D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal: Which residency path is right for you in 2026?

Portugal continues to attract thousands of global residents each year for its quality of life, affordable cost, and access to the EU. Among its most popular residency routes, the D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal debate often comes up for anyone deciding between passive income and investment-based pathways. 

Both Visas lead to residency, family reunification, and eventually citizenship, but they’re tailored for very different applicants. 

This guide explains everything, from eligibility and financial requirements to long-term benefits, so you can choose the Visa that fits your goals best.

Quick comparison: D7 vs Golden Visa Portugal at a glance

Before diving deeper, here’s a simplified comparison showing how these two residency options differ.

Both the D7 Visa for Portugal and the Golden Visa for Portugal lead to the same residency rights and access to public services. The main difference lies in what you contribute. One relies on consistent income, the other on financial investment.

What is the Portugal D7 Visa?

The D7 Visa Portugal is often referred to as the “passive income Visa.” It allows non-EU citizens with stable recurring income, like pensions, rentals, or dividends, to obtain Portuguese residency without needing to invest large sums. Introduced in 2007, it’s become one of the most popular routes for retirees, digital nomads, and financially independent individuals who want to live in Portugal long-term.

Who is the D7 Visa for?

The D7 Visa is ideal for:

• Retirees and pensioners who receive a monthly pension or social security income.
• Financially independent individuals living off passive income streams such as rent, royalties, or dividends.

Unlike investor Visas, the D7 focuses on consistent income rather than capital, making it more accessible for those with smaller but steady earnings.

Want to learn more? See our D7 Visa service.

D7 Visa income requirements 2025

To qualify, applicants must show a minimum monthly income of €870 (or €10,440 annually) from reliable passive sources. 

It is also mandatory to keep at least €10,440 (about $11,100) in a Portuguese bank account. This amount equals one year of income and shows you can support yourself financially.

If you're bringing family members, the requirements increase. You need to add 50% of the base income for a spouse. That's an extra €5,220 (about $5,550). For each child, add 30% of the base income, which comes to €3,132 (about $3,330). A family of four would need roughly €21,924 (about $23,300) in annual passive income to meet the requirements.

This is often the primary difference between D7 vs Golden Visa. While the D7 requires proof of financial independence, the Golden Visa revolves around capital investment.

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa Portugal is a residency-by-investment program launched in 2012. It offers a path to Portuguese residency through qualifying financial contributions rather than income. The program attracts investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals who want EU access with minimal residency requirements.

Unlike the D7, the Golden Visa doesn’t demand relocation or long stays. It’s designed for those who prefer flexibility, keeping their primary residence abroad while still enjoying Portuguese and Schengen privileges.

Who is the Golden Visa for?

The Golden Visa is ideal for:

• Investors seeking European residency with limited stay obligations.
• Entrepreneurs wanting to expand business operations into Portugal.
• High-net-worth individuals looking for Schengen mobility and long-term EU access.

It’s particularly popular among global investors who want a backup residency or second home without committing to full-time relocation.

Golden Visa investment requirements 2025

To qualify for the Golden Visa Portugal, applicants must make a minimum investment from one of the government-approved categories:

• €250,000 donation in support of arts, heritage, or cultural projects
• €500,000 in regulated investment funds
• €500,000 donation  in scientific or technological research
• €500,000 in Portuguese companies
• €500,000 investment that creates 5–10 full-time jobs

All investments must be legally sourced and maintained for at least five years. Real estate purchases no longer qualify under the current regulations.

Key differences between D7 Visa and Golden Visa Portugal

While both programs offer a path to long-term residency and eventual citizenship, the D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal comparison highlights how different the applicant profiles, financial requirements, and lifestyle expectations really are. 

Income vs investment: The fundamental difference

The D7 Visa Portugal relies entirely on passive income like pensions, rental earnings, dividends, or royalties. Applicants must demonstrate that their recurring income can comfortably cover living expenses without requiring a job in Portugal.

In contrast, the Golden Visa Portugal is based on capital investment. Applicants must place funds into one of several approved categories, such as cultural projects, research funds, or job-creating ventures. The key distinction is that D7 applicants prove financial independence, while Golden Visa applicants demonstrate financial contribution.

Financial threshold comparison

The D7 Visa requires a minimum monthly income of €870 (or €10,440 annually) for single applicants, while the Golden Visa requires a one-time investment of between €250,000 and €500,000.

This financial gap means that the D7 vs Golden Visa choice often depends on your liquidity and preferred level of involvement. Those seeking affordability and relocation choose the D7, while those seeking minimal stay obligations and faster processing choose the Golden Visa.

Stay requirements: Flexibility vs commitment

The residency requirements for both Visas differ significantly.

• D7 Visa Portugal: Applicants must spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first two years of residency. They cannot be absent for more than six consecutive or eight non-consecutive months.
• Golden Visa Portugal: Applicants only need to spend seven days in the first year and fourteen days in each subsequent two-year period.

The Golden Visa offers significantly more flexibility, making it ideal for investors who want EU residency without relocating full-time.

Work rights and restrictions

Once granted, D7 Visa holders are allowed to work, study, or open a business in Portugal. It’s a flexible option that suits those planning to integrate into local life.

Golden Visa holders have full work rights immediately as well. However, most investors prefer to keep their stay limited while maintaining business or investment oversight remotely. 

Who each Visa attracts

The D7 Visa Portugal attracts retirees and financially independent individuals who earn from pensions or other passive income. These residents often seek long-term integration and lifestyle stability in Portugal.

The Golden Visa Portugal primarily attracts investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals who want a European base without relocating. It’s ideal for those focused on asset diversification, travel freedom, and family security.

Application process: D7 vs Golden Visa Portugal

The application process for both Visas shares some similarities but differs in documentation, route, and approval steps. 

Below is a breakdown of what each applicant must prepare.

Shared requirements for both Visas

Applicants for both the D7 Visa Portugal and Golden Visa Portugal must submit:

• A valid passport (minimum six months' validity)
• A clean criminal record (apostilled)
• Portuguese NIF (tax number)
• Portuguese bank account proof
• Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental or property deed)
• Two passport photos
• Proof of health or travel insurance (especially required for the D7 Visa)

D7 Visa-specific documentation

For the D7 Visa, applicants must also provide:

• Six months of bank statements showing consistent passive income
• Proof of income sources, such as pension letters, rental receipts, or dividend slips
• A 12-month rental agreement or property ownership deed in Portugal
• Six months of valid travel insurance coverage

These documents help verify long-term financial independence and housing stability within Portugal.

Golden Visa specific documentation

For the Golden Visa Portugal, the main documentation revolves around proving the legal source and maintenance of the investment:

• Proof of qualifying investment (fund transfer or shareholding confirmation)
• Legal source of funds declaration
• Statement of investment compliance signed under oath
• Tax compliance certificate from Portuguese authorities
• Bank transfer receipts confirming investment amounts between €250,000 and €500,000

Each investor must also maintain the investment for at least five years to remain eligible for renewal or citizenship consideration.

Processing timeline comparison

The D7 Visa generally takes 30 to 90 days for consulate approval, followed by up to 120 days to attend the AIMA (Portuguese immigration authority) appointment after arrival. The initial residence permit is valid for two years, after which it can be renewed for an additional three years.

The Golden Visa application is submitted directly to AIMA after the investment is completed. Once biometrics are submitted, the initial residence permit is also valid for two years and renewable for an additional three years. 

Unlike the D7, Golden Visa applicants don’t require a consulate Visa appointment.

Path to citizenship: D7 vs Golden Visa

The path to Portuguese citizenship is one of the biggest reasons both programs attract international applicants. The updated rules now distinguish between the timelines for permanent residency and citizenship eligibility.

Timeline to Portuguese citizenship

Currently, both D7 Visa Portugal and Golden Visa Portugal holders can apply for citizenship after five years of legal residency. However, under a new law expected to be implemented soon, this requirement might extend to ten years.

In both cases, applicants must also pass an A2-level Portuguese language test and maintain a clean criminal record. The government will verify continuous residence and financial compliance before approving the naturalization process.

Permanent residency option

After five years of legal residence, both D7 and Golden Visa holders may apply for permanent residency instead of citizenship if they prefer to retain their existing nationality.

Golden Visa residents must ensure they haven’t been absent for more than 24 consecutive months or 30 months within any 36-month period to remain eligible for permanent residence.

In summary, both programs lead to the same long-term rights. The only difference lies in the time spent in Portugal and the means through which residency was earned.

Tax implications: D7 vs Golden Visa Portugal

One of the most critical parts of comparing the D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal is understanding how each affects your tax status. While both can lead to residency, your physical presence and work situation determine whether you’ll be considered a tax resident in Portugal.

Tax residency rule

Both Visa types follow the 183-day rule. This means anyone who spends more than 183 days in Portugal during a single tax year automatically becomes a tax resident. Tax residents must report their worldwide income to Portuguese authorities.

Applicants who stay for fewer days, like most Golden Visa holders, are typically classified as non-tax residents, which allows them to avoid Portuguese income taxes on foreign income. This is why understanding stay requirements is crucial before applying.

D7 Visa tax implications

Holders of the D7 Visa Portugal are usually tax residents, since they live in the country most of the year. Their pensions or foreign income are subject to Portugal’s standard progressive tax rates, which range from 14.5% to 48%.

While the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program has now been replaced by the IFICI regime (NHR 2.0), D7 residents can still benefit from reduced tax rates if they work in high-value professions recognized by the government. 

However, retirees or those living purely on passive income generally fall under the standard tax system.

Golden Visa tax benefits

Most Golden Visa Portugal investors remain non-tax residents because they spend minimal time in the country. This allows them to maintain global tax efficiency, paying taxes only in their country of residence.

If they choose to relocate and become Portuguese tax residents, they may qualify for the IFICI regime if their income originates from high-value sectors, such as technology, science, or healthcare. Under this regime, eligible investors can benefit from:

• A flat 20% tax rate on Portuguese-sourced work income
• 0% tax on most foreign dividends, capital gains, and rental income
• A 10-year duration for these benefits

This flexibility gives Golden Visa investors the best of both worlds: residency rights without heavy tax obligations unless they choose to move to Portugal permanently.

Family reunification: D7 vs Golden Visa

Both Visa types support family reunification, making them highly attractive to applicants seeking to bring their dependents to Portugal. The process is straightforward under both, with a few differences in how financial requirements apply.

Who can be included

Both D7 Visa Portugal and Golden Visa Portugal holders can include:

• A spouse or legally recognized partner
• Dependent children (including adopted or stepchildren)
• Dependent parents or parents-in-law
• Minor siblings under the applicant’s guardianship

Family members receive residence permits linked to the main applicant’s status, granting them the same rights to live, study, and work in Portugal.

A great advantage of the golden visa is the fact that you can bring 18+ year old children if they are unmarried and studying.

Additional requirements for family members

Under the D7 Visa, applicants must show additional income to support dependents:

• 50% more income for a spouse
• 30% more income for each child

Family members are usually added during the initial application to avoid extra administrative steps later.

For the Golden Visa, no extra investment is needed to include family members. Dependents can apply simultaneously as long as they meet basic relationship and dependency criteria. Children over 18 qualify if they’re unmarried and enrolled full-time in an educational institution.

Schengen travel access and residency rights

Both Visa types offer free travel within the Schengen Area, but the duration and conditions vary slightly.

D7 Visa travel benefits

The D7 Visa Portugal allows Visa-free travel across all 26 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within every 180-day period. 

However, since this Visa is tied to active residence, the holder’s primary home must remain in Portugal. It’s ideal for those who plan to live and work in Portugal while taking short trips across Europe.

Golden Visa travel benefits

The Golden Visa Portugal offers even greater flexibility. Holders enjoy full Schengen access for business or leisure without additional Visa applications. Since there are minimal stay requirements, many investors keep Portugal as their legal base while traveling freely across Europe.

For global entrepreneurs or investors who split their time across continents, this is one of the most valuable advantages of the Golden Visa route.

Access to public services: Healthcare and education

Living in Portugal means access to high-quality, low-cost public services. Both Visa holders can register for healthcare and education, though the extent of use depends on whether they are full-time residents or not.

D7 Visa public service access

Residents under the D7 Visa Portugal have full access to Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS). Once registered, they can visit local doctors and hospitals at subsidized rates. 

Children can enroll in public and international schools, and families benefit from the same legal protections as Portuguese nationals. For long-term residents, the D7 is often viewed as the smoother route to integration into Portuguese society.

Golden Visa public service access

Holders of the Golden Visa Portugal can also register with the public healthcare system if they spend enough time in Portugal to obtain a residence card. 

Note that holders of the golden visa get the residency card. The golden visa is not really a visa but a residency permit.

They can utilize medical services, enroll their children in public or private schools, and attend local universities at reduced tuition rates. However, many Golden Visa families opt for private health insurance or international schools to accommodate their travel-based lifestyle.

Full cost breakdown: D7 vs Golden Visa Portugal

A key factor in the D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal decision is cost. While both lead to the same residency outcome, the total financial commitment differs dramatically.

D7 Visa costs

Government fees:

• Visa application: €90–€120
• AIMA residence permit processing: included in the residence fee
• VFS Global service fees: €40–€44

Total government charges: around €245–€315 per person

Additional costs:

• Document apostilles and certified translations: €100–€500
• Travel insurance: €400–€1,000 per year
• Rent or housing costs, depending on the city
• Legal or professional assistance: €1,000–€3,000

Overall, applicants can expect total first-year expenses to range from €2,000 to €4,000, excluding rent and relocation costs. It remains one of the most budget-friendly routes to EU residency.

Golden Visa costs

Investment amount:

• €250,000 (arts and culture)
• €500,000 (funds, scientific research, or Portuguese companies)
• Job creation through a €500,000+ business investment

Government fees:

• Application analysis: €618.60 per applicant
• Initial residence permit: €6,179.40
• Renewal fee: €3,090.40
• Permanent residence: €8,463.40 (initial) and €4,326.30 (renewal)

Additional costs:

• Document expenses: €100–€300+
• Legal and compliance support: €10,000–€20,000

Golden Visa applicants typically spend between €260,000 and €520,000+ in total, depending on the investment path chosen. The higher upfront cost provides minimal stay obligations and a smoother route for families who prefer flexibility.

Benefits comparison: D7 vs Golden Visa

When comparing the D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal, it’s clear that each program appeals to different goals. Both grant residency rights, family inclusion, and a path to citizenship, but the lifestyle, cost, and flexibility differ.

D7 Visa benefits

• Lower financial threshold, ideal for those with steady passive income
• No investment required to qualify
• Perfect for retirees or financially independent residents
• Full access to Portugal’s public healthcare and social services
• Clear route to permanent residence and eventual citizenship

For anyone wanting to live in Portugal long-term without investing large sums, the D7 Visa Portugal is one of the most accessible residency options in Europe.

Golden Visa benefits

• Minimal stay requirements, just a few weeks over five years
• Full family inclusion with extended eligibility for adult children
• Access to European business, research, and investment opportunities
• Option to liquidate investments after citizenship
• Hands-off process with professional support available

The Golden Visa Portugal is designed for high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility, investment growth, and residency flexibility.

Common mistakes to avoid for D7 and Golden Visa Portugal

Applying for either Visa is straightforward if you understand the rules. However, many applicants make preventable errors that delay or jeopardize approval.

D7 Visa common mistakes

• Confusing passive income (such as rent or pensions) with active work income
• Submitting outdated documentation or DIY guides from previous years
• Assuming Visa approval is the final step, residency registration and AIMA appointments still follow
• Ignoring post-arrival compliance like SNS health registration and tax setup

Avoiding these mistakes helps applicants keep their D7 Visa Portugal status compliant and renewal-ready.

Golden Visa common mistakes

• Attempting real estate investments, which are no longer eligible since 2023
• Using funds that cannot be legally verified
• Failing to maintain the investment for the full five-year requirement
• Investing without due diligence in approved Portuguese funds or companies

The Golden Visa Portugal program is heavily regulated, and documentation errors or non-compliance can lead to costly rejections.

Who doesn’t qualify for each Visa?

Not everyone meets the eligibility criteria for Portugal’s residency routes. Understanding the restrictions can save time and prevent rejected applications.

D7 Visa disqualifications

• Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland (they already have free movement rights)
• Applicants relying solely on active work income instead of passive sources
• Individuals unable to show consistent, documented income over several months

Applicants must also maintain financial stability throughout their stay to renew their D7 Visa Portugal successfully.

Golden Visa disqualifications

• Citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland
• Real estate investors (this route was removed in 2023)
• Applicants using funds from unverifiable or illegal sources
• Those unable to sustain their investment for the five-year minimum period
• Investors below the €250,000 threshold

If unsure, applicants can use a professional eligibility checker to confirm which category fits them best before applying.

Which Visa should you choose: D7 or Golden Visa?

Both Visas can lead to the same outcome. Portuguese residency and access to citizenship. The decision depends on your income level, travel goals, and how much time you want to spend in Portugal.

Choose D7 Visa if you:

• Earn stable passive income from pensions, rent, or investments
• Are retired or financially independent
• Don’t have €250,000 or more to invest
• Want a lower-cost, community-based path to EU residency

The D7 Visa Portugal suits those who genuinely want to live in Portugal and integrate into local life.

Choose Golden Visa if you:

• Can invest between €250,000 and €500,000 upfront
• Prefer minimal stay requirements while keeping global flexibility
• Want to maintain your main residence abroad
• Seek business and investment opportunities across the EU
• Wish to include extended family, including adult children

The Golden Visa Portugal is the right fit for investors who want the benefits of residency without relocating full time.

If you’re still deciding between both options or unsure about your eligibility, you can use Touchdown’s free Eligibility Checker to see which Visa best fits your profile.

How Touchdown simplifies your D7 or Golden Visa application

Starting a new life in Portugal can be exciting, but navigating income requirements, investment rules, and documentation alone can feel overwhelming. That’s where Touchdown steps in.

As Portugal’s leading relocation platform, Touchdown combines expert legal guidance, simple technology, and personalized support to make the D7 Visa Portugal or Golden Visa Portugal process straightforward. 

Our free eligibility checker helps you quickly identify the Visa that best fits your profile. Once your path is clear, we assist with setting up your Portuguese NIF, establishing a bank account, and preparing documents under the supervision of licensed immigration lawyers.

When it is time to submit, our team coordinates your consulate appointment and ensures your file meets all current requirements. After you arrive, we continue to guide you through local registrations, tax setup, and residency renewals, so you can focus on settling into your new life.

Book a 1:1 consultation with our team or explore the platform to start your move to Portugal with confidence.

Services for D7 Visa applicants

• Free eligibility checker
• NIF and bank account setup
• Document review by licensed lawyers
• Consulate appointment booking
• Post-arrival support (AIMA appointments, NIF updates, SNS registration)
• Tax planning consultation

Learn more: Touchdown D7 Visa service

Services for Golden Visa applicants

• Pre-screening eligibility check
• Investment due diligence
• NIF and bank account setup (including family members)
• Smooth money transfers with minimized fees
• Legal review and document validation
• Investment completion support
• Application preparation and submission to AIMA
• Dedicated immigration lawyer
• Tax planning (NHR 2.0/IFICI eligibility)
• Company setup assistance
• Post-arrival support

FAQs about D7 vs Golden Visa Portugal 

What is the difference between Golden Visa and D7 Visa in Portugal?

The main difference is that the D7 Visa is based on passive income, while the Golden Visa requires a financial investment. Both grant residency, but the D7 Visa vs Golden Visa Portugal comparison shows that D7 suits residents wanting to relocate, whereas Golden Visa suits investors seeking flexibility.

Can you buy property in Portugal with a D7 Visa?

Yes, D7 Visa holders can buy property freely in Portugal, but real estate ownership is not a requirement for obtaining residency. Applicants can also rent long-term housing to meet accommodation criteria.

What is the D7 Golden Visa?

There is no combined “D7 Golden Visa.” The D7 Visa Portugal and Golden Visa Portugal are separate residency programs with different requirements. The D7 is for income-based applicants, while the Golden Visa is for investors.