23 de September, 2025
If you are researching ways to live in Portugal, you have probably come across these two types of visas. The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the passive income visa, and the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) are among the most sought-after options for foreigners.
Although they are often confused, each of these Portuguese visas was created for different profiles — while the D7 is aimed at those with passive income, the D8 is intended for professionals who work remotely for companies or clients outside the European Union, earning active income.
In this article, we will explain in detail the differences between the D7 Visa vs. D8 Digital Nomad Visa Portugal, including financial requirements, documents, validity, and rights. And at the end, you will also find a clear and objective comparison table to understand, once and for all, which one best matches your profile.
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If you make a comparative analysis of the two, you will see that there is no option that is necessarily better than the other. In fact, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, your source of income, and your plans in Portugal.
While the D7 Visa is designed for individuals with passive income, the D8 Visa is aimed at those who work remotely for companies outside the EU. But the difference doesn’t stop there. Below we explain further…
Often associated with retirees and pensioners, this visa is actually intended for anyone who has regular passive income, without necessarily engaging in a professional activity.
It is necessary to prove a minimum monthly income equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage. In 2025, this amount is €870 (with a forecast increase to €920 in 2026, not yet confirmed).
In addition, the applicant must demonstrate sufficient income to support any family members included in the application:
The applicant must prove they have in their account the equivalent of 12 months of the required minimum income.
Example: single applicant → €870 × 12 = €10,440. For a couple: €1,305 × 12 = €15,660.
The higher the amount proven, the better the chances of visa approval.
The D7 Visa is initially valid for 2 years, renewable for an additional 3 years. After completing 5 years of legal residence in Portugal, it is possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residence.
Although it is intended for individuals who already have (passive) income, the D7 Visa allows the holder to legally engage in professional activity in Portugal, either for pleasure or to supplement income.
This visa is for professionals who wish to live in Portugal while working remotely for companies or clients outside the European Union. In other words, if you are Brazilian, work for a company, or provide freelance services in Brazil (or another country outside the EU) and do not need to be physically present in an office, you can apply for this visa.
For example, a psychologist who sees patients online or a marketing professional providing remote services.
To apply for the D8 Visa Portugal, applicants must prove an average income from the last three months of remote work equivalent to at least 4 times the Portuguese minimum wage.
In 2025: €3,480 (that is, €870 × 4). For 2026, the projected amount is €3,680 (minimum wage of €920, not yet confirmed).
Although not mandatory, as in the case of the D7 Visa, we recommend that the applicant have available in their account (not necessarily in a Portuguese bank) the equivalent of 12 months of the minimum income required for the visa. Since it is not an official requirement, the suggested amount is not exact, nor does it need to be higher for couples or families.
As with all visa applications, the more the applicant can demonstrate, the higher the chances of approval. Recommended example: €3,480 × 12 = €41,760.
Here, the fees are the same:
*(Values as of September 2025 – subject to change.)
There are two types of visas for remote workers: short-term and long-term:
Here lies the first important difference: holders of the Digital Nomad Visa are not allowed to work legally for companies based in Portugal (companies in the rest of Europe, yes).
The main difference between the visas is the financial requirement. That is why professionals who work remotely and also have passive income may choose the D7 Visa. It is a way to ensure greater flexibility and financial security in case of fluctuations in monthly income.
Another important point is the profile and origin of the income. Interestingly, many of our clients meet the requirements for both visas.
Freedom to work in Europe:
Do you intend to work in Portugal or not?
The two visas also have many points in common:
The choice between the D7 and Digital Nomad Visa depends on your profile and goals. The D7 is perfect for retirees, investors, and those with passive income. The Digital Nomad Visa, on the other hand, caters to remote workers who value flexibility and mobility. Since 2018, more than 30,000 people have obtained authorization to live in Portugal through these two programs.
Although they are the most popular, there are several other visa options in Portugal that may suit different profiles. All of them grant access to the benefits of living in the country: modern infrastructure, high quality of life at affordable costs, safety, an efficient healthcare system, pleasant climate, and free circulation within the Schengen area. If you’d like to learn more, check out our complete article on visas for Portugal.
Still unsure about which visa to choose? The consultants at Atlantic Bridge can help. Our team supports you through every step of the process, from visa application to complementary services such as residence card issuance, opening a bank account, obtaining your NIF, and legal assistance for purchasing property in Portugal.
Author:
Silvia Resende
