Portugal Passive Income (D7) Visa

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 19 June, 2025

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Portugal Rating from Citizen Remote

Overall 4.0

Internet Infrastructure 5.0

Country Stability 4.0

Cost of Living 4.0

Ease of Obtaining Visa 3.0

Taxes 4.0

Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 2 years

Possible to extend? Yes, renewable for 3-year periods after initial period.

Who can apply? Retirees, remote workers, passive income earners, and anyone with stable income willing to live in Portugal.

Minimum Income Requirements Approximately €760 per month for the applicant (equivalent to Portugal’s minimum wage)

Time for visa applications Typically 60 to 90 days, depending on the consulate and completeness of documents.

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Thinking of moving to Portugal with a steady passive income? The D7 Visa might be your golden ticket.

Designed for retirees, remote workers, and anyone with a reliable source of passive income, Portugal’s D7 Visa offers a pathway to long-term residency in one of Europe’s most beautiful and affordable countries.

With its mild climate, low cost of living, and high quality of life, it’s no surprise that Portugal has become a top destination for expats looking to slow down or work remotely by the sea.

Portugal D7 Visa Overview

The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, was introduced in 2007 as part of Portugal’s effort to attract foreign residents who can support themselves without relying on local employment.

It’s an increasingly popular residency pathway for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who have a stable source of passive income, such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or remote work earnings.

Unlike other visa types, the D7 is designed to promote long-term residence in Portugal while providing access to public services like healthcare and education, and even a route to Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residence.

Who Is It For?

The D7 Visa is ideal for:

Retirees with a pension or other steady income.
Investors or landlords with rental income or dividends.
Freelancers or independent professionals with ongoing contracts abroad.

Essentially, it’s for anyone who can prove financial self-sufficiency and wishes to live in Portugal without taking a job in the local economy.

Note: The D8 Visa is now the primary visa for digital nomads. The D7, previously used by remote workers, is now discouraged for those with active employment income.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

With a Portugal D7 Visa, you can:

Legally reside in Portugal.
Travel freely within the Schengen Area (up to 90 days in any 180-day period)
Access Portugal’s public healthcare and education systems.
Bring close family members through family reunification.
Apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
Benefit from Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime (if eligible)

This visa is a doorway to living in Portugal with full legal status, whether you’re seeking a peaceful retirement, a remote work base in Europe, or a long-term move with your family.

Portugal D7 Visa Requirements

To apply for the Portugal D7 Visa, you'll need to prepare a combination of standard documents and specific evidence proving you meet the financial and legal criteria for long-term residence.

Here are the standard documents required for your D7 Visa application:

Completed national visa application form (available on your local Portuguese consulate’s website)
Valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)
Two recent passport-sized photos (meeting Schengen photo requirements)
Cover letter explaining your reasons for relocating to Portugal and how you plan to support yourself.
Criminal background check from your country of residence (issued within the past 3–6 months)
Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental agreement, property deed, or invitation letter)
Copy of travel insurance or flight reservation showing intended travel dates.
Proof of sufficient financial means.
Proof of private health insurance.
Payment ofthe visa fee, as set by your local consulate.

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

This is the most critical part of your application. You must demonstrate that you have stable passive income or financial resources that meet the minimum thresholds set by Portuguese immigration authorities (SEF).

As of 2025, the minimum monthly income requirement is equivalent to 100% of the Portuguese minimum wage for the primary applicant, with an additional 50% for a spouse and 30% per dependent child.

Note: These amounts are subject to annual updates.

You can prove financial means using:

Pension or retirement statements.
Rental income (with lease agreements and bank statements)
Dividends or investment income.
Remote work income (contracts and invoices from foreign clients)
Personal savings (bank statements showing consistent balances)

Private Health Insurance

You’ll need to show valid private health insurance coverage for at least the first year of your stay. This insurance must:

Be valid in Portugal.
Provide comprehensive coverage, including hospitalization.
Have a minimum coverage amount required by Portuguese authorities (often €30,000 or more)
Be issued by a recognized insurer (international or Portuguese)

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans here.

Proof of Accommodation in Portugal

You must provide evidence that you have a place to live in Portugal. This can be:

A rental contract.
Property ownership documents (if you've purchased a home)
An invitation letter from a resident host, along with their ID and proof of address.

Temporary accommodation (like a long-term Airbnb or hotel reservation) may be accepted during the visa phase, but a longer-term solution is often required when applying for residency upon arrival.

How to Apply for the Portugal D7 Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Portugal D7 Visa involves two main stages: applying for the visa in your home country and then finalizing your residency in Portugal. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Gather All Required Documents

Start by preparing all the necessary documentation, including your visa application form, valid passport, proof of financial means, accommodation, health insurance, and criminal background check. Be sure to verify country-specific requirements on your local Portuguese consulate’s website, as some may request additional documents or translations.

Step 2: Schedule a Visa Appointment at the Portuguese Consulate

Contact the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your country of residence to schedule your visa appointment. In some countries, appointments must be booked weeks or even months in advance, so plan ahead.

Step 3: Attend the Visa Appointment

At your appointment, submit your documents in person and pay the visa application fee (varies by consulate). You may be interviewed about your plans in Portugal, your financial situation, or your intent to reside long-term. Bring both original documents and photocopies.

Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval

Visa processing usually takes 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the consulate and your individual case. If approved, you’ll receive a D7 residence visa stamped in your passport, typically valid for 120 days.

Step 5: Travel to Portugal

Once your visa is issued, you must travel to Portugal within its validity period. Make sure you bring all your original documents with you, as they may be required during the next stage.

Step 6: Apply for Residency with SEF

After arriving in Portugal, you’ll attend a residence permit appointment with SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras—the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service). This appointment is often pre-scheduled by the consulate at the time of visa issuance. At this stage, you’ll submit your documents again and provide biometric data.

Step 7: Receive Your Residence Permit Card

If everything is in order, you’ll be granted a temporary residence permit, usually valid for two years. This can later be renewed and eventually converted into permanent residency or citizenship after five years of legal residence in Portugal.

How Much Does the Portugal D7 Visa Cost?

The cost of the Portugal D7 Visa typically includes both government fees and associated expenses. Below is an easy‑to‑follow breakdown:

Government & Official Fees

Visa application fee (at the consulate): ~$85–$120 USD per person.
SEF residence permit fee (in Portugal): ~$160–$185 USD per person.

Estimated total official fees: ~$245–$305 USD per applicant.

Legal & Service Costs (Optional)

These are optional costs if you hire a lawyer or relocation expert to assist you:

Document review or basic consulting: ~$540–$1,080 USD.
Full relocation service (NIF, bank setup, legal prep, housing help): ~$2,160–$3,240+ USD.

You can apply on your own, but many applicants choose to pay for professional support to save time and avoid errors.

Other Necessary Expenses

Private health insurance (required): ~$430–$1,080 USD per year, per person
NIF + Portuguese bank account setup: ~$65–$375 USD (more if using a service)
Savings deposit in Portuguese bank: ~$10,800 USD+ (not an expense, but required to show proof of funds)

Taxes for People With a Portugal D7 Visa

If you move to Portugal on a D7 Visa and spend more than 183 days per year in the country (or establish a habitual residence), you’ll likely become a tax resident. This means you’re required to declare your worldwide income in Portugal, including foreign pensions, dividends, rental income, and remote work earnings.

Portugal has tax treaties with many countries to help avoid double taxation, and its progressive income tax rates range from around 14.5% to 48%.

Previously, new residents could benefit from the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which offered major tax breaks for 10 years. However, the NHR was phased out in 2024, with limited exceptions. If you relocated before the cutoff or work in certain high-value professions, you may still qualify.

Tip: It’s strongly recommended to consult a Portuguese tax advisor—especially if you have foreign income or plan to work remotely—to ensure you're meeting requirements and optimizing your tax situation.

Living in Portugal with the D7 Visa

Living in Portugal on a D7 Visa offers a peaceful, high-quality lifestyle in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries. Whether you choose the historic charm of Lisbon, the artistic energy of Porto, or the seaside serenity of Lagos, Portugal is known for its mild climate, safety, excellent public healthcare, and friendly locals. The cost of living is comparatively low, especially outside major cities, and daily life moves at a slower, more enjoyable pace—with long café mornings, fresh local food, and a strong sense of community.

Thanks to Portugal’s location, you’ll also have easy access to the rest of Europe, with visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. With your residence permit, you can access public services, enroll in language or university programs, and even start a business if you choose. Whether you're retiring, freelancing, or seeking a healthier work-life balance, the D7 Visa opens the door to a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle with all the benefits of EU residency.

Best Cities to Live in Portugal

Portugal offers a wide range of lifestyle options, from buzzing urban centers to peaceful coastal towns. Here are three of the best cities to consider if you're moving with a D7 Visa:

Lisbon

Portugal’s capital is a vibrant mix of old-world charm and modern convenience. With its iconic yellow trams, cobblestone streets, and ocean views, Lisbon offers a dynamic lifestyle for remote workers, creatives, and retirees alike. The city boasts excellent infrastructure, a major international airport, a thriving expat scene, and endless cultural experiences—all while remaining walkable and welcoming.

Porto

Known for its colorful riverside architecture and world-famous wine, Porto is a more affordable alternative to Lisbon with just as much character. This northern city offers a relaxed pace, historic beauty, and a growing tech and creative scene. It’s perfect for those who want a balance of urban life and authenticity, with easy access to the Douro Valley and the Atlantic coast.

Faro

Located in the sunny Algarve region, Faro is a top pick for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with access to stunning beaches, golf courses, and warm weather year-round. It’s smaller and more laid-back than Lisbon or Porto, making it ideal for retirees or remote workers who value nature, affordability, and a slower pace of life without sacrificing modern amenities.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Portugal is the Euro. €1 EUR = $1.08 USD.

The average net monthly salary in Portugal is around €1,100, which equates to approximately $1,190 USD.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Lisbon

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – €1,200 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – €1,800 per month
Basic Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) – €130 per month
Wi-Fi – €30 per month
Public Transport (one-way ticket) – €1.50
Groceries (2 people) – €350–€450 per month

Porto

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – €900 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – €1,400 per month
Basic Utilities – €110 per month
Wi-Fi – €30 per month
Public Transport (one-way ticket) – €1.20
Groceries (2 people) – €300–€400 per month

Faro

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – €700 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – €1,100 per month
Basic Utilities – €100 per month
Wi-Fi – €25 per month
Public Transport (one-way ticket) – €1.50
Groceries (2 people) – €280–€380 per month

FAQs

What is the Portugal D7 Visa and who is eligible?

The Portugal D7 Visa is a residency visa designed for retirees, remote workers, and passive income earners who want to live legally in Portugal. Eligible applicants must prove sufficient income and health insurance coverage.

How long does it take to get approved for the Portugal D7 Visa?

Approval times vary by consulate but typically range from 60 to 90 days. It’s recommended to apply well in advance and ensure all documentation is complete to avoid delays.

Can I work in Portugal with the D7 Visa?

Yes, the D7 Visa allows holders to live and work in Portugal, including remote work or starting a business. However, you must maintain the minimum income requirement during your stay.

What are the main financial requirements for the Portugal D7 Visa?

Applicants must demonstrate proof of financial self-sufficiency, usually by showing a minimum monthly income equivalent to Portugal’s minimum wage, plus additional funds for dependents.

How long is the Portugal D7 Visa valid, and can it lead to citizenship?

The initial residence permit is valid for two years, renewable for three-year periods afterward. After five years of legal residency, you may apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.

Do I need health insurance for the Portugal D7 Visa?

Yes, private health insurance that covers you in Portugal is mandatory when applying. After becoming a resident, you can register with the Portuguese public health system.

Can I get help applying for the Portugal D7 Visa?

If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

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