Updated: October 25, 2024
Several visa options are available for those interested in living and working in Portugal. The Portugal D7 Visa and the Golden Visa are popular among expats and retirees, while the Digital Nomad Visa is an exciting option for remote workers.
While the D7 and the Golden Visa allow you to live long-term in Portugal, they differ in terms of financial requirements, how long you need to be in the country, and what you are allowed to do on your new residency permit.
In this article, we will examine each visa in detail, including its requirements and the privileges it offers in Portugal.
D7 Visa vs. Portugal Golden Visa
Portugal’s D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa, is aimed at people with stable passive incomes. These incomes are typically derived from pensions, rental properties, or investments. Since these funds are often associated with retirees, it’s an excellent choice among older applicants.
On the other hand, Portugal’s Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that requires a qualifying investment in bonds or other financial contributions in exchange for Portuguese residency. It is aimed at high-net-worth individuals who may not want to live in Portugal full-time but wish to gain residency through investment.
Investment or income requirement
One of the biggest differences between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa is the financial requirement.
Since the D7 Visa is intended for individuals with a consistent passive income, applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of around €820, which is equivalent to Portugal’s minimum wage. This income needs to be stable and proven over time, and it should be enough to cover the applicant’s living expenses in Portugal.
However, the Golden Visa requires a much larger financial commitment. The most affordable option is investing or donating at least €250,000 to the arts or reconstruction of national cultural heritage. Other investment options include a science or technology research contribution of at least €500,000 or the creation and maintenance of ten jobs during the required period.
In-country stay requirement
While both visas have stay requirements, the Golden Visa is more flexible. For people on the D7, they must be in Portugal for at least 183 days per year to maintain their residency status. This is in stark contrast to the Golden Visa, which only requires holders to spend a minimum of 7 days in the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period to maintain their residency.
Application procedure
The Portugal D7 Visa application process is more complex than the Golden Visa. Before initiating the application process at the Portuguese Consulate or VFS in your home country (assuming you have collected all the required documents), there are a few things you must do, which include:
- Acquiring a Portuguese taxpayer number (NIF)
- Opening a Portuguese bank account
- Arrange accommodation in Portugal.
Once the visa is granted for four months, you must travel to Portugal to apply for your initial residence permit through AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum).
The application for a Golden Visa is uncomplicated when using immigration services, but there are several steps. The first step is to get a NIF and open a Portuguese bank account. You will need to make your investment before submitting the application and supporting documents online to AIMA.
In most cases, the application will be pre-approved based on meeting the requirements. But once they officially approve your application, you need to appear in person for an interview at AIMA. You’ll then need to wait between 9 and 12 months for your residence permit to be issued. Once granted, the initial permit is valid for two years.
Application and issuing fees
You are required to pay some fees when applying for the D7 Visa. The application and initial entry visa is about €80 at the Portuguese Consulate in your home country. Then, when you have your residency appointment with AIMA, there is a €170 fee for submitting and receiving the application and a €160 fee for issuing the residency card.
While the initial investment for the Golden Visa is the most significant cost, there are also several administration fees. The online application submission costs about €605, the granting of the permit is about €6,045, and the Golden Visa renewal is around €3,023.
Citizenship in Portugal Through the D7 or Golden Visa Portugal
Regardless of whether you enter Portugal through the D7 Visa or the Golden Visa, the basic requirements for applying for citizenship are the same.
In both instances, you must have held legal residency in Portugal for at least five consecutive years and demonstrate a basic knowledge of the Portuguese language (A2 level). You must also satisfy the visa conditions before applying for citizenship.
The D7 Visa and the Golden Visa provide clear pathways to Portuguese citizenship. The most suitable option depends on your residency intentions and financial resources. The D7 Visa is ideal for those planning to reside in Portugal, while the Golden Visa is perfect for investors seeking minimal residency requirements.
Portugal Golden Visa or D7 Visa: Which One To Choose?
When deciding between the Portugal Golden Visa and the D7 Visa, your choice will depend on your financial situation and lifestyle goals.
The Golden Visa is suitable for high-net-worth individuals who can make substantial investments or job creation. It provides residency with minimal time spent in Portugal—only seven days per year—making it appealing to those seeking EU residency without relocating full-time.
On the other hand, the D7 Visa is designed for individuals with passive income, such as retirees or entrepreneurs, who plan to live in Portugal. It requires sufficient income, typically around €820 per month, but no large upfront investment.
D7 Visa holders must live in Portugal for at least 183 days per year, making it the better choice for those who want to embrace the Portuguese lifestyle fully.
Both visas lead to Portuguese citizenship after five years. Still, the Golden Visa offers more flexibility for those with the means to invest, while the D7 is better for people looking to relocate permanently on a moderate budget.
Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you prefer investment flexibility or a full-time commitment to living in Portugal.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the D7 vs Golden Visa
What is the key difference between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa?
The D7 Visa is for individuals who have passive income, such as pensions and wish to live in Portugal full-time. The Golden Visa is aimed at investors who make a significant financial investment in Portugal but do not necessarily want to stay for a set amount of time.
What are the financial requirements for each visa?
D7 Visa applicants must prove passive income of at least €820 per month, which is the Portuguese minimum wage. Additional income is required for dependents (50 percent more for a spouse and 30 percent more for each child). The Golden Visa requires a significant investment, creating at least 10 jobs, or investing in cultural or scientific research.
Can I work in Portugal with the D7 or Golden Visa?
Yes, you can work on the Golden Visa and the D7 Visa. However, there are some restrictions for people on the Passive Income Visa. While it is possible to exercise professional activities on a D7, it can’t be the holder’s main source of income and must be from a company outside of Portugal.
Can my family join me if I apply for the D7 or Golden Visa?
Yes, you can apply for family reunification on the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa, allowing your spouse, children, and even dependent parents to join you in Portugal. Family members will also gain residency permits.
What happens if I lose my source of passive income while on a D7 Visa?
Losing your passive income could jeopardize your D7 Visa status, as one of the key conditions is proving that you have sufficient income to support yourself. You may be required to show updated proof of income during visa renewals, or your visa could be changed to one that aligns with your situation.