Portugal is one of the top destinations in Europe for retirees, and the D7 Visa is your gateway to living in this sunny, tax-friendly country. Designed for retirees and passive income earners, the D7 Visa allows you to enjoy legal residence in Portugal without needing to work or invest in a business.
🇵🇹 What is the D7 Retirement Visa?
The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income or Retirement Visa, is a residence visa for non-EU citizens who can show stable recurring income, such as pensions, rental income, or dividends.
✅ Ideal for retirees and financially independent individuals
✅ Provides full residency rights in Portugal
✅ Path to permanent residency and citizenship
✅ Family reunification allowed
💶 Minimum Income Requirements
To qualify, you must prove sufficient passive income. Here’s a general guideline based on the Portuguese minimum wage:
| Applicant Type | Monthly Income Required (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | €820+ per month |
| Spouse | +50% (€410) |
| Each child | +30% (€246) |
📌 You’ll need to show proof of 12 months of income or savings—either through pension statements, bank deposits, or rental income.
🏡 Proof of Accommodation in Portugal
You must have a residential address in Portugal before applying.
Options include:
🏠 Long-term rental contract (6+ months)
🏠 Property ownership deed
🏠 Invitation or housing declaration from a friend/family member
📋 Required Documents
🛂 For the D7 Retirement Visa application, prepare the following:
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Valid passport
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Two passport-size photos
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Proof of passive income (e.g., pension, annuity, rental income)
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Portuguese NIF (tax number)
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Proof of Portuguese bank account
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Proof of accommodation
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Health insurance (Schengen-compliant or Portuguese provider)
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Background check (clean criminal record)
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Visa application form + fees
💬 All non-Portuguese documents must be translated and apostilled.
📌 Step-by-Step Application Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | Apply for a Portuguese NIF and open a bank account |
| 2️⃣ | Secure accommodation in Portugal |
| 3️⃣ | Submit visa application to the Portuguese consulate in your country |
| 4️⃣ | Receive D7 visa (valid for 120 days) |
| 5️⃣ | Travel to Portugal and attend biometrics appointment with AIMA |
| 6️⃣ | Receive residence permit (valid for 2 years, then renewable) |
👨👩👧 Family Reunification
You can include your:
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Spouse or legal partner
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Dependent children
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Dependent parents or in-laws
Each family member receives a linked residence permit and full access to services.
⏳ Timeline
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Visa processing (at consulate): ~6–12 weeks
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AIMA appointment (after arrival): ~1–3 months
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Residence card issuance: ~2–4 weeks after biometrics
🛂 Path to Citizenship
After 5 years of legal residence, you may apply for:
✅ Permanent residency or
✅ Portuguese citizenship
You’ll need:
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A2-level Portuguese language certification
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Clean criminal record
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Proof of integration (residence, taxes, etc.)
Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you don’t have to give up your current nationality.
🇵🇹 Benefits of Retiring in Portugal
✔️ Mild Mediterranean climate
✔️ World-class healthcare (public + private)
✔️ Affordable cost of living
✔️ Safety and stability
✔️ Large expat communities
✔️ Access to the EU and Schengen Area
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply without a pension?
Yes—if you can prove other stable income like rent, dividends, or savings.
Do I need to stay full-time in Portugal?
Yes, D7 visa holders are expected to spend at least 183 days per year in Portugal to maintain residency.
Can I work or freelance with a D7 visa?
Yes, though it’s intended for passive income earners, you can legally work or offer services.
🛡️ Borderless Lawyers Can Help
We guide retirees through every step:
✅ Get your NIF & Portuguese bank account
✅ Ensure your documents are apostilled and translated
✅ Find valid accommodation
✅ Prepare your visa file for success
✅ Book your AIMA appointment
✅ Help with renewals and citizenship
🧾 Our team ensures you meet all the requirements and avoids delays.
📌 D7 Retirement Visa Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Target group | Retirees & passive income earners |
| Min. monthly income | €820+ per person |
| Stay requirement | 183+ days/year in Portugal |
| Work allowed? | Yes |
| Includes family? | Yes |
| Path to citizenship | After 5 years |
| Dual citizenship | Allowed |