Visa for Portugal: Short-Term Tourism, D7, and Digital Nomad
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For short tourist or business stays, Portugal works the same as the rest of the Schengen Area: you need the Schengen visa if your nationality isn't exempt, valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, with the usual requirement of travel medical insurance with minimum coverage.
Portugal has become especially popular for its long-stay visas: the D7 visa, designed for those with stable passive or remote income (pensions, rental income, savings), and the D8 visa, created specifically for digital nomads who work remotely for employers or clients outside Portugal.
Both long-stay visas require proof of a minimum monthly income (which changes periodically based on the Portuguese minimum wage) and having accommodation and valid health insurance in Portugal. Always confirm the updated amounts at the Portuguese consulate, since they are reviewed frequently.
Schengen Visa for Short-Term Tourism
As in the rest of the Schengen Area, a valid passport, travel itinerary, accommodation reservation, proof of financial means, and travel medical insurance with the minimum coverage required by Schengen rules are required. It also allows you to travel through other Schengen countries within the 90-day limit in 180.
D7 Visa: For Stable Passive or Remote Income
Originally designed for retirees and people with passive income (rental income, pensions, dividends), although it's also used by those with stable remote income. It requires proof of a minimum monthly income, accommodation in Portugal, and valid health insurance during the process.
D8 Visa: Digital Nomad
Created specifically for independent remote workers or those employed by companies outside Portugal. It requires proof of a minimum monthly income (higher than the D7's in many cases), a remote work contract or proof of independent activity, and valid travel or international health insurance.
Travel Medical Insurance for Portugal
Many visa procedures require presenting travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage amount. The exact amounts vary by country and visa type, so always confirm them at the relevant embassy or official consulate. In the Travel Insurance section of this site you can get a quote for an Assist-365 plan that usually meets this type of requirement, using the discount code MEDALLOADV2023 when you purchase.
Verified Visa Advice
If you'd rather have a specialist review your case before applying, VisaGov is a verified visa advisory partner you can consult about your specific case.
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Comparison of Visas for Portugal
| Visa | Target Profile | Approximate Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen (tourism) | Tourists and short business trips | Up to 90 days in 180 |
| D7 | Stable passive or remote income | 1 year, renewable |
| D8 | Digital nomads with foreign employer/clients | 1 to 2 years, renewable |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the D7 Visa Only for Retirees?
Not exclusively; although it was originally designed for pensioners, it's also used by people with rental income, savings, or stable remote income who meet the required minimum amount.
What Is the Difference Between the D7 and the D8?
The D7 focuses on passive income (pensions, rental income), while the D8 is designed specifically for digital nomads with active remote work, generally with a different income threshold.
Do I Need Health Insurance to Apply for the D7 or D8?
Yes, both long-stay visas usually require valid health insurance during the process; confirm the exact minimum coverage at the Portuguese consulate.
Can I Use the D8 Visa to Live in Portugal While Working for a Client in Another Country?
That's exactly its purpose: it's designed for those who work remotely for employers or clients outside Portugal, proving the required minimum income.
