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Can I Work on the D7 Visa?

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Last updated on June 4, 2024 | Est. Reading Time: 3 minutes

The D7 visa, often referred to as the “passive income visa,” is a popular option for those looking to relocate to Portugal. The visa requires applicants to show a regular, passive income that’s at least equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage (€820 per month as of 2024).

However, a big question many people have is whether they can work on the D7 visa? This might be something you’re considering if you want to top up your pension or social security income, for example. If you’re able to move before retirement age, for example if you qualify through rental income or income from investments, you may also want to continue working, either for a Portuguese company or remotely.

According to Sandra Gomes Pinto, an expert on Portuguese immigration, it is possible to work in Portugal once you have obtained residency through the D7 visa [source]. This means that D7 visa holders can seek employment within Portugal, work remotely for a company outside of Portugal, or even start their own business.

However, it’s crucial to note that the D7 visa itself does not allow you to move to Portugal based on securing a job or freelancing. The primary purpose of the D7 visa is to facilitate relocation for those with a regular passive income.

D7 Visa Requirements

To qualify for the D7 visa, applicants must demonstrate a regular passive income that is at least equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage, which, as of 2024, stands at €820 per month. This passive income can come from sources such as pensions, social security benefits, rental property income, or dividends.

Alternative Visa Options

For those who do not have a qualifying passive income, there are other visa options available, depending on their specific circumstances:

  1. D8 Visa: Designed for remote workers and freelancers, this visa requires a monthly income of four times the Portuguese minimum wage (€3,280 as of 2024) for a single applicant.
  2. D1 and D3 Visas: These visas cater to individuals who have secured a job offer in Portugal.
  3. D2 Visa: This visa is intended for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Portugal or transfer an existing business to the country.

Conclusion

While the D7 visa allows for work once residency is obtained, it is not a work visa per se. Its primary purpose is to facilitate relocation for those with a regular passive income.

For individuals who don’t meet the D7 visa’s passive income requirements, alternative visa options are available, catering to remote workers, freelancers, employed individuals, and entrepreneurs.