9 reasons to move to Portugal with a D7 Passive Income Visa
The Portugal D7 Visa offers a legal residence route for financially independent individuals who wish to live in Portugal without the need for employment or significant capital investment. Applicants may rely on passive income such as pensions, rental earnings, or dividends.
The D7 Visa allows visa-free travel across the Schengen Area and provides a clear pathway to permanent residence and eventual Portuguese citizenship after 5 years.
Below are the main advantages that make the D7 Visa one of the most attractive residency options in Europe.

Listed all the main Portugal D7 Visa benefits
Fact checked byAlbert Ioffe
Reviewed byVladlena Baranova

9 reasons to move to Portugal with a D7 Passive Income Visa
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What is a Portugal D7 Visa?
The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, is a long-term residence option for non-EU nationals with reliable passive income. Introduced in 2007, it is designed to attract retirees and financially self-sufficient individuals who wish to settle in Portugal and support the national economy.
Once approved, applicants receive residence permits valid for 2 years, renewable for a further 3. After 5 years of legal residence, holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Unlike the Golden Visa, which is based on significant investment, the D7 Visa relies on income. Applicants must prove they have sufficient financial means to support themselves while living in Portugal. Acceptable sources include pensions, rental income, dividends, royalties, and bank interest.

Célia Castilho,
Head of the Portuguese office
While the D7 Visa is more affordable than the Golden Visa, it requires greater physical presence.
Unlike Golden Visa holders, the Passive Income Visa holders must live in Portugal for at least 183 days each year. In addition, they must not be absent from the country for more than 6 months in a single year or 8 months over any 2-year period, whether continuously or not.
To qualify for the D7 Visa, an applicant must:
be a non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss national;
be at least 18 years old;
have a passive income of at least €870 per month;
hold savings equal to one year’s living costs, at least €10,440, deposited in a Portuguese bank;
provide proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental contract or property title;
have a clean criminal record;
hold valid travel insurance.
If family members apply together, the required monthly income increases. An additional 50%, or €435, is needed for a spouse or dependent parent and 30%, or €261, for each dependent child.

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9 benefits of the Portugal D7 Visa
The Portugal D7 Visa offers more than the right to live in the country. It provides a comfortable lifestyle, long-term stability and access to future opportunities in the European Union.
These are the 9 main reasons why retirees and other financially independent individuals choose it:
1. Moving to Portugal at the lowest cost
Expenses on residency. The D7 Visa is one of the most affordable routes to legal residence in Portugal.
Unlike the Golden Visa, which requires a minimum investment of €250,000, the D7 Visa is based solely on passive income. There is no need to start a business or make a significant upfront investment.
Applicants for the D7 Visa must demonstrate passive income of at least €870 per month. The threshold increases for couples and families but remains far lower than that of other visa types. For example, a family of 3 including the main applicant, a spouse and one child would need to show at least €1,566 in monthly income and €18,792 in savings for the 1st year.
Living expenses. Portugal offers a high quality of life at a relatively low cost. Daily expenses, public transport and healthcare are more affordable than in many Western or Northern European countries. A single person can live in Portugal on around €1,500 per month, while in Germany or Sweden the equivalent cost is approximately €1,700 to 1,800.
Portugal is also known for its safety, mild climate and welcoming population. It is a favourite among retirees, ranked as the second-best place to retire in the Annual Global Retirement Index 2025.
2. Travelling across the Schengen Area without a visa
Visa-free travel across the Schengen Area is one of the key benefits of the Portugal D7 Visa. Once approved, applicants receive Portuguese residence permits, which allows them to visit 28 other Schengen countries without the need for separate visas.
Residents of Portugal may spend up to 90 days within any 180-day period in each Schengen country. This is ideal for those who wish to take extended holidays, enjoy short breaks, attend events or visit friends and family throughout Europe.
3. Portuguese citizenship in 5 years
The Portugal D7 Visa offers a clear and relatively fast route to citizenship. While some countries require 7 to 10 years of residence, Portugal allows foreign nationals to apply for permanent residence or citizenship after just 5 years of legal stay. The countdown starts from the date of applying for the first residence permit.
The Portuguese passport grants full EU rights, including the freedom to live, work and study in any EU country, along with visa-free access to over 170 destinations. Portugal also permits dual citizenship, so applicants are not required to renounce their original nationality.
Conditions for naturalisation are the following:
live in Portugal for 5 consecutive years and spend at least 183 days per year in the country;
demonstrate A2-level proficiency in Portuguese;
have a clean criminal record;
show integration into Portuguese society, such as registration with the tax and healthcare systems.

Portugal is known for its efficient naturalisation process. In total between 2013 and 2023 more than 245,000 people have become Portugal citizens
4. Employment and business opportunities in Portugal
Although the D7 Visa is designed for passive income earners, the residence permit granted after approval allows legal work and business activity in Portugal.
Working in Portugal. D7 Visa holders are permitted to work for Portuguese companies or be self-employed. However, their passive income must remain stable and continue to be the main source of financial support.
Portugal’s expanding economy offers employment opportunities in sectors such as technology, tourism, education, healthcare, and renewable energy. English-speaking professionals are especially sought after in cities like Lisbon and Porto, where many startups and international firms are based.
Starting a business in Portugal. Residence permit holders may also open and operate a business in Portugal. This involves registering the company, obtaining the necessary licences, and meeting local legal obligations. The Portuguese government actively supports small businesses and startups through public funding schemes and tax incentives.
Company registration is straightforward with the Empresa na Hora service, which enables same-day incorporation. Entrepreneurs can also benefit from tax treaty protections and access innovation hubs like Lisbon’s Beta-i and Porto’s UPTEC. Portugal’s low startup costs and strong support network make it an appealing destination for freelancers and business owners.
5. Favourable tax conditions
Portugal is a tax-friendly country for expatriates. Although the Non-Habitual Resident NHR regime closed to new applicants on January 1st, 2024, D7 Visa holders can still access a range of tax advantages.
Taxes on pensions and assets. The first €4,462.15 of pension income is tax-free. Portugal does not levy a wealth tax on worldwide assets, nor does it impose a general inheritance or gift tax. When purchasing property, only stamp duty of 10% applies, and this is waived for spouses, children, and parents.
Capital gains on securities. Capital gains from stocks and bonds are taxed at a flat rate of 28%. If the shares are unlisted, only 50% of the profit is taxable.
Portugal taxes worldwide income only from the date an individual becomes a tax resident. If securities were acquired before gaining residency, only the gains accrued after residency began may be subject to tax. This applies provided the acquisition date and the market value at the time of becoming resident can be documented.
Cryptocurrency taxation. Portugal introduced formal rules for crypto taxation in 2023. Cryptocurrencies are recognised as digital assets, and tax treatment depends on the holding period:
crypto held for less than 365 days is taxed at 28%, if annual gains exceed €500;
crypto held for 365 days or more is tax-exempt.
No tax is applied on crypto-to-crypto exchanges or on non-fungible crypto assets, such as NFTs.
These rules apply to private individuals. Business activities involving cryptocurrency, such as trading, mining or offering crypto-related services, are taxed as professional income.
Double tax treaties. Once individuals become tax residents, they must declare worldwide income. However, double tax treaties often reduce or eliminate Portuguese tax liabilities on certain foreign income. Portugal has signed tax treaties with 80 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, helping residents avoid double taxation on the same income.
6. Adding family members to the application
One of the key advantages of the Portugal D7 Visa is the ability to include family members in the initial application.
Who can be included. The following dependants are eligible:
spouse or legally recognised partner;
minor children, including adopted children;
adult children under 21, provided they are unmarried and unemployed;
disabled children of any age;
parents of the main applicant or spouse, if financially dependent.
This flexibility allows families of different structures, such as retirees with children, financially independent individuals with elderly parents, or couples planning long-term stays, to relocate together.
How the process works. There are two ways to add family members:
Include them in the initial D7 application, by submitting proof of relationship, accommodation and income for each dependant.
Apply after the main applicant receives their residence permit, through Portugal’s immigration authority, AIMA, using the family reunification route.
In both cases, the main applicant must show sufficient income to support the entire household.
The income threshold rises by 50% of the Portuguese minimum wage for a spouse and 30% for each child or dependent parent. With the 2025 minimum wage set at €870, an applicant with a spouse and one child must demonstrate monthly income of at least €1,566.
Approved dependents receive their own residence permits. These grant the same rights as the main applicant, including:
right to live, work or study in Portugal;
access to public healthcare;
visa-free travel within the Schengen Area;
path to permanent residence and citizenship after 5 years.

In Portugal, a couple can live comfortably on €2,500—3,000 per month, depending on their lifestyle and where they choose to live
7. Access to high-quality education and healthcare
The Portugal D7 Visa provides access to the country’s affordable and well-regarded public services. For individuals and families planning a long-term stay, healthcare and education are among the most valuable benefits.
Healthcare. According to the 2025 Health Care Index by Numbeo, Portugal ranks 23rd globally. Its public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde, SNS, offers a broad range of services, including:
general practitioner and specialist consultations;
hospital and emergency care;
maternity services;
subsidised prescriptions and diagnostic tests.
D7 Visa holders and their family members can register with the SNS and receive care at subsidised rates, similar to those paid by Portuguese citizens. The system mainly covers treatment in public hospitals. Patients usually pay nominal fees, such as €5 for a general consultation and €8 for a specialist. In contrast, the average out-of-pocket cost for a doctor’s visit can be around €20.
Children, pregnant women, and seniors over 65 are often eligible for free care under the SNS.
Education. Portugal offers free public education to all residents. School is compulsory from the ages of 6 to 18 and is delivered in Portuguese. The national curriculum covers STEM subjects, languages and the humanities.
For expatriate families, there are international schools primarily located in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. These private schools follow British, American, or International Baccalaureate, IB, curricula and teach in English or other languages. The average annual tuition for an international primary school is around €10,650.
Portugal’s public universities are also well regarded, with 5 universities listed in the top 500 of the QS World University Rankings 2025. Tuition fees for international students range from €3,000 to 12,500 per year. English-taught programs are typically at the higher end of the scale, though many offer dual degrees.
8. Opportunity to invest in real estate
While the Portugal D7 Visa does not require applicants to purchase property, holders are free to invest in real estate after relocating. To qualify for the visa, applicants must show proof of accommodation in Portugal, either by renting or owning a home.
Full ownership rights for foreign buyers. Portugal allows both EU and non-EU nationals to purchase and own property without restriction. Foreign buyers enjoy the same legal protections as Portuguese citizens when acquiring real estate.
Low property taxes and fees. Taxes and fees related to property purchases in Portugal are relatively low compared to many other European countries. Buyers are subject to:
municipal property transfer tax ranging from 0 to 10%, depending on the type and value of the property;
stamp duty of 0.8%;
annual municipal property tax ranging from 0.3 to 0.8% of the property’s taxable value.
Capital appreciation. Portugal’s property market has demonstrated consistent growth. In the 1st quarter of 2025, property prices increased by 6.6%, driven by strong demand and limited supply.
Rental income potential. Investing in real estate can provide both a residential address and a source of rental income. Locations such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region attract high demand from long-term tenants and tourists alike. In prime locations, rental yields of 4—6% per year are achievable.
Examples of real estate in Portugal
9. Automatic citizenship for newborn children
Under current nationality law, a child born in Portugal to foreign parents may be granted Portuguese citizenship at birth. This applies if at least one parent has legally resided in the country for 1 year prior to the child’s birth.
D7 Visa holders who meet this condition can secure EU citizenship for their newborn without the child ever needing to apply later through naturalisation. This is especially significant for families planning to settle or raise children in the country.
Portugal D7 Visa documentation requirements
To apply for the Portugal D7 Visa, applicants must submit documents proving financial independence, suitable accommodation and legal eligibility. While specific requirements may vary slightly by consulate, the key documents are generally the same:
Completed and signed visa application form.
Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.
Two recent colour passport-sized photos.
Proof of income, such as bank statements for the last 6 to 12 months, tax returns or documents proving steady passive income.
Proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a signed 12-month rental agreement or property deed.
Criminal record certificate from the country of origin or the country of residence for more than a year.
Private health insurance with recommended coverage of at least €30,000.
Portuguese tax number, NIF.
Portuguese bank statement showing sufficient funds.
Proof of kinship for accompanying family members, such as marriage or birth certificates.
Submitting complete and accurate documentation is essential. Many visa rejections are due to missing items or unclear financial evidence.
How to obtain the Portugal D7 Visa and residence permit
According to Immigrant Invest’s experience, obtaining the Portugal D7 Visa takes at least 6 months. The longest step is the visa approval by the Portuguese authorities.
Immigrant Invest lawyers assist applicants throughout every stage of the process, from preparation of documents to receiving the residence permit card.
1 day
Preliminary Due Diligence
A certified Anti-Money Laundering Officer conducts a preliminary Due Diligence check to assess potential risks and identify any red flags that could result in visa refusal. If the applicant qualifies, a service agreement is signed.
A certified Anti-Money Laundering Officer conducts a preliminary Due Diligence check to assess potential risks and identify any red flags that could result in visa refusal. If the applicant qualifies, a service agreement is signed.
Up to 5 business days
Obtaining a Portuguese tax number, NIF
A Portuguese tax identification number, Número de Identificação Fiscal, NIF, is required to open a bank account, sign a lease or purchase property. A tax representative in Portugal obtains it on the applicant’s behalf. Immigrant Invest prepares a power of attorney for this step.
A Portuguese tax identification number, Número de Identificação Fiscal, NIF, is required to open a bank account, sign a lease or purchase property. A tax representative in Portugal obtains it on the applicant’s behalf. Immigrant Invest prepares a power of attorney for this step.
2+ weeks
Opening a Portuguese bank account
Immigrant Invest assists the applicant in opening and activating a Portuguese bank account. Once opened, the applicant transfers the required funds to demonstrate financial readiness for the D7 Visa. The amount must be sufficient to support the individual or family for a year.
Immigrant Invest assists the applicant in opening and activating a Portuguese bank account. Once opened, the applicant transfers the required funds to demonstrate financial readiness for the D7 Visa. The amount must be sufficient to support the individual or family for a year.
Up to 1 month
Buying or renting property
Applicants must provide proof of accommodation in Portugal. Immigrant Invest helps find suitable rental properties or apartments for purchase. After selection, lawyers verify the contract and sign it on the applicant’s behalf.
Applicants must provide proof of accommodation in Portugal. Immigrant Invest helps find suitable rental properties or apartments for purchase. After selection, lawyers verify the contract and sign it on the applicant’s behalf.
Up to 4 months
Getting a D7 Visa
Immigrant Invest lawyers prepare the full set of documents and assist with translations, apostilles, and notarial certifications. The applicant submits the application and attends a biometric appointment at the Portuguese consulate in their country of residence.
Portuguese authorities then review the application and issue a national visa valid for 4 months.
Immigrant Invest lawyers prepare the full set of documents and assist with translations, apostilles, and notarial certifications. The applicant submits the application and attends a biometric appointment at the Portuguese consulate in their country of residence.
Portuguese authorities then review the application and issue a national visa valid for 4 months.
2 days
Entering Portugal and applying for a residence permit
With the approved visa, the applicant travels to Portugal to begin the second stage of the process — obtaining the residence permit.
Immigrant Invest schedules an appointment with AIMA, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum. The applicant attends in person, submits biometrics, and provides the required documentation.
With the approved visa, the applicant travels to Portugal to begin the second stage of the process — obtaining the residence permit.
Immigrant Invest schedules an appointment with AIMA, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum. The applicant attends in person, submits biometrics, and provides the required documentation.
6—8 months
Receiving the residence permit card
If approved, the applicant receives a residence permit card valid for 2 years. The card is delivered to the registered address in Portugal.
The permit can be renewed for a further 3 years and provides a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.
If approved, the applicant receives a residence permit card valid for 2 years. The card is delivered to the registered address in Portugal.
The permit can be renewed for a further 3 years and provides a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.
Why it is worth moving to Portugal
High quality of life. Portugal ranks 27th globally in Numbeo’s 2025 Quality of Life Index, earning strong scores in healthcare, safety, and climate. The country also boasts some of the cleanest air in Europe. According to the World Air Quality Report, Portugal ranks 21st worldwide and 7th in Europe for low pollution levels.
Safety. Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. It ranks 7th in the 2024 Global Peace Index. For comparison, the United Kingdom ranks 37th and the United States 131st.
Portugal is recognised for its low crime rates and strong protection of individual freedoms. In the Legatum Prosperity Index 2023, the country ranks 16th out of 167 countries for political rights and civil liberties, ahead of both the UK and the US.
Affordable cost of living. Living expenses in Portugal are lower than in many Western European and North American cities. A one-bedroom apartment in central Lisbon costs around €1,400 per month. In rural areas, similar accommodation can be rented for €400—600 per month. By contrast, comparable apartments cost approximately €2,640 in London, €2,070 in Amsterdam and €3,500 in New York.
Groceries and dining are also affordable. Fresh produce, meat and seafood are available at low prices in local markets. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs €10—15 per person.
Strong infrastructure and transportation. Portugal boasts a well-developed public transport network. Lisbon and Porto offer metro systems, reliable bus services, and intercity trains. A monthly transport pass in Lisbon costs around €40, making daily travel affordable. Intercity travel across the country is also efficient and cost-effective.
International airports in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro provide excellent connectivity to major global destinations. These modern airports handle millions of passengers each year and are equipped to high international standards.
Pleasant climate and natural beauty. Portugal enjoys more than 300 sunny days a year. The Mediterranean climate brings warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures are around +24…30°C, while winter temperatures average around +12…16°C.
The country offers a wide variety of natural landscapes. The Algarve is known for golden beaches and clear waters. The Serra da Estrela mountains are perfect for hiking and skiing. The Douro Valley is famous for its vineyards and scenic river cruises, while the Alentejo region offers quiet towns and a sense of medieval charm.
Rich culture. Fado, Portugal’s traditional music, expresses deep emotion and nostalgia. It is recognised by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The country is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Tower of Belém, the Monastery of Batalha and the historic centre of Évora.
Delicious cuisine. Portugal’s cuisine is rich and flavourful, shaped by its coastal location and Mediterranean climate. The country has the highest fish consumption per capita in Europe, with bacalhau, salted cod, being a national staple. Portugal is also renowned for its wine, including Port from the Douro Valley and Vinho Verde from the Minho region.
Big expat community and friendly locals. Cities such as Lisbon and Porto have large expat communities and host regular social events. English is widely spoken in urban and tourist areas, making daily life easier for newcomers. Locals are known for their warmth and hospitality. In the Expat City Ranking 2024, Portugal ranked 15th globally for local friendliness and ease of settling in.
In summary: benefits of the Portugal D7 Visa
The Portugal D7 Visa offers a pathway to EU residency for non-EU citizens with a stable passive income of at least €870 per month.
Applicants for the D7 Visa can relocate to Portugal at a relatively low cost, without the need for significant investment.
The D7 Visa grants an initial 2-year residence permit, which is renewable for a further 3 years, and leads to permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.
Foreigners with the D7 Visa can work, start a business, or retire in Portugal, as well as enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.
The D7 Visa also provides access to public healthcare and education, tax residency benefits and a high quality of life in one of Europe’s safest and most welcoming countries.
Family members can be included in the application, and children born in Portugal may qualify for citizenship by birth.
Immigrant Invest is a licensed agent for citizenship and residence by investment programs in the EU, the Caribbean, Asia, and the Middle East. Take advantage of our global 15-year expertise — schedule a meeting with our investment programs experts.

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Frequently asked questions
The Portugal D7 Visa allows non-EU citizens with passive income to live in Portugal. It offers visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, access to public services such as healthcare and education, and a pathway to Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of residence.
The main disadvantage is the physical presence requirement. To maintain residency status, holders must spend at least 16 months in Portugal over a 2-year period. In addition, applicants become Portuguese tax residents, which may affect their global income depending on their personal tax circumstances.
Yes. Although the D7 Visa is primarily intended for those with passive income, the Portuguese residence permit does not prohibit employment. Visa holders are allowed to work or start a business in Portugal once their residence permit is granted.
As of 2025, the minimum monthly income requirement is approximately €870 for the main applicant. An additional €435 is required for a spouse, and €261 for each dependent child. These thresholds are linked to Portugal’s minimum wage and may change annually.
The D7 Visa itself is valid for 4 months. After arrival in Portugal, applicants obtain a residence permit valid for two years, which can be renewed for a further three years. After five years of continuous residence, individuals may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Buying property is not required for the D7 Visa, but visa holders are free to purchase real estate at any time. Ownership can strengthen the application as proof of accommodation and may serve as a profitable investment.
Yes. The D7 Visa holders become Portuguese tax residents and are subject to income tax on their worldwide income. However, Portugal has over 80 double taxation treaties, and specific tax exemptions may apply in certain cases.
Applicants for the Portugal Passive Income Visa must have a passive income of at least €870 per month. In addition, they are expected to show savings of at least €10,440, usually held in a Portuguese bank account. You should also budget for visa fees, accommodation and private health insurance.
D7 Visa holders can access several tax advantages.
The first €4,462.15 of pension income is tax-free. Capital gains on securities are taxed at a flat rate of 28%, with reductions or exemptions in certain cases. For example, if the securities were acquired before residency, only gains made after residency began may be taxable. Crypto gains are also tax-free if the assets are held for at least 365 days.
Portugal’s double tax treaties with more than 80 countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, help prevent double taxation on foreign income.
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