Immigration Lawyer Lisbon: Expert Legal Services for Expats

Are you in search of the best immigration lawyer in Lisbon, Portugal? Then, the chances are that you’re wondering how to find the best law firm to advise on matters such as a real estate purchase, taxes, securing work permits and professional visa, or attaining a residence permit. Perhaps you’re even looking into becoming a Portuguese citizen in order to start a new life in the Portuguese capital.

Legal needs and immigration services such as these can make the whole process of immigrating to a new city in a different country seem daunting and sometimes even overwhelming.

In this article, we’ll explore how Lisbon immigration lawyers can provide the legal solutions, advice, professional guidance, and assistance you might need to make the process smoother right from the first step.

What does a Lisbon immigration lawyer do?

Immigration lawyers play a vital role in simplifying the intricate process of moving abroad for domestic and international clients, including individuals, families, and businesses.

With specialization in Portugal’s immigration law and extensive industry expertise, these legal professionals are well-versed in the Portuguese legal system as well as international law, and can offer professional guidance in various legal matters as you work through the process of moving to Lisbon. In some cases, they provide legal expertise in family law, criminal law, international law, business, and tax law — making their services valuable.

Third country nationals can also rely on immigration lawyers to help them set up a bank account, register with the tax authorities, get their NIF number, and other important tasks.

Immigration-specialized lawyers can also provide non-EU nationals with a complete overview of all the residence permits offered by Portugal, such as Golden Visas, Digital Nomad Permits, family reunification visas, and more. These experienced lawyers will help clients choose the visa that best suits their needs based on their nationality, intent, and background.

When it comes to gathering necessary documentation for visa applications, immigration lawyers prove indispensable. While the standard prerequisites typically include a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and proof of health insurance, Portugal immigration lawyers delve deeper into the specifics. They navigate the intricacies of each visa category, ensuring that clients compile the required documents accurately.

Working with a law firm is also beneficial in terms of communication with the Portuguese immigration and borders service, AIMA, which recently replaced SEF in this role.

Beyond dealing with visas, residence permits and other aspects of immigration admin work, a law firm can also help with real estate investments. If you’re moving to Portugal, and intend to buy property, a lawyer can help you to review legal documents and to understand the tax implications of your real estate purchase.

Why You Need an Immigration Lawyer in Lisbon

Obtaining a visa, legal residence permit or citizenship can be difficult if you are unfamiliar with Portugal’s processes and procedures, so working with an immigration law firm is highly advisable. Specializing in the Portuguese legal system, particularly Portuguese immigration policy, immigration lawyers make this complex process hassle-free and, most importantly, offer you peace of mind.

Lisbon immigration lawyers can provide services that include:

• 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 civil law, business law, and immigration law.
• Proving legal support by assisting non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss, and other foreign citizens with the residency process, including applications for residence visas, Portuguese nationality, and gaining legal work status in Portugal.
• Guiding clients through a smooth immigration process and assisting with completing necessary documentation and steps accurately.
• Liaising with Portuguese government officials and tax authorities during the visa application process on their client’s behalf.
• Providing legal assistance with investment activities.

Choosing the Right Immigration Lawyer for Lisbon

Selecting the right lawyer is a critical decision when dealing with the intricacies of the Portuguese legal system. It is essential to seek experienced immigration lawyers who cater to both domestic and international clients, with a particular focus on English-speaking immigration lawyers, to ensure effective communication. Evaluating the associated fees is also crucial to maintaining transparency throughout the legal process.

Equipped with an expert team of English-speaking immigration lawyers in Lisbon, Portugal, and offering a range of legal services, Global Citizen Solutions is a smart choice for foreign nationals moving to Lisbon.

Our immigration lawyers specialize in guiding clients through visa applications, adeptly navigating legal complexities, and ensuring successful outcomes. Whether you plan to visit Portugal or establish a long-term residence, our legal services cover a broad spectrum to address your specific needs.

Questions to Ask Your Lisbon Immigration Lawyer

Once you have decided on a law firm and an immigration attorney in Lisbon to work with, or if you would like to gauge if they would be the right fit, here are a few essential questions to ask:

• Do they specialize in immigration law?
• What is their experience level with immigration law?
• How much does their service cost?
• What actions and procedures will be undertaken on your behalf?
• What is their opinion on the best strategy for you to move to Lisbon?
• In their view, how likely is a successful outcome?
• What is the timeline for your immigration process?
• What will they need from you to successfully work on this process together?

Understanding Fees and Costs of Immigration Attorneys in Lisbon

There are many law firms in Lisbon, so working out the best one for your needs is crucial.

Immigration lawyer fees in Lisbon can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the specific services you require, and the lawyer’s experience and reputation.

Some law firms will offer a free initial consultation, while others will charge for an initial meeting. The hourly rate for an immigration lawyer in Lisbon typically ranges between €100 and €300, depending on factors such as experience and expertise.

Immigrate to Lisbon, Portugal: Explore your Visa Options

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of seeking out professional legal services to assist you with your Portugal immigration journey, it’s time to take a look at the visa options that could successfully lead you to obtain Portuguese residency (and, therefore, EU residency) and, eventually, Portuguese citizenship.

Remember that each of these visas has its own eligibility criteria and requirements for those seeking to move to Portugal. Evidence of health insurance and opening a Portuguese bank account, for instance, might be necessary. Immigration lawyers can help you navigate these eligibility requirements and gather the necessary documentation to apply for your residence visa.

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 scheme for non-EU citizens.

The Golden Visa is one of the easiest ways to immigrate to Portugal. This program offers the visa holder the opportunity to become a permanent resident or a Portuguese citizen if the qualifying investment made is kept for at least a five-year period and additional requirements set forth by the Portuguese immigration and nationality laws are obeyed. Another key benefit of the program is that enables successful applicants to enjoy visa-free travel to Europe’s Schengen Area.

You should also consider hiring an accredited Portugal Golden Visa lawyer, who will help you navigate Portugal’s famous residency-by-investment program for a seamless experience.

As of October 2023, there have been changes to the investment options for the Portugal Golden Visa. Discover more about the program in our article  Portugal Golden Visa 2024: New Rules and Complete Guide. The major changes include a discontinuation of both the capital transfer and the real estate investment option.

While a real estate investment no longer qualifies for the Golden Visa, purchasing real estate in Portugal can still be a worthwhile investment opportunity, enabling you to generate income from renting out and selling a property. In this instance, working with immigration lawyers can be hugely beneficial, as they can provide guidance on matters such as contract drafting, due diligence, and tax implications.

Portugal D7 Visa

The Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Portugal Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, enables non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizens to apply for temporary residency in Portugal, which has become a popular destination for retirement in recent years. To be eligible for the D7 visa, you will need to meet the minimum income requirements of €3,040 per month.

The D7 Visa is a pathway to obtaining a permanent residency permit and, after a five-year period, depending on the requirements set forth by Portuguese immigration and nationality laws being obeyed, the possibility of obtaining Portuguese citizenship.

Portugal D2 Visa

The  Portugal D2 Visa, also referred to as the Portugal Entrepreneur Visa or the Immigrant Entrepreneur Visa, is a gateway for entrepreneurs who are non-EU citizens to acquire residency in Portugal. It’s issued to individuals intending to start a new business or purchase an existing business in the country. There are two types of Portugal D2 Visas: the Entrepreneur Route and the Independent Service Provider Route.

The visa is valid for four months, during which the entrepreneur must enter Portugal and apply for a residence permit. The residence permit is valid for two years and can be extended for three years. After a five-year period of residency, applying for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residence is possible.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Introduced in October 2022, the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) allows digital nomads to live or work in Portugal for a set period. Remote workers can use the Digital Nomad Visa to apply for a residency permit that can be extended for up to five years or a temporary stay visa with a maximum validity of one year. You are eligible for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa if you earn four times Portugal’s minimum wage or more. This comes to $3,350 (€3,040) every month.

Portugal D3 Visa

The  Portugal D3 Visa, also known as a Highly Qualified Activity Permit, is a residence visa that allows holders to apply for a residence permit that is initially valid for two years. After this, the holder of the D3 Visa can apply for a temporary Portuguese residence permit or the European Union (EU) Blue Card.

The D3 Visa Portugal is also a path toward permanent residency and EU citizenship. If you are a D3 Visa holder, after five years of living permanently in Portugal, you can apply to obtain residency and eventually get Portuguese citizenship.

To apply for the D3 Visa at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate, the applicant must already have a valid employment contract or a self-employed contract (a promise of work contract or a promise of a self-employed contract are also eligible) to provide services to a company based in Portugal.

Portugal D6 Visa

The Portugal D6 Visa, also called the Family Reunification Visa, allows family members of Portuguese residents to move to Portugal. If you are living in Portugal on another visa, like the Portugal D7 Visa or the Portugal D2 Visa, or have settled status as an EU citizen, you can apply for a D6 Visa to bring your spouse, partner, or family to live with you in the country.

One of the main benefits of the Portugal D6 Visa for foreign nationals is the prospect of permanency. After holding this visa and residing in Portugal for five years, individuals and their family members can apply for a permanent residence permit and obtain Portuguese citizenship.

Portugal D1 Visa

Also known as the Portugal Work Visa, the Portugal D1 Visa allows non-EU citizens who have accepted a job offer from an employer in Portugal. Once you receive your job offer, you can start the process of applying for a Portugal work visa.

This type of visa is valid only for non-EU citizens who have landed a job in Portugal or are married to Portuguese citizens. When your request for a work visa in Portugal gets approved, you can travel to Portugal and begin the process of obtaining a residence. After five years of living legally and working in Portugal, you can apply for permanent residency.

Learn more in our article  Portugal Work Visa for Expats: Everything You Need to Know.

Portugal Student Visa

Non-EU students 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 Portugal types of student visas 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.

Portuguese citizenship

Whether you’re eligible for Portuguese citizenship through descent, marriage, or naturalization, navigating the application process can be complex and time-consuming. You’ll need to submit a lot of paperwork and provide evidence of your eligibility. This is why working with a team of English-speaking lawyers in Portugal with a thorough understanding of the Portuguese legal system can be invaluable in helping you prepare an application that has the best possible chance of success.

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 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 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.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lisbon Immigration Lawyers

How can a Lisbon immigration attorney help me navigate Portugal's immigration law system?

A Lisbon immigration attorney can decipher Portugal’s complex system, advising on visa options, application procedures, and potential pitfalls. Utlimately, experienced lawyers in Lisbon can save you time and stress.

Can an immigration law firm help me register with tax authorities in Lisbon?

Some attorneys offer additional services like tax registration, but it’s best to confirm. Alternatively, tax authorities like Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (AT) guide you through the process.

How can I find the best immigration lawyers in Lisbon, Portugal?

If you’re trying to find the best immigration lawyer in Lisbon, Portugal, for your needs, research law firms that have experienced immigration lawyers with relevant expertise and a proven track record with your specific visa type or the issue that you’re trying to resolve.

To find the top immigration lawyers in Lisbon, Portugal, make sure to read online reviews, compare fees, and schedule consultations to find the lawyer who best aligns with your needs and budget.

Is it easy to find an English-speaking immigration lawyer in Lisbon, Portugal?

Finding an English-speaking immigration lawyer in Lisbon, Portugal, is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s vibrant expat community and its growing position as a global tech hub. Many law firms cater specifically to English-speaking clients, offering expertise in Portuguese immigration law.

How much does an immigration lawyer cost in Lisbon?

The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer in Lisbon can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the services required. Generally, fees for immigration lawyers in Lisbon may range from €100 to €300 per hour. Some lawyers may also offer flat rates for specific services such as visa applications or residency permits. It’s advisable to consult with multiple lawyers to compare rates and services offered before making a decision.

What services do immigration lawyers in Lisbon typically offer to cater to the needs of both domestic and international clients?

Immigration lawyers in Lisbon serve both local residents and individuals from abroad by offering comprehensive legal assistance. They handle various matters, such as visa applications, residency permits, citizenship acquisition, and navigating complex immigration laws, ensuring clients’ compliance with both national and international regulations.

Do I need an immigration lawyer to move to Lisbon, Portugal?

While it’s not mandatory to hire an immigration lawyer in order to move to Lisbon, Portugal, it’s highly recommended that you do so. Navigating the immigration process can be complex, and receiving legal help from an experienced professional can be indispensable.