Portugal D7 Visa

The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, was introduced by the Portuguese government in 2007. This residence visa allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who have a reasonable net regular passive income to apply for residency in Portugal. The income can come from various sources such as pensions, rental properties, investments, or other forms of passive income.

To qualify for the D7 Visa, applicants must demonstrate a minimum annual income of €8,460 for themselves, with additional amounts required for family members (50% more for a spouse and 30% for each dependent child). This visa is particularly attractive to retirees and individuals living on passive income as it provides legal residency in Portugal.

Benefits of the D7 Program

• High Mobility: The D7 Visa allows holders to travel freely within the Schengen Area without needing additional visas.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: TAfter obtaining the D7 Visa, individuals can secure a temporary residence permit valid for one year, which can be renewed for two additional years. After five years of legal residency, they may apply for permanent residency or citizenship
• Access to Resident Rights: Holders of the D7 Visa gain access to various benefits offered by the Portuguese state, including healthcare through the National Health Service and educational opportunities
• Family Reunification: The D7 program allows family members to join the primary applicant in Portugal under family reunification regulations.
• Ability to Work: While primarily designed for those with passive income, holders of the D7 Visa are not precluded from engaging in professional activities in Portugal.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the D7 Visa, applicants must meet several criteria:

1. Non-EU Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of countries outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
2. Stable Passive Income: A minimum annual income of €8,460 is required for the applicant. For a spouse, an additional 50% (€4,230) is needed, and for each dependent child, an additional 30% (€2,538) must be demonstrated.
3. Clean Criminal Record: Applicants should provide proof of a clean criminal record from their country of origin.
4. Accommodation in Portugal: Proof of accommodation (either rental or ownership) in Portugal must be provided.
5. Minimum Stay Requirement: Applicants are expected to spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first two years.

Application Process

The application process consists of several steps:

• Obtain NIF Number and Open a Bank Account

Before applying for the visa, applicants need to obtain a Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF), which is necessary for tax purposes in Portugal. They also need to open a bank account to demonstrate financial stability.

• Secure Accommodation

Applicants must arrange adequate accommodation in Portugal prior to applying.

• Submit Application at Portuguese Consulate

The application must be submitted at a Portuguese consulate along with required documents such as passport photos, proof of income, health insurance coverage, and evidence of accommodation.

• Apply for Residence Permit Upon Arrival

Once granted the D7 Visa (valid for four months), applicants must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit through SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras).