What is the D7 Visa?
The D7 Visa, created for individuals with passive income such as pensions, interest, or investments, is one of the most popular options for those wishing to reside in Portugal for more than one year. As one of the least complex residence visas in terms of requirements, the D7 has become the preferred pathway for many who aspire to live in Portugal.
What are the benefits of the Residence Visa?
The residence visa is valid for 4 months and allows two entries into Portugal. During this period, the visa holder must relocate to Portugal and attend an appointment at AIMA to provide biometric data for the issuance of the residence card.
It also allows the simultaneous submission of accompanying visas for immediate family members, enabling the whole family to immigrate together, provided that the family relationship is proven at the time of the visa application.
What are the requirements for obtaining the D7 Visa?
To obtain a residence permit as a passive income holder, the applicant must:
- Have a minimum monthly passive income of €920, deriving from rents, interest, royalties, financial investments, among others.
- Demonstrate that passive income is received consistently and regularly.
- Provide proof of passive income for at least the three months prior to the consular appointment.
In addition, the D7 applicant must demonstrate sufficient means of subsistence by holding a legally established amount in a Portuguese bank account, covering at least 12 months of residence:
- 1st adult (main applicant): 100% of minimum wage (€920) = €11,040/year
- Additional adults: 50% of minimum wage (€460) = €5,520/year
- Children and dependents: 30% of minimum wage (€276) = €3,312/year
What is the procedure and timeline for obtaining the D7 Visa?
The D7 residence process is divided into two phases:
1st Phase: Consulate – Issuance of the residence visa
The applicant must submit the residence visa request at the Portuguese Consulate or Consular Section of the Embassy in their country of origin or residence, either through the E-visa portal or by email (depending on the consulate).
In some countries, due to high demand, the Consulate delegates the collection of applications to VFS Global, which receives the documentation before forwarding it to the Consulate.
Once submitted, the Consulate has 60 days to issue the residence visa.
After the visa is issued, the applicant must travel to Portugal to request the residence permit.
2nd Phase: AIMA – Issuance of the Residence Permit
In most cases, the visa is issued with the appointment date and location already indicated.
When that does not occur, the applicant must schedule the appointment by phone, email, or the appropriate form.
After submission of all documents, AIMA has 90 days to issue the residence card.
Which documents are required to apply for the D7 Visa?
The D7 Visa involves two stages of document preparation:
1st Stage: Consulate
When submitting the visa application, the following documents must be provided:
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal;
- Proof of a Portuguese bank account showing sufficient means of subsistence;
- Documentation proving passive income;
- Bank statements from the foreign account demonstrating regular income.
Fee: €110
2nd Stage: AIMA
At the appointment, the applicant must provide biometric data – photograph, fingerprints, and signature – and submit:
- Residence Permit application form;
- Proof of legal entry into Portugal;
- Tax Identification Number (NIF);
- Proof of accommodation;
- Proof of means of subsistence.
Fee: €177.08
What is the validity of the Residence Card?
The residence permit is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance and is renewable for successive 3-year periods. After 5 years, the foreign citizen may apply for permanent residence.
Benefits of the D7 Residence Visa
- Family reunification;
- Access to a qualified and affordable healthcare system;
- Access to the legal system and courts;
- Free movement within the Schengen Area.
Thinking about moving to Portugal?
If you have passive income and are considering applying for the D7 Visa, ensure your process is properly prepared from the very beginning.
Contact us to start your application with confidence.