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Thinking about moving to Portugal? If you’ve started researching, you’ve probably run into the D7 vs D8 Visa conversation. On paper, they might seem similar.
But in practice, they serve very different people. One favors retirees and investors, the other speaks to freelancers and remote workers.
The D7 is built for those who earn passively – think rental income, dividends, or pensions. The D8, often called the digital nomad visa, suits folks earning actively through remote jobs or freelance work. So, the real question is: are you living off your savings or working from your laptop?
This article walks you through the D7 vs D8 Visa in a straightforward way. We’ll break down income requirements, paperwork, taxes, and real-life examples.
By the end, you’ll know which visa lines up with your goals and what to expect once you get to Portugal.
What Is the Portugal D7 Visa?
The Portugal D7 visa is often called Portugal’s “passive income visa.” It’s designed for people who don’t actively work but still earn enough to support themselves through reliable income sources.
Think pensions, rental income, dividends, royalties, or interest from savings. If your money is working for you, not the other way around, this visa could be a perfect match.
The Portuguese government uses this visa to attract stable residents. They are the people who won’t take local jobs but will still contribute to the economy by spending and living long-term.
It’s especially popular among retirees, early retirees, or anyone with a predictable monthly income stream. That said, your income must come from outside Portugal.
To qualify, you need to prove that you earn at least the national minimum wage of around €870 per month. You’ll also need a 12-month lease or proof of home ownership, a NIF (tax number), private health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
Unlike the D8 visa, with the D7 you may need to switch to a different permit later in case you decide to work. In the D7 vs D8 Visa debate, this one’s clearly for the financially independent, not the digital worker.
If you’re looking for a peaceful lifestyle and already have income flowing in without logging into Zoom calls every day, the D7 is worth serious consideration. It’s not just about retiring but it’s about freedom on your terms.
What Is the Portugal D8 Visa?
The Portugal D8 visa, better known as Portugal’s digital nomad visa is for people who earn an active income while living abroad.
This isn’t about collecting rental checks or sitting on a pension but about working remotely and getting paid by foreign companies or clients. If you’ve got a laptop and Wi-Fi, the D8 might be your gateway to life in Portugal.
It’s ideal for freelancers, remote employees, consultants, and online business owners. Whether you’re coding, designing, writing, or managing online projects, this visa is made for people who keep working, just not locally. In the D7 vs D8 Visa comparison, this is clearly the path for professionals who are still actively in the game.
To qualify, you need to show a steady monthly income that’s at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage which is currently around €3,480 per month.
You’ll also need documents proving your remote work or business activity, along with housing, a tax number (NIF), private health insurance, and a clean background check.
Unlike the D7, the D8 gives you permission to continue working, as long as your income comes from outside Portugal. That makes it especially appealing for younger people or mid-career professionals who aren’t ready to retire just yet.
Comparison Portugal D7 vs D8 Visa
D7 Passive Income vs D8 Visa Portugal: Government Perspective
Portugal has welcomed thousands of expats over the past decade, and both the D7 and D8 visas are part of that strategy. Each visa attracts a different kind of resident, and the government sees value in both.
The D7 brings in people who have financial stability and won’t compete for local jobs. The D8, on the other hand, brings in skilled professionals who work globally but spend locally.
In the D7 vs D8 Visa equation, Portugal views D7 applicants as long-term settlers. These are usually retirees, financially independent individuals, or those who want a quieter lifestyle. They contribute to the economy through housing, healthcare, and daily spending—without needing a job in the local market.
The D8 visa serves a more mobile and digitally connected group. These individuals don’t burden the local job scene, but they still contribute through rent, taxes, and services. It’s a win-win for the country: skilled people living in Portugal, earning from abroad.
When it comes to the D7 vs D8 Visa comparison, Portugal isn’t picking favorites. Both visa holders are welcome, as long as they play by the rules. Whether you’re unplugging from work or logging in every day, Portugal has a space for you.
D7 vs D8 Visa Eligibility Breakdown
When it comes to moving to Portugal, eligibility is where the D7 vs D8 Visa difference really starts to show. While both visas are designed to welcome foreign nationals who can support themselves, the source and type of income you earn are what set them apart.
Let’s break it down so you can see which one fits your lifestyle and financial situation:
Portugal D7 Visa Eligibility
- You must have passive income from pensions, rental properties, dividends, royalties, or long-term savings.
- Monthly income should be at least €870 (Portugal’s minimum wage), though most applicants present closer to €1,200–1,500 to ensure approval.
- Income must come from outside Portugal.
- You must provide a 12-month lease or proof of property ownership in Portugal.
- Clean criminal record and valid private health insurance are mandatory.
- A Portuguese NIF (tax number) is required.
Portugal D8 Visa Eligibility
- You must earn active income through remote work, freelancing, or running a digital business.
- Minimum monthly income must be four times the Portuguese minimum wage of approximately €3,480 in 2025.
- Work must be location-independent and for foreign clients or companies.
- Proof of ongoing work (contracts, payslips, invoices) is essential.
- You’ll need a rental contract, health insurance, and a clean background check.
- Like the D7, a NIF is required.
In the D7 vs D8 Visa comparison, the biggest factor is how you earn. If your income comes in passively, the D7 is your path. If you’re actively working online, the D8 makes more sense.
Understanding these differences makes the D7 vs D8 Visa decision much easier and sets you up for a smooth move to Portugal.
D7 vs D8 Visa Portugal: Income Requirements
When it comes to the D7 vs D8 Visa, income matters more than most people expect. Meeting the minimum threshold is one thing but actually living comfortably in Portugal takes a bit more planning.
For the D7 visa, the official requirement is about €870 per month, based on Portugal’s minimum wage. But in practice, especially if you’re heading to Lisbon, Porto, or even the Algarve, most people need at least €1,200 to €1,500 monthly to manage rent, food, transport, and other essentials. If you’re used to a certain standard of living, budgeting a bit more will make life smoother.
With the D8 visa, the bar is higher. Applicants must prove a steady income of €3,480 per month, four times the national minimum wage. This reflects the fact that it’s for active earners. But remember, many digital nomads cut costs by living in shared spaces or choosing less touristy towns.
Bringing family? That adds to the equation. You’ll need around 50% more income for a spouse, and 30% more for each child. Whether you’re applying for a D7 or D8, this can significantly raise your minimum income requirement.
Understanding these cost realities can help you choose wisely in the D7 vs D8 Visa comparison and plan your move with fewer surprises.
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Portuguese Residency Rights
Portugal was ranked the 7th safest country in the world in the 2024 Global Peace Index, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a secure and peaceful place to work.
This is where things really split between the types of visa:
- Portugal D7 Visa is for those with passive income. You can work in Portugal, but the visa is meant for financially independent residents.
- D8 Digital Nomad Visa holders can work but only for non-Portuguese clients or companies.
That said, both visa holders can:
- Use the public healthcare system
- Enroll their children in schools
- Travel freely through the Schengen Zone
- Apply for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years
Application Process: D7 vs D8 Visa Step-by-Step
The application process for the D7 vs D8 Visa isn’t complicated but it does demand careful planning, attention to detail, and a bit of patience. While the steps may seem similar at a glance, the documentation and approval logic vary depending on how you earn your income.
Interestingly, the number of foreigners living in Portugal reached in 2025, crossing 1,6 million residents with permits. This means competition for appointments can be tight, so applying early helps.
For the D7 visa, start by gathering proof of passive income like pensions, rental payments, or investment returns. Make sure your income meets the minimum monthly threshold and ideally goes above it.
You’ll need to show proof of accommodation in Portugal, a valid NIF (Portuguese tax number), a Portuguese Bank Account, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Once all documents are ready, you submit your application to your local Portuguese consulate.
The D8 visa requires similar steps, but instead of passive income, you’ll be showing contracts, client invoices, or proof of remote employment.
Your income must reach around €3,480/month. If you’re a freelancer or remote worker considering a longer stay, the D8 is ideal but make sure your documents clearly show ongoing work and not just short-term gigs.
In the D7 vs D8 Visa process, both applicants will eventually attend an in-person AIMA (Portuguese Immigration Authorities) appointment after arriving in Portugal.
Whether you’re filing for a D7 or D8, staying organized and proactive will make your move to Portugal far smoother in the long run.
Can You Switch Between the D7 and D8 Later?
Yes, switching between the D7 vs D8 Visa is possible but it’s not a simple toggle. You’ll need to prove that your income type has changed and reapply with updated documentation.
For example, someone retiring from a remote job may move from a D8 to a D7 visa. That’s usually straightforward, especially if their income now comes from a pension or long-term investments.
However, switching from D7 to D8 can be trickier. You’ll need to show contracts, proof of ongoing remote work, and that your income now meets the D8 threshold. If you don’t already have a client base or steady remote job, your application might be delayed or rejected.
In the D7 vs D8 Visa situation, planning ahead is key if you think your financial circumstances may change down the road.
Best Places to Live in Portugal: D7 vs D8 Visa
Portugal D7 Visa holders tend to favor calm, less touristy places:
Portugal D8 Visa holders often need stable internet and coworking cafes:
Your vibe might also change based on your community. One group is more “retiree book club,” the other is “coffee-fueled Slack chat.”
Portugal D7 or D8 Visa: Find the Right Fit
Choosing between the D7 vs D8 Visa comes down to one key question: how do you earn your income? Portugal offers flexible visa routes for non-EU citizens, and that’s part of what makes it so attractive to people from all walks of life. Here are some examples.
- Ana (Aged 67 years), who lives off a mix of dividends and pension payments from Canada. Her income is stable, passive, and long-term. So, it makes the D7 visa a natural fit.
- Carlos (aged 42 years), works remotely for a tech firm based in Berlin. He earns active income through a foreign employer, works online full-time, and has no plans to retire yet. The D8 visa suits his lifestyle perfectly.
- Maya (aged 35 years), runs a successful Etsy store and writes a blog for international clients. Her income is location-independent and comes from self-employment. She falls right into the D8 category.
- John (aged 55 years), recently sold his company and prefers a peaceful life with minimal commitments. With enough passive income and no need to work, the D7 visa is clearly the right option for him.
Final Thoughts: Which One’s Better for You?
When it comes to choosing between the D7 vs D8 Visa, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on how you earn your income and what kind of life you’re looking to build in Portugal.
- Start by asking yourself a few honest questions:
- Is your income passive or do you actively work online?
- Are you still in your full-time career or shifting into retirement?
- Do you plan to bring your spouse or children with you?
- And, realistically, are you comfortable dealing with paperwork and long waits?
Understanding your income type is key. If it’s passive, the D7 is likely your best bet. If you’re working remotely or freelancing, the D8 visa is built with you in mind. In either case, choosing wisely in the D7 vs D8 Visa process will save time and stress later.
Still confused? That’s totally normal. Portugal’s immigration process can be a maze. This is where an experienced immigration expert can help. They’ll guide you through everything from paperwork to interviews. This will make sure your application is airtight.
A little help now can go a long way in making your D7 vs D8 Visa move smooth, secure, and stress-free.
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Frequently Asked Questions About D7 vs D8 Visa for Portugal
What’s the main difference between the D7 and D8 visas?
The D7 is for passive income earners, while the D8 targets digital workers earning actively from foreign clients or companies.
Can I switch from a D7 to a D8 visa later?
Yes, but you’ll need to prove your income type has changed and submit a new set of documents for approval.
Is there a big financial difference in the D7 vs D8 Visa requirements?
Yes. D7 requires around €870/month, while D8 applicants must show at least €3,480/month in active remote income.
Can I bring my spouse and children on either visa?
Yes, both visas allow family reunification, but you must prove additional income to support each family member.
Do I have to pay taxes in Portugal with either visa?
Possibly. Portugal’s NHR tax regime can offer benefits, but rules depend on your income source and tax residency status.
Is it easier to get approved for the D7 vs D8 Visa?
Approval depends on how clearly you prove your income and meet requirements – not necessarily on the visa type itself.
Can I apply for these visas from outside Portugal?
Yes, applications must start at your local Portuguese consulate in your home country before traveling to Portugal.
Does Portugal offer visa flexibility for non-EU citizens?
Absolutely. The country provides multiple visa routes, and both D7 and D8 are tailored to fit different income situations.
Will I get access to healthcare in Portugal on these visas?
Yes, once approved, you can access public healthcare services, though private insurance is needed during the application stage.
Who should I talk to if I’m unsure about D7 vs D8 Visa options?
It’s best to consult an immigration expert who understands Portugal’s laws and can help you avoid delays or rejections.
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