D7 vs D8 Visa Portugal: Which Is Right for You (2026)
By Claire Lawrence, who moved to Portugal and now helps others do the same. Last updated June 2026. Figures are indicative and sourced; always confirm current rules before you rely on them.
The D7 is for people with steady passive income such as pensions, rentals or investments, needing about 920 euros a month in 2026. The D8 is for remote workers and freelancers earning from outside Portugal, needing about 3,680 euros a month. If your income is passive, look at the D7. If you still work remotely, the D8 usually fits.
The quick comparison
| D7 visa | D8 digital nomad visa | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it is for | People with steady passive income | Remote workers and freelancers |
| Income type | Pensions, rentals, dividends, investments | Salary or client income from outside Portugal |
| Indicative income, 2026 | About 920 euros a month | About 3,680 euros a month |
| Savings buffer | Around 11,040 euros for one person | Similar buffer expected |
| Family | Add about 50 percent for a partner, 30 percent per child | Add about 50 percent for a partner, 30 percent per child |
| Leads to residency and citizenship | Yes | Yes |
When the D7 fits
The D7 is built for people whose money comes in without working for it. If you are retired on a pension, or live off rental income, dividends or other investments, this is usually your route. The income bar is lower, around the national minimum wage, but it must be stable and passive.
When the D8 fits
The D8 is for people who still earn actively, but from outside Portugal: remote employees and freelancers. The income bar is higher, around four times the minimum wage, and you show recent pay and a contract or client agreements.
What about the D2?
If you are starting or relocating a business, or going self-employed with a Portuguese client base, the D2 may fit instead. There is no single income figure; you show a viable business plan and the funds to support it.
Both lead to the same place
Whichever route you take, time spent as a resident counts towards long-term residency and, in time, citizenship. The visa is the door, not the destination.
Frequently asked questions
What is the D7 income requirement in 2026?
Around 920 euros a month, the level of the national minimum wage, plus a savings buffer of roughly 11,040 euros for one person. Add about 50 percent for a partner and 30 percent per child.
What is the D8 income requirement in 2026?
Around 3,680 euros a month, about four times the minimum wage, shown with recent pay evidence and a work contract or client agreements.
Can I work in Portugal on a D7?
The D7 is designed for passive income, not local employment. Many holders continue remote work, but if active work is your main income, the D8 is usually the better fit.
Can I qualify for the D7 on savings alone?
Rarely. The D7 wants stable income, not just a balance. People with savings often convert some into qualifying income, for example through an annuity, then apply.
Which is easier to get?
Neither is simply easier; it depends on your income. The right question is which one your money actually fits.
Not sure which route fits your situation? The Personalised Fit Plan includes a 60-minute call to work out your visa path with you.
See the Fit PlanSources
- Official Portuguese visa portal: vistos.mne.gov.pt
- Immigrant Invest, D7 income requirements 2026
- Get Golden Visa, Portugal digital nomad (D8) visa 2026
- Figures indicative for 2026; confirm current thresholds before you apply