If you want to move to Portugal from the USA and other countries, the Portugal D7 Visa may be your way in. For many years, Portugal has attracted people from all over the world to move to its sunny shores, especially for retirement.
If this is the case for you, the D7 Visa is perfect. Also known as the passive income visa, it grants non-EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens who earn a regular passive income residency in Portugal.
Therefore, in this guide, we’ve put together all the information you need about Portugal D7 Visa.
Consequently, to the increasing interest of foreigners in living in Portugal, the Portuguese government introduced the D7 visa, also referred to as the passive income or retirement visa, in 2007.
Specifically, meant to attract high-earning foreigners, the D7 Visa allows applicants to obtain temporary residency, leading to permanent residency and, ultimately, Portuguese citizenship.
Anyone who meets the passive income requirements may apply for the D7 Visa. Consequently, upon obtaining the residence permit, it’ll be valid for 2 years, after which you can renew it and get an additional 3 years. Once 5 years have passed, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Here’s are the rights and advantages:
Since your Portugal D7 visa application is successful, you’ll get to enjoy these benefits:
Here’s who you can include, from your family, in your application:
All applicants need to meet certain minimum income requirements. Take note:
Likewise, the key to getting your D7 visa application approved is proving that you are financially stable, meaning you earn regular passive income that can fully support you, even without a monthly salary.
Therefore, passive income maybe be:
Important notes:
In order to apply, pay attention to these requirements:
Therefore, to apply for the Portugal D7 Visa, you’ll have to complete and submit several documents. Here are the steps:
1. Submission of Visa application
2. Visa Application Follow-up
3. Services after obtaining the Visa (Optional)
Additionally, when your D7 visa is approved, you will get an actual visa that is valid for 120 days, or around 4 months. Afterward, With the visa, you can make your trip to Portugal and also start settling in the country.
After the 120 days, you will get a residency permit that is valid for 2 years; following 2 years, you renew the d7 visa (residency permit) for another 3 years; and after the 3 years (and a total of 5 years and four months) you will get a permanent residency with having to renew the visa, and you will also be able to apply for citizenship.
| Time Period | Minimum Stay in Portugal | Renewal Date | Available Renewal Option |
| Years 1 & 2 | <6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months | By the end of year 2 | Residency permit that is valid for 3 years |
| Years 3, 4 & 5 | 6 consecutive months or 8 non-consecutive months | By the end of year 5 | Residency permit that is valid for 3 years, permanent residency, or citizenship |
Most of your expenses when moving to Portugal will come from accommodation, flight tickets, relocation costs, health insurance, etc. Additionally, obtaining the D7, including the legal fees, is quite cheap.
This is how much you’ll have to pay at the Portuguese Embassy:
In Portugal, D7 Visa holders have the liberty to choose their ideal location to settle down. However, with so many incredible cities to consider, be warned that the decision isn’t easy. That said, let’s explore the most popular cities in depth:
Nestled on seven hills overlooking the River Tagus, Lisbon is a blend of tradition and modernity. Besides, the city’s old-world charm radiates from the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Mouraria, where the trams wind through the streets, and Fado music serenades from the alleys.
in addition, Lisbon surprises with its chic galleries, modern restaurants, and a nightlife that pulsates with contemporary energy. Here, gastronomy is another high point, with everything from the traditional “pastéis de nata” to innovative fusion cuisines. Moreover, the proximity to the coastal stretches of Cascais and Estoril ensures beach lovers are never too far from the sun and surf.
Perched on the southern edge of Portugal, Faro often remains understated compared to its neighbors in the Algarve region. However, this city has its story to tell. The charm is evident in the historic old town encircled by Roman walls, where pedestrian paths unravel into scenic plazas and cafes.
But Faro’s allure extends beyond its urban center, with the Ria Formosa lagoon offering a nature lover’s paradise. This protected natural park is a haven for diverse bird species and provides breathtaking settings for boat tours. Furthermore, seafood enthusiasts find solace in Faro, where the day’s catch translates to delectable dishes in local restaurants. The relative tranquility compared to other tourist hotspots like Vilamoura and Albufeira makes Faro an ideal setting for a serene retirement.
Residing by the banks of the Douro River, Porto’s reputation is often intertwined with its famous port wine. But delve deeper, and the city unfurls layers of culture and history. The medieval landmarks intersperse with bohemian streets, and every corner seems to have a tale from the past.
For instance, Livraria Lello, considered one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, and the intricately adorned São Bento railway station are testaments to Porto’s architectural marvels. The riverside dotted with wine cellars, beckons for a tasting session of the historical beverage. And when hunger strikes, Porto presents the Francesinha, a hearty delicacy that encapsulates the city’s culinary spirit.
Once the summer retreat of the Portuguese monarchy, Cascais has gracefully evolved into a sophisticated coastal town without losing its historic essence. Lined with beaches like Praia da Rainha and Praia da Ribeira, it provides ample opportunities for both sunbathing and water sports.
The old town also resonates with a vibrant atmosphere, particularly in the evenings, when local restaurants and bars come alive. Keep going, and the Cascais marina, filled with luxury yachts, adds a modern touch and serves as a launch point for oceanic adventures. With its blend of beachfront relaxation and urban amenities, Cascais promises a retirement of unparalleled grace and enjoyment.
Situated in the highlands of the Algarve, Monchique offers a contrast to the region’s beach-centric image. Besides that, the town, enveloped by eucalyptus and cork trees, is known for its therapeutic thermal springs, making it a wellness retreat. Meandering through Monchique, one encounters artisan shops selling products ranging from honey to handcrafted linen.
For instance, Foia, the highest point in the Algarve, is just a short drive away, promising unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. With its combination of natural beauty and tranquility, Monchique presents a refreshing alternative for retirees desiring a mountainous sanctuary.
Known globally for its gargantuan waves, Nazaré is a surfer’s pilgrimage site. Additionally, beyond the adrenaline of its shores, the town embodies traditional Portuguese coastal life. The Our Lady of Nazaré Sanctuary stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted faith, while the lighthouse offers insights into the town’s maritime heritage.
Additionally, local eateries serve sumptuous seafood, caught fresh and cooked to perfection. While the winters witness the roaring waves and thrill-seekers, the summer months transform Nazaré into a serene beach town, ideal for those retirees looking for a blend of excitement and tradition.
One of the best and most cost-efficient ways to get a residency permit in Portugal is to obtain the D7 visa, also known as the passive income visa. While the process is fairly straightforward, working with local experts may give you peace of mind that your application is processed correctly. Our Carefree Visa Program is the right choice for you!
Furthermore, at Pearls of Portugal, we’re available to help you every step of the way to reap the Portugal D7 visa benefits. So, make your dream of moving to Portugal come true, and contact us to help you navigate the process.
After your application is approved, the passive income visa will be valid for 4 months. You’ll then need to apply for your temporary residency permit at some point during this time. Afterward, your temporary residence permit is valid for a period of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal.
You must apply at the Portuguese embassy or consulate of your country of origin. You cannot apply for the D7 in Portugal.
You may apply for a passive income visa as early as 3 months prior to leaving for Portugal. If you’re American, you’ll also be required to undergo an FBI background check, which only has a validity of 6 months.
We recommend that you apply as soon as you can so you have sufficient time to get your documents in order and conduct all steps of the visa application.
Since the passive income visa application requires two parts, it can be a lengthy process before you obtain residency. After applying in your country, you can expect a processing time of about 60 days. This may take longer if you need to provide additional documents or make corrections to your application.
Once your application is approved and you fly to Portugal, you’ll be required to obtain the temporary D7 residency visa by making an appointment at AIMA. Getting an appointment may take up to 120 days, depending on where the office is located.
You’re not allowed to submit an application for the D7 while you are in Portugal – you’ll have to apply for it from your home country / the country that you legally reside in. You may only travel to Portugal after it is approved. Once you enter Portugal under the D7 Visa, after 4 months (120 days) you will obtain your residence permit.
Proof of accommodation for the whole of the stay or a minimum of 1 year is required; this can include owned property in Portugal (under a purchase contract) or long-term rental agreements. Proof of accommodation may be given through sponsorships (subject to analysis of the application), either from employers or schools, or by means of a signed official form (certificate of board and lodging). Note that hotel accommodations will not be accepted as proof of accommodations.
After you arrive in Portugal and your residency permit is approved by AIMA, you will be recognized as a Portuguese resident. This status allows you to access the Portuguese healthcare system. In order to take advantage of these services, you must register with the National Health Service (SNS) and get a “Número de Utente”.
Yes, once you obtain your residency permit, you can study, work, or start a business in Portugal. Your family members who came with you on the Family Reunification visa are also allowed to work.
Yes, you can. The residence permit issued with this visa is valid for two years. After this period, you can renew the visa for another three years. Once you have legally resided in Portugal for five years, you are eligible to apply for a permanent residence permit or Portuguese citizenship. However, for this, you need to be over 18 years old and demonstrate proficiency in the Portuguese language at least at an intermediate level.
Not usually. Some embassies are asking for a 12-month rental contract. So it’s truly recommended that you engage a real estate agent in order to find your stable accommodation in Portugal.
According to the tax treaty, private pension income is taxed only in the country where you live. Thus, if the payouts are seen as pension income in Portugal, they will be taxed at a 10% rate for those with Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) status, or at regular income rates for those without NHR. For Americans, be aware that Portugal does not recognize tax-free withdrawals from Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s, so you might end up paying taxes on these distributions. Also, public pensions like 403(b) plans and Social Security are taxed in the country of origin, such as the USA.
Access to and management of your retirement accounts will depend on the account type and the custodian. Some companies may limit access to investment accounts for Americans living abroad. However, if your custodian permits, you can contribute to your IRA or Roth IRA, provided you meet eligibility criteria. Consult our specialists to understand more about your specific accounts.
Yes, there is a treaty to prevent double taxation on the same income. Your residency status, the type of income, and the income source determine which country taxes your income. For example, pension income is taxed only in your country of residence.
Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders must pay federal taxes on their worldwide income, regardless of where they live. This means you must file taxes in both the USA and Portugal. Additional forms are required when living abroad, and failure to file on time may result in penalties.
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13 Responses
Hey there!
I live in Porto, and have lived in portugal for over 2 years now. I am a German citizen and have a normal residency in Portugal.
However, I am wanting to apply for a D7 Visa for my Grandmother who is a Yemeni national, had to flee the war, and is currently living in Cairo without any family.
I want to apply for a D7 visa for her in the coming 2 months, and am needing support from a laywer to help me prepare the documents, represent me with the manicupale if needed, and advise me on smarter ways to increase the chances of it working fast and smoothly.
I live in Porto, and would be happy about arranging a call with the prospect of meeting face to face if required.
With gratitude,
Moh
Hello Moh,
Our office is located in Porto, so that could definitely be arranged. In the meantime, please send an email to [email protected] with your detailed information. Thank you!
I apply as ik pensioner D7 visa in june 2024 Idid paid fot visa application and nif after idid complain to customet care now they give me vfs appointment if mu visa approve then iwill intouch your office for next advice near feature reguerds
I can speak English only,could this become a problem.
Hello! No, you don’t need to prove your Portuguese knowledge in order to get a D7 Visa. Thank you!
Hi I have the passive income for myself and 3 adult dependent children but they won’t be in full time education will this be a problem
Hi Natasha, education is one way to prove dependency. You can contact us via [email protected] and we can check the situation for you
Hello. I qualify for 2023 NHR. How do I apply for it? Thank you!
You can get a lawyer to do the NHR application and the tax declaration or do it yourself. We have the 4 steps described on this website:
https://www.pearlsofportugal.com/useful-information/non-habitual-resident-nhr-status/
Hi, I want to apply for the D7 visa but do not have a passive income. I do have a lot of savings though that I intend to live off for the rest of my life. Is proof of my savings sufficient ?
If the saving generate an regular passive income higher than the minimum income – yes
Greetings,
Can you please explain what the school requirements for dependent children over 18 are? Does the schooling have to be at a university and does it have to be full-time enrollment (a specific number of hours or credits for a specific number of years)? For example, could my dependent, adult child go to language school or does it have to be at a university? In either situation, university or language school, can you explain the time commitment required to qualify for the D7 visa and renewal, please? Thank you so much!
A mere language course wil not prove the case for a dependency