If you are reading this article, you are a freelancer who can work remotely from anywhere or you are thinking of becoming one! And you are setting your eyes on Portugal, wanting to enjoy a few months living and working in this paradise.
Portugal is now mainstream and voted multiple times like the best country to move, live and retire in Europe.
But is it suitable for digital nomads? There are a few things you should consider before you fully commit to Portugal as your next destination to live and work remotely.
If you are working remotely in Portugal do you have to pay taxes?
If you plan on staying in Portugal for no longer than 183 days you are not considered a fiscal resident. However there is also the 3 months (or 90 days rule) that says you have the right to freely circulate in EU but as a tourist. If you stay longer than 3 month in a place, than you will be considered resident in that country in EU.
So in these three months, Portugal does not consider you a tax resident. This also means you are not obligated to pay taxes in Portugal. However, after this grace period, you automatically become a tax resident and you will need to file tax declarations in Portugal.
If you know from the beginning that you are going to stay longer in Portugal – just think in advance if you want to become a resident here and consult an accountant to fully understand what this means
Where is best to stay if you are working remotely in Portugal?
The essential part in this is not so much the location but the quality of internet. You are not bound to be in a major city like Lisbon or Porto but you need a very good quality internet. This can be a little tricky if you are choosing a more remote location or a smaller charming Portuguese town. The internet in Portugal is not great everywhere and you really have to check to see if the Airbnb or mid term house you are renting comes with high speed internet.
Accommodation – Airbnb or rental from a local?
Finding the right place for you will be difficult. Most people rent short term using AirBnB, but this will cost you a pretty penny! You need to plan this in advance and find a mid term rental – this meaning you will be able to pay a lesser rent then on Airbnb but not being obligated to commit to 1 or 2 year contract. These types of rentals are hard to find and go quickly off the market.
Having considered all this, I wish you the best of luck with your business in 2022!
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