The D7 is Portugal's residence route for people with stable, recurring income — pensions, rental income, dividends and similar — who want to actually live in Portugal. It's a popular, lower-cost alternative to investment routes.
Who the D7 is for
It's designed for non-EU nationals who can support themselves from regular passive income rather than employment. Retirees are the classic example, but anyone with reliable recurring income may qualify. Unlike the golden visa, the D7 expects you to make Portugal your real home.
The income test
You must show stable, sufficient recurring income to support yourself (and any dependants). The benchmark is tied to Portugal's minimum-income reference and increases for accompanying family members.
Authorities look for reliable, recurring income and savings — not a one-off lump sum. Document the regularity of your income clearly.
What you'll typically need
- Proof of stable passive income and savings;
- Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a bank account;
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal;
- Health insurance and a clean criminal record.
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The steps
- Apply for the D7 visa at the Portuguese consulate in your country;
- Enter Portugal and attend your residence-permit appointment;
- Receive your residence permit and renew on schedule;
- Maintain genuine residence in Portugal.
Residence and citizenship
The D7 leads to renewable residence and, after the required years and conditions (including a basic language requirement), can open the path to permanent residence or citizenship. It also requires you to spend meaningful time in Portugal, unlike investment routes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work on a D7?
The D7 is based on passive income, but holders can generally also undertake activity in Portugal; confirm the current scope for your situation.
How much income do I need?
It is tied to Portugal's reference minimum income and rises with dependants — confirm the current figure with a lawyer.
Do I really have to live there?
Yes — the D7 expects genuine residence, with minimum-stay rules stricter than the golden visa.