The D7 Visa in Portugal, is a residency visa for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who are able to demonstrate a stable passive income. This visa is also often called a Passive Income Visa.

Whether you’re a retiree, freelancer, or digital nomad with sufficient funds, this visa will allow you to live in Portugal while enjoying a high quality of life, affordable cost of living, and access to healthcare and social benefits.

The D7 Visa was introduced in 2007. This not only allows you to live in Portugal, but it also provides a pathway to permanent residency and even Portuguese citizenship after five years.  This visa might be one of the best options for you if you're looking for an alternative to the Golden Visa without making a significant investment.

Who is Eligible for the D7 Visa in Portugal?

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

• Only citizens from countries that are not members of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland are eligible.

• Applicants need to have a stable passive income from, for example, pensions, rental properties, dividends, intellectual property, or remote work.

• Applicants need to meet the Portugal D7 Visa income requirements (which are detailed below).

• Applicants need to have a clean criminal record.

• Show proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental agreement, property ownership, or a letter of invitation).

• Have comprehensive health insurance valid in Portugal.

Portugal D7 Visa Income Requirements

To be able to qualify for the  D7 Passive Income Visa, applicants need to show that they have a sufficient and stable income. The minimum income requirements are:

• €10,440 per year (€870 per month) for the main applicant (100% of the Portuguese minimum wage).

• Additional 50% (€5,220 per year) for a spouse.

• Additional 30% (€3,132 per year) for each dependent child.

Examples of Eligible Passive Income Sources:

• Pensions and retirement funds

• Rental income

• Dividends from investments

• Royalties or intellectual property rights

It’s also mandatory to have at least 12 months of income in savings in a Portuguese Bank Account.

How to Get a D7 Visa for Portugal

Without Touchdown (Self-application)

If you decide to apply for the D7 Visa independently, the process involves several key steps outlined below:

Step 1: Obtain a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF)

A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is required for a lot of things in Portugal. In this case you need it to open a Portuguese bank account and sign a rental contract. You can obtain it remotely or through a lawyer. 

With Touchdown you can apply for a NIF very quickly from the comfort of your home. 

Step 2: Open a Portuguese Bank Account

Once you have a NIF, open a Portuguese bank account and deposit sufficient funds to meet and show the Portugal D7 Visa income requirements.

Touchdown has made getting your bank account in Portugal very simple. You can do it fully remotely– we will handle all the paperwork and communication on your behalf.

Step 3: Secure Accommodation in Portugal

You must provide proof of long-term accommodation, such as a rental lease, property ownership, or an invitation letter from a host that is a legal resident or Portuguese citizen.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

• Completed D7 Visa application form

• Proof of passive income (bank statements, pension documents, rental agreements, or dividend statements)

• Proof of accommodation in Portugal

• Comprehensive health insurance covering Portugal

• Clean criminal record check from your home country

• Valid passport with at least six months validity

• Two passport-sized photos

Step 5: Submit Your Application to the Portuguese Consulate

Apply at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. You need to schedule an appointment and attend an interview.

Step 6: Attend an Interview 

Consulates require applicants to attend an interview to discuss their financial stability and intent to reside in Portugal.

Step 7: Wait for Visa Approval & Enter Portugal

Once your D7 Visa is approved, you will receive a four-month residency visa to enter Portugal. Upon arrival, schedule an appointment with AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) to obtain your temporary residence permit.

With Touchdown (D7 Visa Package)

If you apply for the D7 Visa with Touchdown, we’ve streamlined the process to make it easier and hassle-free for you:

Step 1: We secure the essentials

If you don’t already have a Portuguese Fiscal Number (NIF) or a bank account, we’ll take care of it for you.

Step 2: We book your visa appointment

We get you a visa appointment in your country of residence or citizenship and confirm the date for you.

Step 3: You upload documents, we take care of the rest

We’ll tell you exactly which documents you need to upload and assist you in preparing them. Our immigration lawyer will review everything to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Step 4: Attend your visa appointment and get approved

Your Document Pack will be fully prepared. Just bring it to your appointment, and once approved, you’ll receive a 120-day visa to enter Portugal.

Step 5: Move to Portugal and get your residency

Once in Portugal, you will attend your residence appointment, provide biometrics, and receive your residency card, making you a legal resident. 

Touchdown can also help you with:

1. Finding accommodation

2. Ensuring your documents are correct

3. Ongoing support

How Long Does It Take to Get a D7 Visa?

The D7 Visa process typically takes between 2 to 6 months, depending on your consulate, application quality, and document verification.

Can You Work in Portugal on a D7 Visa?

Yes! While the Portugal D7 Visa is designed for passive income earners, it does not prohibit work. You can start a business, freelance, or be employed once you obtain your residence permit.

Is Portugal D7 Visa Easy to Get?

The D7 Visa application process is straightforward if you meet the financial and documentation requirements. However, the most common reasons for rejection include:

• Insufficient financial proof

• Lack of valid accommodation

• Errors in documentation

Using an expert immigration service like Touchdown ensures a 99% visa approval rate, minimizing errors and delays.

What is the Disadvantage of a D7 Visa in Portugal?

While the D7 Visa offers many benefits, there are a few potential downsides:

• Minimum stay requirement: You must spend at least 183 days per year in Portugal.

• Tax residency: If you stay over 183 days, you become a Portuguese tax resident.

• Strict income proof requirements: Applicants need stable passive income sources.

How Much Money Do You Need for a D7 Visa?

The total Portugal D7 Visa financial requirements include:

• €10,640/year for an individual

• €15,960/year for a couple

• €19,152/year for a family of four

Additional funds for relocation, health insurance, and unforeseen costs are recommended.

Why Choose Touchdown for Your D7 Visa Application?

At Touchdown, we simplify the D7 Visa process with:

• Personalized consultation to assess eligibility.

• Document preparation & review for error-free applications.

• Visa submission with expert guidance ensuring smooth processing.

• Ongoing support until approval, so you can relocate stress-free.

Ready to start your D7 Visa journey? Check out our D7 Visa package and book a consultation today.

We specialise in relocation, tax strategy, and business setup for global professionals landing in Portugal.

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