Best Portugal Residence Option for Non-EU Investors in 2025

For non-EU nationals considering a move to Portugal, the country continues to offer several structured and legally robust residency options. While some earlier pathways such as property-based investment under the Golden Visa have been phased out, alternatives remain that accommodate a broad range of financial and professional profiles.

This overview outlines the most relevant residency routes available to non-EU investors as of 2025.

1. D7 Visa — A Reliable Option for Passive Income Holders

The D7 residence permit is designed for individuals with regular, verifiable passive income, such as pensions, dividends, rental income, or financial investments. It is particularly suited to retirees or financially independent applicants who intend to reside in Portugal on a more permanent basis.

Requirements typically include:

• Evidence of stable income (minimum aligned with Portugal’s national minimum wage, approximately €820–€1,000 per month)
  
  
• Proof of accommodation (12-month lease or property deed)
  
  
• Valid health insurance policy
  
  
• Absence of a criminal record
  
  

This visa offers a straightforward application process and has become one of the most utilised residency categories. It is especially relevant for those looking to establish residence in regions such as the Eastern Algarve, where property values remain accessible and rental markets are stable. Source: AIMA D7 requirements (updated 2025)

2. D8 Visa — Portugal’s Remote Work Residency Framework

The D8 visa, introduced in late 2022, enables professionals working remotely for non-Portuguese companies or clients to establish residence in Portugal. This programme supports individuals who are employed, self-employed, or operating a business abroad while choosing to live in Portugal.

Key criteria include:

• Minimum monthly income of €3,280 (based on current guidelines)
  
  
• Employment contract or proof of ongoing self-employment activity
  
  
• Long-term accommodation contract
  
  
• Private health insurance coverage
  
  

The D8 is tailored for individuals seeking mid- to long-term residence, often in areas that offer infrastructure for remote work, including fast internet and flexible housing options. It appeals particularly to professionals in technology, consulting, design, and related sectors.

3. Golden Visa (Investment-based Residence) — Significantly Revised

While the Golden Visa programme remains in place, its scope has changed. Since 2023, direct real estate purchases no longer qualify as an investment route. Instead, eligible pathways now include:

• Participation in qualifying investment funds (€500,000+)
  
  
• Contributions to scientific research and development projects
  
  
• Business creation or job-generating enterprises
  
  

This programme is now most appropriate for high-net-worth individuals with an interest in non-property-based investment. It may still suit those looking to diversify portfolios via regulated Portuguese funds or innovation-driven startups.

4. HQA Visa — A Specialised Route for Skilled and Research Professionals

The Highly Qualified Activity (HQA) visa supports individuals engaged in entrepreneurship or academic research, particularly those aligned with Portuguese technology or R&D institutions. Though more complex to initiate, the HQA programme allows accelerated residency when structured through certified incubators or research partnerships.

Investment requirements: Approximately €175,000 in a qualifying business or R&D collaboration

This pathway is increasingly used by startup founders, researchers, and innovation-focused professionals seeking a fast-track to residence based on intellectual and economic contribution.

6. D6 Visa - Portugal’s Family Reunification Route

For non-EU nationals with immediate family members legally residing in Portugal, the D6 visa allows for family reunification under the protection of Portuguese immigration law. This route enables spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and dependent parents to join their family member already holding a valid Portuguese residence permit.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates)
  
  
• Evidence that the sponsoring resident can provide accommodation and financial support
  
  
• Sponsor must hold a valid residence permit (D7, D8, Golden Visa, HQA, etc.)
  
  
• Adequate housing per legal standards
  
  
• Clear criminal background for adult applicants
  
  

The D6 visa allows family members to obtain a residence permit with the same duration as the sponsor’s. It grants access to healthcare, education, and employment in Portugal, making it a practical and humane pathway for families relocating together or reuniting over time.

This route is especially relevant for retirees, professionals and business investors who plan to bring their close family as part of a long-term move to Portugal.

6. The Continued Role of Real Estate

Despite no longer qualifying under the Golden Visa scheme, real estate ownership remains an important element of Portugal’s immigration framework. Both the D7 and D8 visas require applicants to demonstrate secure accommodation typically through a valid long-term rental contract or property ownership.

For many, renting offers a flexible entry point into the country before considering purchase. However, for others, acquiring a property outright can simplify the visa process while offering longer-term stability. For individuals exploring property for sale in Algarve Portugal, towns such as Tavira, Moncarapacho, and São Brás de Alportel continue to present value, lower population density, and quality of life.

Conclusion

Portugal’s visa programmes continue to support a broad range of non-EU investors, from retirees and digital professionals to entrepreneurs and researchers. While the investment landscape has evolved, the D7 and D8 visas remain highly relevant due to their clear requirements and consistent approval pathways. Each programme comes with distinct legal and financial considerations, and the choice will ultimately depend on the applicant’s professional status, income structure, and intended level of engagement with life in Portugal.

For individual guidance or support navigating the residency process, Russell & Decoz offers local expertise across the Eastern Algarve, including Tavira and surrounding communities.