Portugal’s D7 and D8 costs stay tied to minimum wage

Portugal’s D7 and D8 visa income floors now sit at €920 ($999) a month for the main applicant under the country’s 2026 minimum wage rules. The D7 is for passive income holders, while the D8 requires €3,680 ($3,996) a month in foreign remote-work income, plus higher amounts for spouses and children.

The visas remain entry points to residency, with an initial 4-month visa, a 2-year residence permit and a path to permanent residency after 5 years. Applicants also need savings, accommodation proof and standard documents such as insurance and a clean criminal record.

UK movers see the biggest gap in day-to-day costs

For UK residents, Portugal’s appeal still comes down to lower everyday bills. Research cited housing, groceries and utilities at 30% to 40% less than in the UK, with rents often around €1,000 to €1,400 ($1,085 to $1,519) versus £2,700+ in Britain. Utilities were listed at €100 to €130 ($109 to $141), compared with £170 to £250 in the UK.

The lower cost base matters most for retirees, remote workers and families trying to make the move stretch further. Tourists aren’t affected by the visa rules, though they still get the usual 90-day Schengen stay.

What applicants need to sort before applying

The process starts with a NIF, a Portuguese bank account and proof of housing for at least 12 months. Applicants then file at a Portuguese consulate, pay the €110 ($119) visa fee, enter Portugal and apply to AIMA for the residence permit, which carries a €99.80 ($108) application fee and an €85.80 ($93) card fee.

Family reunification now follows a 2-year wait under an October 2025 law, so couples and parents need to plan around that timeline. Read our full Portugal guide for the complete picture and check our latest visa updates.