⚡️Where to live if you get paid in crypto ⚡️
🇵🇹 Portugal
You’re probably not surprised that we picked Portugal as our first country in this series. Yep, it used to be a full-on crypto paradise, and while the tax system has changed a bit, it’s still one of the most comfortable and beautiful places for digital nomads and anyone getting paid in crypto. Let’s break it down & see if Portugal might be the right fit for your lifestyle.
1. Safety
Portugal’s chill. Like, really chill. It’s always in the top 10 safest countries (Global Peace Index). Lisbon, Porto, even touristy spots like Lagos feel really safe. Night walks are totally fine. The only heads-up: watch out for pickpockets on trams & at train stations, but same in Barcelona 😅
2. Infrastructure
It’s solid, not flawless. Public transport works, metros run, scooters are everywhere. Just be ready for the occasional strikes (as usual around Europe). A single ride costs around €2. There’s also a new €49/month pass for regional trains by Comboios de Portugal (but it doesn’t work on Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, or city transport in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra). Bolt, Uber, car-sharing (Free Now) are all available. No need for a car unless you really want one.
3. Renting a place
Prices vary a lot depending on the city and neighborhood. In Lisbon, a one-bedroom starts at around €900/month (sometimes pretty meh quality), but for something decent and well-located, think €1300–2500. Porto is a bit cheaper — from €700. Algarve or smaller towns — from €600. You can find legit options in Facebook groups or OLX, and some landlords even accept USDC. Airbnb is great for the first few weeks, but pricey long-term. Use local sites like Idealista and CustoJusto. Heads up: deposits range from 1 to 6, sometimes even up to 12 months.
4. Internet & coworking
Home internet: 500–1000 Mbps for €25–45/month (MEO, Vodafone, NOS). Mobile data is solid too — €10–15 for 10–15 GB. eSIMs are easy to buy online. Coworking spaces range from hipster jungles (like Second Home in Lisbon) to sleek and professional (LACS in Lisbon, Porto, Cascais). Prices start at €150/month.
5. Cafes
Coffee starts at €0.70 in local spots and can go up to €4–5 in trendy places. Tons of laptop-friendly cafes like Fauna & Flora, Heim, Comoba (expect to pay €7–12 for breakfast with coffee). Don’t skip TimeOut Market: 30+ food stands, including some run by celeb chefs.
6. Healthcare
Public healthcare is free, but having private insurance (Médis, Allianz, AdvanceCare) is a smart move. The question of cost is €40–50/month for insurance that covers most clinics. Without it, doctor visits are €50–100, tests and ultrasounds around €30–80. Private doctors in big cities usually speak English. In smaller towns, mostly Portuguese only.
7. Crypto taxes (as of 2025)
Crypto income is taxed now, but there are nuances. If you hold crypto for more than 365 days before selling — no tax. Sell earlier or trade actively and you’ll pay 28% on profits. If you’re paid in crypto (salary or freelance), it’s treated as regular income and taxed progressively (from 14.5% to 48%).
8. Digital Nomad Visa (D8)
This visa lets you live legally, get residency, NIF, and open a bank account. You must apply from a country where you’re officially a resident. To qualify, you’ll need proof of a monthly gross income of €3,480, documents confirming your income (contracts, statements; sometimes crypto reports work), a rental contract or housing proof, health insurance, a bank balance (€10,440 for one person, €15,660 for couples), and a clean criminal record. Processing time is around 60 days. But it’s Portugal, so you can wait longer.
So, who is Portugal perfect for?
✅ Crypto freelancers or those getting paid in crypto
✅ People who want European healthcare and the ocean nearby
✅ Those vibing with a “work — eat — ocean view” lifestyle
🔜 Next up — Serbia. And if you’re thinking about relocating, drop us a comment below and we’ll help you weigh your options 👇