Portugal has some of the most interesting and diverse visa programmes in the whole of Europe.
The main ones are the Golden Visa, D7, and D8 visas. Each of them has its own pros and cons and is suited to different individuals based on their lifestyle, income, and available capital.
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is Portugal's residency-by-investment programme. It's designed to attract foreign capital into Portugal in multiple ways.
For example, investing €500,000 in scientific research, €250,000 in cultural support, €500,000 in qualifying investment funds, creating 10 jobs, or investing capital into a Portuguese company that creates five jobs.
What makes this programme attractive is its residency requirements. Those with a Golden Visa only need to visit Portugal for 7 days in the first year and 14 days every two years. Once the qualifying period ends, they can apply for permanent residency, with a route to Portuguese citizenship thereafter.
D7 Visa
The D7 Visa, on the other hand, is more for those with stable passive income, from sources like pensions, rental income, or dividends. Generally, it's preferred for retirees.
With the D7 Visa, no upfront investment is required. The main requirement is that the applicant must prove a stable income stream meeting or exceeding Portugal's minimum wage. As of 2025 this is around €870/month for a single applicant (higher requirements for family inclusion).
Similar to the Golden Visa, D7 holders can pursue permanent residency and citizenship over time. However, applicants are required to stay in Portugal for at least 183 days each year.
D8 Visa
The D8 Visa is a newer programme established in 2022. Its goal is to attract more remote workers with high foreign income, such as tech professionals, freelancers, and so forth.
Like the D7 Visa, the D8 requires no upfront investment. The main requirement is that applicants must earn at least four times the minimum wage. As of 2025 this is around €3,480/month.
Those with a D8 Visa will need to stay in Portugal for most of the year — 183 days. Over time they can then pursue citizenship or residency, like the other programmes.
Key Differences Between Golden Visa vs D7 vs D8
When it comes to the Golden Visa, D7, and D8 Visas, there are four key differences to consider.
Investment / Income
The Golden Visa requires a capital investment starting from €250,000. However, the D7 and D8 Visas require you to prove income.
The income that needs proving between the D7 and D8 is different, though. The D7 requires passive income, like dividends, pension, etc., while the D8 requires remote income from freelance work, online businesses, etc.
Residency Requirements
Those who make the Golden Visa investment enjoy minimal residency obligations. On average, they only need to stay in Portugal for around 7 days per year. On the other hand, with a D7 or D8 Visa, holders are meant to stay in Portugal for most of the year — currently 183 days. Therefore, these visas are only ideal for those who want to establish residence in the country.
Purpose
The overall goal of the Golden Visa programme is to attract foreign investment into the country. It's more geared towards investors and wealthy individuals looking to establish EU residency in exchange for helping the economy.
This is much different from the other two visas. The D7 is there to welcome those who can sustain themselves, contributing to the economy via spending. The D8 is there to capitalise on the remote work trend by getting digital nomads to move to the country with their high incomes.
Side by Side Comparison
| Criteria | Golden Visa | D7 Visa | D8 Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Attract investment | Support self-sufficient residents | Attract high-earning remote workers |
| Financial requirement | €250K–€500K+ investment | Passive income ≥ €870/month | Remote income ≥ €3,480/month |
| Upfront investment | Required | Not required | Not required |
| Residency stay | ~7 days/year average | 183+ days/year | 183+ days/year |
| Work rights | Yes | Yes | Yes (foreign remote only) |
| Family inclusion | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Investors, HNWIs | Retirees, passive earners | Remote workers, freelancers |
Which Portuguese Programme Is Best for You?
Choosing between the Golden Visa, D7, and D8 depends on your financial situation and lifestyle plans.
- Golden Visa: Perfect for those with capital to invest and who want minimal relocation requirements.
- D7 Visa: Ideal if you have passive income and intend to live in Portugal full-time.
- D8 Visa: Suitable for high-earning remote workers looking to live in Portugal.
Conclusion
Portugal's residency options are among the most diverse and well-structured programmes in the whole of Europe. They're ideal for everyone, from high-net-worth individuals to retirees and digital professionals.
Regardless of the programme type, each option gives you a clear pathway to residency or citizenship over time. The major differences are their investment, income and stay requirements.
