Exploring Residency Options in Portugal: D7 Visa vs. Golden Visa
Are you considering a route to residency in Portugal or seeking EU citizenship but unsure which option aligns with your financial and residency goals? The D7 Visa, often referred to as the Passive Income Visa, caters primarily to retirees and individuals relying on passive income who wish to live permanently in Portugal. In contrast, the Portugal Golden Visa is an investment-based program that serves as a “Plan B” for many investors, allowing them to secure residency with minimal physical presence—just seven days in Portugal over a year.
While both visa options offer pathways to permanent residency or citizenship, they come with distinct conditions based on the applicant’s expectations and program requirements.
Key Differences: D7 Visa vs. Portugal Golden Visa
Residency Requirements
One of the most significant differences between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa is the residency requirement.
For the D7 Visa, applicants are expected to reside in Portugal for a considerable amount of time, averaging six to eight months each year. This visa is designed for individuals who intend to make Portugal their long-term home.
Conversely, the Golden Visa allows for greater flexibility in residency. Holders of the Golden Visa can maintain their status with an average stay of just seven days in Portugal each year, providing more freedom for those who may not want to commit to living in the country full-time.
Financial Requirements
The financial obligations also vary considerably between the two programs.
D7 Visa applicants must demonstrate a steady passive income, which can be derived from sources such as rental properties, dividends, or pensions. The minimum required income is approximately €820 per month, and applicants must show an additional 50% for a spouse and 30% for each dependent.
On the other hand, the Golden Visa does not mandate proof of income. Instead, it requires a minimum investment, often starting at €500,000 for fund investments. Once the investment is made and the visa obtained, there is no ongoing income proof required, although investors must maintain their investment for at least five years.
Application Process
The application process for these two visas differs in complexity.
For the D7 Visa, the process begins in the applicant’s home country, where they must gather various documents, including proof of accommodation. After obtaining the initial visa, they must travel to Portugal to finalize their residency application.
In contrast, the Golden Visa application is more streamlined. After making the necessary investment, applicants can proceed with the application process without the need for prior accommodation evidence.
Path to Citizenship
Both the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa lead to residency, with the possibility of applying for Portuguese citizenship after five years. Recent changes in citizenship laws allow the citizenship process to commence from the initial residency application, regardless of approval status or duration of residency.
Summary of Main Differences
- Time Spent in Portugal:
- D7 Visa: Requires a stay of six to eight months each year.
- Golden Visa: Only requires an average of seven days annually.
- Income Requirements:
- D7 Visa: Must provide proof of a consistent passive income.
- Golden Visa: Requires a financial investment, with no income proof necessary after the investment is made.
- Application Process:
- D7 Visa: More complex, starting in the home country with accommodation proof required.
- Golden Visa: More straightforward, initiated after making an investment.
Making Your Choice
Ultimately, the decision between the D7 Visa and the Portugal Golden Visa hinges on individual preferences and circumstances. The D7 Visa is ideal for those looking to establish a permanent residence in Portugal supported by passive income. In contrast, the Golden Visa is suited for investors who prioritize flexibility and a shorter residency requirement, all while making a significant investment in the Portuguese economy.
About Get Golden Visa
Get Golden Visa is a specialized investment advisory firm founded in 2014, dedicated to assisting individuals in obtaining residency and citizenship through qualifying investments in Europe, the Americas, the Caribbean, and beyond. The firm offers tailored advisory services for property acquisitions, fund subscriptions, and various investment options. With local offices in Lisbon, Athens, Istanbul, and London, Get Golden Visa stands out for its independent guidance and comprehensive support throughout the entire investment journey.
