How to Apply for Portugal's D7 Passive Income Visa

Portugal's D7 visa requires proof of €760+ monthly passive income, a clean criminal record, and health insurance. Apply at a Portuguese consulate in your home country, expect 60-90 days processing, and plan to spend €1,500-3,000 total on the application process including fees, documents, and initial setup costs.

  1. Gather your passive income documentation. Collect 6 months of bank statements showing consistent income from pensions, investments, rental properties, or other passive sources. You need €760 per month minimum (€912 for couples). Get official translations and apostilles for all documents.
  2. Obtain your criminal background check. Request an FBI background check if you're American, or equivalent from your home country. This must be apostilled and less than 6 months old when you submit your application.
  3. Secure health insurance coverage. Purchase private health insurance valid in Portugal with minimum €30,000 coverage, or get a statement from your insurance company confirming Portugal coverage. Public healthcare won't qualify.
  4. Find accommodation in Portugal. You need proof of where you'll live. This can be a rental contract, property deed, or accommodation booking for your first 6 months. A hotel reservation for 2 weeks is insufficient.
  5. Complete the visa application. Fill out the long-stay visa form at your nearest Portuguese consulate. Include all documents, passport photos, and pay the €90 fee. Some consulates require appointments booked weeks in advance.
  6. Wait for processing and collect your visa. Processing takes 60-90 days typically. Once approved, collect your visa and enter Portugal within 4 months. You have 4 months from entry to apply for your residence permit at SEF (immigration office).
Can I include my spouse's income to meet the €760 requirement?
Yes, married couples can combine income, but the requirement increases to €912 total for two people. Both spouses apply separately but can use joint financial documentation.
What counts as passive income for the D7 visa?
Pensions, investment dividends, rental income, royalties, and annuities qualify. Salary from employment, freelance work, or business income where you actively work does not count as passive income.
Do I need to live in Portugal full time with a D7 visa?
You must spend at least 16 months in Portugal during your first 2-year residence permit to maintain status. After that, standard EU residence rules apply requiring majority of time in Portugal.
Can I work in Portugal with a D7 visa?
You cannot be employed by Portuguese companies initially, but you can be self-employed or continue earning passive income from abroad. After your first residence permit renewal, employment restrictions may be lifted.