Choosing the right Portugal visa options for families is the most important step before your move. If you’re planning a move to Portugal with kids, choosing the right visa is the first and most important decision you’ll make.
This guide covers the main visa options available to families in 2026 — what each one requires, who it suits, and where to get advice specific to your situation.
Portugal Visa Options for Families: The Three Main Routes
Most families relocating to Portugal use one of three routes:
- D7 Visa — for passive income, pensions, or remote work income
- Digital Nomad Visa (D8) — for remote employees and freelancers
- Work Visa (D1) — for families relocating with a Portuguese employment contract
Each visa leads to temporary residency, then permanent residency or citizenship after five years of legal residence.
D7 Visa — The Most Common Family Route
The D7 is the most popular visa for relocating families. Originally designed for retirees and passive income earners, it is now widely used by remote workers.
Income requirements (2026)
Thresholds are based on Portugal’s national minimum wage (currently €870/month — verify before applying):
- Main applicant: ~€870/month
- Spouse or partner: ~€435/month
- Each dependent child: ~€261/month
A family of four should expect to demonstrate approximately €1,800–€2,000+/month in income, plus savings held in a Portuguese bank account.
Who it suits
Families with passive income, dividends, rental income, pensions, or stable remote work income. It is the more flexible of the two main options.
Timeline
Apply at the Portuguese consulate in your home country → travel to Portugal → biometrics appointment at AIMA → receive residence permit → renew after 2 years, then after a further 3 years.
Digital Nomad Visa (D8) — For Remote Workers
The D8 was introduced specifically for remote workers employed by or contracting with foreign companies.
Income requirements (2026)
Higher than the D7 — thresholds cited have ranged from approximately 3–4x the Portuguese minimum wage for the main applicant. At current levels, expect €2,600–€3,500+/month for the primary applicant, with additional requirements for dependents.
⚠️ Verify current thresholds with AIMA or a licensed immigration adviser before applying — these figures have been subject to change.
Who it suits
Remote employees and freelancers earning foreign-sourced income above the D8 threshold. If your income qualifies for both D7 and D8, discuss both options with an immigration specialist — eligibility can depend on contract type and documentation.
D7 vs Digital Nomad Visa — Quick Comparison
| D7 | Digital Nomad (D8) | |
|---|---|---|
| Income requirement | Lower | Higher |
| Income type | Passive / recurring | Remote employment |
| Family inclusion | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | Passive income, pensions | Remote employees, freelancers |
Portugal Visa Options for Families: Including Your Children
Under all main visa routes, children can be included as dependents. Once resident, children have the right to:
- Enrol in Portuguese public schools
- Register with the SNS public healthcare system
- Obtain a residence permit of their own
Children born in Portugal to legal residents may also have a path to Portuguese citizenship — seek specialist legal advice on this.
Path to Citizenship
After five years of legal residency, families may apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. Requirements at the time of application typically include a basic Portuguese language test and a clean criminal record. Rules change — always verify current requirements with a qualified immigration lawyer.
Portugal Visa Options for Families: Do You Need a Lawyer?
For most families, yes — at least for the initial application. Portugal’s immigration process involves precise documentation requirements, and errors cause significant delays. A specialist can also advise on which visa route genuinely suits your income and contract type.
Planning your move to Portugal with kids? Our free family relocation checklist covers everything you need to do — from visa applications to your first 30 days on the ground.