The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as The Passive Income Visa, is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who can sustain themselves financially without seeking employment in Portugal. It was initially designed for retirees but has become popular with other groups such as remote workers, freelancers, and those receiving income from investments, rent or pensions. The visa is for a temporary residence permit and it allows you to live in Portugal and have freedom of movement in the Schengen area (the passport-free zone in Europe) and it leads to permanent residency or citizenship after five years. Unlike work visas, the D7 does not oblige you to have a job offer from a Portuguese employer and this is a great option for those who are location-independent!
One of the big pros of the D7 is the low financial requirement versus other European Residency programs. Any applicant must have a monthly income at least equal to 100 percent of the Portugal minimum salary for a single adult (€820 per month in 2024); plus 50 percent more for a spouse; and 30 percent more for every dependent child. That makes it one of the easiest ways to obtain European residency for those who can prove self-sufficiency. The visa grants access to public services, such as health care and education, and allows for remote work, so it is suited for digital nomads who are seeking a long-term home base in Europe. In sum, the D7 provides a means of lifestyle, economy, and future opportunity.
Determine Eligibility and Income Requirements
Check if you qualify for the D7 Visa before applying. The applicants must be 18 years or older, have no serious criminal record, and prove that they intend to live in Portugal at least 183 days a year. The most important thing to know is that you have to be the owner of stable, passive income or passive remote income that satisfies the country’s financial requirements.” Minimum income: In 2024 it is €820 per month for the principal beneficiary, €410 for a spouse or partner, and €246 for each dependent child a month, according to the Resolution of 2024. There are pensions, rental properties, dividends, remote freelance work, savings that continue to draw interest. Click Here
But as with income, it’s important to demonstrate you have enough money coming in to support yourself in the near term. Though it is not officially required, most consulates expect to see evidence of a year’s worth of income deposited in a Portuguese bank account. That’s about €10,000 if you’re a single applicant. You will also need to demonstrate that you have long-term housing in Portugal, a signed rental contract or proof of property ownership. As with all bureaucracies, they may differ from consulate to consulate, but acceptable reasons and meeting the income guidelines, having a clean legal record and demonstrating intentions to establish a residence in Portugal are pretty much the same across the board as strict minimums to qualify.
Obtain a Portuguese NIF and Open a Bank Account
First you need to prepare Portugal-specifically: get a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal), the portugueses tax number. This is crucial for signing your contracts, opening a bank account, and for when you apply for your visa. You can have a NIF granted to you if you are not in Portugal via a Portuguese lawyer or fiscal representative. You just need a copy of your passport and proof of a foreign address. This part can be done by most legal and relocation services by mail within a couple of days and for a small fee. With your NIF in hand, it’s time to proceed to the financial part of your application.
Right, now you’ll need to get a Portuguese bank account. Several banks in Portugal will let non-residents open an account when they present their NIF, passport, and either proof of income or evidence of employment. Once your account is established, deposit at least 12 months’ living expenses — this shows the Portuguese consulate and immigration authorities that you are financially established. Though some banks will now permit remote openings via partner law firms, physically visiting a branch in Portugal while on a pre-application trip there might expedite that. Holding both the NIF and bank account prior to presenting your visa is a sign of forward thinking and financial readiness.
Secure Long-Term Accommodation in Portugal Portugal D7 Visa
Proof of accommodation is one of the most crucial prerequisites for the portugal D7 visa. Consulates will require rental agreement (usually 6–12 months) or property deed in your name. Short-term accommodations such as Airbnb or hotel stays are not considered adequate. To qualify, you must include a long-term lease renewal or a residential address affidavit. If you’re not ready to move, many applicants rent a modest apartment temporarily. You can find one through online services or local real estate agents. Having a genuine address in Portugal is also essential for your SEF (immigration) appointment once you’re in the country.
Make sure the rental contract is officially registered under your full name and address, showing a term for the lease and the landlord’s NIF. Not all landlords will want to put contracts on the books, so make this clear in advance. Or, if you’re staying with a relative or friend, a letter of invitation and some proof of that person’s residence may suffice; although that can also vary by consulate. Having secured a place to live is not only good for your application, but also good for your soul. Your address will be associated with your legal residency, tax registration, and SEF appointments, so this is not a step to take lightly.
Gather Required Documents
After the NIF, Portuguese bank account and your place to stay is finalised, then it is time to collect documents. This list can vary slightly depending on the consulate. In general, it includes: a completed national visa application, passport, two recent photos, a criminal record from your home country, proof of income, a Portuguese bank statement, lease or property documents, and health insurance valid for at least four months. All documents must be translated into Portuguese or English. Some legal and financial documents may also need to be apostilled.
You will also want to organize all of your documents, both in physical and digital format, by category. Some consulates require an additional file, such as a personal motivation letter, proof of tax settlement or even the confirmation of an appointment at SEF in Portugal. Submitting an organised application demonstrates a good sense of seriousness and professionalism. Be sure to check document dates carefully — background checks, for instance, are often only valid for three to six months. By being well-prepared and having all the documents updated, you will increase your chances of having your visa processed successfully and in a timely manner.
Submit Your Application at the Consulate
All right, now that you have everything together, it’s time to apply for your visa. Schedule an appointment at the Portuguese Consulate or VFS Global: Division of Intergate if you’d like to apply in-person. If you choose the online option, visit Consulate appointment system to make an appointment. Bookings can fill up fast, especially during high travel seasons. It’s best to apply well in advance. At your appointment, you’ll hand in your documents and give your biometric data (photo and fingerprints). You’ll also pay for the visa, which usually costs between €90 and €120, depending on the consulate. You might be asked why you’re moving to Portugal, how you’ll earn money, and what you plan to do when you arrive.
The processing time can differ however processing normally takes 4–12 weeks. Some consulates might ask you to submit more documents or explanations, so check your email (and spam folder!). Upon approval, you will receive a temporary D7 visa valid for 4 months. It allows you to take two trips to Portugal. This is your chance to go to Portugal and schedule your residency appointment at SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras). Don’t put off this next step, because you’ll have to apply for your residence permit before your temporary visa expires.
Arrive in Portugal and Attend SEF Appointment Portugal D7 Visa
Another one of the major pieces is your SEF appointment, which is where you’ll get you residência card (residency permit card) in Portugal. This appointment is sometimes arranged when your visa is approved, but can also be scheduled through the SEF portal. At the SEF office, you’ll present much of the same paperwork you gave the consulate. You’ll also need your visa, proof of address, an updated Portuguese bank statement, and sometimes a municipal registration certificate (Atestado de Residência) from your local town hall. You should receive your biometric residence card in the post a few weeks after the appointment.
Your initial residence permit is valid for 2 years. You can renew it for another 3 years.
After 5 years of lawful residence, you can apply for permanent residence or citizenship.
To stay in the program, you must live in Portugal for at least 183 days per year.
You also need to file taxes and keep a local address.
Conclusion: Your Pathway Starts with the Portugal D7 Visa
The Portugal D7 Visa is one of the easiest and most satisfying routes to EU residency. It offers a chance to live in one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Whether you’re a retiree, a remote worker, or someone with investments or passive income, this visa is an excellent option. Portugal is known for its safety, affordability, mild climate, and rich culture. The D7 Visa has low income requirements, a relaxed remote work policy, and a path to citizenship. These features make it one of the best long-stay visa options in the EU for Non-EU citizens.
With a step-by-step guide, you can remove the logistical hassle. Start by planning for your NIF and opening your bank account. Then, book your accommodation for when you arrive. After that, submit the paperwork and appear at your scheduled SEF appointment. The D7 Visa is more than just a legal stamp of approval. It’s your ticket to fully integrating into Portuguese culture. It grants access to public healthcare, tax breaks, and visa-free travel across the entire Schengen Zone. And with the right approach and preparation, that included lifestyle might be closer than you might imagine.
