Immigration Lawyer Porto: All You Need to Know in 2024

If you’ve looked up “immigration lawyer Porto,” you’re probably exploring how to find the best law firm to advise you on immigration matters such as a real estate purchase and other property matters, taxes, securing a work permit, or maybe attaining a residence permit (or residency visa). Perhaps you’re even entertaining the idea of becoming a Portuguese citizen to relocate and start a new life in Portugal’s second-largest city.

Immigration services and legal solutions such as these can make the process of immigrating to a new city in a new country seem daunting, perhaps even overwhelming.

In this article, we’ll look at how immigration lawyers can provide the detailed advice, guidance, and legal assistance you might need to make the move to Porto.

What services do Porto immigration lawyers offer?

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

Equipped with specialization in Portuguese immigration law and extensive industry expertise, legal professionals can provide valuable guidance in legal matters as you work through the process of moving to Porto. In some cases, they can support you with expertise in family law, criminal law, business, residency permits, citizenship applications, and tax law, making their services valuable.

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

Specialized immigration lawyers can also provide non-EU nationals with a complete overview of residence permits. These immigration lawyers provide their clients with the immigration advice they need to help them choose the visa that best suits their needs based on their nationality, intent, and background.

In particular, it can be very beneficial to work with immigration lawyers for the Portugal Golden Visa program through investment.

When it comes to gathering the necessary documentation that you’ll need to submit for visa applications, immigration attorneys could prove indispensable.

Standard prerequisites typically include a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and proof of health insurance, but Portugal immigration lawyers delve deeper into the specifics. They navigate the intricacies of each visa category, ensuring that clients compile the required documents accurately.

How an Immigration Lawyer Can Help You Move to Porto

Obtaining a visa, legal residence permit, or citizenship can be complex and frustrating if you’re not familiar with Portugal’s processes and procedures.

With sound knowledge and understanding of the Portuguese legal system, attorneys make the immigration process hassle-free.

Porto 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 immigration law.
• Assisting non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss, and other foreign citizens with processes that include applications for visas and gaining legal work status in Portugal.
• Guiding clients through the 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.
• Integration services, such as social security registration, obtaining a social security number, obtaining a NIF (taxpayer number), and getting a driver’s license.

Choosing the Right Immigration Lawyer for Porto

There are various types of clients who would seek advice from an immigration lawyer, including investors and entrepreneurs, students and academic professionals, as well as families and individuals seeking family reunification.

In this context, selecting a good lawyer, who is also the right lawyer for your needs, is a critical decision when dealing with the intricacies of the Portuguese legal system.

With this in mind, it is essential to seek experienced lawyers, with a particular focus on English-speaking Portugal immigration lawyers, to ensure that you are able to have effective communication. Evaluating the associated costs is also crucial in terms of maintaining transparency during the legal process.

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

Our Portuguese 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 For Your Porto Immigration Lawyer

Once you’ve decided on an immigration attorney in Porto to work with, or if you would like to gauge if they would be the right fit, here are a few questions you may want to consider asking:

• 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 Porto?
• In their view, how likely is a successful outcome for you?
• What is the timeline for your immigration process?
• What would they need from you to work on the immigraiton process together?

Immigration Attorney Fees and Costs in Porto

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

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

Consultation fees: Expect to pay for an initial consultation. At this appointment, you’ll be able to discuss your case and receive preliminary advice.

Application assistance: Costs for assistance with specific visa applications vary based on the complexity of the process and ongoing support needs.

Full representation: If you need comprehensive legal representation throughout your immigration journey, including negotiations with authorities and potential appeals, costs will depend on case complexity and duration.

Immigrating to Porto, Portugal: 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 residency and, eventually, Portuguese citizenship.

Remember that each of these visas has its own eligibility criteria and specific requirements for those seeking to move to Portugal. For example, you may to provide evidence of health insurance and to open a Portuguese bank account. Immigration lawyers can help you navigate these legal 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 for those with significant financial means.

This program offers the visa holder the opportunity to become a permanent resident or a citizen of Portugal if the qualifying investment made is kept for at least a five-year period and additional requirements established by the Portuguese immigration and nationality laws are obeyed.

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

In October 2023, changes were made regarding the investment options for the Portugal Golden Permit, eliminating real estate investments.

Discover more about the program in our article Portugal Golden Visa 2024: New Rules and Complete Guide.

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. To be eligible for the D7 Visa, you’ll need to meet a minimum income 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 known 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.

This visa is valid for four months; during this time, 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, it’s possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residence.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Established 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, which can be extended for up to five years or a temporary stay visa with a maximum validity of one year.

You’re 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, such as 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 key 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.

Learn more in our article  D6 Visa Portugal: A Comprehensive Guide to The Family Reunification Visa.

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 who are considering studying in Portugal may apply for a Portuguese Student 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.

You can discover more about the study visa option in our Portugal Student Visa article.

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 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.

FAQs About Porto Immigration Lawyers

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

A Porto immigration attorney can help a foreign national by deciphering Portugal’s complex system, advising on visa options, application procedures, and potential pitfalls, and communicating with the Portuguese borders and immigration service, saving you time and stress.

How can I find the best immigration law firm in Porto?

Research law firms that have experienced immigration lawyers in Porto with relevant expertise in your specific visa type. For each law firm, read online reviews, compare lawyer costs, and schedule consultations to find the lawyer who best aligns with your needs and budget.

Is it easy to find English-speaking immigration lawyers in Porto?

Finding English-speaking immigration lawyers in Porto is relatively easy. Many law firms cater specifically to English-speaking clients, and these law firms offer foreign nationals a high level of professional service and expertise in Portugal’s immigration law.

What are the requirements for professional lawyers to practice in Portugal?

Ensure that any immigration attorney you consult with has a law degree and is registered with the Portuguese bar association, as these are essential to practice law in Portugal.

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

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