Choosing the right visa to live or invest in Portugal is an important decision, and while the Golden Visa often stands out as the most popular option, there are other visas worth considering. Depending on your specific situation, one of these might suit you even better: the D2, D7, or D8 visas. Let’s briefly explore these visas to help you make an informed decision.
Golden Visa: The Investor’s Choice
The Portugal Golden Visa is ideal for investors seeking maximum flexibility with minimal residency requirements. This visa only requires you to spend seven days per year in Portugal, making it perfect for those who travel frequently or have significant personal or business commitments elsewhere.
Key Benefits of the Golden Visa
- Minimal residency requirement (7 days per year)
- Direct pathway to Portuguese citizenship after 5 years
- Flexible investment options from €250,000 to €500,000 or more, depending on your chosen option
However, the initial investment amount is higher compared to other visa options.
D2 Visa: Ideal for Entrepreneurs
The D2 Visa targets entrepreneurs who wish to invest by establishing or expanding businesses in Portugal. Unlike the Golden Visa, the D2 Visa doesn’t have a set investment threshold but requires demonstrating sufficient funds for business operations and personal expenses.
Key Requirements for the D2 Visa
- Viable and detailed business plan
- Proof of financial sustainability (usually around €10,440 or more annually)
- Active involvement and ties with Portugal
The approval of your D2 application depends largely on the evaluation of your business plan by immigration authorities, introducing an element of subjectivity.
D7 Visa: Perfect for Retirees and Passive Income Earners
If you have stable passive income from pensions, rental properties, dividends, or royalties, the D7 Visa could be your best option. It’s designed for those who plan to live permanently in Portugal, providing an affordable pathway to residency.
Financial Criteria for the D7 Visa
- Monthly passive income of at least €870 (equivalent to Portugal’s current minimum wage)
- Additional funds if accompanied by family members
Like the D2 and D8 Visas, but contrary to the Golden Visa, you need to spend most of your time effectively living in Portugal.
D8 Digital Nomad Visa: For Remote Professionals
The D8 Visa caters specifically to remote workers and freelancers who receive their income from outside Portugal. With Portugal increasingly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, this visa offers an attractive option for professionals looking to base themselves in Europe.
Essential Requirements for the D8 Visa
- Monthly income of at least €3,480 (four times the Portuguese minimum wage)
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contract
- Proof of accommodation for at least one year
Similar to the D7 and D2, it has residency requirements.
Making the Right Choice
- Choose the Golden Visa if your priority is flexibility, minimal stay requirements, and you have available capital for investment.
- Consider the D2 Visa if you’re an entrepreneur ready to start or expand a clearly viable business in Portugal.
- Opt for the D7 Visa if you’re looking for a stable and cost-effective way to relocate with passive income.
- Select the D8 Visa if you’re a digital nomad or freelancer with a steady foreign income looking for a new base in Portugal.
All these visa types grant you the same fundamental benefits: access to public healthcare, education, and Portuguese citizenship in the future.
Discover More with The Blue Portugal
Portugal’s diverse visa options ensure there’s something for every profile, from entrepreneurs and retirees to investors and digital professionals. Consider your personal circumstances, financial capability, and lifestyle preferences carefully to select the visa that best aligns with your future in Portugal.
Whether you’re leaning towards a Golden Visa or exploring D2, D7, or D8 visas, The Blue Portugal offers expert guidance every step of the way. Contact us to discuss your situation and start your journey to Portuguese residency today.
