Move to Portugal: Obtain residence permit in Portugal

Portugal

Our experienced team excels in streamlining the process of moving to Portugal, guiding individuals and families through the intricacies of obtaining a Portuguese residence permit. We provide extensive, customized support at each phase of the journey, ensuring a seamless transition to your new life in Portugal.

Advantages of Residence Permit in Portugal

High Quality of Life

Portugal, known for its warm climate and rich cultural heritage, ranks highly in global quality of life indices. It offers a balanced lifestyle in cities like Lisbon and Porto and scenic regions such as the Algarve.

Pathway to EU Residency and Citizenship

Legal residents can apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after six years, which includes the benefits of EU citizenship like freedom of movement within the EU.

Schengen Area Access

A Portuguese residence permit allows for visa-free travel within the 26 countries of the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Business Opportunities

Portugal's growing economy offers opportunities in tourism, tech startups, and green energy. Lisbon, often dubbed as a startup hub, presents a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs.

Healthcare and Education

Portugal's healthcare system is highly regarded, with public healthcare expenditure around 9% of its GDP. Education options include a variety of public, private, and international schools, offering high-quality education standards.

Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime

Residents in Portugal are eligible for a distinctive tax status known as the Non-habitual Resident (NHR). This status grants them the privilege of being exempt from paying taxes on foreign-sourced income while in Portugal.

Available Programs

About Portugal

Portugal, a captivating European country, offers a blend of ancient history and modern living. Its population of about 10 million enjoys a diverse cultural tapestry, influenced by various civilizations over centuries. Portugal's GDP per capita stood at $23,024 in 2023, reflecting a stable and growing economy.

An Overview of Portugal

As a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, Portugal enjoys a strategic geographic position with extensive coastline, making it a gateway to Africa and the Americas. Its economy, growing at an average rate of 1.5% annually, is supported by sectors like tourism, agriculture, and technology.

Living in Portugal

Non-EU citizens looking to reside in Portugal can choose from several visa options. The Golden Visa, for instance, requires a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate. For retirees and remote workers, the D7 Visa requires proof of a stable passive income of at least €9,120 per year. The Tech Visa targets skilled tech professionals and streamlines their entry into Portugal's burgeoning tech sector.

Engaging in Business Activities in Portugal

Portugal’s business-friendly environment is evidenced by its rank of 39th in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Index (2023). The country offers various incentives, including a corporate tax rate that can be as low as 17% for small and medium-sized enterprises. The startup scene in Lisbon and Porto is particularly vibrant, with a 20% increase in startup registrations in the past year.

Political Environment in Portugal

Portugal’s political stability is a cornerstone of its appeal to foreign investors and expatriates. Its parliamentary republic system ensures a balance of power and democratic governance. The country has maintained political stability, with no major upheavals or shifts in the political landscape in recent decades.

Legal Framework in Portugal

Portugal's legal system is transparent and aligned with EU regulations, offering security for foreign nationals and investors. Property rights are strongly protected, and recent legal reforms have simplified processes like residency applications and business registrations. The country has also implemented favorable tax regimes, like the Non-Habitual Resident program, offering tax exemptions on certain foreign incomes for a period of ten years.

Portugal Advantages

Living in Portugal comes with numerous advantages. It ranks 7th in the Global Peace Index (2023), reflecting its high safety standards. Healthcare quality is ranked among the top 15 in Europe, and the education system offers numerous international schools. The cost of living in Portugal is approximately 30% lower than in other Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and retirees.

About the Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal

In October 2022, the Portuguese Government introduced the Digital Nomad Visa, designed for remote workers. This visa grants a two-year residence permit in Portugal, which can be renewed. After residing in Portugal for five years, holders have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.

To be eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must either be employed remotely, engaged in service agreements, or be self-employed. Additionally, they are required to secure accommodation in Portugal for a minimum of one year and demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,040.

Portugal attracts numerous freelancers, drawn by its coastal beauty, scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and high European living standards. The country offers excellent healthcare and educational systems, further enhancing its appeal as a prime location for digital nomads.

Requirements for Residence Permit Applicants

To qualify for a residence permit in Portugal, applicants need to fulfill the following requirements:

Age Criteria: Applicants should be at least 18 years old.
Employment Status: Must be a remote worker, freelancer, or self-employed.
Sufficient Income: A minimum monthly income of €3,040 is required.
Legal Standing: Applicants must have a clean criminal record, no history of visa refusals, and no outstanding debts in Portugal.
Health Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage is mandatory.
Housing Arrangement: Applicants must have secured housing in Portugal, either through rental or purchase.

Family members of the applicant can also be eligible under specific conditions:

Spouse: Should have a clean criminal record and be in an officially registered marriage or in a unregistered partnership.
Children Under 18: Includes all minor children of the applicant.
Children Aged 18 to 30: Must be unmarried and financially reliant on the main applicant.
Parents Under 65: Must be financially dependent on the main applicant.
Parents Over 65: Eligible without any financial dependency conditions.

Applicant’s Expenses

Property Acquisition or Rental: No specific requirements for the property type or rental cost.
Travel Insurance for Visa Application: A minimum of €14 per month.
Visa Application Fee: €90 for each family member.
Processing Fee for Residency Application: €85.05 for each family member.
Fee for Issuance of Residence Permit Card: €73.10 for each family member.
Health Insurance Requirement for Residence Permit: At least €20 per month in Portugal.

Including family members in the application raises the required income threshold. For each minor child, the income requirement increases by €254, and the same increment applies for each adult dependent.

Timeframe for Processing

The processing time for the Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal is approximately 4 + months. This period encompasses several critical stages, starting from the collection of required documents to the final issuance of the residency documents. It involves thorough document verification, application assessment, and administrative procedures.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa in Portugal

Preliminary Check Process: Our legal team conducts a confidential evaluation of the applicant to ensure compliance with visa requirements. This thorough review significantly lowers the risk of visa rejection to as low as 1%.
Obtaining a Portuguese Taxpayer Number: Essential for various activities in Portugal, the NIF (Numero de Identificacao Fiscal) is a key document following the passport. It is required for a variety of transactions, ranging from finalizing a rental contract to booking medical appointments. We facilitate our clients in acquiring their NIF remotely, through a designated tax representative in Portugal who represents them under a power of attorney.
Acquiring or Leasing Residential Real Estate: Clients have the discretion to either buy or rent their property. Our team of real estate experts provides an array of residential properties available for purchase or lease. Clients can select their preferred housing remotely or by personally visiting Portugal. The process of purchasing property may extend up to two months, whereas securing a rental property typically requires just a few days.
Document Collection and Digital Nomad Visa Application: Our legal team assists clients and their family members in gathering all required documents and accurately filling out the application forms. Applicants then need to submit these documents along with their biometric data to the consulate in their country of citizenship or where they legally reside.
Obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa for Portugal: The process at the Portuguese consulate generally takes around 90 days to complete the visa application. Upon approval, the digital nomad receives a visa sticker in passport. This sticker outlines the scheduled date for a visit to the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) to apply for a residence permit.
Arriving in Portugal with a Digital Nomad Visa: This visa remains valid for a period of four months. Within this timeframe, the applicant is required to enter Portugal and submit an application for a residence permit at the SEF.
Residence Permit Application Process: On the scheduled date, the applicant needs to go to the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) and present the same set of documents that were required for the Digital Nomad Visa application, with the exception of travel insurance. In its place, they should provide a copy of their Portuguese insurance. The applicant must submit these documents in person and may be accompanied by a representative from our company for assistance.
Issuance of the Residence Permit Card: Following the approval of the application, the residence permit card will be mailed to the applicant's registered address in Portugal.

Dual Citizenship in Portugal

Portugal allows dual citizenship. This means that individuals can hold Portuguese citizenship without having to renounce their original nationality. Portugal recognizes and permits its citizens to have multiple nationalities alongside Portuguese citizenship. However, it's important to note that while Portuguese law permits dual citizenship, the laws of the other country involved must also be considered, as some countries do not allow their citizens to hold dual citizenship.

About the D7 Visa in Portugal

The D7 visa provides an opportunity for financially self-sufficient individuals to move to Portugal and secure a residence permit. Applicants are required to demonstrate a consistent passive income sourced from outside Portugal, ensuring they can support themselves and their dependents.

Acceptable forms of passive income include pensions, rental income from real estate, dividends, and earnings from intellectual property.

Additionally, income from remote work can be considered in the total income calculation. The minimum required monthly income is set at €760.

Issued for an initial period of four months, the D7 visa enables recipients to enter Portugal and subsequently apply for a residence permit. To maintain residency status, investors are obligated to spend a minimum of 183 days per year in Portugal.

The Portuguese residence permit is initially valid for two years and can be renewed for subsequent three-year periods. After residing in Portugal for five years, permit holders become eligible to apply for either permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. This pathway provides a viable option for those seeking long-term residency or citizenship in Portugal.

Requirements for Residence Permit Applicants

To qualify for a residence permit in Portugal, applicants need to fulfill the following requirements:

Age Criteria: Applicants should be at least 18 years old.
Passive Income: The applicant must show a minimum income of €760 per month. For couples, this increases to €1,140, and for each additional dependent, an extra €380 is required.
Legal Standing: Applicants must have a clean criminal record, no history of visa refusals, and no outstanding debts in Portugal.
Health Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage is mandatory.
Housing Arrangement: Applicants must have secured housing in Portugal, either through rental or purchase.

Family members of the applicant can also be eligible under specific conditions:

Spouse: Should have a clean criminal record and be in an officially registered marriage or in a unregistered partnership.
Children Under 18: Includes all minor children of the applicant.
Children Aged 18 to 21: Must be unmarried and financially reliant on the main applicant.
Parents: Must be financially dependent on the main applicant.

Applicant’s Expenses

Property Acquisition or Rental: No specific requirements for the property type or rental cost.
Travel Insurance for Visa Application: A minimum of €14 per month.
Visa Application Fee: €90 for each family member.
Processing Fee for Residency Application: €85.05 for each family member.
Fee for Issuance of Residence Permit Card: €73.10 for each family member.
Health Insurance Requirement for Residence Permit: At least €20 per month in Portugal.

Timeframe for Processing

The processing duration for Portugal's D7 Visa typically extends beyond four months. This timeframe covers multiple vital phases, beginning with gathering the necessary documents and culminating in the issuance of residency documents. The process includes comprehensive verification of documents, evaluation of the application, and various administrative steps.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Obtaining a D7 Visa in Portugal

Preliminary Check Process: A qualified expert in the compliance department will examine the documents provided by the applicant to evaluate any possible risks. This process is aimed at uncovering potential issues early on, allowing for preemptive solutions such as adding extra documents to the application or opting for an alternative program.
Obtaining a Portuguese Taxpayer Number: To rent or purchase property in Portugal, an investor needs a taxpayer number (NIF). It can be obtained remotely through a tax representative in Portugal. Lawyers prepare a power of attorney, which allows the representative in Portugal to acquire the NIF for the investor. In the future, the NIF will be required for many activities in Portugal, from making a doctor's appointment to setting up internet service.
Opening an account in a Portuguese bank: Opening a bank account necessitates having a taxpayer identification number and an international passport. Sometimes, banks might also ask for documentation verifying the lawful source of the funds. This process is conducted remotely, with lawyers facilitating the account opening through power of attorney. An amount adequate to cover the family's yearly living expenses is then deposited into this account.
Purchasing or renting a property: Real estate experts provide applicants with a selection of properties available for either rental or purchase. Investors have the option to visit Portugal for a direct evaluation of these properties or make a remote selection. The process of buying property typically spans up to two months, whereas finding and renting a property can be accomplished more swiftly, often within a matter of days, including the finalization of necessary documents.
Collection and submission of documents to the consulate: The standard package of documents required for applying for a DT visa includes: Visa application form, international passport, two color photographs, health insurance policy, confirmation of no criminal record from the applicant's country of residence, Proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents, statement from a Portuguese bank showing an amount sufficient for living in Portugal for one year (minimum of €760 per month), proof of kinship for family members: marriage certificate or birth certificate, document assigning a Portuguese taxpayer number (NIF).
Entry into Portugal with a D7 Visa: The visa remains valid for a period of four months, within which the applicant is expected to travel to Portugal and apply for a residence permit at the immigration office.
Applying for a Residence Permit: Lawyers schedule an appointment for the applicant in advance with SEF — the Portuguese Immigration Service. The residence permit documents are submitted in person on the appointed day, accompanied by a representative of our company.
Receiving Residence Permit Cards: Upon approval, the residence permit card is dispatched to the applicant's registered address in Portugal. The initial residence permit card is valid for a duration of two years, with the possibility of extension for an additional three years. After residing in Portugal for five years, applicants become eligible to apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Dual Citizenship in Portugal

Portugal permits dual citizenship, allowing individuals to maintain Portuguese citizenship alongside their original nationality without the need for renunciation. Portuguese law recognizes and allows multiple nationalities for its citizens. However, it's crucial to consider the laws of the other country, as some nations may not permit their citizens to hold dual citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Types of Residence Permits Available in Portugal?

Portugal offers various residence permits, including the Golden Visa, D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa), Digital Nomad Visa, and Startup Visa. Each caters to different needs, like investment, retirement, remote work, or entrepreneurship, providing flexibility for non-EU citizens seeking residency in Portugal.