What is the Portugal D7 Visa?

Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, was introduced in 2007 by the Portuguese government, allowing non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to apply for temporary residency in Portugal.

Retirees and individuals with a minimum regular minimum passive income of €820 per month can apply for the Portugal D7 Visa. This income can include pensions, real estate, royalties, dividends, financial investment, or intellectual property.

Additionally to be eligible for D7 Visa in Portugal you must have sufficient means to reside in Portugal for one year, which is equivalent to €9,840, plus you need to add 50% of this amount for your partner and 30% for each dependent child.

This Visa is valid for a period of two years and can be renewed for additional three-year period. After 5 years you have the option to apply for a permanent residence permit or Citizenship.

Qualified applicants must stay in Portugal for a minimum of 183 consecutive days each year. You might also choose to stay in Portugal for 8 months with breaks within the year.

If you are not eligible for the D7 Visa, you may explore the Digital Nomad Visa perfect for remote workers or the D2 Visa Portugal if you are an entrepreneur and intend to open your own business in Portugal.

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Who is eligible for the D7 Visa Portugal?

To be eligible, you need to meet the following Portugal D7 Visa requirements:

  • Be a non-EU citizen.
  • Have sufficient funds to support yourself.
  • Meet the passive income requirements.
  • Have travel insurance.
  • Have a clean criminal record.
  • Deliver proof of accommodation in Portugal.

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Portugal D7 Visa Benefits

Mobility

Portugal D7 Visa allows you visa-free entry and circulation through the Schengen Area.

Live, Work, Study

Once you become a resident in Portugal you are entitled to conduct any professional activity as an independent professional and you gain access to the National Education Service, schools, and vocational training.

You might like to read the comprehensive guide about the Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal.

Healthcare in Portugal

Being a resident in Portugal you gain access to National Healthcare, also called SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) and covers primary and secondary healthcare needs.

Path to Citizenship

After five years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency or to citizenship. However, in this case you’ll have to pass a Portuguese language test.

Family Reunion

You are entitled to bring your family members who are already in Portugal or who will be joining you in Portugal. You may request family reunification in AIMA (former SEF ) at the same time as your visa application, or after you have received your visa. The following is the list of family members that may qualify for family reunification under the D7 Portugal Visa:

  • Your spouse or partner.
  • Your children under 18 years of age or incapacitated children of the couple or of one of their spouses/partners.
  • Children over 18 years of age who are dependent on you or your spouse which means that they are single and studying.
  • Your parents or your spouse/partner’s parents if they are dependent on you.
  • You minor siblings.

Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Regime

One of the D7 Visa Portugal benefits is the access to a special tax regime known as NHR (Non-Habitual Resident). Under this program, you are exempt from or pay very little taxes on any foreign-sources income.

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What is considered passive income?

To be eligible for the Portugal D7 Visa, you need to demonstrate sufficient passive income to support yourself during your stay in Portugal. The minimum monthly income requirement is €760 per month and includes but is not limited to:

  • Pension
  • Rental estate
  • Financial investment
  • Royalties
  • Dividends
  • Intellectual Property
  • Interest from Savings

D7 Passive income Requirements

As a financial requirement for Portugal D7 Visa you must demonstrate a regular minimum passive income of €820 per month and it’s recommended that you show more than the required amount.

Another Portugal D7 Visa requirement is that you have sufficient means to reside in the country for at least one year. You must deposit in a Portuguese bank account and prior to the application a minimum of €9,840. In case of adding family members to the application, you need to add €4,920 for your partner and €2,952 for each child.

For a family of 4 including husband, wife and two minor children, the amount of €20.664 must be deposit in the Portuguese bank account.

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Application Process for the D7 Portugal Visa

Step 1 – NIF and Bank Account

To apply for the D7 Visa, you need to obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) and open a bank account in Portugal.  To obtain a NIF, you can apply online or in person at a tax office in Portugal. Opening a bank account can be done remotely.

Step 2 – Secure your Accommodation

Another one of Portugal D7 Visa requirements is you need to demonstrate that you have secured accommodation in Portugal. This can be in the form of a rental agreement signed at least for one year or proof of property ownership.

Step 3 – Submit your Visa Application

To apply for the D7 Portugal Residency Visa, you need to submit your application at the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy, VFS Global or similar in your home country but never in Portugal. You will need to provide several documents, including your passport, proof of income, travel insurance, and proof of accommodation.

Step 4 – Apply for a resident permit in Portugal

Once you arrive in Portugal, you will need to apply for a resident permit at AIMA (The Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum). This will allow you to stay in Portugal for the duration of your visa.

Processing time of Portugal D7 Visa

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D7 Visa Portugal documents required

The Portugal D7 residence visa requires the following documents, but depending of the Portuguese consulate or embassy or VFS it might be required some additional documentation.

  • D7 Visa Application Form
  • Your Valid Passport
  • Two recent passport-size photos
  • Criminal Record certificate
  • Valid travel insurance, including medical coverage and repatriation
  • Proof of reasonable regular passive income
  • Documentary evidence of having accommodation in Portugal
  • Proof of sufficient means in Portugal (latest 3 months bank statements)
  • Declaration with the reasons for requesting Portuguese Residency

Portugal D7 Visa Minimum Stay Requirement

As a holder of a temporary permit, you must stay in the country at least 16 months per the first 2 year period and per the subsequent 3 years period provided no absence for more than 6 consecutive months, otherwise your permit can be invalidated.

For the holder of a Permanent residency Permit, the minimum stay is 30 months during each 5 years period provided no absence for more than 24 consecutive months, otherwise your permit can be invalidated.

*Longer absence periods maybe be considered for proven professional or force majeure reasons

D7 Retirement Visa renewal process

Portugal D7 Visa itself is only used for your initial entry into Portugal. After that point, you’ll convert the visa to a Portuguese residency permit.

The first residency permit is valid for two years, then you’ll need to renew it again after three years. At the five-year point, you can choose to apply for permanent residency or citizenship instead.

Cost of the D7 Visa

The cost of Portugal D7 visa is relatively low and varies depending on the consulate where you apply, but for a single applicant you may expect to pay:

  • €80 for your entry visa application at the Consulate in your home country
  • €170 to submit and receive your resident permit from the AIMA in Portugal

You should have to consider some additional costs regarding flight tickets, travel insurance, relocation services, accommodation, paperwork including translations or documents apostille.

Still have questions? Check out our video!

For more videos about investing or moving to Portugal, explore our YouTube channel here: YouTube Channel Portugal Residency Advisors.

Why choose us to assist you in getting your Portugal D7 Visa?

Local Expertise

We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information. 

Holistic Approach

One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle. 

Transparent Service

We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.

Simple Process

Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.

Frequently asked questions about the Portugal D7 visa

Who can apply for the Portugal D7 visa?

Anyone who has sufficient passive income, is not a citizen of the EU/EEA or Switzerland, and who has a clean criminal record.

Can you work in Portugal on a D7 Visa?

Yes, once you receive your residency permit you can study, work, or open a business in Portugal.

Can I obtain Portuguese Citizenship with a D7 visa?

Yes, you can. The residence permit under this visa is granted for two years. After period, you can renew this visa for an additional three year period. After five years of legal residence, you can apply for a permanent residence permit or Portuguese citizenship.

How long is the Portugal D7 Visa valid for?

The initial visa is valid for four months. During that time, you can use the visa to enter in Portugal and apply for a residency permit. The first residency permit is valid for two years and after that, you can renew it for a further three years.

When should I start the application?

We recommend starting the application process at least two months before you plan to travel to Portugal.

Can I apply for my D7 Visa while abroad?

No. You must be in your home country to start the Portugal D7 Visa. Therefore, you won’t be able to apply from abroad.

Can I benefit from the Portuguese healthcare system with a Portugal D7 Visa?

Once you enter Portugal and your residency permit has been approved by AIMA, you will be considered a Portuguese resident. You can therefore benefit from the Portuguese healthcare system. Keep in mind that you will need to register with the National Health Service (SNS) in order to benefit from its services.

Is Portugal a good place to get retired?

Yes, Portugal is known for attracting retirees. Quality of live, public healthcare, low cost of living and access to NHR program makes retiring in Portugal a very attractive option. You might like to read our article about Top 10 Reasons to Retire in the Algarve.

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

It depends on what you are looking for when visiting Portugal. But if you want to enjoy the good weather it’s recommended that you go between May and September.

How long does it take to complete the entire Portugal D7 Visa application process?

Many embassies take up to 60 days to process your D7 Visa after you submit your application. But that’s only the start of the process, you also need to complete the second stage at the immigration authorities within Portugal. It can take up to 6 months from beginning the D7 visa process to receiving your residency permit in Portugal.

Can I apply for the Portugal D7 Visa with savings but no passive income?

We don’t recommend this unless your savings can generate sufficient interest to meet the monthly passive income requirements.

Do I need a Portugal D7 visa if my spouse/partner is an EU citizen?

No. You can apply for residency in Portugal with your partner via EU family reunification.

Is Airbnb valid as accommodation to apply for the D7 Visa Portugal?

Not usually. Because some embassies more and more are asking for a 12-month rental contract, its truly recommended that you engage a real estate agent for finding your accommodation in Portugal.

Is it expensive to live in Portugal?

No, the cost of living is relatively low compared to the other countries in Europe. You might like to read the comprehensive guide about the Cost of Living In Portugal.

How often do I need to renew my Portugal D7 visa?

The D7 visa itself is only used for your initial entry into Portugal. After that point, you’ll convert the visa to a Portuguese residency permit. The first residency permit is valid for two years, then you’ll need to renew it again after three years. At the five year point, you can choose to apply for permanent residency or citizenship instead.

Can I use my savings for the Portugal D7 Visa?

Yes, you can use your savings for your Portugal D7 Visa. You can use a combination of savings, income, and investments. Keep in mind that it would benefit your application if you could prove that you have a monthly recurring income.

Do I need to buy property in Portugal to apply for the D7 visa Portugal?

To qualify for the D7 visa you do not need to buy or own property in Portugal. You will, however, be required to provide proof of accommodation during your application process and a rental agreement is used in most circumstances.

Can I apply for the D7 Visa while I’m in Portugal?

No, you can only start the application at a Portuguese embassy or consulate or VFS office (when applicable) in your country of citizenship, or legal residence (if the latter is different from the former.)

Does my bank account need to be funded?

Yes. As soon you open your bank account in Portugal, you’ll need to make a deposit before your visit with AIMA. Although there is no declared amount required, we suggest a minimum amount of €10.000 the case of a single applicant.

Where should I apply to the Portugal D7 Visa?

If you apply in the US, the best option would be to apply at your nearest VFS center. You can also apply at a Portuguese Embassy, however in this case it’s highly recommended that you call the Embassy before mailing your documents.

What is NHR?

NHR is a non-habitual resident tax regime that allows foreigners nationals to become exempt from foreign-sourced income.

Can I apply for the D7 Visa Portugal from outside of my country of citizenship?

Yes, but only if you have legal residency in the country where you plan to apply.

Do I need to leave my passport at the embassy?

Technically yes because your passport is required for your D7 Visa stamp. Since the Portugal D7 visa takes some time to be processed, you could arrange with the Embassy that you won’t send your passport alongside your documents. Not all Embassies are the same but, in most cases, you won’t need to leave your passport at the Embassy. This will enable you to travel to and from the Schengen Area.

Can American citizens apply for the Portugal D7 Visa?

Sure, provided they have the minimum passive income requirements. We highly recommend reading our article moving from the US to Portugal.

Where do I apply for my D7 residency permit?

For your residency permit, you need to travel to Portugal and apply to AIMA and schedule an appointment to start your application.

What is the minimum age to apply for the Portugal D7 Visa?

Applicants need to be at least 18 years of age however this visa intend to source mostly retirees.

Is the D7 Visa Portugal only for retirees?

No. Anyone with a source of reasonable regular passive income can apply for the D7 Visa.

What is the difference between a Portugal D7 Visa and a Schengen Visa?

The biggest difference is the amount of time that you are allowed to stay in Portugal. A Portuguese Schengen Visa, it is limited to 90 days. That’s why the Schengen visa is easier and cheaper to obtain.

What is a NIF number?

A NIF number is your legal tax identification number in Portugal that is mandatory to become a fiscal resident in Portugal.

How long can you stay in Portugal without a Visa?

You can travel and stay In Portugal up to 90 days without a visa but only for tourism or business purposes. However, if you wish to stay longer than 90 days you’ll need to apply for a visa.

How to open a Portuguese bank account?

To open a Portuguese bank account, you need a few documents. Starting from your fiscal number (NIF) and ID Card to proof of address in Portugal.

Why do I need insurance for the D7 Visa Portugal?

One of the requirements of the D7 Visa – and most other residency visas –  is that you need to have a travel insurance. This is to cover you for the period between arriving in Portugal and attending your interview with AIMA at which point you’ll be given your temporary residence permit and will become a resident.

What is the rejection rate of the Portugal D7 Visa?

The Portugal D7 Visa has a low rejection rate because most of applications are successfully supported by experts.  However, in some cases your application can be rejected due to lack or incorrect documents or not meeting the minimum requirements.

Can I travel outside Portugal after getting my D7 Resident Permit?

Yes, you can travel outside Portugal. However, you cannot be absent from Portugal for more than 6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months. Longer absence periods maybe be considered for proven professional or force majeure reasons.

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