D7 Visa Portugal
Passive Income & Retirement Visa
Live in Portugal with passive income from pensions, investments, rental properties, or dividends. The affordable path to EU residency — minimum €920/month for 2026.
Recognized by International Legal Associations
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Member since 2002
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Overview
What is the D7 Visa?
The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, is a Portuguese residency visa designed for individuals with stable passive income who wish to live legally in Portugal.
Unlike the Golden Visa, the D7 doesn't require a large investment — just proof of sufficient passive income to support yourself. It's ideal for retirees, pensioners, landlords, investors with dividend income, and anyone with stable non-employment income.
Requirements
D7 Visa Income Requirements
Minimum Income (2026)
- Main applicant: €920/month (~$1,000 USD)
- Spouse: +50% (additional €460/month ~$500 USD)
- Each child: +30% (additional €276/month ~$300 USD)
USD amounts approximate. Exchange rates fluctuate.
Note: Amounts applicable during the year of 2026.
Accepted Income Types
- Rental income from properties
- Pensions and retirement funds
- Investment dividends
- Interest and royalties
- Intellectual property income
Not accepted: Remote employment income (consider D8 Digital Nomad Visa instead)
The 12-Month Income Rule
Portuguese authorities apply the 12-month minimum income rule. You must demonstrate at least the minimum required income multiplied by 12 for the 12 months preceding your visa application. If your income fluctuates, you must show overall financial stability.
Benefits
Why Choose the D7 Visa
No Large Investment Required
Unlike the Golden Visa, the D7 requires only proof of passive income — no €500,000 investment needed.
Family Reunification
Bring your spouse and dependent children to Portugal, provided you demonstrate sufficient income for all family members.
Path to Citizenship
Apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of legal residency, gaining EU citizenship and passport.
Work Rights in Portugal
After obtaining your residence permit, you may work, open a business, or carry out independent professional activities.
Schengen Area Access
Travel freely throughout the 27 Schengen Area countries without additional visas or border controls.
Quality of Life
Enjoy Portugal's excellent climate, healthcare system, safety, and affordable cost of living.
Investment
D7 Visa Legal Services
- Initial eligibility assessment
- Complete document preparation & review
- NIF & bank account assistance
- Visa application submission support
- Residence permit guidance
- Direct attorney communication
Final fee depends on case complexity and family size. Government fees (~€200-400) not included.
Law Firm vs. Immigration Consultancy
Why choose a licensed Portuguese law firm for your D7 Visa
Licensed Law Firm ✓
- Regulated by Portuguese Bar Association
- Professional liability insurance
- Direct access to government portals
- Can represent you in court if needed
- Bound by attorney-client privilege
Immigration Consultancy
- Not regulated by any professional body
- May lack proper insurance
- Cannot access official legal portals
- No legal representation rights
- No confidentiality guarantees
Client Testimonials
What Our D7 Visa Clients Say
Our family's multi-stage relocation to Portugal — beginning with an initial D8 visa for one family member and progressing to a full D7 visa application for our extended family — was expertly managed by Defesa Legal from the very first steps. Their team assisted us with essential requirements such as NIF creation and opening Portuguese bank accounts, providing clear guidance and meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire visa process. They were truly with us every step of the way, even attending our AIMA appointments in person to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience with no hiccups or rejections.
We found working with Defesa Legal made our D7 Residency application incredibly smooth and easy! We can and do recommend their services to anyone looking to relocate to Portugal!
My husband and I have found Defesa Legal to be invaluable in our application for residency in Portugal. The entire staff is expert and very genial. We have referred several friends both single and with family. All have been delighted as have we. We are deeply appreciative that we have had Defesa Legal representation.
Documentation
Required Documents
Criminal Records: You must provide criminal record certificates from all countries where you have lived for 12 months or more in the preceding period.
How We Help
D7 Visa Application Process
Step 1: Initial Assessment
We evaluate your income sources, documentation, and confirm eligibility for the D7 Visa program. Free consultation to understand your situation.
Step 2: Document Preparation
Gather and authenticate required documents including income proof, criminal records, health insurance, and accommodation proof.
Step 3: Portuguese NIF & Bank Account
We assist with obtaining your Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and, if recommended, opening a Portuguese bank account.
Step 4: Visa Application
Submit your D7 Visa application at the Portuguese Embassy/Consulate in your country of residence. Typical processing time: 60 days.
Step 5: Residence Permit
After arriving in Portugal (within 4 months), apply for your biometric residence permit. First permit valid for 2 years, then 3-year renewals.
Timeline
D7 Visa to Citizenship Path
D7 Residence Visa (4 months)
Valid for 4 months, allows 2 entries into Portugal
First Residence Permit (2 years)
Apply after entering Portugal; valid for 2 years
Renewal (3 years)
Renew for 3-year periods until 5 years of legal residency
Portuguese Citizenship (After 5 years)
Apply for citizenship with A2 Portuguese language requirement
Stay Requirements: You must spend at least 6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months per year in Portugal to maintain your D7 residence status.
Your Questions Answered
D7 Visa Frequently Asked Questions
What is the D7 Visa?
The D7 Visa is a Portuguese residency visa designed for individuals with stable passive income who wish to live legally in Portugal.
Who can apply for the D7 Visa?
Anyone who can demonstrate sufficient and stable passive income to support themselves in Portugal—such as retirees, investors, landlords, or individuals with non-employment-based income.
What is the minimum income required for the D7 Visa?
For 2026, the minimum income requirement is €920/month for the main applicant, with additional amounts required for a spouse (+50%) and dependent children (+30%).
What types of income are accepted?
Accepted income includes rental income, pensions, dividends, interest, royalties, and intellectual property income. Remote employment income is not considered for the D7 Visa.
Do I need to have accommodation in Portugal before applying?
Yes. You must present proof of accommodation, such as a rental contract, property deed, or official hosting declaration.
Do I need a Portuguese bank account?
It is not always mandatory at the moment of application, but many consulates strongly recommend having a Portuguese account with sufficient funds.
What happens if my income fluctuates?
You must show overall financial stability. Additionally, Portuguese authorities apply the 12-month minimum income rule, meaning you must demonstrate at least the minimum required income multiplied by 12 for the 12 months preceding the visa application.
Can I work in Portugal with a D7 Visa?
Yes. After you obtain your residence permit, you may work, open a business, or carry out independent professional activities in Portugal.
How long does the D7 Visa process take?
The residency visa typically takes 60 days to be approved by the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate.
How long is the residence visa valid for?
The residence visa is valid for 4 months and allows two entries into Portugal.
For how long is the Portuguese residence permit issued under the D7 regime?
After entering Portugal with the 4-month visa (allowing two entries), your first residence permit is generally valid for 2 years, followed by 3-year renewals, until reaching 5 years of legal residency.
Do I need to live in Portugal full-time?
No. You must comply with minimum stay requirements, usually 6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months per year.
Can I bring my spouse and children?
Yes. Family reunification is permitted, provided you demonstrate sufficient income for all family members.
Can I apply for the D7 Visa while already in Portugal as a tourist?
In most cases, no. Applications must generally be submitted in the applicant's country of legal residence, except in limited exceptional circumstances.
What documents do I need to apply?
Typically: valid passport, proof of passive income, proof of accommodation, health insurance, criminal record certificate, Portuguese NIF, official application forms, and payment of fees.
What type of health insurance is required?
Health insurance must include specific coverage criteria, which vary by consulate and must be verified prior to submission.
From which countries must I obtain a criminal background check?
You must provide criminal record certificates from all countries where you have lived for the preceding 12 months or more.
What happens if I have both passive income and small active income?
Only passive income is considered for the D7 Visa. Individuals with predominantly active/remote income may need to consider alternative visa options such as the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.
Does the D7 Visa allow travel within Europe?
Yes. Once you obtain your Portuguese residence permit, you may travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Free D7 Visa Eligibility Assessment
Schedule a consultation with our licensed Portuguese attorneys. We'll evaluate your income situation and provide clear guidance on your D7 Visa options.
Lisboa Office
Praça Marquês de Pombal, 14
1250-162 Lisboa
Tel: (00351) 210 204 586
Porto Office
Edifício Scala, Rua de Vilar, 235, 2.º Esq. S. 1 a 3
4050-626 Porto
Tel: (00351) 222 084 267
support@defesalegal.pt
Office Hours
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US East Coast: 4:00 AM - 1:00 PM EST
US West Coast: 1:00 AM - 10:00 AM PST
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration requirements may change. Each case is evaluated individually. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Please consult with our attorneys for advice specific to your situation.
Ready to Live in Portugal?
Contact us today for a free D7 Visa eligibility assessment. Our licensed Portuguese attorneys will guide you through every step of the process.