The D7 visa and Golden Visa are popular residency options in Portugal. The D7 visa is for those with passive income, allowing an extended stay without investment.
The D7 visa and the Golden Visa are both residency programs offered by Portugal, but they cater to different types of applicants and have distinct requirements and benefits. Here’s a comparison of the two:
D7 Visa
Purpose:
- The D7 visa, also known as the passive income visa, is designed for individuals who have a stable source of passive income and wish to reside in Portugal. It is ideal for retirees, pensioners, or anyone with regular passive income from investments, savings, or other sources.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must demonstrate sufficient passive income to support themselves and any dependents. This can include pension income, rental income, dividends, and other passive sources.
- The income must meet or exceed a specified minimum threshold set by the Portuguese government.
Investment Requirement:
- There is no specific investment requirement for the D7 visa. The primary focus is on proving that the applicant has a stable and sufficient income.
Residency Requirements:
- D7 visa holders must maintain their residency status by spending a significant amount of time in Portugal each year. The exact residency requirement is typically around 183 days per year but may vary.
Path to Citizenship:
- D7 visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residency, provided they meet all other requirements, including language proficiency and integration into Portuguese society.
Golden Visa
Purpose:
- The Golden Visa program is designed for high-net-worth individuals and investors who are willing to make a significant financial investment in Portugal. It provides residency rights in exchange for qualifying investments.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must make a qualifying investment in Portugal. Options include real estate investments, capital transfer, or job creation, among others.
Investment Requirement:
- The Golden Visa has specific investment thresholds, such as purchasing property with a minimum value or investing in a Portuguese business. The required amounts vary depending on the type of investment and the specific program option chosen.
Residency Requirements:
- Golden Visa holders have more flexibility in terms of physical presence in Portugal. They are generally required to spend at least seven days per year in Portugal, although this requirement can vary based on the specific terms of the visa.
Path to Citizenship:
- Golden Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residency. Similar to the D7 visa, this includes meeting language and integration requirements.
Summary
- D7 Visa: Focuses on passive income and does not require a specific financial investment. It is suited for retirees or those with sufficient passive income.
- Golden Visa: Requires a significant financial investment in Portugal and offers more flexibility in terms of physical presence. It is aimed at high-net-worth individuals seeking residency through investment.
Both visas offer pathways to Portuguese citizenship but cater to different needs and investment capabilities.