Have you been searching for an immigration lawyer in the Algarve and wondering how to find the best one or English-speaking attorneys? If you’re considering relocating to the sunny Algarve region in Portugal with your family, navigating immigration law can feel overwhelming.
Fortunately, the Algarve is a popular destination for foreign nationals, and you will be able to find experienced attorneys ready to offer the legal assistance you need. This article explores how these immigration specialists can provide the necessary support and guidance to help you smoothly transition to living in the Algarve, Portugal. This guide will also cover:
⚠️ 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 kind of legal services can Algarve immigration lawyers provide?
Simplifying the immigration process
Portugal immigration lawyers are crucial in making the immigration process easier for individuals, families, and businesses, both domestic and international. They specialize in Portugal’s immigration law and offer valuable legal services for moving to the Algarve.
Comprehensive legal support
Experienced lawyers provide expertise in various areas, including family law, criminal law, business and commercial law, intellectual property, and tax law. Foreign nationals can depend on these specialists for legal support in tasks such as opening a bank account, registering with authorities, and obtaining necessary documents like the NIF and social security number (NISS).
Guidance on residence permits
These attorneys offer third-country nationals a detailed overview of Portugal’s residence permits, including Golden Visas and Digital Nomad Permits. They provide tailored advice to help clients choose the right residency visa based on their nationality and needs.
Document preparation for visa applications
Immigration specialist attorneys are essential for gathering and preparing the necessary documents for visa applications. The best immigration lawyers in the Algarve ensure that all requirements, such as a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and proof of health insurance, are met and that documentation is accurate and complete.
Why You Need an Immigration Lawyer in the Algarve
Securing a visa, legal residence permit, or Portuguese citizenship can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with Portugal’s processes and procedures. Attorneys who are well-versed in the Portuguese legal system and immigration law, which follow civil law principles, can simplify the immigration process and provide peace of mind.
In the Algarve, immigration specialists offer a range of services, including:
- Representing clients in administrative courts.
- Providing counsel on legal rights and obligations related to immigration matters while ensuring clients fulfill all criteria according to Portuguese nationality law.
- Recommending appropriate courses of action based on a deep understanding of immigration law.
- Assisting non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss, and other foreign citizens with processes, including visa applications and gaining legal work status in Portugal.
- Guiding clients through the process and assisting with completing necessary documentation and steps accurately.
- Liaising with Portuguese government officials and authorities on their client’s behalf during the visa application process.
- Providing legal assistance with investment activities.
Choosing the Right Immigration Lawyer in the Algarve
Choosing the right lawyer is crucial when navigating the complexities of Portuguese immigration law. To ensure effective communication, it’s important to seek experienced immigration attorneys who serve domestic and international clients, especially English-speaking ones. Additionally, evaluating associated costs is essential for maintaining transparency throughout the legal process.
Global Citizen Solutions offers a team of expert English-speaking immigration lawyers in the Algarve, Portugal. This makes them an excellent choice for foreign nationals requiring comprehensive legal services, including visa applications and permanent residency.
Our immigration specialist attorneys are highly qualified to guide clients through the intricacies of immigration, address legal issues, and ensure successful outcomes. Whether you’re planning to visit Portugal or establish long-term residence, our legal services cover all aspects of immigration law and, if necessary, even criminal law.
Questions to Ask Your Algarve Immigration Lawyer
Once you’ve chosen an immigration attorney in the Algarve – or are evaluating whether they’re the right fit – consider asking these essential questions to ensure they meet your needs:
- Do they specialize in immigration law? Confirm that their focus is on immigration to get the most relevant expertise.
- What’s their experience with immigration cases? Learn about their background in handling immigration law, including their experience with foreign nationals and complex cases.
- What is the cost of their service? Understand their fee structure and what’s included in their legal services.
- What actions and procedures will they undertake on your behalf? Clarify the specific steps they will manage during the immigration process.
- What is their strategy for achieving your permanent residency in the Algarve? Get their opinion on the best approach to relocate and secure residency.
- How likely is a successful outcome? Gauge their confidence in achieving a positive result for your immigration case.
- What is the expected timeline for your immigration process? Determine how long the entire process will take from start to finish.
- What do they need from you to work on your immigration case? Find out what documents or information they require to proceed effectively.
These questions will help you understand the capabilities of the law firm and ensure that their approach aligns with your needs for a smooth immigration experience in the Algarve.
Understanding Fees and Costs of Immigration Attorneys in the Algarve
With many law firms in the Algarve, finding the right team to handle your immigration needs is crucial. The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the specific 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 the Algarve region typically ranges between €100 and €300, depending on factors such as experience and expertise. You will also need to budget for the following:
- Consultation Fees: Most law firms charge for an initial consultation, during which you can discuss your case and receive preliminary advice. This fee helps you understand the potential costs and approach.
- Application Assistance: Fees for helping with specific visa applications, such as residence visas, will depend on the complexity of the process and the level of ongoing support needed. Whether you’re applying for a residence visa or other permits, costs can vary.
- Full Legal Representation: If you require comprehensive legal representation, including handling negotiations with authorities and potential appeals, the cost will reflect the complexity and duration of your case. This includes managing all aspects of your immigration journey, from initial applications to any required criminal law considerations.
Navigating Visa Options for Moving to the Algarve, Portugal
Below, we look at the visa options available for obtaining residency and, eventually, Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa Program, officially known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), is a five-year residency-by-investment scheme designed for non-EU citizens. By making a qualifying investment and meeting the requirements set by Portuguese immigration and nationality laws, you can gain residency and, eventually, the opportunity to become a Portuguese citizen. The investment must be maintained for at least five years to achieve permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship.
⚠️ 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
Portugal D7 Visa
The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Portugal Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, allows non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizens to apply for temporary residency in Portugal. To qualify for the D7 Visa, you must meet the monthly minimum income requirement of at least equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage, which is currently €870. This income can come from various sources, including social security benefits, rental income, dividends, transferable equity, and intellectual property.
Additionally, you must 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 serves as a pathway to obtaining a Portuguese residence permit. If you continue to meet the requirements set by Portuguese immigration and nationality laws, you may be eligible for Portuguese citizenship after five years.
Portugal D2 Visa
The Portugal D2 Visa, also known as the Portugal Entrepreneur Visa or Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa, is a pathway for non-EU foreign nationals to obtain residency in Portugal by starting or purchasing a business. The D2 Visa offers the Entrepreneur Route and the Independent Service Provider Route.
The visa is initially valid for four months, during which you must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit. This residence permit is valid for two years and can be extended for three years. After five years of residency, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship or a permanent residence permit.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) offers remote workers the opportunity to live and work in Portugal. This visa allows foreign nationals to apply for either a residency permit, which can be extended for up to five years, or a temporary stay visa, valid for up to one year.
To qualify for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, you must earn at least four times Portugal’s minimum wage, which amounts to €3,480 per month. This visa provides a flexible path to temporary and permanent residency, helping digital nomads enjoy life in Portugal while working remotely.
Portugal D3 Visa
The Portugal D3 Visa, also known as the Highly Qualified Activity Permit, is a residence visa that allows holders to apply for a residence permit initially valid for two years. After this period, you can transition to a permanent residence permit or apply for the EU Blue Card.
The Portugal D3 Visa is also a pathway to permanent residency and EU citizenship. After five years of continuous residence in Portugal, D3 Visa holders can apply for permanent residency and eventually become Portuguese citizens.
To apply for the D3 Visa at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate, you must already have a valid employment or self-employment contract (or a promise of such contracts) with a company based in Portugal.
Portugal D6 Visa
The D6 Visa Portugal, also known as the Family Reunification Visa or Family Reunion Visa, allows family members of Portuguese residents to move to Portugal. If you live in Portugal on 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 a D6 Visa to bring your family members to join you.
After holding this residence visa and residing in Portugal for five years, you and your family members can apply for a permanent residence permit and work towards Portuguese citizenship. This makes the D6 Visa valuable for those seeking long-term settlement and integration into Portuguese life.
Portugal D1 Visa
If you’re a non-EU citizen with a job offer from a Portuguese employer, the Portugal D1 Visa – often called the Portugal Work Visa – is your gateway to living and working in Portugal. This residence visa allows you to apply for a residence permit once you’ve secured your job offer. The Portugal D1 Visa is specifically for foreign nationals employed in Portugal or married to Portuguese citizens. Once approved, this visa lets you live and work in Portugal. After five years of legal residence and employment, you can apply for permanent residency.
Portugal Student Visa
Non-EU students considering studying in Portugal can apply for a Portuguese Student Visa (sometimes known as a Study Visa) at their nearest Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate in their home country. There are two Portugal student visa types for non-EU citizens:
- Short-term student visa (Type C): This is a short-stay visa for non-EU citizens who plan to undertake a course or a research project in Portugal for less than 90 days.
- Long-term student visa (Type D): This is a long-stay visa for students and researchers undertaking studies or research projects in Portugal for over 90 days.
Why choose Global Citizen Solutions for your 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 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 solutions
- 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 pricing 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.
