1. Overview
The purpose of this post is to give you a general idea of the process for the D7 and D8 visas, what to expect with the requirements, and ultimately, whether you should attempt it yourself or instruct a company to handle your application. For more detailed information on the different Portuguese residency visas, click here.
Relocating to a new country is a big life decision that comes with its own set of challenges, and navigating the visa process is often one of the most daunting tasks. Securing residency in Portugal requires navigation through what feels like a maze filled with bureaucratic hurdles, complicated requirements, and perplexing paperwork. Whether you’re considering a move for retirement, remote work, or simply a change of scenery, understanding how all the pieces fit together can be overwhelming.
2. D7 or D8 Visa
Obtaining residency in Portugal can be achieved through the D7 and D8 visas. Both are valid for four months and are converted to a 2-year residency permit after you arrive in Portugal. They can be renewed for an additional three years, after which you have the option to apply for permanent residency or citizenship in Portugal, if desired.
The process for the D7 and D8 residency visas is largely the same, although the requirements differ for each. In a nutshell, the D7 is for passive income earners (i.e., people earning a minimum of €820 per month passively, from rental, interest, pension, royalties, etc.) and the D8 is for active income earners (i.e., people earning €3,280 per month actively, from freelance work or a remote salary).
The figure of €820 represents the Portuguese minimum monthly wage, with the D8 visa requiring 4x this on the basis that active income is considered less stable than passive income. A higher monthly amount is required if the main applicant wishes to bring adult and/or child dependents with them.
3. Process
The process for obtaining a D7 or D8 visa:
- Book your visa appointment with your local Portuguese consulate, embassy, or VFS office.
- Gather all the documents required for your D7 or D8 visa.
- Submit all documents in person at your visa appointment.
- Collect your visa (stamped in your passport) roughly 6 to 8 weeks later.
- Move to Portugal on your 4-month D7 or D8 visa.
The process for converting your D7 or D8 visa to a 2-year residency permit:
- After you arrive in Portugal, schedule your residency appointment with AIMA.
- Translate and apostille certain documents, as required.
- Attend appointment, submit documents, and provide biometrics.
- Wait for your residency card to arrive at your Portuguese address.
4. Vague Requirements and Catch-22 Situations
My personal experience with the Portuguese visa process highlighted just how vague and challenging the requirements can be. Despite my legal background and having lived in three different countries, it took me over a year to navigate the system successfully. This, combined with the difficulty of finding a reliable and transparent company, is what led me to establish Relocation Simplified.
The requirements often seem straightforward on paper, but in practice, they can be elusive and subject to interpretation. For example, the financial requirements for the D7 visa, which typically involve proving a ‘steady income’ and ‘sufficient savings,’ can be interpreted differently depending on the applicant’s embassy. Ambiguity is also the cause of numerous Catch-22 situations. For instance, an applicant requires a Portuguese bank account to prove financial stability, but opening an account often requires proof of residency, which you can’t get without a visa. These circular requirements can be incredibly frustrating and stressful, especially for those trying to manage the process independently.
Our experience with clients has shown that no two applications are alike. Each case demands a tailored approach, taking into account various factors based on the applicant’s financial and personal circumstances. While there may be a checklist of standard requirements, real-life applications often contain grey areas that need careful interpretation or direct clarification from Portuguese immigration authorities. Our expertise lies in identifying these nuances and navigating them effectively, ensuring that all potential issues are addressed before they become obstacles, which would otherwise result in your application being rejected.
5. Keeping Updated with the Latest Developments
In recent years, the requirements for Portuguese residency visas have seen numerous updates, reflecting shifts in national policies and international relations. A notable change was the introduction of the D8 Visa in October 2022, which specifically targets digital nomads and remote workers. Before the D8, individuals in these categories typically applied for the D7 Visa, where the criteria were interpreted more broadly. Now, there’s a clear distinction between the D7 and D8 visas, and applicants must carefully choose the right type for their situation.
Even after selecting the correct visa, the specific requirements can change frequently. For instance, there are yearly increases in the financial criteria to reflect the rising national minimum wage in Portugal, while less obvious changes can include more stringent interpretations and additional requirements. Staying updated on these changes is crucial, but understanding how they affect your application can be challenging. If you choose to navigate the process yourself, extensive research will often be necessary, and relying on online forums may not provide accurate or reliable information.
6. Evaluation: DIY or Use a Company
Choosing between handling the Portuguese residency visa process yourself or paying a company for their assistance depends on several factors, including your comfort level with legal documents, your availability, and your financial situation. While the DIY route might seem cost-effective initially, it often involves navigating complex bureaucratic procedures, gathering various documents, and understanding legal jargon. This can be incredibly time-consuming and challenging, as emphasised above.
An important thing to know is that some companies will assess your eligibility for a specific visa type before requiring payment, ensuring that you know which visa to apply for and your likelihood of acceptance before making any commitments. At Relocation Simplified, we confirm an applicant’s eligibility during their free consultation.
If you decide to handle the process on your own, there are still various unavoidable expenses you will face, such as obtaining a NIF, opening a Portuguese bank account, and so forth. While some companies offer these services as costly add-ons, Relocation Simplified includes them as standard in our D7 and D8 Visa Packages. This prevents unexpected expenses and allows you to know the true cost of obtaining your residency visa from the outset.
7. How We Differ From Other Companies
Selective Client Intake: We limit the number of clients we take on each month. This allows us to maintain a high level of service and focus, ensuring that each client receives the attention and support they deserve. By managing our workload carefully, we can provide an unparalleled customer experience and ensure flawless results.
Transparent and Comprehensive Packages: As stated, our visa packages are all-encompassing. Many firms might offer basic visa application services and charge extra for essential add-ons, while these come as standard with our packages. We believe in transparency and providing all the necessary services upfront, so there are no hidden costs or surprises down the line.
Dedicated Relocation Partner: This single point of contact streamlines communication, making it both efficient and dependable, significantly reducing the time you spend on administrative tasks.
Holistic Approach: We don’t just focus on getting you a visa; we assist with your entire relocation process. From helping you understand the nuances of the local culture and legal system to offering support with settling in, our services go beyond mere visa application. We aim to make your move to Portugal as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on starting your new life.
Committed to Excellence: Moving to Portugal doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful. Our commitment to excellence ensures that we provide the highest standard of service, minimising complications and maximising the likelihood of a successful application.
By choosing Relocation Simplified, you’re not just getting a service provider; you’re gaining a dedicated relocation partner who will guide you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to your final settlement in Portugal. To get the ball rolling today, book your free consultation by clicking here.