D8 temporary stay visa or residence visa: which should I get?
Updated · Applying for the D8 guide · Not legal advice
Choose the temporary stay visa if you want up to 12 months in Portugal without becoming a resident; choose the residence visa if you want to live there longer. The residence visa is valid for 4 months with two entries, and during that time you apply to AIMA for a residence permit that can be renewed and counts toward permanent residence.
| Item | Temporary stay visa | Residence visa |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Up to 12 months, multiple entries | 4 months, two entries, then a residence permit |
| AIMA step | No | Yes, residence permit application |
| Income test | Same: €3,680/month average | Same |
| Accommodation proof | Usually a booking | Lease or equivalent is safer |
| Leads to permanent residence | No | Yes, legal residence time counts |
| Family | Check with your post | Apply together or reunify later |
When the temporary stay visa makes sense
- You want a trial year before committing.
- You don't want to deal with AIMA wait times.
- You'll keep your main home and tax life elsewhere (tax residency still depends on days and home, see tax residency).
When the residence visa makes sense
- You plan to stay 2+ years.
- You want time to count toward permanent residence or citizenship (timeline).
- You're bringing family who need residence permits.
Quick answers
- Can I switch from a temporary stay D8 to a residence permit in Portugal?
- Don't count on it. The safe route to residence is the residence visa from your home country. Ask AIMA or a lawyer about your specific case.
- Can I switch from a tourist stay to a digital nomad visa in Portugal?
- The D8 is a consular visa applied for from abroad. Plan to apply from where you legally live.
- Is the income requirement different?
- No. Both use the same average of 4 minimum wages (€3,680/month in 2026).
What to do next
Run the free D8 eligibility check: it compares your income with €3,680/month, picks your consular post and builds your document list. Want a person to check the file? Standard review is $599 one-time.
Check my D8 eligibility (free)Sources
- MNE (Vistos): types of national visa
- MNE (Vistos): documents for temporary stay visas, incl. remote work
- MNE (Vistos): documents for residence visas, incl. remote work
- AIMA: Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum
Checked: . Rules change; confirm current values on the official pages above before you file.