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Portugal’s D7 Visa and Golden Visa remain two of the most popular routes for securing residency in the country. The D7 is tailored to retirees and individuals with reliable passive income, whereas the Golden Visa suits investors contributing through approved channels such as cultural projects or investment funds.
Each pathway offers a clear route to long-term residency and citizenship after five years, making them appealing options for anyone looking to establish roots in Portugal.
📣 Portugal Citizenship Law Update 2025
On October 28, 2025, the Portuguese Parliament approved proposed amendments to the Nationality Law and the immigration framework, following their initial presentation by the government on June 23, 2025. This development marks a major step forward in Portugal’s ongoing legislative reform process.
The proposal aims to extend the minimum residency period for citizenship from five to ten years, or seven years for EU and CPLP nationals, and to revise how residency time is calculated—starting from the issuance of the first residence permit rather than the date the application was submitted.
The bill is not yet in effect, as it still requires Presidential review. The President may approve, veto, or refer the legislation to the Constitutional Court, and the final version could still be modified before promulgation.
D7 Visa and Portugal Golden Visa Overview
What is the Portugal D7 Visa?
What is the Portugal Golden Visa?
Portugal Cultural Golden Visa: €250K Investment Guide (2025)The Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program aimed at individuals who prefer a more flexible stay requirement. The minimum eligible investment starts at €250,000 for Golden Visa cultural donation or €500,000 for the Golden Visa investment fund.
These options allow applicants to secure residency with minimal physical presence in Portugal each year, making it attractive for global investors seeking mobility and long-term European residency.
What Are the Similarities Between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa in Portugal?
Both the D7 Visa and the Portuguese Golden Visa offer similar advantages; however, the main difference lies in the income and stay requirements. Here are the similarities between both programs:
The D7 Visa and the Golden Visa are both popular residency pathways in Portugal. While they serve different profiles and financial situations, they share several key advantages that make them attractive to newcomers.
Mobility
Both visas grant visa-free travel and movement within the Schengen Area, making it easy to explore Europe once you become a resident.
Live, Work, and Study
After receiving Portuguese residency, you can live, work, or study freely in the country. This includes access to the National Education Service, public schools, and vocational training. You may also work as an employee or an independent professional.
Path to Portuguese Citizenship
Both programs provide a route to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residency. Applicants must pass a basic Portuguese language exam (A2 level) when applying for citizenship.
Family Reunification
Both visas also make it possible to bring your close family to Portugal and apply for the D6 family reunification visa. This includes your spouse or partner, children under 18, or adult children who are still dependent and studying. You can also reunite with dependent parents from either side of the family, as well as minor siblings who are legally under your care.
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What Are the Differences Between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa in Portugal?
1. Portuguese Residency Requirements
The key difference between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa comes down to residency requirements, which can strongly influence which option fits your lifestyle.
D7 Visa Residency Requirement
Applicants must live in Portugal for six to eight months per year, whether consecutively or spread throughout the year. For those planning to establish Portugal as their primary home, this level of commitment aligns naturally with the purpose of the D7 program.
Golden Visa Portugal Residency Requirement
The Golden Visa offers exceptional flexibility, requiring only one week of physical presence per year to maintain residency. For a smoother renewal process, it’s important to understand exactly how to prove the minimum stay requirement, ensuring you always meet the program’s obligations without complications.
2. Financial Requirements
Another major difference between the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa is their financial requirements, which determine who each program is best suited for.
D7 Visa Financial Requirements
Applicants must prove a stable monthly passive income of at least €870, coming from sources such as pensions, rental income, dividends, interest, or intellectual property.
They must also show sufficient funds to live in Portugal for one year: €10,440 for the main applicant, plus 50% for a spouse and 30% for each dependent child. These amounts serve as guidelines, and presenting a higher income can significantly strengthen an application, as immigration officers have discretion.
Golden Visa Financial Requirements
Unlike the D7, the Golden Visa does not require proof of recurring income. Instead, applicants must make a qualifying investment, typically €250,000 in cultural projects or €500,000 in investment funds, to be eligible for residency.
3. Visa Application Process
The application process for the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa differs significantly, influencing how quickly and conveniently you can secure residency in Portugal.
D7 Visa Portugal Application Process
The D7 application starts at the Portuguese embassy in your home country. You’ll need to submit documents such as your application form, NIF number, Portuguese bank account details, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and supporting financial documents. If you don’t have a rental yet, a hosting letter from family or friends in Portugal is acceptable; otherwise, a 12-month lease is required.
After receiving the initial visa, you must travel to Portugal to finalize your two-year residence permit at AIMA. From start to arrival in Portugal, the full process typically takes around six months.
Portugal Golden Visa Application Process
The Golden Visa offers a more streamlined route. Once you make the qualifying investment, your Portugal golden visa lawyer can submit the application on your behalf, and you do not need to visit Portugal to start the process.
This makes it an attractive option for investors who prefer minimal administrative involvement and maximum flexibility.
4. Fees and Costs
The overall expenses for the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa differ significantly, and understanding these costs is essential when choosing the right residency pathway.
D7 Visa Costs
Government fees for the D7 Visa typically range from €100 to €300, covering both consulate and AIMA charges. Beyond this, applicants should budget for legal fees, visa renewals, and accommodation expenses. Non-residents often face higher upfront rental payments, sometimes five to six months in advance including deposits. Additional costs such as relocation, travel, and setup expenses should also be considered.
Golden Visa Costs
For the Portugal Golden Visa, the main financial commitment is the qualifying investment itself. In addition, applicants must pay mandatory government fees, including the €6,045 application fee and the €605 processing fee per applicant, excluding renewal charges.
For more videos about investing or moving to Portugal, explore our YouTube channel here: YouTube Channel Portugal Residency Advisors.
Portuguese Citizenship After the D7 Visa or Golden Visa
Both the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa offer a clear path toward Portuguese citizenship. These visas serve as the first step in establishing legal residency, which is essential for anyone aiming to become a Portuguese citizen.
After five years of legal residency, applicants from either program may be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship. This brings the added advantage of obtaining a European Union passport, granting the freedom to live, work, and travel across all EU member states.
D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal: Which one is Better For You?
Choosing between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa depends on your lifestyle, financial profile, and how you plan to live in Portugal. Both pathways offer residency and a route to citizenship, but each serves a different type of applicant.
Portugal D7 Visa is better for you when:
- You have steady passive income and plan to live in Portugal most of the year.
- You want a low-cost residency option.
- You’re looking to make Portugal your primary home.
Portugal Golden Visa is better for you when:
- You want minimal stay requirements and maximum flexibility.
- You’re ready to invest €250,000–€500,000.
- You prefer to keep your main residence or business abroad.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa?
The D7 Visa is a residency visa primarily for individuals with passive income, while the Portugal Golden Visa is an investment immigration program that grants residency and citizenship rights to those who make a significant economic contribution to the country.
Which visa is better for obtaining Portuguese citizenship?
Both the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa can lead to Portuguese citizenship after five years of continuous residency, provided certain requirements are met.
What are the financial requirements for each visa?
The D7 Visa requires proof of regular passive income of €870 per month, while the Portugal Golden Visa necessitates making a qualifying investment in the country, typically ranging from €250,000 to €500,000.
Which visa is more suitable for retirees or those with passive income?
The D7 Visa is generally more suitable for retirees or individuals with stable passive income, as it does not require a significant upfront investment like the Portugal Golden Visa.
Are there any stay requirements for each visa?
The D7 Visa typically requires spending six consecutive months in Portugal each year, while the Portugal Golden Visa offers more flexibility in terms of residency requirements because it only requires seven days per year.
What are the application procedures for each visa?
The application process for the D7 Visa usually starts at the Portuguese embassy in the applicant’s home country, while the Portugal Golden Visa application can be submitted directly in Portugal, often with the assistance of a certified lawyer.
What are the government fees and other associated costs for each visa?
The government fees and associated costs vary for each visa, with the D7 Visa requiring fees for application processing and renewal, while the Portugal Golden Visa entails investment-related expenses, application fees, and legal fees.
Can family members be included in the D7 visa and Portugal Golden Visa applications?
Both the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa typically allow for the inclusion of family members, such as spouses and dependent children, in the visa applications.
How can I determine which visa option is best for me?
The choice between the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa depends on various factors, including your financial situation, investment preferences, long-term plans, and residency requirements. It is advisable to consult with immigration experts or legal professionals to determine the most suitable option for your specific circumstances.
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