Portugal after the Golden Visa cancellation (2024–2026): what options remain and when to choose D7 or D8

Since 2024, Portugal has officially closed the most popular routes to residence permits through investment under the Golden Visa program. This decision became part of a broader reform aimed at curbing real estate speculation and improving housing affordability for local residents. However, interest in moving to Portugal has not declined. Under the new reality, more foreigners are turning their attention to alternative residence visas — D7 and D8. Let’s break down what has changed in Portugal’s immigration policy, which options remain available, and who D7 and D8 are best suited for.

The Golden Visa, which previously allowed applicants to obtain residence through investments starting from €280,000, stopped including real estate purchases at the end of 2023. The Portuguese authorities retained only less popular investment routes:

• Capital transfer into regulated funds (from €500,000)
• Business creation with job creation (from €500,000)
• Support for science or culture (from €250,000)

As a result, straightforward and understandable investments in residential property are no longer an option. This has made the Golden Visa less accessible and less attractive for most applicants.

With the cancellation of the Golden Visa, D7 and D8 visas have come to the forefront, allowing long-term residence in Portugal without large investments.

D7 Visa — suitable for applicants with passive income (pensions, rental income, dividends):

• Passive income from €820 per month for a single applicant
• Rental or owned housing in Portugal
• Health insurance

D8 Visa (Digital Nomad) — designed for remote employees and freelancers:

• Minimum income from €3,680 per month (4× Portugal’s minimum wage)
• Proof of remote work (employment contract, self-employment, portfolio)
• Housing and health insurance are also mandatory

Both visas allow you to:

• Obtain a residence permit for 2 years with renewal
• Apply for permanent residence after 5 years
• Include family members
• Use the NHR tax regime (still applicable for now)

For both visa categories, applicants generally need:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Criminal record certificate
• Proof of income and financial means
• Proof of rental or property ownership
• Health insurance policy (private or EU-compliant)
• SEF application form and proof of fee payment
• Additional documents related to remote work for D8 applicants

After the cancellation of the classic Golden Visa, moving to Portugal has not become less attractive. On the contrary, it has opened the door for those who want to live in Europe without investment schemes. D7 and D8 visas are modern, transparent, and accessible options suitable for retirees and digital nomads alike. If you are planning to relocate to Portugal in 2024–2026, now is the right time to consider these pathways.

Contact Visa Dan — we will help you choose the optimal route, prepare documents, and guide you through the entire residence permit process in Portugal.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!