Our D7 Visa Journey: From Paperwork to Possibility
- Rhonda
- Nov 5
- 2 min read
The First Step Toward a New Chapter
When we first heard about Portugal’s D7 Visa, it sounded almost too good to be true — a visa that allows retirees and remote earners to live peacefully in Portugal while enjoying the rhythm of local life. For us, it wasn’t just about residency. It was about possibility.
We weren’t running away from something. We were moving toward something — a slower pace, community, and a connection to nature. But before we could begin this new life, there was one big hurdle to cross: the paperwork.
Gathering the Essentials
The D7 Visa process starts with organization. And trust me — the more organized you are, the less stressful it becomes.
Here’s what we needed to gather before our consulate appointment:
Proof of Income: Bank statements showing consistent passive or retirement income.
Accommodation in Portugal: We secured a long-term rental agreement to meet this requirement.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage valid in Portugal.
Criminal Background Check: Apostilled and translated.
Valid Passports & Photos: Of course, multiple copies!
Personal Statement: Explaining why we wanted to live in Portugal — this is your story on paper.
We started the process months in advance to allow time for delays and apostilles — and it was worth every early start.
The Application Journey
Our appointment at the Portuguese Consulate felt both nerve-wracking and exciting. After submitting our D7 applications, the waiting began. Some days felt long, others flew by. But throughout it all, we reminded ourselves why we were doing this — for peace, purpose, and a life closer to the earth.
When that approval email finally arrived, we exhaled. It wasn’t just a visa approval — it was permission to dream differently.
What We Learned
If you’re planning to apply for the D7 Visa, here are a few things we wish we knew earlier:
Start early. Background checks and apostilles can take longer than expected.
Stay patient. Processing times vary, and it’s completely normal to wait several weeks.
Make copies of everything. Keep both physical and digital backups.
Keep your “why” visible. This process can test your patience — but remembering your dream keeps you grounded.
Looking Ahead
Our D7 Visa wasn’t just a document — it was the doorway to a new life filled with olive trees, kind neighbors, and the rhythm of Portuguese simplicity.
For anyone preparing to take this leap, know this: the process may be bureaucratic, but the reward is immeasurable. Every form, signature, and stamp brings you one step closer to your own valley of peace.
🌿 Follow our journey as we breathe new life into this valley —
one wall, one garden, and one sunrise at a time.
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