What Are My Accommodation Options for the D7 Visa?

Are you dreaming of moving to Portugal but struggling to find suitable accommodation? Don’t worry: you’re not alone!

For most residency visas (D7, D8, D2, D1, and D3), you’ll need proof of accommodation before you can even apply. Sounds a bit backwards, right? Well, that’s just how it works. But don’t fret – thousands of people do this every year.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help make the process a breeze!

How to Find a Rental

As mentioned, the most common way to get that all-important address in Portugal is to rent a property. But how do you do that – especially if you don’t live in Portugal yet.

There are three main avenues, which we’ll explore here.

The Scouting Trip Adventure

The first option is to come to Portugal and find a property to rent.

Picture this: You’re strolling through sun-drenched streets, the scent of freshly baked pastéis de nata wafting through the air as you hop from one apartment viewing to another. That’s the essence of the scouting trip. This hands-on approach allows you to see potential homes with your own eyes, get a real feel for different neighborhoods, and perhaps most importantly, charm potential landlords with your enthusiasm for all things Portuguese.

There’s something irreplaceable about standing in a space, opening windows to check the view, and imagining where your favorite armchair might fit. Plus, you’ll get a tantalizing taste of your future life – maybe even discovering your soon-to-be favorite local café in the process.

Pros:

• You get to see properties and neighborhoods with your own eyes.
• It’s easier to get a feel for landlords or rental agencies in person.
• You’ll get a taste of your future life.

Cons:

• Flights can be expensive, especially if you’re coming from far away, and you’ll have to factor in accommodation costs too.

We are retired US citizens and started our visa process right when the requirement for accommodations changed to an annual lease. Everyone said it is next to impossible to find one, especially in the Algarve. I found one in Vilamoura, however, our scouting appointment was still 2 weeks out April 2023. Well, our amazing realtor and landlord held the 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom 4th floor condo with lift for those two weeks (WOW) The realtor actually showed up at the appointment and showed us the beautiful condo and underground parking. ALL furniture, kitchen dishes, pots and pans, coffee machines, down to the linens are included in the price. NOW the best part, we still needed to apply for our visa and didn’t think we would return to Portugal until January of 2024!!! No problem just pay one month’s deposit and we will hold it (UNRENTED) until January! The rental agreement was sent via e-mail to consider with our attorney and they made changes to our advantage! We have signed legal documents and are ready to go to our VFS San Francisco appointment! We have been blessed step by step in our process. Good luck to fellow adventurers traveling to the beautiful country of Portugal!

Donna

The Virtual House Hunt

Welcome to house-hunting in the digital age.

This method lets you explore the Portuguese real estate market from the comfort of your current home. Start by reaching out to agencies or landlords on popular platforms like Idealista, Remax, Century 21, or even Facebook groups. You’ll take virtual tours via video calls, getting a digital peek into your potential new abode.

This approach is perfect for those who want to take their time, comparing multiple options without the pressure of a ticking vacation clock. Plus, you can do it all in your pajamas if you like!

Pros:

• No need to hop on a plane.
• You can take your time and explore multiple options.

Cons:

• You can’t smell that musty odor or hear the noisy neighbors through a video call.
• It can feel a bit daunting to commit without seeing the place in person.

Note: While some Portuguese rental agents may be hesitant to sign agreements with overseas tenants, it’s becoming increasingly common. Larger agencies like Remax or Century 21 are often more familiar with D7 requirements than private landlords.

What about Airbnbs and hotels? In the past, Airbnb and hotel bookings were often accepted as proof of accommodation. However, this is no longer the case for most visa applications (although it can depend on the consulate). It’s best to stick with a traditional rental or purchased property.

The Property Finder Service: Your Portuguese Real Estate Sidekick

If you want a blend of local expertise and personalized service, a property finder might be your ticket to the perfect Portuguese home. Think of them as your real estate detective, scouring the market for properties that match your wish list.

These savvy locals will not only search for suitable homes but also play detective, vetting potential landlords to ensure you’re dealing with reputable people. They’ll review contracts with a fine-tooth comb, potentially saving you from any legal headaches down the line. Best of all, they’ll visit properties on your behalf, giving you the honest lowdown on everything from the condition of the appliances to the noise level on Saturday nights.

Pros:

• Local expertise at your fingertips.
• They know the market and can often negotiate better deals (or at least, fairer rental contracts).
• Peace of mind, especially if you’re new to Portuguese real estate.
• They’ll do the property search for you, saving you a lot of time you would have otherwise spent on Facebook groups and classifieds websites.

Cons:

• It’ll cost you extra (usually 1-2 months’ rent, so budget €1,000-€2,000 or more for pricier rentals).

Buying a Property

Now, while most folks applying for visas like the D7 opt for renting, some of you might be eyeing those “For Sale” signs. Owning a slice of Portugal can indeed tick the address box for your visa application, but is it the right move? Let’s chew it over.

Take Your Time

Many seasoned expats recommend against buying a property until you’ve lived in Portugal for a year or two. Why? Because it takes time to truly understand which area suits your lifestyle best. You might dream of a quiet countryside retreat, only to realise you prefer the convenience and amenities of a small town or city, or vice versa.

Living in Portugal for a while can help you make a more informed decision about where to put down roots.

On the other hand, though, renting means you will spend thousands that you could otherwise be putting into a mortgage. So there are pros and cons to both options.

Know Portugal Well?

On the other hand, if you’ve already spent significant time in Portugal and have a clear idea of where you want to settle, purchasing a property could be a viable option.

When you’ve explored different regions, experienced the local culture, and found a place that truly feels like home, owning a property can provide a sense of stability and belonging.

Search properties for sale in Portugal

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Before making a decision, consider the following:

• Financial implications: Can you afford the upfront costs and ongoing expenses of homeownership?
• Long-term plans: Do you see yourself living in Portugal for many years, or is there a possibility you might want to relocate in the future?
• Maintenance and responsibilities: Are you prepared to handle the upkeep and any unexpected repairs that come with owning a property?

Ultimately, the decision to buy a property in Portugal depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and familiarity with the country. If you’re unsure, it may be wise to rent first and give yourself time to explore and understand your preferences. If you’re confident in your decision and have the means to purchase a home, it can be a rewarding way to establish roots in Portugal.

Remember, whether you choose to rent or buy, the most important thing is to find a place that feels like home and supports your Portuguese residency journey.