Portugal has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for those seeking a secure pathway to European residency. The country has streamlined and well-regulated Portuguese residency visas that allow individuals to stay in Portugal and establish a foothold in the heart of Europe, establishing stability and access to a vibrant European lifestyle.
From the Golden Visa or long-stay permits, Portugal is a pragmatic choice for foreign citizens looking to start a new life chapter. This article explores the essential details of the Portugal residency visa options and demonstrates the straightforward process and benefits to those who embark on their Portuguese residency journey.
How many visas are there in Portugal?
There are three categories of Portugal Visa types:
- A short-stay visa is also known as a Schengen Visa. They are issued for foreigners visiting Portugal for tourism, business, or medical treatment. The tourist visa allows foreigners to enter national territory and is valid for up to 90 days.
- A temporary stay visa or temporary permit is usually valid for up to a year.
- Long stay visas, also known as residency visas. These are for stays of one year or more.
Our article, Portugal Visa Entry Requirements, offers more detailed information.
What are Residency Visas in Portugal?
A Portuguese Embassy or Consulate issues residency visas to facilitate an individual’s entry into Portugal.
Post-entry, the holder of this visa will schedule a meeting with the Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA, which replaced Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras or SEF) for their residence permit.
These visas allow two entries and are typically valid for 120 days.
Portugal offers various types of residency visas, including visas for work, study, and investment. Each visa has its requirements and criteria that the applicant must meet.
Portugal Residency Visas
D2 – Entrepreneur Visa
The D2 Visa is a work visa designed for individuals who intend to engage in independent professional activities or start a business in Portugal. The Portuguese government introduced it to raise external resources and investments to boost the economy.
This type of visa is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals who wish to take advantage of the growing business opportunities in Portugal.
To qualify for a D2 Visa, you must present a solid business plan for any industry that indicates how your business will contribute to the Portuguese economy. You must also demonstrate adequate financial resources in your bank account to run the business. Please note that the business should also be set up before you apply for the visa.
D3 Qualified Workers Visa
The D3 Visa is designed for highly skilled professionals such as scientists, researchers, and academics whom Portuguese institutions invite.
To be eligible for this Portuguese visa, the applicant must have a work or services contract or a promise that falls under the category of highly qualified activity. The contract must be for at least one year, and the salary depends on the applicant’s activity; usually, it must be at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Portugal.
D6 Family Reunification Visa
The D6 Visa Portugal is the main instrument that facilitates this family reunification. Specifically designed with family members in mind, this visa allows individuals to reunite with their family unit in Portugal.
The D6 Visa holder can partake in regular activities in Portugal, reside with family members, and work or pursue educational opportunities throughout the country. This makes the transition smoother as it allows the visa holder to fully participate in Portuguese society, contributing economically and socially to the country.
One of the significant benefits of the D6 Visa is the prospect of permanency. After residing in Portugal for five years, visa holders can apply for permanent residency.
It’s important to note that applying for the D6 Visa and the subsequent potential for a Portugal residence permit involves an in-depth process. Applicants must show financial capacity to provide and provide evidence of their direct ascendant or family relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates.
D7 Retirement Visa
The D7 Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa or the Passive Income Visa, is an excellent option for individuals with a consistent income source from properties, financial investments, or pensions. This visa is perfect for individuals who do not need to work in Portugal but wish to live there.
D7 applicants must demonstrate a stable and regular source of income from pensions, property rentals, interest income, or financial investments to support their stay in Portugal.
The income in your Portuguese bank account should be sufficient for you and your family members. The amount should be at least equivalent to the Portuguese minimum wage, which is currently €820.00 per month (€9,840.00 per year). Eligible income sources include pensions, rental, interest, or other non-salaried sources.
The D7 benefits include visa-free access to the countries in the European Union, access to Portuguese public services, and a pathway to a Portuguese residence permit.
In addition, as a D7 Visa holder, you can become a Portuguese tax resident and benefit from the NHR (non-habitual residency) scheme, which has several tax advantages but is soon to come to an end.
Is NHR ending?
The State Budget Law for 2024 determined the end of the NHR regime from 1st January 2024. However, certain individuals can still apply up until 31st March 2025, and the scheme is being replaced by the Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation, which has now been implemented. To learn more, please refer to Is The Portugal NHR Ending?
D8 Digital Nomad Visa
In 2022, Portugal introduced a new Digital Nomad Visa program, enabling remote workers to live and work from Portugal. This initiative is part of a growing global trend. Many countries now offer similar arrangements, with Portugal’s option particularly attractive.
The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa targets remote workers interested in operating from Portugal. To qualify, individuals need to earn at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage, roughly amounting to €3,280.00 per month.
This Digital Nomad Visa is offered in two categories: a temporary stay visa, which is valid for up to one year, and a residency permit, which is renewable for up to five years.
After five years of obtaining your residence permit, applicants can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, provided all the necessary criteria are met. Portuguese citizenship grants individuals visa-free access and the right to live, work, and study in all European Union (EU) countries.
Portugal Golden Visa program
The Golden Visa program is a citizenship-by-investment scheme that allows non-EU investors to gain a Portugal residence permit in return for a significant investment in the country.
Through the Golden Visa program, qualifying investors and their families gain the right to live, work, and study in the country. Additionally, it provides the convenience of visa-free travel to European and Schengen countries.
The investment program also presents a pathway to more permanent ties with Portugal. Qualifying investors can apply for permanent residency or even citizenship. However, they need to maintain their investment for a minimum of five years and fully comply with Portuguese immigration law and Portuguese nationality laws.
It’s important to note that the capital transfer and real estate investment options are no longer eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa program.
Foreign citizens applying for the Golden Visa program will quickly see the benefits for those seeking to establish a strong connection with Portugal through foreign investment. Golden Visa holders don’t need to pay extra taxes on income produced outside of Portugal and are not required to register as tax residents.
Check out our Portugal Golden Visa Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Documents Required for a Residency Visa in Portugal
The first step is to apply for your Portugal visa, which is necessary to enter the country and begin the permanent residency process. To apply, you must submit a visa application at the Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate in your home country. This visa is valid for 120 days and permits double entry, which means you can travel in and out of Portugal within this period.
The requirements vary depending on the purpose of your stay but commonly include:
- A completed visa application form
- Your up-to-date passport or other valid travel document
- Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a lease agreement or invitation to stay letter
- Health insurance coverage
- Police clearance certificate or proof of no criminal record
Additional documentation may be required, dependent on your specific purpose of stay; this includes, but is not limited to, an official job contract or an enrolment letter for a Portuguese educational institution.
Portugal Residency Visa vs Residency Permit
Residency visa
This is the first step for entering Portugal for long-term purposes such as work or study. This visa is typically valid for 120 days and allows multiple entries into Portugal. Within this time frame, you must apply for a residence permit.
Residence permit
You must apply for a residence permit when you arrive in Portugal with your visa. With a residence permit in Portugal, you can enjoy an extended stay in Portugal, typically starting from one to two years. In addition, residence permits can be renewed to extend your stay.
The long-term Portuguese student visa applies for study programs exceeding a year, including all degree and Ph.D. programs. This visa has five different categories: Higher education (covering all undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses), Researchers (scientific and academic research), Secondary school students (QNQ level 4–5), Trainees, and Student volunteers. Securing a placement at a university or educational institution in Portugal is typically required.Applying for a Residence Permit in Portugal
Portugal residence permit requirements
When applying for a residence permit, you need to prepare several documents, such as:
- A valid passport
- Visa application form
- Valid residence visa (when applicable)
- Two recent and identical color photographs
- Evidence of sufficient financial resources to support your stay
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of health and travel insurance
- AIMA appointment confirmation
Portugal residence permit application process
Obtaining a Portuguese residence permit involves two steps: Applying for a residency visa and applying for the actual residence permit.
Portuguese authorities issue a residence visa, initiating the residence permit process. An appointment is immediately scheduled with the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) in Portugal to complete the application process by submitting documents and collecting biometric data.
The requirements vary depending on your specific circumstances, but commonly, the application process includes:
- Schedule an appointment at your local Portuguese Consulate or embassy or VFS Global
- Submit your documents and application form
- Book and attend your AIMA appointment
- Receive your visa
AIMA examines your application, conducts an interview if necessary, and typically makes a decision within 90 business days. If approved, you’ll receive a residence permit card valid for two years and renewable for three years. After five years of legal residency in Portugal, you can apply for permanent residence.
Benefits of the Portugal Residence Permit
Holding a Portuguese residence permit comes with a multitude of advantages that make Portugal an attractive destination for non-EU nationals, including:
- Visa-free travel: First and foremost, the permit provides unlimited access to all countries within the EEA, EU, and Schengen states. This privilege allows you to freely travel, live, and work in these countries without needing to apply for additional visas.
- Access to the workforce: The residence permit also grants non-EU nationals the right to work in Portugal. Whether you wish to be employed by a company, start your own business, or work as a freelancer, you have the same employment rights as Portuguese citizens.
- Education access: It provides access to the Portuguese education system. This includes public schools, universities, and vocational training institutions. In addition, children of permit holders have the same rights to education and schooling as Portuguese nationals.
- Healthcare: As a resident, you’ll have access to the Portuguese healthcare system, which is renowned for its high quality. Public healthcare in Portugal is free or low-cost for residents, and there are also many excellent private healthcare options available.
- Family reunification: The residence permit also allows you to bring over other family members through the family reunification process. This can include your spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.
- Pathway to Portuguese citizenship: After five years as a legal resident in Portugal, you become eligible to apply for citizenship, provided you meet the requirements. Please note that to become a Portuguese citizen, you’ll need to pass a basic test in Portuguese language and culture.
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 the Portugal Residency Visa
How do I get a Portuguese residence permit?
To obtain a Portuguese residence permit, the process begins with applying for a suitable visa from your home country that allows you to enter Portugal for the purpose of seeking residence. Depending on your reasons for relocating, this could be a work visa, student visa to study in Portugal, family reunification visa, Golden Visa (for investors), or even the Digital Nomad Visa.
After your visa is issued, you will be able to relocate to Portugal with it and wait for your appointment to request your residency permit and collect biometric data at one of the Immigration and Borders Service (AIMA, formerly SEF) offices. The documents required will depend on your specific situation, but typically, you need your passport, visa, proof of income, health insurance, criminal record certificate, and accommodation proof.
Note that the first residence permit is usually valid for two years and can be renewed subsequently. In most cases, you can apply for a permanent residence permit in Portugal after five years of legal residency.
Can US citizens get residency?
Yes, US citizens can obtain residency in Portugal. A Portugal residency visa for US citizens is available through various paths, which include employment, education, or investment. Digital nomads and remote workers can also apply for the D8 Visa program.
US citizens must apply for the appropriate visa from the Portuguese Embassy or Portuguese Consulate before traveling to Portugal.
What are the Portugal residency visa requirements?
To obtain a Portugal residency visa, you must meet certain requirements, which vary depending on your purpose of stay (e.g., work, study, retirement). However, some common requirements include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport or other travel document issued by a recognized country
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support your stay for the duration of the application period
- Proof of accommodation duration of the period you live in Portugal
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay
- Police clearance certificate or proof of no criminal record
- Additional documentation specific to your purpose of stay, such as an employment contract or enrollment letter from a Portuguese educational institution
Once you have met the requirements and submitted your application, the Portuguese government will review your case and determine whether to grant you a residency visa. If your visa is approved, you will be able to travel to Portugal and stay for the duration of the visa.
Additionally, if you are applying for residency by investment through the Portugal Golden Visa, you will have to provide proof that the minimum investment of at least €250,000 has been made into a Portuguese bank account. The eligible investment routes include fund subscriptions, investment or donation in the arts or reconstruction of national heritage, scientific research, creation of ten jobs, and share capital and job creation.
How much is a Portuguese residence permit?
The cost of a Portuguese residence permit varies based on the type of visa you initially apply for, but generally, the application fee ranges from €75 to €90. Temporary permits usually cost around €170, while a long-term residence permit fee is €108.
How do I obtain permanent residency in Portugal?
Permanent residence in Portugal can be obtained after maintaining legal residency in the country for at least five consecutive years. You have to meet several requirements, which one of our immigration lawyers in Portugal can explain to you.
How hard is it to get permanent residency in Portugal?
The difficulty of obtaining permanent residency in Portugal largely depends on your individual circumstances, including your purpose for residing in Portugal, whether you have sufficient means to finance your stay, and ability to fulfil the necessary requirements.
Generally, you would need to legally live in Portugal for five years, demonstrate ties to the country, show basic proficiency in Portuguese, and have sufficient financial means to support yourself in your bank account.
If you maintain your residence permit, meet the minimum stay requirements, and comply with other immigration rules, it’s entirely feasible to gain permanent residency.
Do I need to become a tax resident in Portugal?
Depending on your visa and residency status, you may need to become a Portuguese tax resident. If you reside in Portugal for more than 183 days or six consecutive months in a calendar year or have a permanent residence, you will be considered a Portuguese taxpayer.
Once I have a Portugal residence permit, can I apply for citizenship?
After five years of living in Portugal with a temporary residence permit, you can apply for a permanent residence card and/or for Portuguese citizenship and a Portuguese passport. This is referred to as the naturalization route to citizenship.
Naturalization is the end objective, Whether through the Golden Visa program, D7, D8 or any other long-stay visa in Portugal.
There are other ways to apply for citizenship and a Portuguese passport. These include citizenship by investment, through marriage, and by descent if you are a direct descendant of Portuguese parents or at least one Portuguese parent. A Guide To Portugal Citizenship: All You Need To Know offers further information.
What is the SEF and how does it relate to Portugal residency visas?
The Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) is now known as the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum or AIMA. AIMA serves as the main authority for individuals seeking residency in Portugal.
As a Portuguese government entity, AIMA is responsible for overseeing and managing the entry, residence, and exit of foreign nationals in the country. This includes all aspects of the residency visa process, from processing applications to conducting interviews and issuing residence permits. Interactions with AIMA are essential and valuable for individuals looking to make Portugal their new home.
How does Brexit affect UK citizens applying for a Portugal residency visa?
Following Brexit, UK citizens now have a different status in the EU. This means that when they want to apply for a residence permit or residency visa in Portugal, they’ll need to follow the regular procedures for citizens of non-EU countries. Portugal continues to welcome UK nationals with open arms, offering various visa options, including the D7 Visa tailored for individuals with passive income and retirees. Although there are some changes, the bright side is that Portugal still provides favorable conditions for UK residents who dream of making Portugal their home.
What is the D7 visa and who is eligible for it in Portugal?
The D7 Visa is an excellent option for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens with a regular passive income. It’s popular among retirees, remote workers, and individuals with income from pensions, rental properties, or investments. To qualify, you simply need to demonstrate a stable income that meets or exceeds the Portuguese minimum wage. This visa offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy life in beautiful Portugal.
Can I obtain a Portugal residency visa through marriage?
Yes, you can obtain a Portugal residence permit through marriage. If you are married to a Portuguese citizen or a legal resident of Portugal, you may be eligible for a family reunification residence permit. This permit allows you to live and work in Portugal and can lead to permanent residency and, eventually, Portuguese citizenship. To apply, you must provide proof of marriage and meet other specific requirements of the Portuguese immigration authorities.
What is the minimum investment required for a Portugal Golden Visa?
The minimum investment required for a Portugal Golden Visa varies depending on your investment type.
Applicants can no longer invest in real estate or make a capital transfer to qualify for a Golden Visa.
However, there are several other options to choose from. Any investments made through the Golden Visa program will grant you a temporary residence permit, which can be renewed and eventually lead to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship.
