Those who relocate to Portugal’s Interior have financial support
The "Inland Employment Plus" Program, which was launched in 2020 and extended to foreign citizens and remote workers in 2021, is now available to individuals holding a temporary stay or residence visa in Portugal who choose to relocate to the country's interior and work remotely, regardless of the employer's nationality. This measure also applies to digital nomads and covers existing work contracts. Those who start working in Portugal's Interior territory are eligible for direct financial support, which may be increased based on the size of their permanent household that relocates with them. Additionally, a contribution to the costs associated with transporting goods may also be provided.
Ordinance n.º 208/2017, issued on July 13th, designates Alentejo Central, Alentejo Litoral, Algarve, Alto Alentejo, Alto Minho, Alto Tâmega, Metropolitan Area of Porto, Ave, Baixo Alentejo, Beira Baixa, Beiras and Serra da Estrela, Cávado, Douro, Lezíria do Tejo, Middle Tejo, Aveiro Region, Coimbra Region, Leiria Region, Viseu, Dão and Lafões Regions, Tâmega e Sousa and Terras de Trás-os-Montes as Interior territories.
The decree-law nr. 63/2023, of 2nd March has also broadened the scope of its measure to include various scenarios.
Firstly, it applies to existing situations of professional activity where the workplace has been relocated to an inland territory.
Secondly, the measure now encompasses situations where professional activities are provided remotely to individuals or legal persons residing outside the country, but only if the activity takes place inland and during a temporary stay or residency period.
Finally, the measure has been extended to cover settlement projects and professional activities carried out inland following professional internships or mobility projects that are conducted under scholarship contracts.
Furthermore, the ordinance specifies that self-employed individuals and members of statutory bodies who receive remuneration are eligible for this measure. And the distribution of aid under it does not impact the allotment of other support for business establishment or self-employment as defined by law.
According to the Secretary of State for Labour, Miguel Fontes, the main objective of this measure is “to enhance territorial coherence, promote more balanced development, and address disparities in opportunities between coastal and inland areas”. The Secretary of State for Labour also emphasised that “the initiative is aimed at encouraging individuals to relocate to these regions. This is particularly relevant at present, as Portugal is increasingly popular among digital nomads and other individuals who work remotely and can perform their duties from any location, including those in the country's interior."
Source: Eco
