Can I work in Portugal with a D7 visa?

You can continue remote work for non-Portuguese employers or start a business, but cannot take employed work for Portuguese companies without changing visa types.

How much income do I actually need?

€760 monthly minimum, but many consulates want to see €900-1,000 to be safe. For couples, add 50% of minimum wage (about €380) for the second person.

What if my income varies month to month?

Show 12-month average above the minimum. Freelancers and business owners should provide tax returns and client contracts proving ongoing income streams.

Can I apply if I'm already in Portugal as a tourist?

No, you must apply from outside Portugal at a consulate in your country of residence. Tourist status doesn't allow in-country visa applications.

How long is the residence card valid?

Initial card is valid for 2 years, renewable for another 2 years, then you can apply for permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years total.

How to Get a D7 Visa for Portugal

The D7 visa is Portugal's passive income visa for retirees, remote workers, and anyone with steady income who doesn't need to work locally. Apply at a Portuguese consulate with proof of €760+ monthly income, clean criminal record, health insurance, and accommodation proof. Processing takes 60-90 days and costs €90.

Confirm you qualify for D7. You need €760+ monthly passive income (pension, rental income, dividends, remote work salary). Income must be stable and ongoing for at least 12 months. One-time savings don't count.
Gather your documents. Get criminal background check apostilled from your home country. Obtain health insurance covering Portugal (minimum €30,000 coverage). Collect 6 months of bank statements and income proof. Get birth certificate apostilled if applying with family.
Secure Portuguese accommodation. You need proof of where you'll live in Portugal. Rental agreement works best. Some consulates accept hotel bookings for first month plus proof you're actively house hunting.
Apply at Portuguese consulate. Submit application at the consulate serving your area. Cannot apply inside Portugal. Bring originals and copies of all documents. Pay €90 application fee. Some consulates require appointments booked weeks in advance.
Wait for processing. Processing takes 60-90 days typically. Consulate may request additional documents. Once approved, you get a 4-month entry visa to collect your residence card in Portugal.
Complete the process in Portugal. Enter Portugal within 4 months. Apply for residence card (cartão de residência) at AIMA within first month. Bring same documents plus proof of Portuguese address and tax number (NIF).

Can I work in Portugal with a D7 visa?: You can continue remote work for non-Portuguese employers or start a business, but cannot take employed work for Portuguese companies without changing visa types.
How much income do I actually need?: €760 monthly minimum, but many consulates want to see €900-1,000 to be safe. For couples, add 50% of minimum wage (about €380) for the second person.
What if my income varies month to month?: Show 12-month average above the minimum. Freelancers and business owners should provide tax returns and client contracts proving ongoing income streams.
Can I apply if I'm already in Portugal as a tourist?: No, you must apply from outside Portugal at a consulate in your country of residence. Tourist status doesn't allow in-country visa applications.
How long is the residence card valid?: Initial card is valid for 2 years, renewable for another 2 years, then you can apply for permanent residence or citizenship after 5 years total.