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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).
You can lear more about the D2 and D7 visas in this blog post by Andre Rei.
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 in Portugal. | 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?
It’s important to clarify:
- A Portuguese residency permit allows you to live and work in Portugal.
- It does not grant residency in other EEA countries. Instead, it gives you the right to travel and stay for up to 90 days in other EEA countries, similar to a travel visa.
- Only after obtaining Portuguese citizenship (and a passport) can you enjoy the full benefits of 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, the Golden Visa is the way to go.
- 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!
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