Real data on why Portugal ranks as one of the world's top destinations for remote workers
Comparing the four most popular Southern European countries for digital nomads based on 2025 data
| Criteria | 🇵🇹 Portugal | 🇪🇸 Spain | 🇮🇹 Italy | 🇬🇷 Greece |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global Ranking (2025) | #6 | #1 (2023 Index) | Top 15 | Top 20 |
| Monthly Income Requirement | €3,480 | €2,760 ✓ | ~€3,000 | €3,500 |
| Visa Duration | 1-5 years ✓ | 1-2 years | 1 year | 1 year |
| Tax Rate (Special Program) | 20% flat (NHR) ✓ | 24% flat | Special incentives | Standard rates |
| Visas Granted (Total) | 2,600+ | Data unavailable | New program (2024) | 1,693 (58% approval) ✓ |
| Application Fee | €75-90 ✓ | ~€100 | €116 | €1,000 (+€150/dependent) |
| Average Monthly Cost (1 person) | €1,000-2,500 ✓ | €1,200-2,800 | €1,500-3,000 | €1,100-2,400 |
| Safety Ranking (GPI 2024) | #7 Globally ✓ | #26 Globally | #33 Globally | #63 Globally |
| Healthcare Ranking (Europe) | #14 in Europe | #7 in Europe ✓ | #10 in Europe | #18 in Europe |
| English Proficiency | Moderate | High ✓ | Moderate | Moderate |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Yes (5 years) ✓ | Limited | Yes ✓ | Limited |
Real Example: A $4,000/month US budget = €2,000-2,500 in Portugal for comparable or better lifestyle
Portugal is 125 positions safer than the United States
91% of digital nomad visa programs were launched since 2020, making Portugal an early mover in this space with established infrastructure and processes.
1 year initially, extendable up to 5 years - longer than Spain (2 years), Italy (1 year), or Greece (1 year)
20% flat tax rate through NHR program vs 24% in Spain or standard rates in Greece
Clear 5-year path to permanent residency and citizenship, unlike many competing programs
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How many digital nomads live in Portugal 2025? An estimated 16,000+ digital nomads currently live in Lisbon alone, with thousands more in Porto, Faro, and other cities. Portugal hosts approximately 8% of the world's digital nomad population, making it the 3rd most popular destination globally after Mexico (14%) and Thailand (11%). Over 2,600 D8 digital nomad visas have been granted since the program launched.
Is Portugal the best country for digital nomads? Portugal ranks #6 globally in the 2025 Digital Nomad Index and was ranked #1 by Lonely Planet. Spain currently holds the #1 spot in VisaGuide's 2023 Index, but Portugal offers better safety (#7 vs #26 globally), lower costs, longer visa duration (up to 5 years), and superior tax benefits (20% flat rate). For Americans specifically, Portugal's combination of safety, cost, and established expat community makes it highly competitive.
How many Americans have moved to Portugal? Over 14,000 Americans now live in Portugal as of 2025, representing a 239% increase from 4,100 in 2017. Americans make up 11% of Portugal's 700,000+ foreign resident population. This dramatic growth is driven by Portugal's D8 visa program, lower cost of living (40-60% cheaper than US cities), exceptional safety (#7 globally vs US #132), and 300+ days of annual sunshine.
Is Portugal safer than the United States? Yes, Portugal is significantly safer. Portugal ranks #7 on the 2024 Global Peace Index while the United States ranks #132 - a difference of 125 positions. Portugal is also the 5th safest country in Europe. This exceptional safety record, combined with low violent crime rates and welcoming culture, is a primary reason Americans are moving to Portugal in record numbers.
What is Portugal D8 visa approval rate? While official statistics aren't published, the D8 visa approval rate is estimated at 85-90% for well-prepared applications. Over 2,600 D8 visas have been granted since the program launched. For comparison, Greece's digital nomad visa has a published 58% approval rate. Working with professional assistance increases approval rates to 95%+, as experts ensure all documentation meets requirements and avoid common rejection reasons.
How does Portugal compare to Spain for digital nomads? Portugal offers better safety (#7 vs #26 globally), lower application fees (€75-90 vs ~€100), longer visa duration (up to 5 years vs 2 years), and better tax benefits (20% vs 24% flat rate). Spain has lower income requirements (€2,760 vs €3,480) and higher English proficiency. Spain ranked #1 in the 2023 Digital Nomad Index, while Portugal ranked #6 in 2025. Both are excellent choices with Portugal favored for safety-conscious families and Spain for language ease.