🛂 Visa comparison
Portugal vs Spain digital nomad visa
Two of the nomad visas Americans compare most, side by side: what each asks for, how long it lasts, where it leads, and what life costs in each country.
The short version
- Spain's income bar is lower: about $3,274 a month vs $4,228.
- Life is cheaper in Portugal: from $1,575 a month all-in in Ericeira, vs $1,712 in Seville.
Side by side
| Measure | 🇵🇹 Portugal | 🇪🇸 Spain |
|---|---|---|
| 🛂 Visa | D8 Digital Nomad Visa | Digital Nomad Visa (Startup Act) |
| 💵 Income needed | €3,680/mo (4x min wage, 2026) | €2,849/mo (200% SMI, 2026) |
| ≈ In US dollars | $4,228/mo | $3,274/mo |
| 💳 Fees | ~€90 + €170 permit | ~€80 visa + permit fees |
| ⏳ Length | 2-yr permit (residency track) or 1-yr temp stay | 1 yr (consulate) or 3 yrs (in-country) |
| 🔁 Renewal | Yes, 3-yr renewal | Yes, 2-yr renewals up to 5 yrs |
| 🏠 Path to residency | PR & citizenship eligibility at 5 yrs, fastest major EU path | PR at 5 yrs; citizenship at 10 (renounce-US rule applies, Ibero-American exceptions) |
| 🧾 Tax once resident | 🔴 Heavy · Worldwide income, top 48% | 🔴 Heavy · Worldwide income, top 47% |
| 🗓️ Visa-free visit first | 90 days | 90 days |
| 💰 Cheapest city, all-in | $1,575 · Ericeira | $1,712 · Seville |
General reference, not immigration or tax advice. Income figures in US dollars are converted at current rates from each visa's own requirement; confirm with the consulate before applying.