The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Portugal Passive Income or Portugal Retirement Visa, is one of the country's most accessible residency routes for non-EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. It’s designed for individuals who can demonstrate a stable income from sources such as pensions, investments, or property rentals, allowing them to enjoy life in Portugal without needing local employment.
Applicants must show proof of sufficient income to support themselves and any dependents, submit their application through a Portuguese consulate, and, once approved, complete their residence registration with Portuguese immigration authorities.
More than just a visa, the D7 program offers a clear pathway to long-term settlement — granting the right to live in one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming nations, visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, and eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship.
In this article, we'll explain the Portugal D7 Visa, and you'll also learn more about:
Portugal D7 Visa Benefits
The Portugal D7 Visa is a great way for individuals with a stable passive income to obtain Portuguese residency. Whether from pensions, investments, or rental income, this visa allows non-EU citizens to reside in Portugal without requiring a financial investment or employment.
As a legal resident of Portugal, you will enjoy a high standard of living, safety, a mild climate, and an affordable lifestyle. You will also be protected under Portuguese law and have full access to the country’s social services and legal system. The D7 Visa provides a variety of benefits that are especially attractive for retirees, remote workers, and financially independent individuals, include:
- Live, work, and study in Portugal: As a D7 Visa holder, you can reside in Portugal year-round, pursue studies, or even engage in professional activities.
- Visa-free travel in the Schengen Area: Enjoy unrestricted travel across 29 European Union countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- Access to public healthcare and education: Gain access to Portugal’s National Health Service and its high-quality public education system.
- Family reunification rights: Bring your spouse, children, or dependent relatives to Portugal under the EU’s family reunification scheme.
- Pathway to citizenship: After five years of legal residence (for now), you may apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, provided all requirements are met. Portugal recognizes dual citizenship, so you won’t need to renounce your current nationality.
What are the documents required for a D7 Visa in Portugal?
To apply for a Portuguese D7 Visa, you need several documents, including a valid passport, proof of stable passive income from sources outside Portugal, and a Portuguese tax number (NIF). You also need the application form, two passport photos, and potentially documents for dependents. Here's a detailed look at the documents required for a D7 Visa:
Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
Passive income: Proof of a stable, regular passive income from sources such as pensions, rent, or investments, meeting the minimum amount. For 2026, this is a minimum of €920 per month.
Savings: Evidence of sufficient savings for a year, which for a single applicant in 2026 is €11,040. This is typically verified with three months of bank statements and the most recent personal income tax statement.
Accommodation: A long-term rental agreement or proof of property ownership in Portugal.
Health insurance: A valid medical insurance policy covering your entire stay in Portugal. Some consulates will accept valid travel insurance with health coverage.
Criminal record: A police clearance certificate from your country of residence, showing a clean record.
NIF and bank account: A Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and an active Portuguese bank account are required.
Application form and photos: A completed D7 visa application form and two recent passport-sized photos.
D7 Visa Portugal Eligibility Criteria 2026
In addition to the required documents, there are also several conditions that must apply for you to be eligible for the Portugal D7 Visa:
- Nationality: You must not be an EU citizen.
- Age: You must be over the age of 18.
- Income: The stable, passive income must come from sources outside of Portugal.
- Financial self-sufficiency: You must have enough financial resources to support yourself and any family members while living in Portugal.
- Criminal record: You must have no criminal history.
- Proof of address: You must have a confirmed address in Portugal. This can be shown with a rental agreement or a document from a Portuguese resident confirming that you will live in their home.
Portugal D7 Visa Income Requirements
To qualify for the Portugal D7 Visa, applicants must demonstrate a stable passive income proving at least €920 per month (or €11,040 per year) in guaranteed passive income. If you plan to include family members, additional income is required:
- Main applicant: €920 per month (€11,040 per year)
- Spouse or dependent parent: +50% (€460 per month)
- Each dependent child: +30% (€276 per month)
Acceptable sources of passive income include:
- Pension payments
- Dividends or investment returns
- Rental income from real estate
- Royalties, trust income, or other recurring earnings
Supporting documents may include:
- Recent bank statements
- Tax returns or official proof of income
- Investment or pension statements
In addition to demonstrating monthly income, it’s recommended to maintain a minimum bank balance of around €20,000 in a Portuguese bank account throughout the application process. This helps confirm your financial stability and strengthens your residency application.
D7 Visa Minimum Stay and Residency Requirements
To maintain your Portugal D7 Visa and later qualify for permanent residency or citizenship, you must comply with specific residency rules.
Minimum Stay Requirements
- First two years: You must live in Portugal for at least 183 days per year, or a combined 16 months within the first two years.
- After two years: You must spend a minimum of 28 months in Portugal within every three years.
As a D7 Visa holder with a temporary residence permit, you may be absent from Portugal for:
- Up to six consecutive months, or
- Eight non-consecutive months during the validity of your permit.
Exceptions can be made for professional, business, social, or cultural reasons, provided these are communicated in advance to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA).
Exceptions and Extensions
If you must spend longer periods abroad, you may be exempt from standard absence limits if you can demonstrate that your time overseas was for legitimate professional, cultural, or social purposes — for example, temporary employment in another country or a business project linked to your Portuguese enterprise.
While the D7 process is relatively straightforward, working with an experienced immigration lawyer can be invaluable. A qualified expert can ensure you meet Portugal’s minimum stay requirements, maintain the proper documentation, and avoid administrative complications during renewal or permanent residency applications.
How to Apply for the D7 Visa Portugal? Step-by-Step Guide
To obtain your Portugal D7 Visa, start the process at your local Portuguese Consulate or engage a specialized D7 Visa lawyer.
The main steps include scheduling an appointment to submit your application and documents, paying the necessary fee, and awaiting the review, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the consulate, and may require additional information.
- Gather all the necessary documentation
- Schedule an appointment at your local Portuguese consulate or through a VFS service center.
- Pay the application fee when you submit your application.
- Wait for a review, which can take a few weeks to several months. This timeline depends on the Portuguese Consulate, which may request more information during this time.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary residence visa, which is valid for 120 days to enter Portugal.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you apply for a D7 Visa:
1. Gather all the necessary documentation
The D7 Visa application begins with assembling a complete and well-prepared set of documents. Portuguese authorities place strong emphasis on financial stability, so documents must clearly demonstrate that your income meets or exceeds the minimum threshold and is sustainable over time.
Accuracy and consistency are critical at this stage. Documents often need to be translated into Portuguese and apostilled, depending on the issuing country. Incomplete or poorly prepared documentation is one of the most common reasons for delays or refusals, which is why many applicants choose to double-check requirements with their consulate or seek professional guidance before submission.
2. Schedule an appointment
Once your documentation is ready, you must book an appointment with your local Portuguese consulate or a VFS Global service center, depending on how visa processing is handled in your country of residence. Appointment availability can vary significantly by location, with some consulates experiencing long waiting times, so it is advisable to schedule as early as possible.
At the appointment, you will submit your application in person, provide biometric data if required, and answer basic questions about your intention to reside in Portugal. The consular officer’s role is largely administrative, but they will ensure that your application is complete before forwarding it to Portuguese immigration authorities for assessment.
The D7 Visa application fee is paid at the time of submission, either directly at the consulate or through the VFS service center. The fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application, which makes it essential to ensure all documents are in order before applying.
3. Wait for a review
After submission, your application enters the review phase, where it is assessed by Portuguese immigration authorities. Processing times vary widely, ranging from a few weeks to several months, depending on the consulate handling the case, application volume, and whether additional checks are required.
During this period, authorities may request further documentation or clarification, particularly regarding income sources or accommodation. Promptly responding to these requests is essential, as delays in communication can significantly extend processing times or negatively affect the outcome of the application.
4. Receive your temporary residence visa
If your application is approved, you will receive a visa affixed to your passport. This visa is valid for 120 days and allows you to enter Portugal legally for the purpose of completing the residence process. It is not the final residence permit, but rather the entry authorization that bridges your move to Portugal. Included in the visa will be the date and location of your AIMA appointment for collecting your biometric data.
5. Attend your AIMA appointment
Once in Portugal, you must attend an appointment with the immigration authorities to finalize your residence permit. This step converts your visa into a temporary residence permit, officially granting you legal residence and setting you on the path toward long-term residency and, eventually, Portuguese citizenship, provided the eligibility requirements are met.
6. Receive your residency card
After your AIMA appointment, you'll receive your temporary residency card, which is valid for two years. You can renew your temporary residence permit after two years for a further three years if you meet all the requirements. After five years, you can convert your temporary permit into a Portuguese permanent residence permit. You'll also be able to request Portuguese nationality if you fulfill all the requirements under Portuguese nationality law.
It is important to note that obtaining a residency permit is a crucial step in the process of becoming a Portuguese resident with a permanent residence permit and, eventually, Portuguese citizenship. Failure to obtain a residency permit within the required timeframe may have serious consequences under Portuguese law.
Portugal D7 Visa Cost in 2026
The D7 Visa application fee is €90 per person. Additionally, the AIMA processing fee is €156 and the residence permit issuance fee is €160. These costs are in addition to the expenses of relocating to Portugal and maintaining a residence there, including renting or buying property, and other living expenses.
The D7 Visa's costs can be broken down into several parts:
- Entry visa application: Approximately €90 at the Portuguese consulate in your home country.
- Resident permit fee: Around €170 for submission and receipt from the AIMA in Portugal.
- AIMA appointment fee: About €156.
- Portugal D7 Visa application fee: Approximately €90.
- Residence permit fee: Around €160.
Portugal D7 Visa Processing Time
The Portugal D7 Visa process typically takes three to nine months from application submission to receiving your residence permit, depending on the consulate and case complexity.
Once AIMA has collected your documents and biometric data, it will take about three weeks for them to send your residence card to your Portuguese address. The legal deadline for this is 90 days. To avoid delays, ensure all documentation is complete, your income meets the minimum threshold, and your background checks are clear.
Common Reasons for Portugal D7 Visa Rejection
While the Portugal D7 Visa has a relatively high approval rate, applications can still be refused if key requirements are not met. Understanding the most common reasons for rejection can help you avoid costly delays or denials. Here are some common reasons for visa rejection:
1. Insufficient proof of passive income: The most frequent reason for refusal is failing to meet the minimum income requirement or not providing adequate documentation to prove financial stability.
2. Missing or incomplete documentation: Portugal’s consulates require a complete set of official documents, correctly translated and apostilled where applicable. Missing forms, expired certificates, or inconsistencies between documents can cause the application to be rejected outright.
3. Insufficient funds in a Portuguese bank account: Applicants are advised to maintain a minimum balance in a Portuguese bank account to demonstrate financial stability.
4. Criminal record or security concerns: Any criminal history or pending legal proceedings in your home country or elsewhere can lead to automatic refusal. Portugal conducts international background checks and prioritizes applicants with clean records.
5. Poorly prepared application: Even when all requirements are met, presentation matters. Disorganized or contradictory information, incomplete translations, or errors in forms can cause consulates to return or reject applications. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer or visa specialist greatly reduces these risks.
Getting a NIF Number and Opening a Portuguese Bank Account
Getting a NIF (Portuguese tax identification number) and opening a bank account are crucial steps in the D7 Visa process. A NIF is required to pay taxes, open a bank account, sign a contract, and access public services in Portugal.
Because the D7 Visa requirements demand proof of a place to live in Portugal, getting a NIF is essential. Most landlords, letting agents, or real estate agents will require you to have a NIF to buy or rent property in Portugal.
The process for applying for a NIF is relatively straightforward; you can simply complete an online form, pay a fee, and grant power of attorney to a representative, such as GetNIF.
Having a Portuguese bank account will facilitate the payment of bills and other expenses while living in Portugal. It will also allow you to show a Portuguese bank statement that demonstrates you are continuing to meet the passive income requirements while you have the visa.
It is advisable to have things such as these in place before starting the D7 Residency Visa application process to avoid processing delays and ensure a smooth transition to life in Portugal.
We can help you obtain the necessary documents, such as the Portuguese tax number (NIF) needed to open a bank account or rent/purchase property.
D7 Visa Alternatives
Portugal offers a wide range of visas tailored to different lifestyles and goals. Whether you're looking to retire, invest, work remotely, or start a business, there's a pathway to residency—and eventually citizenship.
Here's how the Portugal Passive Income Visa stacks up against other options, keeping in mind that the Portugal D7 Visa requirements are different from many others:
D8 Visa Digital Nomad Visa: Built for digital remote workers and freelancers who earn income from clients or employers outside Portugal. Applicants must show proof of earning at least four times Portugal’s minimum wage (€3,440/month). It’s a strong choice for those wanting flexibility, but it's not designed for integrating into the local job market.
Portugal Golden Visa: A residency-by-investment route requiring capital allocation into approved sectors (e.g., funds, tech, or cultural projects). It demands no fixed residence in Portugal—just seven days per year—and is ideal for high-net-worth individuals. It includes family and offers a direct path to citizenship after five years, without a stay requirement.
D1 Visa Work Visa: For non-EU nationals with a confirmed job offer from a Portuguese employer. Applicants must show a valid employment contract and that the position can't be filled locally. This visa is straightforward for those with employment lined up and leads to permanent residency and citizenship with continued employment.
Get NIF: Who We Are and What We Do
Here at GetNifPortugal, we can help get you set up with a NIF. Simply apply through our website, and we'll get a NIF on your behalf.
Our service is beneficial, as you usually have to be in the country to get a NIF, and if you're a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, you need to hire a fiscal representative.
We can be your fiscal representative and get you the NIF remotely. You'll have your documents sorted before you enter Portugal. Having a NIF will also allow you to access accommodation before moving to Portugal, a requirement of the D7 Visa.
We can also help you open up a Portuguese bank account from anywhere in the world, with one of Portugal's leading banks. We'd recommend opening a Portuguese bank account as soon as possible, for ease of access to funds when in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Portugal Passive Income Visa
What is the Portugal D7 Visa?
The Portugal D7 Visa is a residency visa for non-EU citizens who earn passive income, such as pensions, investments, or rental income. Applicants must show a minimum monthly income of €920, prove accommodation in Portugal, and stay in the country for at least 183 days per year. It also allows you to access healthcare, social security benefits (which is different from US social security) and education.
Can you work on a Portugal Passive Income Visa?
You cannot actively work in Portugal on the Portugal D7 Visa. The visa is intended for individuals with stable passive income like pensions, dividends, or rental earnings. However, remote work or freelance work for non-Portuguese clients is generally allowed if it does not rely on the local job market.
What are the Portugal Passive Income D7 visa requirements?
The minimum passive income requirements state that you must have a consistent monthly income of at least €920 from a passive income source such as a pension, intellectual property rights, capital gains, real estate income, or financial investments. The Portuguese government set this minimum passive income threshold based on the national minimum wage.
How much money do you need for the D7 Visa in Portugal?
Applicants must show a minimum monthly income of €920.
What are the Portugal D7 Visa minimum stay requirements?
During the first two years after obtaining the D7 Visa residence permit, you're required to live in Portugal for a minimum consecutive period of 12 to 16 months. Following the first two years on your Portugal D7 Visa residence permit, you need to spend no less than 28 consecutive months in the country every three years.
A holder of the Portugal D7 temporary residence permit may be absent from Portugal for the following periods within the validity of the permit:
- Six consecutive months, or
- Eight non-consecutive months
Can self-employment earnings count toward passive income for a D7 Visa?
Self-employment earnings do not count as passive income for the D7 Visa. The D7 Visa is designed for individuals with stable, recurring income not tied to active work, such as pensions, rental income, or dividends. Freelance or remote work may qualify under different visa categories like the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.
What is the standard processing time of a D7 Visa application?
The standard processing time of a D7 Visa application is 60 (sixty) calendar days.
What is the D7 Visa rejection rate?
The rejection rate for the Portugal D7 Visa is quite low, primarily because many applicants seek assistance from experts to ensure that their documentation is accurate and complete. When rejections do occur, they are often due to missing or incorrect documents, or failure to meet the minimum passive income criteria.
Can I bring my family members with me on a D7 Visa?
Yes, the D7 Visa allows family reunification. You can bring your spouse, dependent children, and financially dependent parents. You must prove sufficient income to support each family member: 100% of the Portuguese minimum wage for yourself, 50% for your spouse, and 30% for each dependent child or parent.
Do I need to open a Portuguese bank account for the D7 Visa?
Yes, applicants are typically required to open a Portuguese bank account and deposit sufficient funds to support themselves for at least one year. This step shows financial stability and helps demonstrate ties to Portugal, which supports your residency case.
Is private health insurance required for the D7 Visa?
Yes, you must have private health insurance that covers you in Portugal until you’re eligible to register with the Portuguese National Health Service (SNS). The insurance should include medical coverage for the entire duration of your temporary stay until your residence permit is granted.
Can D7 Visa holders travel in the Schengen Area?
Yes, once your residence permit is issued in Portugal, you are allowed visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. This makes the D7 Visa a great option for those who want residency in Portugal but also easy access to other European countries without the need for additional travel insurance.
