Are you in search of an immigration lawyer in Porto? Finding the right law firm to advise on immigration matters can significantly simplify your journey.
Whether you need guidance on a residence permit or residence visa application or even navigating the complexities of immigration services, an experienced immigration lawyer or law firm can provide the legal assistance you need.
The immigration process can often feel overwhelming, but with the right immigration lawyer, you can get the detailed advice and legal assistance required to understand and follow immigration law. Their expertise is essential for simplifying the process and ensuring you successfully navigate the steps involved in your move to Porto.
In this article, we’ll explore how specialized immigration lawyers can offer the support you need to make relocating to Porto as seamless as possible.
Immigration Lawyer in Porto: Key Takeaways
⚠️ Portugal Nationality Law Changes 2025
On June 23, 2025, the Portuguese Government announced plans to amend the Nationality Law and the legal framework governing immigration. The proposals have passed the plenary vote on October 28, 2025, which marks a significant step forward in the legislative process.
Among the measures under discussion are an increase in the residence requirement for nationality from five years to ten years – seven years for nationals of CPLP and EU countries – and a change to how residency time is calculated, so that the clock would start when residency is issued rather than when the application is submitted.
These changes are not yet law. They must still undergo Presidential review. At that stage, the President may promulgate the law, issue a veto, or request a review by the Constitutional Court. The final text may still be amended, including any transitional provisions or possible grandfathering rules, but they might not be enacted because the law is not final until its promulgated.
For the latest information regarding these changes, read Portugal Nationality and Citizenship Changes 2025
What services do Porto immigration lawyers offer?
Specialist immigration lawyers in Portugal play a crucial role in simplifying the relocation process for individuals, families, and businesses. With their specialization in Portuguese immigration law, these legal professionals offer valuable guidance throughout your move to Porto. Their expertise extends beyond immigration matters, covering areas such as family law, criminal law, tax law, and assistance with residency permits and citizenship applications.
For non-EU nationals, these Portugal immigration specialist lawyers can help with practical tasks such as opening a bank account in Portugal, registering with the tax authorities, and obtaining a tax identification number in Portugal. They provide comprehensive immigration advice and help clients understand the intricacies of various visa categories.
Working with immigration law firms or specialized immigration lawyers is particularly beneficial for those pursuing the Portugal Golden Visa program. These experts guide you through the investment requirements and ensure that all necessary documentation for visa applications is in order.
They handle the specifics of each visa category, ensuring clients gather all required documents, including a valid passport and proof of health insurance, to make the process as smooth as possible.
How an immigration lawyer can help you move to Porto?
Navigating Portugal’s processes and procedures for obtaining a visa, legal residence permit, or citizenship can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Portuguese legal system. Fortunately, an immigration lawyer in Porto, Portugal, can make this process much smoother. These attorneys offer comprehensive legal assistance, including:
- Representing clients in administrative courts.
- Advising on legal rights and obligations related to immigration matters, ensuring compliance with Portuguese nationality law.
- Providing strategic recommendations based on a deep understanding of immigration law.
- Assisting non-EU and other foreign citizens with visa applications, securing legal work status, and managing all related documentation.
- Guiding clients through the immigration process and liaising with government officials and tax authorities on their behalf.
- Support with investment activities and integration services such as social security registration, obtaining an NIF (taxpayer number), and securing a driver’s license.
Choosing the Right Immigration Lawyer for Porto
When searching for the best immigration lawyers in Porto, Portugal, it’s important to find an English-speaking attorney to ensure effective communication. This is crucial for understanding costs and maintaining transparency throughout the legal process. The right lawyer will provide the legal assistance needed to manage immigration laws effectively.
Global Citizen Solutions offers a range of legal services designed to assist foreign nationals moving to Porto. Our expertise includes:
- Visa applications
- Navigating legal complexities
- Immigration procedures
- Obtaining Portuguese citizenship if eligible
Our legal assistance covers a broad spectrum to address your specific needs, whether you plan to visit Portugal or establish a long-term residence. Our commitment is to help you through every step of the immigration process with a deep understanding of immigration laws.
Questions For Your Porto Immigration Lawyer
Once you’ve decided to work with a Porto immigration lawyer or if you’re assessing whether they are the right fit for you, consider asking the questions below. These questions will help you evaluate if the immigration lawyer or law firm offers the legal services, protection, and valuable guidance needed for a smooth immigration process:
- Do they specialize in immigration law?
- What is their experience level with immigration law?
- How much do their legal services cost?
- What actions and procedures will be undertaken on your behalf?
- What is their strategy for achieving a successful outcome in your immigration process?
- How do they provide valuable guidance and legal support throughout the immigration procedures?
- What is the expected timeline for your immigration process?
- What would they need from you to collaborate effectively?
- How would you describe their communication style and legal protection approach?
- What makes them a good lawyer compared to others in Porto?
Immigration Attorney Fees and Costs in Porto
Immigration lawyer fees in Porto can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the services required, and the lawyer’s experience and reputation.
Some law firms offer a free initial consultation, while others charge for an initial meeting. The hourly rate for an immigration specialist lawyer in Porto typically ranges between €100 and €300, depending on factors such as experience and expertise. You should also budget for the following:
Consultation Fees: Expect to pay for an initial consultation. During this appointment, you can discuss your case and receive preliminary advice on immigration laws.
Visa Applications: The costs associated with visa applications depend on the complexity of the immigration procedures and the level of ongoing legal assistance required.
Legal Representation: If you need comprehensive legal representation throughout your immigration journey, including handling negotiations and potential appeals, fees will be influenced by the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s success track record.
Immigrating to Porto, Portugal: Visa Options
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of professional legal services for your Portugal immigration process let’s explore the visa options available to help you secure residency and eventually get Portugal citizenship.
Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa Program, also known as the residence permit for investment activity (ARI), is a five-year residency-by-investment program specifically designed for non-EU citizens. This program provides a streamlined path to immigrate to Portugal and potentially achieve Portuguese citizenship.
You can transition from a temporary residence permit to permanent residency by maintaining the qualifying investment for at least five years and complying with additional requirements set by Portuguese nationality and immigration laws. You can learn more about this program in our complete Portugal Golden Visa guide.
Portugal D7 Visa
The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Portugal Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, is designed for non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens seeking temporary residency in Portugal. To qualify, you need to meet a minimum income requirement equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage, which is currently €870.
You must also provide Portuguese bank statements showing a minimum balance equal to one year’s minimum wage, which amounts to €10,440.00 during your two-year application period. This amount is calculated as €870.00 x 12 months.
This visa provides a pathway through the immigration process to obtaining a permanent residency permit. After maintaining this status for five years and adhering to the requirements set by Portuguese nationality and immigration laws, you could become eligible for Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal D2 Visa
The Portugal D2 Visa, also known as the Portugal Entrepreneur Visa or the Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa, provides a valuable pathway for non-EU citizens to acquire residency in Portugal. This visa is designed for individuals intending to start a new business or purchase an existing business in the country.
The visa is initially valid for four months, during which the entrepreneur must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit. This residence permit is valid for two years and can be extended for an additional three years. After five years of residing in Portugal, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residence.
Portugal D8 Digital Nomad Visa
Established in October 2022, the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) allows digital nomads to live and work in Portugal for an extended period. With this visa, you can apply for a residency permit valid for up to five years or a temporary stay visa with a maximum duration of one year.
To qualify for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you must earn at least four times the minimum wage in Portugal, which equates to €3,480.00. This visa is part of the broader immigration process and offers a flexible option for those looking to enjoy the benefits of working remotely in Portugal.
Portugal D3 Visa
The Portugal D3 Visa, also known as the Highly Qualified Activity Permit, is a residence visa that allows you to apply for a residence permit initially valid for two years. After this period, you can transition to a temporary Portuguese residence permit or apply for the European Union (EU) Blue Card.
The D3 Visa is also a pathway to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship. After five years of continuous residence in Portugal, a D3 visa holder can apply for permanent residency and eventually seek Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal D6 Visa
The Portugal D6 Visa, also known as the Family Reunification Visa, is designed to help family members of Portuguese residents move to Portugal. If you reside in Portugal under another visa, such as the Portugal D7 Visa or the Portugal D2 Visa, or if you have settled status as an EU citizen, you can apply for the D6 Visa to bring your family members to join you.
A major benefit of the Portugal D6 Visa for foreign nationals is the opportunity to gain permanent residency. After holding this visa and living in Portugal for five years, you and your family can apply for a permanent residence permit and Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal D1 Visa
The Portugal D1 Visa, also known as the Portugal Work Visa, is intended for non-EU citizens who have received a job offer from an employer in Portugal. This visa allows non-EU citizens to move to Portugal and begin their new job.
Once your work visa is approved, you can travel to Portugal and start securing residence. After living and working in Portugal for five years, you can apply for permanent residency. This visa is available for individuals with a job offer in Portugal or those married to Portuguese citizens.
Portugal Student Visa
Non-EU citizens considering studying in Portugal can apply for a Portuguese Student Visa at their nearest Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate in their home country. There are two types of student visas for non-EU citizens:
- Short-term student visa (Type C): This visa is for non-EU citizens who plan to study or conduct research in Portugal for less than 90 days.
- Long-term student visa (Type D): This visa is for students and researchers undertaking studies or research projects in Portugal for more than 90 days.
⚠️ Update on Portugal's Nationality Law Changes
On 28 October 2025, Portugal's parliament approved key amendments of the Nationality Law, including increasing the residency requirement for citizenship from 5 to 10 years, and 7 years for CPLP nationals and EU citizens. This will significantly impact how visa holders and residents acquire citizenship.
However, these changes are not yet law. They must still undergo Presidential review where the President may promulgate the law, issue a veto, or request a review by the Constitutional Court. The final text may still be amended but they might not be enacted because the law is not final until its promulgated.
For the latest information regarding these changes, read Portugal Nationality and Citizenship Changes 2025
Why choose Global Citizen Solutions for your Portugal immigration visa?
Global approach by local experts
- GCS has offices located across Portugal.
- Members of the US-Portugal and UK-Portugal Chambers of Commerce in Portugal and the Investment Migration Council (IMC).
- Our expert team of immigration lawyers can help you throughout your journey to secure your Visa.
100% Approval rate
- Our successful track record in applications provides reassurance to applicants.
- We have helped clients from more than 35 countries secure residency in Portugal.
All-encompassing solution
- With a single channel of communication, our approach ensures that you have complete clarity on your application.
- Our BeGlobal® Onboarding System allows for a total flow of information.
Transparency and privacy
- Our immigration lawyer pricing fee is clear and detailed; you will not face any hidden costs.
- All data is stored within a GDPR-compliant database on a secure SSL-encrypted server.
