Portugal Immigration 2024 Guide: From Visas To Requirements

Portugal, nestled in Western Europe, boasts stunning landscapes, a vibrant past, and a delightful Mediterranean climate. Its social security system ensures stability, contributing to a high standard of living.

If you're considering living, working, or exploring this picturesque European country, Portugal offers a range of visa options and residence permits for foreigners. As Portugal is part of the European Union, these visas extend the privilege of unrestricted travel within the Schengen Zone.

This guide to Portugal immigration serves as your roadmap to understanding the process of moving to Portugal, outlining the diverse visa options tailored for residency and potential citizenship in Portugal. Explore the various visa categories and their corresponding criteria to pave your way toward your Portuguese dream.

 

Portugal Immigration: An Overview

Portugal is a very popular country to immigrate to. By December 2022, almost 1.6 million of the 10.4 million people living in Portugal were born overseas, representing more 16 percent of the country's population. In 2019, an estimated 590,000 foreign nationals were living in Portugal. By January 2023, that number had increased to 790,000.

Significant factors in the increase of people moving to Portugal include favorable policies and lifestyle factors for digital nomads and remote workers, a high quality of life, and an affordable cost of living, particularly in comparison with other countries in Western Europe.

 

Portugal Immigration Requirements: Who Needs a Visa for Portugal?

European Union / European Economic Area/ Swiss citizens

Due to the EU's freedom of movement, the European Union, European Economic Area, and Swiss nationals do not need a visa to work, live, and travel in the European Union.

However, you must apply for a registration certificate to live in the country for over three months. You must apply for this certificate, known as the Certificado do Registo de Cidadão da União Europeia (CRUE), within the 30 days following your first three months in Portugal.

The CRUE is valid for five years from the issue date and costs €15. For more information on the CRUE and its requirements, consult the AIMA website (former Immigration and Border Service, SEF).

Non-European Union citizens

For non-European Union citizens, Portugal offers several visa options, depending on the purpose of your stay. Whether you plan to visit, work, or live in Portugal as a non EU citizen, there is an appropriate visa type to match your needs. We'll go through each of these in detail now.

 

Portugal Immigration: Visa Types

Schengen short-stay visa

The Schengen short-stay visa allows non-European citizens to travel to Schengen countries, including Portugal, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa suits tourists, business travelers, and individuals visiting family and friends.

Where do you apply for a short-term Schengen visa?

You can apply online through the E-Visa portal or in person at your local Portuguese Consulate or Portuguese Embassy.

The necessary documents and requirements for the visa application can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MNE) website. Requirements include:

• A passport photograph
• A completed and signed application form
• A travel reservation
• Travel insurance that includes medical coverage
• Proof of ability to support yourself for the duration of your trip (bank statements from the last three months or employment contract)
• Hotel reservation or statement of responsibility if staying with family
• An invitation letter clarifying your purpose of travel if the Schengen visa is for business purposes
• An entry ticket, proof of attendance, or registration if you're traveling to participate in a political, economic, scientific, cultural, or religious event

Please note that the visa does not guarantee automatic entry into Portugal and does not allow you to live in Portugal. Additional documentation may be required at the border or other checkpoints to prove that you meet the requirements for entering the Schengen Area.

What is the cost of applying for a short-term Schengen visa?

The short-term Schengen visa usually costs around €80, but for nationals of certain countries and children between the ages of six and twelve, it is €40.

This Portuguese visa is free of charge for children under six years old, students, teachers, researchers, representatives of non-profit organizations up to 25 years old, and family members of EU, EEA, or Swiss nationals.

What is the deadline to apply for a short-term Schengen visa?

You must submit your application between six months and 15 days before your intended entry date into Portugal. In special cases, you may apply for the visa less than 15 days before your intended entry date.

The Portuguese Consulate may require an interview when you apply, which must occur within two weeks of the request. In urgent cases, the consulate may waive or schedule the interview immediately.

Temporary stay visa

The temporary stay visa is suitable for non-European citizens who plan to stay in Portugal for over 90 days but less than a year. This visa type can be obtained for various purposes, such as work, study, entertainment, medical treatment, or scientific research. A temporary stay visa allows for multiple entries into Portugal.

• Medical treatment or to accompany a family member undergoing treatment
• Transfer of workers between countries within the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to provide services or professional training
• Temporary employment or self-employment
• To conduct scientific research or teaching in a higher education institution
• Pursue sports activity

The required documents vary according to the purpose of your trip. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has detailed what documents are required related to the purpose of stay.

Portuguese residency visa

The Portuguese residency visa is the first step for non-European citizens who plan to live in Portugal for an extended period. Sometimes known as national visas, these visas allow individuals to apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Portugal, granting them the right to live and work there.

The first step in obtaining this Portuguese visa is applying for a temporary residency permit, which is usually valid for a year and can be renewed annually based on the length of stay. The permit is required for individuals staying in Portugal for more than three months.

The temporary residency permit is available only in Portugal and offers a great opportunity for non-European citizens to start a new life in Europe. It is the first step towards obtaining a Portuguese permanent residence permit, which grants the right to live and work in Portugal and similar rights to those that Portuguese nationals enjoy.

The Portuguese residency visa and the subsequent temporary Portuguese residence permit provide a pathway for non-European citizens to integrate into the country's society and economy.

Portugal Study Visa

There are two categories of Portuguese Study Visas for non-EEA nationals.

• The short-term student visa (Type C), is aimed at students or researchers who plan to participate in a course or research project in Portugal for less than 90 days.
• The long-term student visa (Type D) is designed for students and researchers researching or studying in Portugal for more than 90 days.

The Type D visa requires non-EU students to apply for a year-long Residence Permit as soon as they arrive in Portugal. After the year, the residency permit can be renewed for up to five years at a local AIMA office.

Portugal online worker visa

Whether you need a Portugal online worker visa or not depends on your nationality and how long you’re going to be employed. The options are as follows:

• Short-term work visa: This applies to short-term work contracts lasting less than six months. It’s available to employees and self-employed workers. The temporary short-term work visa can be extended for a year.
• Long-term Portugal online worker visa: This visa is necessary for non-EU nationals who want to work in Portugal long-term and have a work contract. It’s classified as a type D Schengen Visa, enabling you to travel visa-free across the Schengen zone.

 

Portugal Visa Requirements

Applicants must meet specific requirements to apply for any of the abovementioned visa types. These may include providing proof of the following:

• Sufficient means of subsistence (evidence that they have enough money to support themselves, which can be provided through recent bank statements)
• Accommodation
• Travel insurance that includes medical coverage 
• Travel plans
• A clean criminal record

Additionally, applicants must submit a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and any other documentation required for their specific work visa type.

 

Getting Residency in Portugal – Non-EU Citizens

Portugal D7 Visa

The D7 Visa is a type of visa that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to obtain residency in Portugal. This visa is popular among retirees who wish to live in Portugal for an extended period.

The D7 Visa is also known as the Passive Income Visa or Retirement Visa, as it requires applicants to demonstrate a steady source of passive income, such as pensions, investments, or rental income. This passive income must be equal to the Portuguese minimum wage, which is €820 per month in 2024.

To be eligible for the D7 Visa, applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and any dependents and adequate health insurance coverage. They must also provide evidence of a clean criminal record and a valid passport.

Once approved, D7 Visa holders are granted a residence permit valid for one year, which can be renewed annually for up to five years. After five years, you are eligible for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, provided you meet citizenship requirements. It's worth noting that Portugal permits dual citizenship, so you wouldn't have to renounce your existing citizenship in order to apply.

D7 Visa holders have access to Portugal's excellent healthcare system, education, and social services, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a high quality of life.

Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa program is a program that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to obtain residency in Portugal by investing in the country. This program was launched in 2012 and has since become one of Europe's most popular investment migration programs. The Portugal Golden Visa program is especially attractive to high-net-worth individuals and investors who wish to gain residency in Europe.

To be eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa, applicants must make a qualifying investment in Portugal. This can be through investment into arts, heritage, cultural, scientific technology, job creation, and investment funds. The minimum investment amount varies depending on the type of investment, but it generally ranges from €250,000 to €500,000.

Previously, it was possible to qualify through a €1.5 million capital transfer or a real estate investment. However, the Portuguese government discontinued the capital transfer and real investment pathways in October 2023.

Once approved, Portuguese Golden Visa holders are granted a temporary residence permit valid for two years. This permit can be renewed for two additional periods of two years each, after which the visa holder may apply for permanent residency or citizenship. Golden Visa holders are also entitled to travel freely within the Schengen Area and can apply for Portuguese citizenship after six years of residency.

For more information, read our Portugal Golden Visa Guide.

Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa was launched in 2022 and is designed for digital nomads and remote workers who want to live and work online in Portugal while earning income from a foreign employer. It aims to attract digital nomads to Portugal, providing them with a unique opportunity to work remotely from one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Applicants must meet certain requirements to be eligible for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. Firstly, they must be self-employed, work as freelancers, or be employed by a company based outside of Portugal. Secondly, they must have a minimum monthly income of four times the Portuguese minimum wage, meaning they must earn €2,836 or more, and provide proof of income. Thirdly, they must have health insurance that covers their stay in Portugal.

The Digital Nomad Visa provides many benefits to remote workers, including living and working in a beautiful country, access to top-notch healthcare, and a high quality of life. It also grants digital nomads the freedom to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

There are two types of Digital Nomad Visas, the Temporary Stay Visa and the Residence Visa. The Temporary Stay Visa allows remote workers to live and work in Portugal for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. The Residence Visa grants a longer residence permit. For more information, check out our blog post, Digital Nomad Portugal.

Portugal Tech Visa

The Portugal Tech Visa is a fast-track visa program designed to attract highly skilled talent from around the world to work in Portugal's growing technology sector.

Launched by the Portuguese government in 2018, the program aims to support the development of the country's tech ecosystem by providing a streamlined visa application process for international tech professionals.

The Portugal Tech Visa provides many benefits to international tech professionals, including a simplified visa application process, fast-track processing, and access to a range of services and support designed to help them settle in Portugal. Tech professionals granted the visa can also bring their families and enjoy all the benefits of living in one of Europe's most vibrant and welcoming countries.

To be eligible for the Portugal Tech Visa, applicants must hold a valid employment contract with a Portuguese tech company or be self-employed entrepreneurs who intend to establish a tech-based business in Portugal. Applicants must also meet certain criteria, such as holding a degree in a relevant field, having several years of professional experience, or having a track record of relevant achievements.

Entrepreneur Visa (Portugal D2 Visa)

The Portuguese Entrepreneur Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens planning to start a business, relocate their existing business to Portugal, or invest in a Portuguese company. The Portuguese Entrepreneur Visa is an excellent option for entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in Europe and take advantage of Portugal's vibrant business ecosystem.

To be eligible for the Portuguese Entrepreneur Visa, applicants must meet certain criteria, such as having a viable business plan, sufficient financial resources, and relevant experience in their field. They must have foreign investors and also demonstrate that their business will contribute to the Portuguese economy and labor market.

Family Reunification Visa (Portugal D6 Visa)

The D6 Visa, also known as the Portugal Family Reunification Visa, allows foreign individuals who are legally residing in Portugal to join them and live in the country with them.

This includes:

• Spouses or partners recognized by the law.
• Dependent children (including adopted children), as well as the children of the resident’s partner.
• Children over 18 who are dependent on the main applicant or their spouse/partner. They will also need to be single and study at a Portuguese educational institution.
• First-degree ascendents who are a direct line relative of the resident or respective spouse and are dependent on them.
• Minor siblings, provided they are dependent on the resident.

So, if you have come to Portugal on another visa, like the D7 Visa or the D2 Visa, or have settled status as an EU citizen, you can apply for a D6 to bring your spouse, partner, or family to live with you in the country.

The visa application process may involve demonstrating the relationship, proving they have the financial means to support the family members, and meeting other eligibility criteria.

 

Portugal's permanent residency requirements

To obtain permanent residency in Portugal, you must first obtain a temporary residence permit and live in the country for five years with valid residency visas. Family members of EU citizens who are not European nationals must also live in Portugal legally for over five years to apply for a permanent residence card.

After the fifth year of legal residency, you may apply for a permanent residence permit to live and work indefinitely in Portugal.

It is also important to note that applicants must meet specific requirements, such as having a clean criminal record, having sufficient financial means to support themselves, and having adequate health insurance coverage.

There are various responsibilities linked to being a permanent resident, such as the duty to respect public health, public order, and public security as well as to enter Portugal legally and remain in the country legally.

 

Obtaining Portuguese Citizenship

Non-European citizens can apply for Portuguese citizenship after living in the country for six years with a valid residence permit.

Foreign citizens must also demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language, have a clean criminal record, and show a genuine connection to the country. In some cases, individuals of Portuguese descent or those married to a Portuguese citizen may be eligible for citizenship through ancestry or marriage.

 

March Update 2024: New Changes in Portugal’s Nationality Law

The Portuguese parliament has recently approved significant changes to the country’s nationality law. It is believed that these changes will be beneficial to the thousands of Golden Visa applicants affected by delays in residency application processing by AIMA (formerly SEF Immigration and Border Services). 

This major revision addresses the waiting period required for Portuguese nationality applications. 

The law was published on 5 March 2024 and will come into force on 1 April 2024.

What are the changes to the nationality law?

Previously, under Article 6, Paragraph 1 of the nationality law, foreign citizens looking to get Portuguese nationality through naturalization were required to hold residency in Portugal for a minimum of five years, among other requirements. The initiation of the five years for nationality application started upon the issuance of the initial Portuguese residence permit.  

Under this new legislative development, the amended Article 15, now incorporating Paragraph 1 of the Portuguese nationality law, states that the time between the submission of the temporary residency permit application and its final approval will be taken into account when calculating the required legal residency period for nationality, as long as the residence permit is granted.

Why are the changes in the law so important?

The changes to Portugal’s nationality law are expected to bring positive changes for Golden Visa applicants, and those waiting to get their Portuguese citizenship by naturalization.

Previously, applicants faced the strict requirement of a minimum five-year residency period commencing from the issuance of the initial residency permit. This often translated to lengthy waiting times, with candidates enduring delays attributed to processing backlogs at the former SEF.

This means that individuals who have faced delays in residency approvals due to factors such as COVID-19, the Ukranian War, and the restructuring of the Portuguese immigration department will now have their waiting period considered, allowing them to apply for Portuguese nationality sooner. For example, individuals wanting to apply for Portuguese residency in 2024 would fulfill the five-year residency requirement for Portuguese citizenship by 2029, irrespective of potential delays in the processing of the residency application.

This change is a key step towards enhancing the overall experience of individuals seeking to move to Portugal or those looking to secure Portuguese citizenship by naturalization.

 

Living in Portugal: An Overview

Cost of Living

Portugal boasts a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other European countries. While prices may vary depending on the region, essentials like housing, groceries, and transportation generally offer good value for money. Expatriates often find Portugal to be an attractive destination because of its favorable cost of living, meaning that you can save money and enjoy a high quality of life at a low cost. Consumer prices in Portugal are around 27 percent lower than in Germany and 34 percent lower than in France.

If you’re immigrating from the US, you will seriously feel the difference. Grocery prices in Portugal are 49.2 percent lower than in the United States, eating out is 43.9 percent less expensive than in the US, and rent in Portugal is 53 percent lower – according to the latest figures from Numbeo.

Taxes and Social Security

Expats in Portugal are required to make social security contributions and pay taxes. All expats in Portugal are required to register with the Portuguese social security system. Expats employed in Portugal will have their social security contributions deducted from their salary, while self-employed expats while to pay themselves. These payments should be made monthly between the 1st and 20th of each month.

Typically, income taxes for expat employees in Portugal are deducted automatically from paychecks. However, it’s still mandatory to file an annual tax return. The income tax owed is determined by considering the taxable income earned, applying the corresponding tax rate, and subtracting any allowable deductions, such as those related to education or healthcare expenses.

IRS is calculated on an individual basis, but married couples or those in civil partnerships have the option to file jointly. In these instances, the tax applies to the combined taxable income of the household members. As of 2024, the Portugal income tax rate for individuals ranges from 14.5 percent to 48 percent.

Income tax in Portugal is imposed on revenues that are categorized into six key areas:

• Income from employment
• Income from self-employment activities
• Returns from investments
• Income derived from renting properties within Portugal
• Capital gains realized from the sale of properties, assets, or stocks
• Pensions received in Portugal, encompassing private pension schemes

Since its launch in 2009, Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime has been a major attraction for foreign nationals, providing several benefits such as tax-free transactions and low taxes on pension income or wealth.

Structured correctly, under the scheme, it is possible to secure significant tax benefits for up to ten years.

However, at the beginning of October 2023, the Portuguese Prime Minister announced his intention to eliminate the NHR regime beginning in 2024.

The NHR came to an end in January 2024. The Portuguese government’s State Budget Proposal for 2024 included modifications that determine the end of the non-habitual resident regime.

The ultimate vote on the budget legislation happened on 29 November 2023, introducing the transitional regime before the end of the NHR tax regime in 2025.

It’s possible for some individuals to apply up until March 31, 2025, but the eligibility requirements for this deadline are more stringent. To qualify, it’s necessary to meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Having an employment contract signed/to be signed by December 31, 2023
• Having a lease agreement or other contract for the use/possession of property signed by October 10, 2023
• Having a contract to buy property in Portugal signed by October 10, 2023
• Having children enrolled or registered in a school in Portugal by October 10, 2023
• Having a residence visa or a residence permit valid from December 31, 2023
• Having an application for a residence visa or residence permit initiated by December 31, 2023
• Being a member of the household of anyone who meets the above criteria

Healthcare System

Portugal has a robust social security system and boasts a comprehensive healthcare system, providing residents with access to quality medical care.

Both public and private healthcare services are available, with public healthcare being accessible to residents through the National Health Service (SNS).

Expatriates often opt for private health insurance to supplement their healthcare needs and access additional services.

Housing and Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Portugal can vary depending on the region and individual preferences. From cozy apartments in historic city centers to spacious villas in the countryside, Portugal offers diverse housing options to suit every lifestyle. Rental and property prices may fluctuate, with urban areas like Lisbon and Porto generally commanding higher costs compared to rural regions.

Education System

Portugal offers a well-established education system, catering to students of all ages. From preschool to higher education, both public and private schools provide quality educational opportunities. Expatriate families relocating to Portugal can choose between international schools, which offer curriculums in various languages, or integrate their children into the Portuguese public school system.

Cuisine and Lifestyle

Portuguese cuisine reflects the country's rich culinary heritage, characterized by fresh seafood, hearty stews, and delectable pastries. Dining out is a cherished part of Portuguese culture, with locals often gathering to enjoy traditional meals and socialize with friends and family. Beyond gastronomy, Portugal offers a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, where leisurely strolls along the coast or picnics in the countryside are cherished pastimes.

 

Who We Are and How We Can Help

Here at GetNifPortugal, we can make the visa and relocation process easier for you. Some visas, such as the Golden Visa, require you to have a Portuguese taxpayer identification number (NIF) as part of your application. Other visas require you to have a NIF once you relocate to Portugal. We can help you get a NIF online, speeding up your visa and relocation paperwork.

Get a NIF

The Número de Identificação Fiscal (NIF) is required to carry out any financial transactions in Portugal, including buying or renting property, paying taxes, or working a job. If you're a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national, you must appoint a fiscal representative to assist you in applying for an NIF and managing your taxes.

We offer both fiscal representation and NIF services. Simply apply online and have a NIF sent straight to your inbox in two to three weeks. This will help you avoid long queues, hassle, or searching for a fiscal representative.

Open a Portuguese bank account

Opening up a Portuguese bank account is another essential part of navigating the Portuguese immigration process. Having a Portuguese bank account is required for specific visa applications and makes it easier to manage finances and conduct transactions while living in Portugal.

With a local bank account, one can easily pay bills, receive payments, and access various financial services. It is recommended that individuals who plan to live in Portugal open up a bank account as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues or delays in the immigration process.

We can help you open a Portuguese bank account from anywhere in the world. Simply apply online, and we'll set you up with one of Portugal's leading banks.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Portugal Immigration Visas

How can I immigrate to Portugal?

There are different ways to immigrate to Portugal, such as work visas, investment visas, family reunification visas, or study visas. What visa you should apply for depends on the purpose of your stay in Portugal. Each type of visa has its own requirements and application process.

Is Portugal easy to immigrate to?

Compared to other European countries, Portugal has a range of visas designed to attract foreign nationals, making it relatively easier to immigrate. However, you must meet the requirements when going through the application process.

Does Portugal allow immigration?

Yes, Portugal allows immigration and has different visa options for foreign nationals wishing to live and work there.

How does Portugal immigration work for non-EU nationals?

Non-EU nationals must obtain a visa to enter Portugal, and the type of visa required depends on the purpose of their visit. To stay in Portugal long-term, non-EU nationals must obtain temporary stay visas, which can be renewed for up to five years, and then apply for permanent residency.

How does getting a residency in Portugal work?

To obtain residency in Portugal, non-EU nationals must first obtain temporary stay visas and legally live there for at least five years. After that, they can apply for a permanent residence permit, which allows them to live and work in Portugal indefinitely. The process requires meeting specific requirements, such as having a clean criminal record, having sufficient financial means, and having health insurance coverage.

Is Portugal friendly to immigrants?

Yes, Portugal is generally considered to be friendly to immigrants. The country has a long history of welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. In recent years, Portugal has implemented various initiatives to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors from abroad, aiming to boost economic growth and innovation.

Which visa can I apply for in Portugal?

Can a US citizen immigrate to Portugal?

As a US national, you can enter Portugal without a visa and stay in the country for 90 days. But in case you want to stay for more than 90 days in the country, you must apply for a temporary residence visa and a residence permit to live in the country. There are various Portuguese visa options available, depending on your circumstances and what you’re looking for.

Some of the most common visa options include:

• Portugal Golden Visa
• D7 Visa, also known as the Passive Income Visa
• D8 Visa, also known as the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa

Can I bring my family members with me when immigrating to Portugal?

Yes, you can bring your family members with you when immigrating to Portugal under certain conditions. Portugal offers a Family Reunion Visa (D6) that allows foreign nationals who are legal residents or citizens to bring their family members to join them in the country.

Typically, immediate family members such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents or dependent relatives may be eligible for family reunification.

Moreover, there are certain residence permits, such as the Portuguese Golden Visa, which allow applicants to include their direct family members in the application.

Is it necessary to learn Portuguese to immigrate to Portugal?

While it is not mandatory to learn Portuguese before immigrating to Portugal, having a basic understanding of the language can greatly facilitate your integration and daily life in the country. Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, and while many Portuguese people speak English, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations, knowledge of Portuguese can enhance your communication skills and help you navigate various situations more effectively.

What is the Portuguese government stance on immigration?

Portugal's Aliens Act, established in 2007, lays out the rules for foreigners entering, staying and leaving the country. Since then, Portugal has been welcoming to immigrants. For instance, they've granted residency documents to foreigners who declare their earnings, including those who entered illegally. Most recently, a 2022 amendment allows job seekers to get a temporary six-month visa.