D7 Visa - Passive Income Residency
Portugal's D7 Visa allows individuals with a stable passive income to obtain residency — no large investment required. Ideal for retirees, remote workers, and freelancers seeking a European lifestyle.
What Is the D7 Visa?
The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, is a Portuguese residency permit designed for non-EU nationals who can demonstrate a regular, stable source of passive income. Unlike the Golden Visa, it does not require a large capital investment, making it one of the most accessible paths to European residency.
Income Requirements
Applicants must prove sufficient passive income to support themselves in Portugal. The minimum threshold is based on the Portuguese minimum wage — approximately €820 per month for the main applicant. Additional amounts are required for dependents:
- Main applicant: ~€820/month (100% of minimum wage)
- Spouse/partner: +50% (~€410/month)
- Each child: +30% (~€246/month)
Qualifying Income Sources
- Pension income: Government or private pensions
- Rental income: Property rental earnings
- Investment dividends: Stock dividends, fund distributions
- Remote work: Freelance or employment income from abroad
- Savings: Sufficient bank balance demonstrating financial stability
Advantages
- No large investment: No need for €500,000 — just proof of stable income
- Schengen access: Free travel across 27 European countries
- Family inclusion: Spouse, children, and dependent parents eligible
- Path to permanent residency: Eligible after 5 years
- Path to citizenship: Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of legal residency
- NHR tax benefits: Potential tax advantages under Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident regime
Physical Presence
Unlike the Golden Visa, D7 Visa holders must spend a minimum of 6 months per year in Portugal (consecutive or intermittent). This makes the D7 Visa best suited for those who genuinely plan to live in Portugal.
Process & Timeline
The D7 Visa process begins with gathering income documentation and applying at the Portuguese consulate in your country of residence. After arriving in Portugal with your D7 visa, you must apply for a residence permit at SEF/AIMA. The initial permit is valid for 2 years, renewable for 3-year periods. Total processing time is typically 3–6 months.
D7 Visa vs. Golden Visa
The D7 Visa is ideal if you plan to live in Portugal full-time and have steady passive income. The Golden Visa suits those who prefer minimal physical presence (7 days/year) but can invest €500,000. Both lead to permanent residency and citizenship after 5 years.