Choosing the right visa to live in Portugal is the first step towards a successful move. Each type of visa caters to different situations — whether for work, entrepreneurship, study, living off income, or reuniting with family.
In this guide, I explain clearly and in detail which visa is ideal for each profile and what the requirements are for each, according to AIMA .

1. D1 Visa – Subordinate Work

📌 Recommended for: Those who already have a job offer in Portugal.

Main requirements:

  • Employment contract or promise of contract issued by a Portuguese company;

  • Registration in the social security system;

  • Proof of experience or professional qualifications.

💡 Tip: It's important that the contract is registered and complies with Portuguese labor law.
🔗 See more in our article: D1 Visa – Subordinate Work .

2. D3 Visa – Highly Qualified Professionals

📌 Suitable for: Professionals with higher education and relevant experience in qualified areas such as IT, engineering, medicine, and research.

Main requirements:

  • Recognized diploma;

  • Job offer with a minimum wage 1.5 times the national average wage;

  • Proven experience in the field.

💡 Tip: Technology professionals are in high demand in Portugal and may have the process expedited.

🔗 See more in our article: D3 Visa – Highly Qualified Professionals .

3. D2 Visa – Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed Workers

📌 Recommended for: Those who want to start a business, invest, or work as a freelancer in Portugal.

Main requirements:

  • Viable business plan or service contracts;

  • Proof of financial capacity;

  • Registering a company or independent business in Portugal.

💡 Tip: A well-structured business plan significantly increases the chances of approval.

🔗 See more in our article: D2 Visa – Start a Business in Portugal .

4. Visa D7 – Passive Income or Retirement

📌 Recommended for: Those with regular income, such as retirement income, rental income from properties, investments, or dividends.

Main requirements:

  • Proof of stable income (minimum of approximately €870 per month per adult);

  • Lease agreement or property deed in Portugal;

  • Valid health insurance.

💡 Tip: Ideal for retirees or investors who don't need to work in Portugal.
🔗 Learn more in our guide: Portugal D7 Visa.

5. D8 Visa – Digital Nomads

📌 Recommended for: Professionals who work remotely for companies or clients outside of Portugal.

Main requirements:

  • Proof of active remote work;

  • Minimum monthly income of approximately €3,480;

  • Lease agreement in Portugal.

💡 Tip: A great option for freelancers and tech professionals seeking a better quality of life.

🔗 Learn more in our guide: Portugal D8 Visa.

6. D6 Visa – Family Reunification

📌 Recommended for: Family members of foreigners who already have legal residency in Portugal.

Main requirements:

  • Proof of family relationship (marriage, stable union, parentage);

  • Documents of the resident family member;

  • Proof of means of subsistence.

💡 Tip: The process can be done in Portugal, at AIMA (formerly SEF).

🔗 Learn more in our guide: Portugal D6 Visa.

7. Job Seeker Visa

📌 Recommended for: Foreign citizens who wish to enter Portugal to seek job opportunities without yet having a concrete offer.

Main requirements:

  • Proof of sufficient means of subsistence to support oneself during the stay;

  • Health insurance valid in Portugal;

  • Job search plan or intention to pursue professional activity;

  • Valid passport and clean criminal record.

💡 Tip: The visa allows you to enter Portugal and, later, apply for a work residence permit if you find a job offer. It is important to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to avoid refusals.

🔗 See more in our article: Job Seeker Visa – How it Works and Requirements .

Checklist for Choosing the Right Visa

  • Do I have a contract or a job offer? → D1 or D3

  • Do I want to start a business or work as a freelancer? → D2

  • Do I live off my investments or my pension? → D7

  • Do you work remotely for companies abroad? → D8

  • Do I have family members already living in Portugal? → D6

  • I want to look for a job in Portugal even though I don't have a job offer yet? → Job Seeker Visa

Conclusion

Choosing the right visa to live in Portugal is a crucial step in ensuring your application is approved without delays or surprises. Each situation is unique, and details such as documentation, deadlines, and specific requirements can make all the difference in the final outcome.

If you want to increase your chances of approval, avoid mistakes, and have peace of mind throughout the entire process, I can help with personalized consulting and support — from analyzing your case to the final delivery of your order.

📩 Get in touch with me and together we'll find the quickest and safest way for you to move to Portugal.