D7 Visa Renewal After 2 Years (2026 Update)
If your initial Portuguese D7 residence permit is about to expire after 2 years, you must renew it with AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo). Below is the complete list of updated documents and requirements for 2026.
📌 1. Valid Passport
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
- Bring the original plus a photocopy of the bio-data page.
- Include any Portuguese entry stamps if available.
📌 2. Current Residence Permit (Título de Residência)
- Original residence card (D7).
- Photocopy (front and back).
📌 3. Proof of Sufficient Subsistence (2026 Income Requirements)
Portugal’s national minimum wage in 2026 is €920/month, and this is the basis for D7 income requirements.
| Applicant | Monthly Requirement |
|---|---|
| Main Applicant | €920 |
| Spouse / Dependent Adult | €460 (50%) |
| Dependent Child | €276 (30%) |
Acceptable proof:
- Last 6 months of Portuguese bank statements
- Pension statements
- Rental or dividend income statements
- Savings covering at least 12 months of required income
- Latest Portuguese tax return (IRS Modelo 3)
📌 4. Portuguese NIF (Tax Number)
Your NIF should already be on the AIMA file. Bring proof if requested.
📌 5. Proof of Legal Residence in Portugal
- Registered rental contract (Contrato de Arrendamento) filed with Finanças
- Property deed (Escritura)
- Recent utility bill in your name
- Atestado de Residência from your Junta de Freguesia
If renting, make sure the contract is correctly registered with Portuguese tax authorities.
📌 6. Portuguese Criminal Record Check
AIMA typically obtains your Portuguese criminal record automatically (with your consent on the form). Foreign certificates are rarely required for renewals.
📌 7. Health Coverage
- Proof of registration with the Portuguese National Health System (SNS), OR
- Valid private health insurance covering Portugal
In most cases, SNS registration is sufficient for renewal.
📌 8. Tax Compliance
Provide one of the following:
- Latest IRS return (Modelo 3)
- Certidão de Não Dívida (tax compliance certificate) from Portal das Finanças
📌 9. Social Security Status (If Applicable)
If you have worked or been self-employed in Portugal, include:
- Social Security contribution history
- Certificate of exemption if applicable
If your income is only passive, this is usually not required.
📌 🔟 AIMA Renewal Application Form
Download or complete your renewal form via the official AIMA portal:
Many renewals now use an online pre-application followed by a biometric appointment.
💳 Renewal Fee (2026)
The approximate fee is €180–€220 per applicant. Accepted payment methods may vary by office (debit card, Multibanco, etc.). Confirm with your local AIMA appointment.
⏳ When to Renew
You can renew up to 6 months before your card expires. Some offices may allow renewal within a legal grace period if expiry has passed, so check with AIMA if needed.
📌 Absences from Portugal
To qualify for renewal, you generally must not have been absent from Portugal for more than:
- 6 consecutive months OR
- 8 non-consecutive months during the validity period.
Exceptions exist for work or family reasons (documented evidence recommended).
📌 After Renewal
This renewal normally grants a 3-year residence permit and continues your path toward:
- Permanent residency (typically after 5 years)
- Portuguese citizenship (after 5 years + A2 language requirement)
📌 Practical Tips for Your Appointment
- Organise all documents in order and print extra copies
- Bring documents in a clearly labelled folder
- Arrive early for your appointment
- Confirm payment methods with your AIMA office in advance
FAQs
Can I renew if my card has already expired?
Many offices allow renewal within a short post-expiry grace period, but confirm with AIMA first.
Do I need proof of income from Portugal itself?
Proof of a stable income stream (Portuguese bank statements, pensions, savings) is essential — income solely outside Portugal can still count if clearly documented.
Is private health insurance required?
Generally no if you are enrolled in the SNS, but some applicants choose insurance for extra coverage.
