pitfalls
    9. Everything-Else Grab-Bag
    10. JSON-LD FAQ Schema (copy-paste)

    1 · Eligibility & Basics

    1. What is Portugal’s D8 Digital Nomad Visa?
    A four-month national visa that lets remote workers enter Portugal, then convert to a two-year residence permit.

    2. Who qualifies as an American?
    Any U.S. passport-holder earning remote income who is not also an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.

    3. How much must I earn per month in 2025?
    At least €3,480 gross—four times Portugal’s €870 minimum wage effective 1 Jan 2025. portugal.gov.ptL&E Global

    4. Does passive rental income count?
    Yes, but consulates prefer >50 % of your income to be actively earned remote work.

    5. Can recent grads apply?
    Yes if they already meet the income floor; there’s no degree requirement.

    2 · Money & Proof of Income

    6. What’s the €3,480 threshold in U.S. dollars?
    Roughly $3,740 at mid-2025 exchange rates; the consulate uses the day-of-submission EUR→USD rate.

    7. How do freelancers prove income?
    Six months of 1099 invoices plus matching bank deposits; attach a CPA letter summarising averages.

    8. Do savings help?
    A three-month buffer (~€10,440) strengthens borderline cases but doesn’t replace the monthly minimum.

    9. Which exchange rate print-out is accepted?
    A same-day XE.com or OANDA screenshot clipped to your PDF.

    10. Can crypto earnings be used?
    Yes—liquidate to fiat first and show the SEPA transfer hitting your account.

    3 · Documents & Apostilles

    11. Which docs need a Hague apostille?
    FBI background check, U.S. birth/marriage certificates, and any state-issued public documents.

    12. How fresh must the FBI report be?
    Issued within 90 days of your consulate appointment.

    13. Are translations required?
    Only for documents not in English or Portuguese.

    14. What photo spec does the consulate want?
    35 × 45 mm, white background, neutral face, no glasses glare.

    15. How do I prove 12-month accommodation if I’m on Airbnb?
    Upload the Airbnb contract plus a signed “statement of responsibility” from the host.

    4 · Booking & Processing

    16. How do I book Boston vs. DC?
    Boston still uses email; DC, NYC, and San Francisco use the VFS portal.

    17. How early should I book?
    At least two months before travel because slots vanish fast. saofrancisco.consuladoportugal.mne.gov.pt

    18. What are the 2025 fees?
    $124 (≈ €110) visa fee money-order + $43.17 VFS service fee. VFS Global

    19. How long does processing take?
    Typical 30–60 calendar days after biometrics; Washington DC can stretch to 90 days in peak season. saofrancisco.consuladoportugal.mne.gov.ptReddit

    20. How do I track my application?
    Use the VFS “Track Your Application” page with the barcode on your receipt.

    5 · Family & Dependents

    21. Can my spouse apply with me?
    File solo first, then submit a family-reunification request after your residence card arrives.

    22. Is income higher for couples?
    Add 50 % of the base—extra €1,740 per month in 2025.

    23. What about kids?
    Each child adds 30 % (≈ €1,044/mo).

    24. Do kids need separate FBI checks?
    No, only applicants aged 16+.

    25. Can unmarried partners qualify?
    Only if you prove a de facto union recognised by Portuguese law (usually two years co-habitation).

    6 · Life in Portugal After Arrival

    26. What is AIMA and why do I care?
    It’s the new immigration agency (ex-SEF) where you convert the visa to a residence card.

    27. How soon after landing is the AIMA appointment?
    Typically four to six weeks after you email the consulate your Porto/Lisbon address.

    28. Can I access national healthcare?
    Yes—register with your local health centre once your residence card is issued.

    29. Will I pay Portuguese taxes?
    Resident card holders are tax-resident; most nomads opt into the 10 % NHR regime during its 10-year window.

    30. What’s the 2025 cost of living in Lisbon?
    About €2,058/mo for a single person, excluding rent. Expatistan, cost of living comparisons

    31. Is the internet fast enough for Zoom?
    Median fixed download is 195.9 Mbps—faster than the U.S. average. DataReportal – Global Digital Insights

    7 · Remote-Work Practicalities

    32. Can I legally work for a Portuguese client?
    Yes, but invoice them through your U.S. entity until you sort Portuguese taxes.

    33. Do I need a Portuguese bank account?
    Highly recommended; DC and Boston consulates now “prefer” a Millennium or Novo Banco statement.

    34. Is co-working space mandatory?
    No, but it helps show intent to live and work remotely.

    35. Can I travel around Schengen?
    Your four-month D-visa sticker grants multi-entry Schengen access.

    8 · Common Pitfalls

    36. Why do applications get rejected?
    Mismatched bank vs. invoice totals, outdated FBI report, lease without landlord NIF, or health insurance < 12 months.

    37. What if my background check is delayed?
    Reschedule your VFS slot—arriving with a report older than 90 days is an auto-refusal.

    38. Can I submit a six-month Airbnb instead of a lease?
    Yes only with a notarised extension promise from the host.

    39. What if I lose my remote job?
    Notify AIMA and show new contracts within 60 days to keep your permit.

    9 · Everything-Else Grab-Bag

    40. Can I switch from tourist status to D8 inside Portugal?
    No—you must apply from the U.S.

    41. How long before I can apply for permanent residency?
    Five continuous years on D8 renewals.

    42. Do I need Portuguese language skills?
    Not for D8, but A2 level is required for permanent residency and citizenship.

    43. Can I pay consular fees by card?
    San Francisco demands money orders; NYC and DC accept cards.

    44. Does Portugal accept Wise statements?
    Yes—download the official PDF with your name and address.

    45. How does minimum-wage inflation affect my renewal?
    Income threshold rises each January; expect ≈€3,530 + in 2026 as the wage climbs toward €1,020 by 2028. portugal.gov.ptThe Portugal News

  • Step-by-Step Portugal D8 Visa Application Process from the USA (2025)

    Step-by-Step Portugal D8 Visa Application Process from the USA (2025)

    In 2025, U.S. applicants complete a 9-step path: eligibility check, gather U.S. docs, apostille, NIF & bank, book VFS consulate slot, submit D-visa package, wait ~60 days, collect passport, and finalize residency at an AIMA appointment in Portugal.

    Table of Contents

    1. Application timeline at a glance

    PhaseAvg. DurationRunning clock
    Docs & apostilles2 – 3 weeksWeek 1–3
    NIF + bank1 week (parallel)Week 2–3
    VFS slot lead-time1 – 4 weeksWeek 4–7
    Consulate processing30–60 days (VFS S.F.)Week 8–16
    Fly & AIMA card4 – 6 weeksWeek 17–22

    Total: ≈ 4–5 months door-to-door.

    2. Step 1 – Confirm eligibility (5 min)

    • 18 + years old, non-EU/EEA.
    • Remote income ≥ €3,480/month (see our other article).
    • Clean criminal record.
    • Book a quick “U.S. citizen eligibility check” in our free tool—results are instant.

    3. Step 2 – Gather core documents (7–10 days)

    • FBI background check → digital fingerprint at UPS LiveScan.
    • Income evidence → 6 months bank + invoices/W-2s.
    • Accommodation → 12-month Portuguese lease.
    • Health insurance → 12-month Schengen plan.
    • Passport → valid to at least Oct 2026.
    • Motivation letter → sample template in our doc-pack.
    • NIF request form (if doing NIF later).

    Create a cloud folder “Portugal D8” and name files LASTNAME-YYYYMM-DocType.pdf.

    4. Step 3 – Apostilles & certified translations (3–7 days)

    • FBI report → apostille through State Dept. courier (1–2 days transit + 24 h processing).
    • Marriage/birth certs (if bringing family) → apostille at issuing state’s Secretary of State office.
    • Translations → only necessary if the original is not in English or Portuguese.

    5. Step 4 – Obtain NIF & open a Portuguese bank account (parallel)

    • Use Bordr or E-Residence for NIF (cost ~$150, 5 business days).
    • With NIF, open a Wise or Millennium BCP account remotely—upload passport, NIF, proof of address.
    • Transfer first month’s salary into the account; screenshot balance for your application.

    6. Step 5 – Book your appointment

    Consulate jurisdictionBooking methodTypical lead-time*
    BostonEmail request to consulado.boston@…2 – 3 weeks
    Washington DCVFS online portal4 – 6 weeks
    New YorkVFS online portal3 – 5 weeks
    San FranciscoVFS online portal2 – 4 weeks

    *Check portal daily at 8 am EST for cancellations.

    Upload all PDFs to VFS during booking; bring printed copies + money orders ($124.96 for visa, see Article #1).

    7. Step 6 – Submit application & biometrics (appointment day)

    • Arrive 15 min early.
    • Hand in passport, docs, photos; give fingerprints (biometrics).
    • Get barcode receipt—this ID lets you track progress.

    8. Step 7 – Track status & respond to RFEs (30–60 days)

    • Log in to VFS every Monday.
    • Statuses: “Processing at Consulate” → “Passport ready for collection”.
    • RFE (request for extra docs) arrives by email—reply within 5 business days.
    • Typical RFEs: updated bank balance, additional lease pages.

    9. Step 8 – Collect passport & travel

    • Pick up passport in person or via FedEx return label.
    • Visa sticker valid 120 days, multiple entries.
    • Buy one-way NYC → LIS ticket (proof required at border).

    10. Step 9 – Attend AIMA (ex-SEF) residence appointment

    • Schedule AIMA online (calendar opens 45 days out).
    • Bring passport, NIF, Portuguese bank statement, lease, insurance.
    • Pay €170 by debit card.
    • Receive 2-year residence card in the mail ≈ 2 weeks later.

    11. Common pitfalls

    MistakeFix
    FBI report older than 90 daysBook fingerprints after securing appointment slot.
    Health policy < 12 monthsBuy 365-day plan from day 1 of travel.
    Lease missing landlord NIFAdd addendum signed by landlord.
    Money order in wrong nameAddress to “Consulate General of Portugal”.

    12. Resources & next steps

    13. FAQ

    How early can I book VFS before I have all apostilles?
    Upload placeholders, then email updated PDFs at least 7 days pre-appointment—VFS will update your file.

    Is a Portuguese bank account mandatory before consulate?
    Not legally, but Washington DC and Boston consulates have begun strongly recommending one since Feb 2025 to prove ties.

    What if processing exceeds 120 days?
    Email the consulate for a “proroga” visa extension; provide flight booking and proof of delay.

    Can I switch from tourist to D8 while in Portugal?
    No—you must enter on the D-visa; otherwise apply for a residence permit change which is riskier.

  • Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Requirements for Americans (July 2025)

    Portugal Digital Nomad Visa Requirements for Americans (July 2025)

    2025 at-a-glance

    American applicants need:

    1. Remote income ≥ €3,480 per month (4 × Portugal’s €870 minimum wage)
    2. 12 months of Portuguese accommodation
    3. Valid health & travel insurance
    4. Clean FBI background check with apostille
    5. Completed D8 application submitted at a Portuguese consulate or VFS centre in the U.S.

    Table of Contents

    1. Quick eligibility checklist (2025)

    Requirement2025 figure / ruleWhere Americans usually trip up
    Age18 +Nothing specific
    Monthly income€3,480 (gross)Forgetting remote aspect—W-2 wage from U.S. employer is OK, rental dividends are not
    Savings bufferRecommended ≥ €10,440 (3 months)Balance must sit in Portuguese or U.S. account; show last 3 months
    Accommodation12-month lease or Airbnb + landlord letterLease must be signed by both parties
    Health coverMin. €30,000 medical + repatriationBuy 12-month Schengen plan; later switch to SNS
    Background checkFBI Identity History Summary + Hague apostilleTiming—report <90 days old on appointment day
    Passport validity3 + months past intended stayRenew now if expiring before Oct 2030
    NIF & bank accountStrongly recommended before consulate appointmentUse online NIF agents & Wise bank

    2. Income requirement demystified

    Portugal sets the D8 income bar at 4 × the national minimum wage—€870 on 1 Jan 2025—bringing the monthly threshold to €3,480.

    Because wage decrees change every January, refresh figures each Q4.

    Annual view:
    €3,480 × 12 = €41,760 gross.
    Couples add +50 % (another €1,740/mo).
    Kids add +30 % each.

    3. Acceptable income evidence for Americans

    ProfileDocuments that workConsulate “nice-to-have”
    W-2 employeeLast 6 pay stubs, W-2, remote-work letterCompany Zoom screenshot confirming remote role
    1099 freelancerSigned client contracts, last 6 months invoices + bank depositsCPA letter certifying average income
    LLC ownerOperating agreement, K-1, last 6 bank statementsScreenshot of Stripe/Plaid dashboard
    Remote contractorMaster service agreement, Form 1042-S if paid abroadEmployer letter stating “work is performed outside Portugal”

    Pro-tip: highlight USD-to-EUR conversion at the top of your financial summary on submission day (XE.com rate print-out).

    4. Full document list and formatting tips

    • Official application form (type D)
    • Passport – color copy of data page + every stamped page
    • Two photos 35 × 45 mm, white background
    • Proof of remote income (see §3)
    • Bank statements – last 3 months, stamped by bank
    • 12-month accommodation – lease or Airbnb + landlord SEF form
    • Health & travel insurance – €30k coverage, 12 months
    • FBI background check + apostille (both originals)
    • Motivation letter – 1 page; mention ties to U.S. & plan to contribute to Portugal
    • NIF number certificate (pdf)
    • Portuguese bank statement (if opened)

    Upload every file as PDF < 4 MB and label:
    LASTNAME-DocType-MMYY.pdf

    5. Health insurance rules

    • Must cover entire Schengen zone, not just Portugal.
    • Minimum coverage €30,000 for medical emergencies & repatriation.
    • Popular nomad-friendly policies: SafetyWing Remote Health, Cigna Global, IMG Global.
    • Switch to Portugal’s SNS once resident card arrives.

    6. Accommodation proof

    Best-practice hierarchy:

    1. 12-month fixed lease (strongest)
    2. 6-month lease + notarized landlord letter promising renewal
    3. Airbnb / short-term contract plus statement of responsibility from property owner

    All docs must display your name and Portuguese address.

    7. Criminal record and apostille

    • Request FBI Identity History Summary online (avg. turnaround 3 – 5 days).
    • Mail report to U.S. Department of State for Hague apostille (expedited courier recommended).
    • Both documents must be < 90 days old on your consulate appointment date.

    8. Portuguese NIF and bank account

    • Not mandatory at consulate stage but strongly recommended; raises approval odds.
    • NIF: use online services (E-residence, Bordr.io) – usually 5 days.
    • Bank: Millennium BCP or NovoBanco accept remote openings with NIF + U.S. passport.

    9. Fees and processing times {#fees-and-processing-times}

    ItemCost (USD, May 2025)**Payable to
    Consular D-Visa fee$124.96Money order (“Consulate General of Portugal”)
    VFS Global VFS service fee$43.17Card or money order
    FBI background check$18 + optional $50 channelerFBI
    Apostille$20 + shippingU.S. Dept. of State
    Resident card (SEF/AIMA)~€170AIMA in Portugal

    Processing time: 30-60 days at VFS San Francisco; Washington DC often stretches to 90 days.

    10. What gets applications rejected {#what-gets-applications-rejected}

    • Bank statements don’t match invoices
    • FBI report older than 90 days
    • Lease lacking landlord tax ID (NIF)
    • Health insurance shorter than visa validity
    • Missing apostille on any U.S. public document

    11. Ready to apply? {#ready-to-apply}

    ➡️ Start your D8 Application — our free tool walks Americans through every doc template, reminder, and consulate-specific step in under 30 minutes.

    12. FAQ (2025) {#faq}

    How much do I need to earn for Portugal’s D8 visa?
    €3,480 per month in 2025 (4 × minimum wage).

    Can passive rental income count?
    Yes—provide lease agreements plus bank deposits, but remote “work” income is viewed more favorably.

    Do I need a Portuguese tax number before applying?
    Not mandatory but highly recommended; it can shorten SEF processing.

    How long does the whole process take?
    Average 2–3 months from VFS appointment to visa sticker, plus 4–6 weeks to schedule your AIMA card in Portugal.

    Can I bring family?
    Yes—file family-reunification after your resident permit is issued; each member must show 50 % of your income requirement.