Portugal D7 visa vs. Portugal Golden Visa: which one is right for you?

Constantin Macri 30/05/2023 | 10:20

What is the D7 visa in Portugal? 

The D7 visa is a type of long-term visa that allows people to live in Portugal for up to one year, renewable for subsequent two-year periods, as long as they can prove that they have sufficient financial means. It is particularly attractive to retirees, freelancers, remote workers, and investors who wish to relocate to Portugal and enjoy the country’s warm climate, rich culture, and affordable living costs. To apply for the D7 visa people need to submit a range of documents, including proof of salary, medical insurance, and criminal record clearance, among others. 

How to obtain a D7 visa? 

Candidates are obliged to provide a certificate attesting to their criminal record, evidence of medical insurance, and confirmation of payment for the Portugal D7 visa fee. Furthermore, it is possible that they will be asked to provide additional documents, including a lease agreement, tax filings, and examining their medical insurance status. 

Benefits of Portugal D7 visa 

It provides a wealth of benefits. Here are some of the advantages of it: 

  1. Residency permit: It allows to get a residency permit, provided they have sufficient funds to support themselves. 
  2. Easy application process: It is straightforward and doesn’t demand a big investment in the country. 
  3. Access to healthcare: holders can register themselves in Portugal’s national healthcare system, which is renowned for its high-quality services. 
  4. Visa-free travel: people can journey without a visa within the Schengen area for up to 3 months within a 180-day period.
  5. Tax incentives: Portugal extends several tax benefits including exemptions on foreign-sourced income. 

Overall, this variant presents numerous advantages, making it an attractive option. 

What is the Golden visa in Portugal? 

It’s a government initiative designed to encourage foreign investment in the country. It offers non-European Union citizens the opportunity to obtain residency in Portugal by making a qualifying investment in the country. The program was launched in 2012, and since then, it has been a popular option for investors looking to gain a foothold in Europe. 

How to obtain a Portugal Golden visa? 

According to Immigrant Invest specialist Zlata Erlach,  investors must meet certain demands, such as investing a minimum of €500,000 in immovables or €350,000 in research and development, among other options. 

Benefits of Portugal Residency by Investment 

This variant has a range of advantages. Let’s look at some benefits of this program: Visa-free travel: It allows investors to journey visa-free throughout the Schengen Area, which comprises 26 countries. Education and healthcare: Portugal has a high-quality education system and public healthcare.

  1. Tax benefits : Non-habitual residents of Portugal can benefit from a 10-year tax exemption on foreign income, as well as reduced tax rates on pensions and other income.
  2. Lucrative prospects for investing in property: Investing in property can be an excellent way to obtain residency while also earning rental income or capital gains.
  3. Access to the European Union: The Portugal residency by investment can lead to citizenship and access to the European Union, with all of the economic and political benefits that come with it.

Overall, this variant offers many benefits for those who are ready to pay money and want a residency in a beautiful and welcoming country with excellent quality of life and business opportunities.

Key differences between programs

Here is a table outlining the comparison of the D7 visa and Golden Visa in Portugal Program:

 

Program D7 Visa Golden Visa
Eligibility Available to non-EU nationals who can prove sufficient financial means to support themselves in Portugal without needing to work. Available to non-EU nationals who invest in Portuguese immovables, create jobs, or make a capital transfer.
Investment required No investment is required, but applicants must show they have sufficient means to support themselves. Minimum investment of €280,000 in Portuguese immovables, or €350,000 in immovables requiring renovation, or €500,000 in any other type of immovables, or €1 million in a capital transfer or investment in a Portuguese company.
The application process  Several months Approximately six months
Residency requirements Must live in the country minimum of 183 days per year Should visit a country minimum of once per year
Visa renewal Must renew visa every year Visa renewed every two years
Citizenship A D7 visa does not lead to citizenship After five years of residency, people can claim a citizenship

Conclusion

Whether the Portugal D7 visa or the Portugal Golden Visa is right for you depends on your necessity. The first variant may be more suitable for those who are looking for a long-term variant to retire or work remotely and have a stable income source. On the other hand, the Golden Visa is more appealing to those who are willing to make a big investment in exchange for a faster path to permanent residency and citizenship.

It is vital to carefully consider the demands, benefits, and limitations of both options before making a decision. Additionally, seeking professional recommendations from an immigration lawyer or consultant can help you navigate the process and make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

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