What Is the D7 Visa?
The D7, officially known as the Passive Income Visa, is a Portuguese long-stay visa designed for non-EU citizens who can prove they have a stable income from sources outside Portugal. Despite its "passive income" label, it's widely used by remote workers, freelancers, and pensioners.
Once approved, you'll receive a 2-year residency permit, renewable for 3 more years. After 5 years of legal residence, you can apply for permanent residency or even Portuguese citizenship — which gives you full EU mobility rights.
Who Qualifies for the D7?
You qualify if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen with a regular, provable income from one or more of these sources:
- Remote employment from a foreign employer
- Freelance or self-employment income
- Pension or retirement income
- Rental income from property
- Investment dividends or interest
The key requirement is proving your income is at least €760/month (the Portuguese minimum wage as of 2025). In practice, consulates prefer to see 20–30% above the minimum to approve comfortably.
Minimum Income Requirements (2025)
| Applicant Type | Monthly Minimum | Annual Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Primary applicant | €760 | €9,120 |
| Spouse/partner | + €380 (50%) | + €4,560 |
| Each dependent child | + €228 (30%) | + €2,736 |
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)
- Proof of income (bank statements, employment contracts, tax returns)
- Portuguese address proof (lease agreement or property deed)
- Criminal background check from your home country (apostilled)
- Health insurance covering Portugal
- Completed D7 application form
- 2 passport-size photos
- Application fee payment (~€90)
Step 2: Apply at Your Local Portuguese Consulate
Submit your application at the Portuguese consulate in your country of residence. Wait times for appointments can be 2–8 weeks, so book early. The consulate will issue a temporary D7 visa (valid ~4 months) to allow you to travel to Portugal.
Step 3: Travel to Portugal & Register with AIMA
Once in Portugal, you must register with AIMA (the new immigration authority, formerly SEF) to convert your visa into a 2-year residency permit. Book this appointment as soon as you arrive — slots can take months to open.
Step 4: Open a Portuguese Bank Account
You'll need a Portuguese NIF (tax number) and a local bank account. Get your NIF at any Portuguese tax office (Finanças) with your passport. Popular banks for expats include Millennium BCP and Novobanco.
Cost of the D7 Application
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Consulate application fee | €90 |
| AIMA residency card fee | €83 |
| Criminal background check | $20–$50 |
| Document apostille | $10–$50 per document |
| Health insurance (annual) | €500–€1,500 |
| Translation fees (if needed) | €50–€200 |
| Total estimate | €800–€2,000 |
Living in Portugal: What to Expect
| Expense | Lisbon | Porto | Algarve |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR apartment rent | €1,200–€1,800 | €800–€1,300 | €900–€1,500 |
| Groceries (monthly) | €250–€350 | €220–€320 | €230–€330 |
| Restaurant meal | €10–€18 | €8–€15 | €10–€16 |
| Public transport | €40/month | €35/month | Car needed |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely on a D7 Visa?
Yes. Remote work for a foreign employer is explicitly allowed under the D7. You cannot, however, work for a Portuguese employer without switching to a work permit.
How long can I stay outside Portugal?
To maintain your residency, you must spend at least 6 months per year in Portugal (or 8 months in any 2-year period).
Can my family join me?
Yes, via family reunification. Your spouse, minor children, and dependent parents can all apply to join you once your residency is approved.