Choosing the Right Visa: Key Differences Between the Golden Visa, D2 and D7 Visas
When deciding on a visa for Portugal, it’s essential to understand the fundamental difference between the Golden Visa and the D visas (D2, D7, and Digital Nomad Visas):
- The Golden Visa is ideal for those who want a second residency (and eventual citizenship) without moving to Portugal in the short term.
- The D2 and D7 Visas are designed for people planning to relocate and live in Portugal permanently in the near future.
Golden Visa: Flexibility and Citizenship Without Moving
The Golden Visa is unique in Europe because it allows applicants to gain Portuguese residency, apply for citizenship after 5 years, and eventually obtain an EU passport—all without needing to live in Portugal full-time.
What this means for you:
- You can secure the right to retire or relocate to any country in the European Economic Area (EEA) without ever living permanently in Portugal.
- With minimal stay requirements (just 7 days per year), the Golden Visa is perfect for investors who want the benefits of EU freedom of movement while maintaining their current lifestyle and tax residency abroad.
D Visas: Relocation to Portugal
The D Visas—which include the D2 (Entrepreneur Visa), D7 (Passive Income Visa), and Digital Nomad Visa—are designed for individuals and families planning to move to Portugal on a permanent basis.
What you should know:
- Residency through these visas is valid only for Portugal, not other EEA countries.
- However, these visas allow you to travel and stay in other EEA countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period (similar to a tourist visa).
Comparison Chart
Below is a chart comparing the different conditions per residency option:
| D2 Visa | D7 Visa | Digital Nomad Visa | Golden Visa (Fund Investment) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial conditions | € 10,440 / company investment | € 10,440 / year | € 3,480 / month | € 500,000 |
| Average Minimum Stay | Year 1–2: 16 months¹ | |||
| Year 3–5: 28 months¹ | Year 1–2: 16 months¹ | |||
| Year 3–5: 28 months¹ | Year 1–2: 16 months¹ | |||
| Year 3–5: 28 months¹ | 7 days / year | |||
| Tax Residency | Changed to Portugal once 183-day yearly stay is exceeded | Changed to Portugal once 183-day yearly stay is exceeded | Changed to Portugal once 183-day yearly stay is exceeded | May remain unchanged |
¹ Applies across the first five years of residency.
From the above it is easy to conclude that the D2, D7 and Digital Nomad Visas have the lowest quantitative requirements, but are aimed at those intending to relocate to Portugal permanently. Applicants must therefore present evidence of:
- Accommodation in Portugal
- Sufficient funds to support their stay, deposited in a Portuguese bank account
- Health insurance valid in Portugal
- Enrolment in a Portuguese education institution, when children over 18 are included as dependents
The Golden Visa, on the other hand, was designed to attract investment without requiring permanent relocation (although moving is optional), granting residency rights while maintaining your permanent and tax residency abroad, in return for a higher investment.
Key Advantages of the Golden Visa
| Golden Visa | D Visas (D2, D7, Digital Nomad) |
|---|---|
| Apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years without living full-time. | Citizenship also possible after 5 years, but requires living in Portugal. |
| Minimal stay: only 7 days per year. | Requires living in Portugal for most of the year. |
| Maintain your current tax residency. | Tax residency in Portugal likely if you stay over 183 days/year. |
| Freedom to travel and eventually settle in any EEA country after citizenship. | Residency valid only for Portugal. |
What Does Residency in Portugal Actually Mean?
- A Portuguese residency permit allows you to live and work in Portugal.
- It does not grant residency in other EEA countries; instead, it allows travel and stays of up to 90 days in other EEA states, similar to a tourist visa.
- Only after obtaining Portuguese citizenship (and a passport) can you enjoy full EU freedom of movement.
Which Option is Right for You?
- If you want investment-driven flexibility and the long-term option to retire anywhere in the EU, choose the Golden Visa.
- If you’re looking to relocate and make Portugal your home, one of the D Visas will better suit your needs.
Whether you’re an investor or planning to start a new chapter in Portugal, make sure you choose the right visa for your goals. Contact us today to find the safest and most effective residency path for you!