Portugal has become one of the top destinations for immigrants all over the world so if it also caught your interest, there is some important information you need to be aware of before you decide to move.
To enter and stay in the country, you may need a visa and/or a resident permit and this will depend on different factors:
If you are a non EU citizen and you want to stay in Portugal more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa.
Long-stay visas, in compliance with existing domestic law, can be either temporary or for residency authorization purposes, depending on the duration of the stay and granting the visa holder an authorization to stay in the country according to different purposes: study, internship, work, medical treatment, among others. There is also a new type of visa that allows foreign citizens to travel to Portugal in order to look for work.
Temporary stay visas allow entry and stay in Portugal for less than a year. Temporary stay visas are valid during the entire stay and allow for multiple entries.
Residency visas allow two entries and is valid for a period of 4 months. During that time, the holder of a residency visa is required to request a residency permit with the Immigration Authority (AIMA).
The job seeker visa entitles its holder to enter and remain only in Portugal for the purpose of looking for job; authorizes its holder to carry out a subordinated work activity, until the visa expires or until the residence permit is granted.
Portugal offers a variety of residency visas for individuals looking to relocate for different purposes. Whether you’re retiring, studying, working, or investing, there’s a visa suited to your needs. Below are some of the most popular residency visa options available for those interested in moving to Portugal:
The D7 Visa is ideal for retirees or individuals with passive income who wish to live in Portugal. To qualify, applicants must prove they have a stable, regular income to support themselves during their stay. This visa is perfect for those looking to enjoy life in Portugal without being reliant on the local job market.
The D8 Visa is designed for individuals who work remotely and wish to live in Portugal. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they have a stable income from outside Portugal and that they can support themselves while living in the country. This visa is perfect for digital nomads, freelancers, or remote workers who want to experience life in Portugal while continuing their work abroad.
The Golden Visa program targets investors willing to make significant financial contributions to Portugal. This can include purchasing commercial properties and creating jobs and investing in innovative businesses or other eligible investments. Through this program, applicants can gain residency and the opportunity to apply for citizenship in the future, making it a popular option for individuals seeking long-term investment in Portugal.
Individuals seeking employment in Portugal can apply for the Work Visa. To qualify, applicants must have a valid job offer from a Portuguese employer.
The Entrepreneur Visa is designed for individuals looking to start their own business or invest in an existing company in Portugal. Applicants need to present a viable business plan and meet specific financial criteria. This visa supports entrepreneurs looking to contribute to the local economy and create jobs.
Each residency visa option comes with its own set of requirements, processing times, and benefits. To ensure the best outcome, it’s crucial to carefully review each visa’s criteria to determine which one aligns with your specific needs.
Consulting with an immigration expert or legal advisor can greatly streamline the application process, helping you avoid any unnecessary delays and ensuring you meet all the necessary requirements for your chosen visa.