What is the D7 Visa for retirees?
The D7 Visa is intended for individuals who wish to live in Portugal for more than one year and whose main requirement is to demonstrate passive income, such as pensions or retirement benefits.
As one of the simplest residence visas in terms of requirements, the D7 has become the preferred route for many retirees who wish to enjoy their retirement in Portugal for an extended period of time.
What is the validity of the D7 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 so the residence card can be issued.
Does the D7 Visa allow family members to accompany the applicant?
Yes. The D7 Visa allows the simultaneous submission of accompanying visas for immediate family members, enabling the whole family to immigrate together. Proof of the family relationship must be provided at the time of application.
What are the requirements for obtaining the D7 Visa in Portugal?
To obtain a residence permit as a holder of passive income, the applicant must:
- Receive a minimum monthly retirement income of €920;
- Present proof of receiving retirement income for at least the three months prior to the consular appointment.
In addition to the retirement income requirements, the D7 applicant must demonstrate means of subsistence by holding a legally required amount in a Portuguese bank account, sufficient for at least 12 months of residence:
- 1st adult (main applicant): 100% of minimum wage (€920) = €11,040/year
- Additional adults: 50% (€460) = €5,520/year
- Children and dependents: 30% (€276) = €3,312/year
What is the procedure and timeline?
The D7 Visa process consists of two phases:
1st Phase: Consulate – Issuance of the residence visa
The applicant must submit the visa request at the Portuguese Consulate or Consular Section in their country of origin or residence, via the E‑visa portal or by email (depending on the consulate).
In some countries, to handle high demand, the Consulate may delegate the collection of applications to VFS Global, which receives the documents before they are analysed by the Consulate.
After submission, the Consulate has 60 days to issue the visa.
Once 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’s date and location already included.
When this does not occur, the applicant must schedule the appointment by phone, email or through the appropriate form.
After submitting all documents, AIMA has 90 days to issue the residence card.
Which documents are required for the application?
1st Phase: Consulate
At the time of application, the applicant must provide, among others:
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal;
- Proof of a Portuguese bank account with sufficient means of subsistence;
- Document certifying retirement income;
- Bank statements from the foreign account showing regular income.
Fee: €110
2nd Phase: AIMA
During the appointment, the applicant will provide biometric data – photograph, fingerprints, 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 additional 3‑year periods. After 5 years, the applicant may request permanent residency.
What are the main benefits of the D7 Residence Visa?
- Family reunification;
- Access to a qualified and affordable healthcare system;
- Access to justice and courts;
- Free movement within the Schengen Area.
Thinking about moving to Portugal?
If you are retired and considering applying for the D7 Visa, ensure that your process is well‑prepared from the start. Contact us to begin your application with confidence.