Portugal Expat Visa Guide: Long-Stay Residency Options
In 2021, my family and I moved to Portugal from the United States. We made the leap from Brooklyn, New York, to the stunning coastal town of Cascais, Portugal and have loved every second of our new life.
We were drawn by Portugal’s incredible quality of life, lower cost of living, and welcoming culture. But moving abroad isn’t just about packing your bags (we had 16!)—it requires navigating a maze of visas, residency permits, and legal requirements.
One of the most important decisions to make as you start this journey is which Portuguese visa is best for you.
This guide will walk you through every major Portugal expat visa option and the necessary steps to obtain permanent residency.
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Who needs a visa to reside long-term in Portugal?
Residency Options for EU/EEA/EFTA Nationals
Citizens from European Union countries, EFTA citizens, and EEA countries can move to Portugal with minimal restrictions. While a visa application is not required, these individuals must apply for a registration certificate if they plan to stay beyond 90 days. Registration with the local immigration service, AIMA, is mandatory.
Requirements for EU/EFTA Nationals:
Valid passport or national ID
Proof of sufficient income (salary, pension, rental income, or investments)
Health insurance coverage
Portuguese tax number (NIF)
After five years of legal residency, applicants can obtain permanent residence or citizenship which eventually grants access to a Portuguese passport.
Residency Options for Non-EU Citizens
For non-EU nationals, including US citizens and British citizens, Portugal offers multiple long-stay visas designed for different needs, from employment and business to remote work and retirement. Below are the key options:
Relocating to Portugal has never been more appealing, but navigating the Portugal expat visa process can feel overwhelming. With various residency options available—from passive income visas to investment programs—choosing the right path requires careful consideration.
The challenge? Understanding the complex application process, eligibility requirements, and legal obligations. Whether you’re an American citizen, British citizen, or third-country national, obtaining a Portuguese residence permit involves multiple steps, from securing a valid passport to fulfilling financial and legal criteria. Failing to meet these requirements can result in delays, rejections, or even legal complications.
As one of Europe’s top expat destinations, Portugal offers numerous residency visas tailored to retirees, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and foreign investors. But without the right guidance, navigating the Portuguese immigration service, AIMA—Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo—(formerly SEF–serviço de estrangeiros e fronteiras), visa applications, and residency permits can become a daunting process.
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Understanding Portugal's Visa Framework
The Portuguese government offers a variety of visa options tailored to different needs, from short stays to long-term residency. It's crucial to identify the visa category that aligns with your purpose of stay.
Short-Stay Visas (Schengen Visa)
For stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period, the Schengen short-stay visa is applicable. This visa is ideal for tourism, family visits, or short business trips. It's important to note that while the Schengen Visa allows travel within the Schengen Area, it does not permit long-term residency or employment in Portugal.
Temporary-Stay Visa
Designed for stays exceeding 90 days but less than a year, the Temporary Stay Visa caters to various purposes, including seasonal work, academic endeavors, or professional assignments. This visa allows multiple entries into Portugal during its validity period.
Long-Stay Visas (Residency Visas)
For those intending to reside in Portugal for over a year, a long-stay visa is required. This visa serves as a gateway to obtaining a residency permit upon arrival.
There are several categories under this visa type:
D1 Work Visa: For individuals with a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
D2 Entrepreneur Visa: Geared towards entrepreneurs and independent service providers.
D3 Highly Qualified Professional Visa: For professionals who meet the highly qualified activity requirements.
D4 Student Visa: For those enrolled in educational institutions or completing an internship in Portugal.
D5 Higher Education Visa: For those pursuing higher education at qualified institutions in Portugal.
D6 Family Reunification Visa: Allows family members of legal residents to join them in Portugal.
D7 Passive Income Visa: Tailored for retirees or individuals with a stable passive income.
D8 Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers or freelancers who earn their income from companies or clients outside Portugal.
D9 Golden Visa: For those interested in residency by investment and/or those who want residency status without living in Portugal full-time.
Comprehensive Guide to Portugal Expat Visas for Long Stay
Portugal offers various long-stay visas tailored to different needs, whether you're a skilled professional, an entrepreneur, a retiree, or a digital nomad. Below is a detailed breakdown of each Portugal expat visa type, including eligibility criteria, benefits, and the application process.
1. D1 Work Visa: Work in Portugal
The D1 Visa is for non-EU citizens who have secured a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
Eligibility Criteria:
A valid job offer from a Portuguese employer.
A work permit issued by the Portuguese Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP).
A valid passport and clean criminal record from the applicant’s home country.
Proof of financial means and accommodation in Portugal.
Benefits:
Provides legal authorization to work in Portugal.
Access to social security, healthcare, and other employee benefits.
Eligible for family reunification (D6 Visa).
A pathway to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship after 5 years.
Application Process:
Obtain a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
Employer requests a work permit from IEFP.
Submit the visa application at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Upon approval, travel to Portugal and apply for a temporary residence permit.
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D2 Entrepreneur Visa: Start a Business in Portugal
The D2 Visa is designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers who wish to establish a business in Portugal.
Eligibility Criteria:
A business plan demonstrating the economic viability of the enterprise.
Proof of financial investment and business funds.
A Portuguese tax number (NIF) and Portuguese bank account.
Residence in major cities or low-density areas is acceptable.
Benefits:
Allows entrepreneurs to start and operate businesses in Portugal.
Access to EU markets and foreign investment incentives.
Eligible for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship after 5 years.
Application Process:
Register a business in Portugal.
Obtain an NIF (Portuguese tax number) and open a Portuguese bank account.
Submit the visa application at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Upon approval, travel to Portugal and apply for a temporary residence permit.
D3 Highly Qualified Professional Visa: Work or Teach in Portugal
The D3 Visa is for highly skilled professionals working in sectors like technology, medicine, and engineering.
Eligibility Criteria:
A valid job offer with a minimum annual salary 1.5 times the national minimum wage.
A recognized degree or proof of professional qualifications.
A valid passport and clean criminal record.
Benefits:
Faster processing compared to the D1 Work Visa.
Eligible for EU Blue Card, allowing mobility within Schengen Area.
Pathway to permanent residency after 5 years.
Application Process:
Secure a job offer in Portugal.
Apply for a visa application at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Travel to Portugal and apply for a temporary residence permit.
D4 Student Visa: Study in Portugal
The D4 Visa is for students pursuing higher education or internships in Portugal for longer than three months.
Eligibility Criteria:
An acceptance letter from a Portuguese university or institution.
Proof of financial support.
A valid passport and health insurance.
Benefits:
Allows students to work part-time.
Eligible for residency renewal if continuing education.
Application Process:
Obtain an acceptance letter from a Portuguese institution.
Submit a visa application at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Travel to Portugal and apply for a temporary residence permit.
D5 Higher Education Visa: Continuing Education in Portugal
The D5 Visa is for students continuing their higher education studies in Portugal after completing previous studies in another EU member state.
Eligibility Criteria:
Enrollment in a Portuguese university.
Proof of academic transcripts and previous residency in an EU country.
Benefits:
Allows easy transition from studies in another EU country.
Can lead to a Portuguese residence permit.
Application Process:
Obtain a confirmation letter from a Portuguese university.
Apply at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Travel to Portugal and register for a temporary residence permit.
D6 Family Reunification Visa: Join Family in Portugal
The D6 Visa allows family members of a legal resident in Portugal to join them.
Eligibility Criteria:
Spouse, children, or dependent relatives of a legal resident.
Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificates).
Proof that the resident can financially support family members.
Benefits:
Grants temporary residence permit to family members.
Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years.
Application Process:
Gather relationship documents.
Valid resident requests a concession at AIMA - Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum in favor of qualifying family members.
Upon approval from AIMA, submit visa application.
D7 Passive Income Visa: Retire in Portugal
The D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, is for retirees or those with stable passive income such as rental income or investments. For many years, this was one of the most popular long stay visa options for American citizens.
Eligibility Criteria:
Proof of passive income (minimum €10,440 per year).
A Portuguese bank account and tax number.
Private health insurance.
Benefits:
Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years.
Access to Portugal’s healthcare and social services.
Application Process:
Provide proof of passive income.
Apply for the visa application at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Travel to Portugal and apply for a residence permit.
D8 Digital Nomad Visa: Work Remotely in Portugal
The D8 Digital Nomad Visa is for remote workers and freelancers working for companies outside Portugal.
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum income of €3,480 per month for the previous 3 months.
Proof of remote work (contracts or invoices).
A valid passport and health insurance.
Benefits:
No need to work for a Portuguese employer.
Eligible for temporary residence permit.
Application Process:
Provide proof of remote work and income.
Apply for a visa application at the Portuguese embassy, consulate, or VFS office with jurisdiction in your home country.
Travel to Portugal and apply for a residence permit.
D9 Golden Visa: Invest in Portugal
The D9 Portugal Golden Visa Program is an investment program for foreign investors looking to secure residency by investment in Portugal.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa Program, you must make an investment and hold that investment for five years.
There are a number of different options for investing into the program:
Fund Subscription: Make a contribution to an investment qualified Fund worth at least €500,000
Capital Transfer: Make a capital transfer of at least €1.5 million
Scientific Research: Science or Technology research contribution of at least €500,000
Job Creation: Company incorporation and creation of 10 jobs amounting to a minimum value of €500,000
Donation: Support the arts or reconstruction of national heritage with a donation of at least €250,000
Benefits:
No requirement for full-time residency.
Eligible for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years.
Application Process:
Make an eligible investment (personal real estate investments no longer an option).
Submit the visa application via a Golden Visa processor.
Travel to Portugal and register for a residence permit.
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Application Process for a Long-Term Visa
The application process for any Portugal visa generally includes these necessary steps:
Gather Required Documents:
✓ Valid passport (at least 6 months before expiration).
✓ Proof of accommodation (12-month rental contract or home purchase).
✓ Financial proof (bank statements, employment contracts, or investment documents).
✓ Health insurance.
✓ Application form for the chosen visa.
✓ Criminal background check from the home country.
Submit Your Application:
The application must be lodged at the appropriate location in the applicant’s home country.
Interview & Processing:
Some visas require an interview at the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA).
Receive Visa & Travel to Portugal:
Once approved, the visa allows entry into Portugal, where you must apply for a temporary residence permit.
Apply for a Portuguese Residence Permit:
Upon arrival, schedule an appointment with the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) if it has not automatically been scheduled for you.
The residence permit is initially valid for 1-2 years, renewable for up to 5 years.
Path to Permanent Residency & Portuguese Citizenship
After 5 years of legal residency in Portugal, expats can apply to be a permanent resident or seek citizenship.
Permanent Residency
Grants nearly the same rights as Portuguese citizens, except voting rights.
Requires basic Portuguese language skills (A2 level).
Portuguese Citizenship
Allows access to a Portuguese passport.
Grants freedom of movement within EU member states and European countries.
Requires integration into Portuguese society.
Final Thoughts on Portugal Expat Visa Options
Choosing the best Portugal expat visa depends on your lifestyle, financial situation, and long-term goals. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, retiree, or digital nomad, Portugal offers a range of long-stay visa options tailored to different needs.
By following the application process and securing the right permits, you can enjoy the benefits of living in one of the most desirable countries in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal Expat Visas
General Visa Questions
Who needs a visa to live in Portugal long-term?
Non-EU citizens, including US and UK nationals, need a visa to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days. EU/EEA/EFTA citizens do not need a visa but must register for residency after three months.
What is the difference between a visa and a residence permit?
A visa allows entry into Portugal and stays for a limited time. A residence permit is granted after arriving in Portugal and allows long-term residency.
How long does it take to get a Portugal expat visa?
Processing times vary, but most visas take 2-4 months from application submission to approval. You should expect document gathering and planning your move to take at least 6 months.
Can I apply for a long-stay visa while already in Portugal?
No. You must apply for your visa from your home country at a Portuguese embassy or consulate.
Where do I submit my visa application in the United States?
The Portuguese government has contracted with VFS for most jurisdictions in the US. Check your jurisdiction here.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to apply for a visa?
No, but basic Portuguese (A2 level) is required to apply for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years.
FAQs: D1 Work Visa
What kind of job qualifies for the D1 Work Visa?
The job must be full-time with a Portuguese employer who can prove the role couldn't be filled by an EU citizen.
Do I need a work contract before applying?
Yes, a signed employment contract is required before submitting a visa application.
Can I change jobs with a D1 visa?
Yes, but your new employer may need to reapply for your work permit.
FAQs: D2 Entrepreneur Visa
How much investment is required for the D2 Visa?
There is no fixed minimum, but applicants must show they have sufficient funds and a viable business plan.
Can freelancers apply for a D2 Visa?
Yes, independent service providers and freelancers can qualify under this visa.
Do I have to hire employees for my business?
No, but having employees may strengthen your business application.
FAQs: D3 Highly Qualified Professional Visa
What professions qualify for the D3 Visa?
Doctors, engineers, IT specialists, university professors, and other highly skilled professionals.
Does the D3 Visa lead to an EU Blue Card?
Yes, D3 Visa holders may qualify for the EU Blue Card, which allows work in other Schengen Area countries.
FAQs: D4 & D5 Student Visas
Can I work while on a D4 Student Visa?
Yes, students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week).
What is the difference between the D4 and D5 Visas?
D4 Visa: For students starting studies in Portugal.
D5 Visa: For students transferring from another EU country.
How long is the student visa valid?
It depends on the course duration but is usually issued for one year, renewable annually.
FAQs: D6 Family Reunification Visa
Who can apply for the D6 Visa?
Spouses, children, and financially dependent parents of a Portuguese resident.
Can my family work in Portugal on a D6 Visa?
Yes, family members receive a residence permit that allows work.
Does my sponsor need a certain income level?
Yes, the sponsor must prove they have sufficient financial means to support their family.
FAQs: D7 Passive Income Visa
What qualifies as passive income?
Pensions, rental income, dividends, and some investment returns qualify.
How much passive income do I need?
At least €10,440 per year for a single applicant (+ 50% for spouses, + 30% for minor dependents).
Can I work in Portugal on a D7 Visa?
Yes, you can work with a D7 visa.
FAQs: D8 Digital Nomad Visa
What is the income requirement for the D8 Visa?
Applicants must earn at least €3,480 per month (4x Portugal’s minimum wage).
Can I work for a Portuguese company on this visa?
No, income must come from foreign employers or clients.
Do I need a Portuguese bank account?
If you plan to stay in Portugal for an extended period (long-term stay beyond the 183-day tax residency mark) you will likely need to open a Portuguese bank account.
You can do this remotely by using a company like Anchorless who walks you through the process and works directly with a bank to open your account for you.
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FAQs: D9 Golden Visa
Can I still get a Golden Visa by purchasing Personal real estate?
No, as of 2023, personal real estate investments are no longer eligible.
What investment options are still available?
Investment in Portuguese investment funds, cultural projects, or business ventures.
How much do I need to invest for a Golden Visa?
A minimum of €500,000 in qualifying investment funds.
Do I have to live in Portugal full-time?
No, Golden Visa holders only need to spend 7 days per year in Portugal.
FAQs: Visa Extensions, Renewals & Citizenship
How long is a residence permit valid?
The first permit is valid for 1-2 years and is renewable for up to 5 years.
When can I apply for Portuguese citizenship?
After 5 years of legal residence.
Do I need to take a Portuguese language test for citizenship?
Yes, applicants must pass an A2-level Portuguese language test.
Move to Portugal
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