Portugal D8 Visa

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8): The FBI Apostille Step

The D8 lets remote workers and freelancers live in Portugal. Your document file includes an apostilled FBI background check. Here is where it fits and how to get it in 7 to 10 business days.

The FBI Apostille on Your D8 File

Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa (D8) is for remote employees and freelancers earning income from outside Portugal, typically at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage. Alongside proof of remote work and income, Portugal requires a criminal record certificate. For Americans that is the FBI Identity History Summary, apostilled by the U.S. Department of State. Because the FBI check is federal, only the Department of State can apostille it.

Do Not Let the Slow Route Expire Your Document

Your FBI background check needs to be recent, and after the apostille you will need a certified Portuguese translation. The standard mail-in apostille route runs 5 to 12 weeks, which can age out your document before your appointment. We walk documents into the Department of State in person and return the apostille in 7 to 10 business days.

Two Ways to Get the Apostilled FBI Check

A

You Have the FBI Check

Upload it to our apostille order form. We apostille it and return it in 7 to 10 business days.

B

You Need the FBI Check

Get fingerprinted (livescan in Virginia, or an FD-258 card mailed in from anywhere for $95, ideal if you are already in Portugal), get your result, then apostille it.

Common Questions

Yes. The D8 requires a criminal record certificate. For Americans this is the FBI Identity History Summary, apostilled by the U.S. Department of State.

No. The FBI background check is a federal document, so only the U.S. Department of State can apostille it. A state apostille will be rejected.

Yes. Get fingerprinted on an FD-258 card in Portugal, mail it to us, and order our $95 mail-in FBI background check. We email you instructions to access your result, then you apostille it online.

Yes. Portugal generally requires a certified Portuguese translation of the apostilled FBI background check. Apostille first, then translate.

Get Your D8 Apostille Done

7 to 10 business days, federal apostille, return shipping included. Already abroad? Mail your card in for $95.