As the number Pakistanis moving abroad rises, Portugal is offering green passport holders a pathway to indefinite residency in Europe.
Portugal remains one of Europe’s top destinations for retirees and financially independent individuals, thanks to its attractive lifestyle and strong legal protections for long-term residents.
The D7 visa allows non-EU nationals, including Pakistanis, to secure residency based on proof of stable passive income, such as pensions, rental properties, dividends, or savings, rather than employment in Portugal.
How it works
- Applicants must have a minimum passive income of approximately €920 per month, with higher amounts required for spouses (50% additional) and dependent children (30% each).
- Successful applicants receive an initial residence permit, typically valid for 2 years.
- This permit can be renewed, provided basic conditions like continued income and residence requirements are met.
- After 5 years of legal residence, holders become eligible to apply for permanent residency, which does not expire as long as key conditions are maintained, providing indefinite long-term stability in the EU.
What it offers to applicants from Pakistan
- A mild Mediterranean climate and exceptional quality of life.
- Access to Portugal’s high-standard public healthcare system.
- More affordable living costs compared to many other Western European nations.
- A safe, friendly environment with visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.
Requirements
- Applicants must secure accommodation in Portugal (rented or owned) and meet other standard requirements, including health insurance and a clean criminal record.
- While the path to permanent residency remains after 5 years, recent discussions in Portugal suggest potential future changes to citizenship timelines, though these are not yet finalised.
- Pakistani nationals are among the frequent applicants for this visa, with the program remaining open and active in 2026.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2026 complete guide
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, usually known as D8 Visa, gives freelancers, remote workers in Pakistan a chance to get a one-year residence.
The world has changed and so are the stereotypes around remote work. Countries across the world have rolled out visas to remote workers and freelancers to live and work legally in that country.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
The in-demand Digital Nomad Visa was announced by the government in October 2022. The visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live in Portugal for nearly one year.
Visa requirements and eligibility
Let’s take a look at the requirements and eligibility for the visa
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Income: You must have a consistent monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage. The minimum wage is around €3,480 per month.
Employment: Provide evidence of remote or freelance jobs.
Accommodation: You need to arrange for accommodation in Portugal.
These specifications are consistent across all of the sources listed. It is crucial to note that the actual income criteria may differ significantly between sources.
Valid Passport: To enter Portugal, you must have a valid passport and, if appropriate, the necessary travel authorisations.
Health Insurance: Have health insurance that covers your stay in Portugal.
Clean Criminal Record: Have a clean criminal record from your own country.
