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Head to head

Italy vs Portugal: the digital nomad visas compared

Verified data Last verified June 10, 2026

The short version

  • Italy has the lower entry bar: €2,065.83 per month versus €3,680 for Portugal.
  • Portugal grants a longer initial stay (24 months vs 12), and it is renewable.
Side-by-side comparison of the Italy DNV and the Portugal D8.
Criteria Italy DNV Portugal D8
Minimum income / month €2,065.83 (better) €3,680
Income basis Mixed (salary, freelance or savings) Mixed (salary, freelance or savings)
Initial duration 1 year 2 years (better)
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay No fixed limit No fixed limit
Path to permanent residence Yes Yes
Path to citizenship Yes Yes
Family inclusion Yes Yes
Working for local clients Allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation Standard resident taxation
Health insurance Required (explicit), min. €30,000 Required (explicit)
Insurance duration required Full visa period Not specified
Application fee ≈ €116 ≈ €110 (better)
Where to apply Embassy / consulate Embassy / consulate, In country
Processing time 4–18 weeks 8.6 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Italy DNV →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Portugal D8 →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Sources