One of the most appealing aspects of relocating to Portugal is the D7 Visa, which offers a straightforward and cost-effective pathway to residency without the need for significant financial investment. This article explores the key features of the D7 Visa, its benefits, and the process involved in obtaining it.

What is the D7 Visa?

The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who wish to reside in Portugal and can demonstrate a stable income from pensions, investments, or other sources. Unlike the Golden Visa, which requires substantial investment in Portuguese real estate or businesses, the D7 Visa is tailored for those who want to live in Portugal without making large financial commitments.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the D7 Visa, applicants must provide proof of sufficient income to support themselves during their stay in Portugal, which involves presenting, among other documents, documentation that is able to prove they receive retirement income or passive income (dividends, interest, rents) and evidence of financial means available in Portugal.

Application Process

The application for the D7 Visa must be submitted to the Portuguese Embassy, Consular Post, or Visa Application Center in the applicant's country of residence. Once the visa is granted, it is valid for four months. During this period, the visa holder must travel to Portugal and apply for a Temporary Residence Permit from the Foreign Affairs in Portugal (AIMA).

The Temporary Residence Permit is initially valid for two years and can be renewed for subsequent periods of three years. It allows the holder to reside in Portugal and apply for family reunification, but the family members may also initiate the process together with the main applicant.


D7 Visa Benefits

The D7 Visa offers several advantages over other types of visas:

  • No Investment in Portugal Required: The D7 Visa does not require any investment in Portuguese real estate or businesses. This makes it an ideal option for retirees and individuals with independent income who wish to live in Portugal without making large financial commitments.

  • Lower Fees: The fees associated with the D7 Visa are significantly lower than those for the Golden Visa, making it a more affordable option for many applicants.

  • Faster Processing: The process of obtaining the D7 Visa and subsequent Temporary Residence Permit is generally faster than that for the Golden Visa, allowing applicants to settle in Portugal more quickly.

  • Pathway to Citizenship: After five years of legal residence in Portugal, holders of the D7 Visa can apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

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D7 As a Residence Visa

It is important to note that holders of the Temporary Residence Permit under the D7 Visa must adhere to specific residency requirements to maintain their status. They should not leave Portugal for more than six consecutive months or eight interpolated months during the total period of validity of the permit. This stipulation ensures that visa holders are genuinely residing in Portugal and helps maintain their eligibility for permit renewal and eventual citizenship.

This is the main different in relation to the Golden Visa, which requires a period of permanence in Portugal of two weeks out of a 2-year period validity.


The D7 Visa is an excellent option for retirees and individuals with passive income who wish to live in Portugal. This visa offers a cost-effective and straightforward pathway to residency without the need for significant financial investment, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants.

Unlike the Golden Visa, which requires substantial investment in Portuguese real estate or businesses, the D7 Visa is tailored for those who want to live in Portugal without making large financial commitments. The lower fees associated with the D7 Visa make it a more affordable option for many applicants, and the faster processing times allow individuals to settle in Portugal more quickly.

Moreover, the D7 Visa provides the potential for family reunification or accompaniment, allowing visa holders to bring their spouse, unmarried partner, dependent children, and other eligible family members to Portugal. This aspect of the visa is crucial for those who wish to relocate with their loved ones and enjoy the benefits of living in Portugal together.

The Temporary Residence Permit, which is initially valid for two years and renewable for subsequent periods of three years, ensures that visa holders can establish a stable life in Portugal. After five years of legal residence, visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet the necessary requirements. This pathway to citizenship is a significant advantage, offering long-term security and the opportunity to fully integrate into Portuguese society.

The D7 Visa truly serves as a gateway to a new life in this beautiful and welcoming country, offering a practical solution for those looking to enjoy Portugal's favorable climate, rich culture, and high quality of life.


by Júlia da Costa Ribeiro, Principal Associate - CCA Law Firm