Everything You Need to Know About the D7 Visa in 2023. Complete guide on Residency

If you wish to move to a European country with a high quality of life, warm climate, and affordable living, Portugal should be at the top of your list. Portugal is a popular destination for digital nomads, retirees, and expats looking to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and rich culture. If you're considering moving to Portugal, the D7 visa is an excellent option. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about the Portugal D7 visa.

Why Portugal ?

Portugal is one of the countries in Western Europe where foreigners immigrate with great pleasure. This is not surprising. Portugal is an adorable distance due to its characteristics: a comfortable climate, mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, a decent standard of living, developed areas of education and medicine, and a relatively low cost of living.

With residency privileges and a fantastic culture, moving abroad to live in Portugal is a no-brainer. For modern immigrants, Portugal has a lot to offer - from thousands of years of history to incredible sights, architecture, cuisine and climate. For the time being. Portugal is becoming a hotspot for international travel and immigration. 

Introduction to the Portugal D7 Visa

The Portugal D7 visa is a long-term residency visa for non-EU citizens who wish to live in Portugal. The visa is designed for those who want to retire in Portugal, work remotely, or start a business. The D7 visa allows you to live in Portugal for up to 2 years, with the option to renew every 3 years. The visa also allows you to bring your family members with you, including your spouse, children, and parents who are financially independent. 

Benefits of the Portugal D7 Visa

The Portugal D7 visa offers a number of benefits for those looking to move to Portugal:

• The visa allows you to live in Portugal for up to 2 years, with the option to renew every 3 years;
• You can bring your family members with you;
• Possibility to work remotely or start a business in Portugal;
• Visa-free access to the Schengen area;
• Tax exemption schemes;
• Portugal citizenship after 5 years of living in the country;
• Portugal offers a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, affordable living, and a warm climate.

Eligibility Criteria for the Portugal D7 Visa

To be eligible for the Portugal D7 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Having a steady income or sufficient savings to support yourself and your family members ( at least 1,000 EUR per month);
• Not having a criminal record;
• Having health insurance that is valid in Portugal;
• Not being in Portugal on a tourist visa or visa waiver;
• Being able to provide proof of accommodation in Portugal;
• Being  in good health.

If you are not sure that you can satisfy all the requirements, please contact us and we advise you accordingly on the best-fit solution. 

The Application Process for the Portugal D7 Visa

The application process for the Portugal D7 visa is straightforward. You must submit your application at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country. The application must include the following documents:

• A valid passport;
• Proof of income or savings;
• Health insurance;
• Criminal record certificate;
• Accommodation proof;
• Application fee. 

Once you've submitted your application, it will be reviewed by the Portuguese authorities. If your application is approved, you'll receive a visa that allows you to enter Portugal. Once you arrive in Portugal, you must apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office.

The Portugal D7 Visa Timeline

The Portugal D7 visa timeline can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you submit your application.

In general, it takes 2-3 months for the Portuguese authorities to process your application. Once your application is approved, you'll receive a visa that allows you to enter Portugal. You must then apply for a residence permit at the local immigration office within 4 months of your arrival in Portugal.

Citizenship Requirements in Portugal

If you're interested in obtaining Portuguese citizenship by naturalization, you must meet the following requirements:

• Having a valid residence permit in Portugal;
• Having lived in Portugal for at least 5 years;
• Having basic knowledge of the Portuguese language;
• Passing a citizenship test;
• Not having a criminal record.

Please note that there is no need to obtain a permanent residence permit before applying for Portugal citizenship by naturalization. ‍

FINAL NOTE 

Who needs a D7 visa for Portugal? This immigration product is only available to non-EU/EEA citizens and non-Swiss citizens. The target audience is representatives of the following groups:

• Retirees: This program is a first-class option for foreign retirees who want to spend their "golden years" in a resort country, receiving a reasonable and regular passive income from abroad.
• Digital Nomads: Remote work enthusiasts are welcome - as long as you have sufficient and stable income.
• Other passive income holders and financially independent persons: For example, rentiers secured by investments in securities, or homeowners who rent out real estate. Evidence of stable income and/or adequate savings is sufficient.

Portugal is an ideal destination for digital nomads and retirees looking for a high quality of life, affordable living, and a warm climate. The D7 visa offers an excellent opportunity to live and work in Portugal, while enjoying all the benefits of this beautiful country. If you're interested in applying for the Portugal D7 visa, contact Golden Harbors today to learn more about our visa services. 

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