Portugal D7 Visa: How to Live Legally with a Pension or Passive Income

The Portugal D7 Visa , also known as the visa for holders of passive income or the retiree visa , allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss foreigners to legally reside in Portugal based on their own income, retirement income, or religious activity.


✅ Who Can Apply for the D7 Visa?

  • Retirees with proven monthly pension

  • Holders of passive income (rent, investments, intellectual property)

  • Religious figures invited by a recognized community in Portugal.


📍 Where and When to Apply?

  • The application must initially be submitted to the Portuguese Consulate or to VFS Global in the country of residence.

  • After approval, the second stage is carried out with AIMA in Portugal.


📑 Required General Documentation

  • National visa application form

  • 2 recent 3x4 photos

  • Valid passport (3 months after return)

  • Copy of passport (details + stamps)

  • Travel insurance with medical coverage and repatriation.

  • Criminal record certificate

  • Application for consultation of the Portuguese criminal record (AIMA)


💶 Proof of Means of Subsistence

  • Main applicant: €870/month (100% of the minimum wage = €10,440/year)

  • Additional adults: €435/month (50% of the minimum wage = €5,220/year)

  • Children and dependent children: €261/month (30% of the minimum wage = €3,132/year)


🏠 Proof of Accommodation

  • Lease agreement in the applicant's name.

  • Invitation letter from a legal resident in Portugal

  • Hotel reservation of at least 1 week (when applicable)


📄 Specific Documents

  • Retirees : Proof of pension + income tax return

  • Personal income : Bank statements, DECORE (a document outlining income), rental agreement, etc.

  • Religious individuals : Declaration from the community in Portugal + declaration from the church in their country of origin.


Validity and Costs

  • Initial visa: 4 months (to enter Portugal and begin the residency process)

  • Residence permit: 2 years (renewable for another 3)

  • After 5 years: possibility of permanent residency or citizenship.

Estimated costs:

  • Visa: €90*

  • AIMA: €350 per person

  • VFS: varies by country (e.g., US = US$39.68 + €110 tax)

*Values may vary depending on exchange rates and location of application.


📌 Step-by-Step Process

  1. Get your NIF (Portuguese tax number).

  2. Open a bank account in Portugal.

  3. Provide proof of accommodation.

  4. Gather all the required documents.

  5. Schedule and submit your application through VFS or the Consulate.

  6. Travel with a 4-month visa.

  7. Visit AIMA to obtain your residency.


📞 Professional Support

Do you need help with your D7 visa application? Our expert team can guide you through every step of the process.

Contact us and live legally and safely in Portugal!