Portugal's D7 Visa: A Simple Guide

Published on 6th July, 2026

Portugal's D7 Visa: A Simple Guide

If you've dreamt of retiring or relocating to Portugal, the D7 Visa could be your ideal route to residency. Designed for non-EU, EEA and Swiss citizens with a reliable passive income, the D7 allows you to enjoy everything Portugal has to offer without needing a Portuguese employer.

Qualifying income includes pensions, US Social Security, rental income, dividends, investment income and other regular earnings that don't require active employment. Once approved, you'll be able to live in Portugal full-time, access the public healthcare system, benefit from a high quality of life and, currently, after ten years of legal residency (provided you meet the legal requirements at the time), apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Who is eligible?

To apply, you must be at least 18 years old and receive a stable passive income. In 2026, a single applicant must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of €920, together with savings of at least €11,040. Couples and families are required to meet higher financial thresholds.

What documents will you need?

Preparing a complete application is one of the most important steps towards a successful outcome. Applicants are generally required to provide:

• A valid passport with at least six months' validity.
• A clean criminal record from their country of nationality and any country where they have lived for more than one year.
• A completed visa application form and passport photographs.
• Evidence of passive income, including pension statements, rental agreements, dividend records, investment statements and recent bank statements.
• A short personal statement explaining why you want to live in Portugal and how you intend to support yourself.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a long-term rental agreement, property ownership or a declaration from your host.
• A Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a Portuguese bank account containing the required savings.
• Travel insurance that meets your local Portuguese Consulate's requirements.

If you're applying with a spouse or dependent children, you'll also need to provide the relevant marriage and birth certificates.

What happens after approval?

Once your D7 Visa has been granted, you'll travel to Portugal and attend a biometrics appointment with AIMA, where your visa is converted into a two-year residence permit. As appointment availability can be limited, it's wise to arrange your appointment as soon as possible after receiving your visa.

With careful preparation and the correct documentation, the D7 Visa offers one of Europe's most accessible pathways to enjoying a new life in Portugal.

If you're considering moving to Portugal and would like expert guidance on the D7 Visa application process, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your plans.

Published in: Money / Portugal Property / Portuguese Life