Are you considering moving to Portugal in 2025? Understanding the visa options available is crucial for a smooth relocation process. Portugal remains one of the most attractive destinations for expats, digital nomads, retirees, and investors due to its high quality of life, favorable climate, and relatively simple residency pathways.
In this guide, we will explore the main visa options available in 2025, the requirements for each, and what you need to know before applying.

1. Overview of Portugal’s Visa Options in 2025
While there haven’t been major changes from 2024, some visa policies have been updated, particularly regarding tax benefits. Portugal offers several visa categories to suit different needs, including self-sufficiency visas, work visas, and investment-based visas.
The most common visas include:
- D7 Visa – For passive income earners (retirees, landlords, etc.)
- D8 Visa – For digital nomads and remote workers
- Golden Visa – For investors (no longer available for real estate investment)
- D2 Visa – For entrepreneurs starting a business in Portugal
- D1 Visa – For employment in Portugal
- D3 Visa – For highly qualified professionals
- D4 & D5 Visas – For students and volunteers
- D6 Visa – For family reunification
Let’s take a closer look at these options.

2. D7 vs. D8 Visa: Which One Is Right for You?
The D7 and D8 visas are among the most popular options for those looking to relocate to Portugal. While similar, they cater to different types of income earners.
D7 Visa – The Passive Income Visa
- Designed for retirees, landlords, or individuals with passive income.
- Requires a stable income equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage (€820 per month).
- Applicants should have around €10,000 in savings in a Portuguese bank account.
- Grants a 2-year residence permit, renewable for another 3 years.
- Eligible for citizenship after 5 years.
D8 Visa – The Digital Nomad Visa
- Ideal for freelancers and remote workers.
- Requires an active income (employment or freelance work).
- Income requirement: €3,280 per month (4x the Portuguese minimum wage).
- Two types:
- Short Stay (Temporary): 4-12 months.
- Long Stay (Residence Permit): 2 years, renewable for 3 years.
Both visas allow family reunification, but only for legally married spouses and dependent children or parents.
Need assistance in reviewing all the documentation needed? Savvy Cat Realty has your back! Contact us today at contact@savvycatrealty.com
3. Tax Considerations for Expats in 2025
One of the major updates for 2025 is the end of the NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) tax program. In its place, Portugal introduced IFIC Plus, a simplified tax program.
Under IFIC Plus, eligible professionals (such as executives, scientists, engineers, doctors, and ICT specialists) can benefit from a flat 20% tax rate.If you’re planning to relocate, consult a tax specialist to understand how Portugal’s tax system and double taxation agreements may affect you.
4. The Golden Visa: Is It Still Worth It?
The Golden Visa program remains an option in 2025 but no longer includes real estate investments. Instead, the eligible investment options include:
- €200,000: Donation to arts, culture, or social projects (non-refundable).
- €500,000: Investment in Portuguese companies or research projects.
- Job Creation: Establishing a business that creates at least 10 jobs.
Golden Visa Benefits
- Minimal stay requirement (14 days per year).
- Path to permanent residency and citizenship after 5 years.
- Access to the Schengen Zone.
If you’re looking for a low-commitment way to secure residency in Portugal, the Golden Visa may still be a good option.
5. The D2 Visa: For Entrepreneurs
If you plan to start a business in Portugal, the D2 Visa is a great choice. Requirements include:
- A solid business plan approved by Portuguese authorities.
- Proof of clients or business activities in Portugal.
- A bank account and adequate capital investment.
This visa allows entrepreneurs to obtain residency while contributing to the local economy.
6. Work Visas: D1 & D3 Visas
If you have a job offer from a Portuguese company, you may qualify for the D1 Work Visa. However, keep in mind that salaries in Portugal are often lower than in other Western countries.
For highly qualified professionals, the D3 Visa provides additional benefits, such as a faster path to permanent residency.
7. Student & Volunteer Visas (D4 & D5)
If you plan to study or volunteer in Portugal, you can apply for the D4 or D5 Visa. The D5 Visa is specifically for EU students.
8. Family Reunification: The D6 Visa
The D6 Visa allows family members to join a resident in Portugal. Key points to note:
- Only legally married spouses can apply.
- Dependents include children under 18 and elderly parents (60+).
- Approval can take 3-6 months.
For EU citizens with non-EU spouses, a simpler process is available by exercising EU free movement rights.
9. Visa Application Process & Timeline
General Requirements for All Visas
- Valid passport.
- Proof of income (bank statements, contracts, etc.).
- Background check (criminal record).
- Portuguese bank account.
- Health insurance (minimum 6 months coverage).
- Proof of accommodation (rental or property ownership).
Application Timeline
- Minimum wait time: 3 months.
- Realistic expectation: 4-6 months due to bureaucratic delays.
The Portuguese Immigration Service (AIMA) has struggled with processing times, so patience is required.
10. What If Your Visa Application Is Rejected?
Portugal has a high visa approval rate (80%+), so rejections are rare. The main reasons for rejection include:
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
- Insufficient financial proof.
- Criminal record (minor offenses like DUIs are usually not an issue).
If your visa is denied, you can reapply or appeal the decision.
Portugal offers a variety of visa options depending on your income source, profession, and investment capacity. Whether you are a retiree, remote worker, entrepreneur, or investor, there is a suitable visa for you.
If you’re considering moving to Portugal and need assistance with visas, tax planning, or property search, Savvy Cat Realty can help. Visit www.savvycatrealty.com for more information.For more updates on Portugal visas and expat life, subscribe to our YouTube channel and check out our blog!