Moving to Portugal in 2026: Visa Options Explained
Moving to Portugal continues to be one of the most popular lifestyle decisions for retirees, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. Choosing the right Portuguese visa is essential to ensure a smooth relocation and long-term residency.
This guide explains the main Portugal visa options available in 2026, who they are for, and their key application requirements.
Important Information for Portugal Visa Applicants (2026)
- Long-stay visas must be applied for outside Portugal
- Residency permits are issued by AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo)
- Most visas lead to renewable residence permits
- After 5 years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship
- Income requirements are linked to Portugal’s minimum wage, reviewed annually
D7 Visa — Passive Income & Retirement Visa
The D7 visa for Portugal is ideal for retirees and financially independent individuals with reliable passive income.
Typical Passive Income Sources
- Pensions
- Rental income
- Dividends and investments
- Royalties or long-term savings income
D7 Visa Requirements (2026)
- Passive income equal to:
- 100% of the Portuguese minimum wage (main applicant)
- 50% for a spouse
- 30% per dependent child
- Portuguese bank account with sufficient funds
- Proof of accommodation (long-term rental or property ownership)
- Clean criminal record
- Private health insurance
The D7 visa allows long-term residence in Portugal, family reunification, and provides a pathway to Portuguese citizenship.
D8 Visa — Digital Nomad & Remote Worker Visa
The D8 digital nomad visa Portugal is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and consultants earning income from outside Portugal.
D8 Visa Income Requirement (2026)
- Minimum income of 4× the Portuguese minimum wage
- Income must be active and ongoing
D8 Visa Requirements
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts
- Evidence of consistent income
- Proof of Portuguese accommodation
- Health insurance
- Clean criminal record
The D8 visa allows remote workers to live in Portugal, travel within Schengen, reunite with family members, and apply for citizenship after 5 years.
D2 Visa — Entrepreneur & Self-Employment Visa
The D2 visa Portugal is suitable for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners intending to operate a business in Portugal.
D2 Visa Requirements
- Viable business plan
- Proof of funds to support yourself and the business
- Portuguese tax number (NIF)
- Evidence of business activity or intent
- Accommodation and health insurance
There is no fixed investment amount, but applications are assessed carefully for credibility and sustainability.
Golden Visa — Portugal Investment Residency (2026)
The Portugal Golden Visa suits investors seeking EU residency without relocating full-time.
Important Golden Visa Update
- Residential real estate no longer qualifies
Eligible Investment Routes
- Portuguese investment funds
- Scientific research contributions
- Cultural heritage donations
- Job creation
The Golden Visa offers minimal stay requirements, family inclusion, Schengen access, and a path to citizenship.
D1 Visa — Employment Visa
The D1 Portugal work visa is for individuals with a confirmed job offer from a Portuguese employer.
- Signed employment contract
- Employer registration in Portugal
- Relevant professional qualifications
- Accommodation and insurance
D4 Visa — Student Visa
The D4 student visa Portugal is for non-EU students enrolled in Portuguese educational institutions.
- Proof of enrolment
- Sufficient financial means
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
Family Reunification Visa (D6)
The D6 family reunification visa allows spouses, children, and dependents to join legal residents in Portugal.
- Proof of family relationship
- Sponsor’s legal residency
- Adequate income and accommodation
Which Portugal Visa Is Right for You?
- Passive income or retirement → D7 Visa
- Remote work or freelancing → D8 Visa
- Running a business in Portugal → D2 Visa
- Investment only → Golden Visa
- Portuguese job offer → D1 Visa
- Studying in Portugal → D4 Visa
Planning Your Move to Portugal?
At Live Long and Prosper, we provide practical, experience-based guidance to help you avoid costly mistakes and move to Portugal with confidence.
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