Portugal offers several visa options for those looking to live and work in the country. Among these, the D7 Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa are two popular choices for financially independent individuals. But which one should you choose?
Alina Mishurenko, editor-in-chief, content creator, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest will compare the D7 Visa with the Portugal Nomad Visa, outlining why the D7 Visa might be the better option for people who are financially independent and want to live in Portugal.
What is the Portugal D7 Visa?
Portugal D7 Residence permit is designed for non-EU nationals who want to live in Portugal and have a stable income or sufficient savings to support themselves without working in the country.
This visa is often referred to as the “passive income visa,” as it is intended for retirees or anyone who can prove a reliable income from sources such as pensions, investments, or rental properties.
Portuguese D7 Visa Benefits
The D7 Visa comes with several key benefits that make it an attractive choice for financially independent individuals:
- Visa-free travelling. One of the most appealing benefits of the D7 visa is the ability to reside in Portugal while gaining access to the Schengen Area. Visa holders can travel freely across 29 European countries without additional paperwork or permits.
- Residency in Portugal. The D7 Visa grants you residency in Portugal, allowing you to live in the country for an extended period.
- Family inclusion. You can include your family members, such as your spouse and children, in your visa application, making it a great choice for those looking to relocate with loved ones.
- Path to citizenship. After five years of residence in Portugal, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship, giving you access to all the benefits of being an EU citizen, including travel and work rights across the European Union.
- Access to health care. As a resident, you can access Portugal’s public healthcare system, which is known for its quality and affordability.
Portuguese D7 Visa Requirements
Minimum income levels. The minimum income required is based on the Portuguese minimum wage, but you generally need to show at least €870 per month for yourself, with additional amounts for dependents.
Health insurance. You will need to show proof of health insurance that covers you while living in Portugal.
Accommodation. You must have accommodation in Portugal, which can be in the form of a rental agreement or proof of property ownership.
Stay requirements. Residents must spend at least 16 months over two years in the country to maintain their status. This is important for those who wish to eventually apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Portugal Visa Comparison: D7 vs. Digital Nomad Visa
The D7 Visa focuses on passive income, requiring applicants to prove they can financially support themselves without working in Portugal. The Digital Nomad Visa, on the other hand, is aimed at people who earn their income remotely from companies outside of Portugal.
Digital Nomad Visa applicants must confirm a monthly income of at least €3,280. They also need to buy or rent residential properties in Portugal.
Both visas allow you to include family members in your application, such as spouses, children and parents.
D7 and D8 residency must reside in the country to keep their permits.
The D7 Visa and Digital Nomad Visa offer a way to permanent residency and citizenship after five years.
How to Apply for the Portugal D7 Visa
Applying for the D7 Visa involves several steps:
- Gather documents. Prepare all the required documents, such as proof of income, passport, health insurance, accommodation, and a criminal background check.
- Submit the application. Apply at the Portuguese consulate in your home country or country of residence.
- Visa approval. Once your application is approved, you will receive a visa that allows you to enter Portugal.
- Move to Portugal. After entering Portugal, you can apply for a residence card from the Portuguese authorities.
- Residence permit. Once your residence permit is granted, you can live in Portugal for up to two years. After this period, you can renew your permit for another three years.
Conclusion
The Portugal D7 Visa is a strong option for financially independent individuals who wish to live in Portugal and enjoy long-term residency benefits. Unlike the Digital Nomad Visa, which requires active employment with a foreign employer, the D7 Visa is designed for those who can support themselves with passive income.
This makes it a better option for retirees, investors, or anyone with a steady income source from outside Portugal.
