The D7 Visa is one of the most popular residency-by-investment options in Portugal, especially for retirees and those with stable passive income sources. Whether you're a retiree looking for a new home or someone with sufficient income from assets like rental properties, pensions, or investments, the D7 Visa offers an attractive path to Portuguese residency.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps, requirements, and benefits of the D7 Visa, offering an in-depth look at how this visa can open doors to living and thriving in Portugal.

What is the D7 Visa?

The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, is designed for non-EU nationals who can demonstrate a steady income sufficient to support themselves (and their dependents) without relying on the Portuguese social system. It is ideal for retirees, remote workers, or anyone with passive income from property, pensions, or investments.

Why Choose the D7 Visa?

Portugal has long been recognized for its high quality of life, affordable living costs, and favorable tax policies, making it a top destination for individuals seeking to relocate and invest. The D7 Visa grants you the opportunity to live in Portugal while enjoying benefits such as:

Retirement: Portugal offers a welcoming environment for retirees with a favorable tax system and a relaxed pace of life.
Access to Healthcare & Education: As a resident, you’ll have access to Portugal’s high-quality healthcare and education systems, along with opportunities for EU-wide healthcare benefits.
EU Residency: Portugal’s membership in the European Union means that obtaining a residency permit through the D7 Visa provides you access to travel and work within other EU countries.
Family Reunification: The D7 Visa allows you to bring your family members along. This includes your spouse or partner, dependent children under 18, dependent children over 18 if they are full-time students or financially dependent, and dependent parents (if they are financially dependent). This makes the D7 Visa an attractive option for families looking to relocate to Portugal.
Proximity to the US: Portugal’s close proximity to the United States makes it an excellent option for Americans seeking a European base.
Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years of residence in Portugal, you may apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, which includes all the rights of an EU citizen.

D7 Visa Requirements

To qualify for the D7 Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria that demonstrate their ability to support themselves and their dependents. Here's a breakdown:

1. Proof of Sufficient Income: Applicants must prove they have a stable income source to sustain themselves and their family members. The minimum required income as of 2024 is around €820 per month for a single applicant. The income requirement increases for dependents, as follows:

- Spouse or partner: €1,240 per month

- Children or other dependents: €430 per month per person

Income can come from pensions, investments, rental income, or remote work.

2. Proof of Accommodation: You will need to provide evidence that you have a place to live in Portugal, whether through a lease contract for 1 year or property purchase. The accommodation should be sufficient to house you and your family comfortably.

3. Tax Identification Number (NIF): You must apply for a Portuguese NIF (Tax Identification Number), which is essential for any legal activity in Portugal, including opening a bank account and signing rental contracts.

4. Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record from your home country and any other country where you have resided for over a year is required.

6. Portuguese Bank Account: Applicants are required to open a Portuguese bank account and deposit sufficient funds to demonstrate their financial capacity to reside in Portugal.

7. Proof of Health Insurance: You’ll need to provide proof of health insurance coverage, which is valid in Portugal.

8. Proof of Financial Means: You must show proof of your passive income, such as bank statements, investment documentation, pension statements, or rental contracts.

D7 Visa Process

The D7 Visa process is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:

1. Gather Documentation: As mentioned, you will need to gather your proof of income, accommodation, criminal background checks, NIF, and health insurance documentation.

2. Apply for the D7 Visa: Once you have all your documents in order, you’ll submit your application to the Portuguese consulate in your home country. The application process can take anywhere from 1 to 3 months.

3. Obtain Residency Visa: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a temporary residency visa to enter Portugal.

4. Enter Portugal and Register: Upon arrival in Portugal, you’ll register with the Portuguese immigration authorities and schedule an appointment for biometrics. At this stage, you must demonstrate you have sufficient funds for the first year of your stay and a place to live.

5. Receive Residency Card: After approval and biometrics, you will receive your residency card. The residency card is initially valid for two years.

D7 Visa Physical Presence Requirement

The D7 Visa requires that you spend a certain amount of time physically present in Portugal. During the initial two-year residency period, you must be in Portugal for at least 16 months (8 months per year on average). This is one of the most important requirements, as it helps demonstrate your genuine intent to live in the country.

Renewing Your D7 Visa

Your D7 Visa is valid for two years, after which it can be renewed for another three years. For renewal, you will need to provide proof that you have maintained sufficient income, your accommodation, and health insurance.

How ORM Can Help

At ORM, we specialize in assisting clients through the D7 Visa application process. From ensuring your financial documentation is in order to navigating the paperwork and deadlines, our expert team is here to simplify your journey to Portugal. Whether you're relocating for retirement, remote work, or other purposes, ORM offers tailored support to ensure your D7 Visa application is successful and smooth.

The D7 Visa provides a clear and accessible path for non-EU nationals to live in Portugal, offering numerous advantages such as the opportunity to retire, the ability to work remotely, or invest in passive income. With its relatively straightforward application process, family reunification options, and pathway to citizenship, the D7 Visa remains an appealing option for many people seeking to secure a stable and fulfilling future in Portugal.

Contact ORM today to learn more about the D7 Visa and how we can assist you in making your Portuguese residency dreams a reality.