Choosing between the D7 visa and the Digital Nomad Visa (D8) is one of the most common challenges for people planning to move to Portugal.

Both visas allow non-EU citizens to live in Portugal, but they are designed for very different income types and lifestyles. This guide compares the D7 and D8 visas side by side to help you decide which option is better for your situation in 2025.

Last updated: January 2026

What is the D7 visa?

The Portugal D7 visa is designed for non-EU citizens who can support themselves through passive or stable income earned outside Portugal.

This visa is commonly used by retirees, investors, and individuals with recurring income such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or long-term investment returns. The D7 visa does not require employment in Portugal and is based on financial self-sufficiency.

Applicants must demonstrate that their income is regular, predictable, and sufficient to support long-term residence in Portugal without relying on local employment.

What is the D8 (Digital Nomad) visa?

The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) is intended for non-EU citizens who work remotely and earn active income from employers or clients outside Portugal.

This visa is suitable for remote employees, freelancers, and independent contractors whose work is location-independent. Applicants must demonstrate ongoing remote work activity and meet higher income thresholds compared to the D7 visa.

The D8 visa allows holders to live in Portugal while continuing their professional activity abroad, but it is not designed for passive income-based residency.

Key differences between the D7 and D8 visas

Although both the D7 and D8 visas allow non-EU citizens to live in Portugal, they are designed for fundamentally different income models and lifestyles.

The D7 visa is intended for applicants with passive or stable non-Portuguese income, such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or long-term investments. It is commonly used by retirees and individuals who do not rely on active employment.

The D8 (Digital Nomad) visa is designed for remote workers and freelancers who earn active income from foreign employers or clients. Applicants under the D8 route are expected to demonstrate ongoing remote work activity.

Another key difference lies in income expectations. The D8 visa generally requires a higher income threshold, reflecting its focus on active employment, while the D7 visa focuses on financial sustainability through passive income.

Choosing the wrong visa type can result in delays, additional document requests, or the need to restart the application process. Understanding these core differences is essential before applying.

Income requirements: D7 vs D8

One of the most important differences between the D7 and D8 visas is how income is assessed.

The D7 visa uses the Portuguese minimum wage as a baseline and applies a household-based formula. Income does not need to be high, but it must be stable, passive, and well-documented.

The D8 visa generally requires a significantly higher income level, reflecting its focus on active employment. Applicants must demonstrate consistent remote earnings that exceed the minimum threshold set for digital nomads.

While the D7 focuses on long-term financial sustainability, the D8 prioritizes ongoing professional activity and income continuity. Choosing the wrong income model for your situation is one of the most common causes of visa delays.

Who should choose the D7 visa?

The D7 visa is generally best suited for applicants who do not rely on active employment to support themselves.

This includes retirees with pension income, individuals with rental or dividend income, and applicants with long-term investments or annuities. The D7 is also suitable for those who value financial stability and flexibility over professional mobility.

Applicants who can demonstrate stable passive income and intend to integrate into life in Portugal without working locally often find the D7 visa to be the most appropriate option.

Who should choose the D8 visa?

The D8 visa is better suited for individuals who actively work and earn income through remote employment or freelance contracts.

Remote employees with foreign employers, freelancers with international clients, and independent contractors who maintain active income streams typically qualify under the D8 route.

Applicants who intend to continue working full-time while living in Portugal, and who meet the higher income requirements, often benefit more from the D8 visa than the D7 option.

Common mistakes when choosing between D7 and D8

One of the most common mistakes is applying for the D7 visa while relying primarily on active remote work income.

Another frequent issue is underestimating the income requirements for the D8 visa or failing to properly document remote employment or freelance activity.

Some applicants also assume that one visa is “easier” than the other without considering how their income is classified. Choosing the wrong visa type can lead to delays, additional documentation requests, or the need to restart the application process.

Frequently asked questions about D7 vs D8

Can I switch from D7 to D8 later?
In some cases, yes. However, switching visa categories may require a new application or additional documentation.

Is remote work allowed on a D7 visa?
Remote work may be permitted if passive income requirements are met, but the D7 visa is not designed for active employment.

Which visa is easier to get?
Neither visa is inherently easier. Approval depends on how well the applicant meets the specific requirements of each visa category.

Can family members be included under both visas?
Yes. Both the D7 and D8 visas allow family reunification, subject to additional income requirements.

If you are unsure which visa fits your income structure, work situation, or long-term plans, reviewing your case in advance can help avoid costly delays or refusals.