buyer's Guide
buyer's Guide
… including the job seeker visa and job seeker visas for those looking to find employment.
In the past, the Portugal Golden Visa, also known as Portugal’s Golden Visa, was the most popular option for obtaining residency and a passport, especially when combined with a real estate investment. However, recent changes in 2023 have made this option less attractive for some. It’s essential to understand the main difference between the Golden visa and other visa options, as it’s the most crucial factor that determines which route is best for you. The Golden Visa is currently the only option that allows you to begin your 5-year residency leading to possible citizenship without having to spend at least 6 months in the country each year. Let’s take a look at the most popular long-stay visa (residency) options.
Access to the Portuguese national health system
Access to the Portuguese national education system
Exercise of any work activity as an independent professional
Access to the Non-Habitual Tax Residence scheme
Family reunification: spouse, children, minor siblings, elderly parents if they are dependent on you.
Possibility to apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of residency
Visa-free entry in the Schengen countries is facilitated by the Schengen visa.
Relevant for non -EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
Perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers or service providers outside the EU who want to live in Portugal.
You can start a new business, transfer an existing one or invest in a Portuguese company.
You must prove that you have enough economic means to subsist in. Portugal
The visa is valid for 2 years and renewed for periods of 3 years.
It is obtained visa the Portuguese embassy in your country of origin/residency.
There are minimum stay requirements. For the first 2 years of the visa, you must be in Portugal for a minimum of 16 months.
Portugal’s Golden Visa is only relevant for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Applicants must have a regular passive income that provides them means to subsist in Portugal. The lowest investment thresholds is 250 thousand Euros for cultural heritage. Or 500,00 Euros in a fund that offer a good rate of return. Holder of a Golden Visa only have to stay in Portugal for a total of 14 day consecutively to non-consecutively for each two year period.
So if you are currently working, planning to move to Portugal in a few years, and want to start the countdown to a European citizenship, this is still your best option.
We have been working with Golden Visas for years. We understand that for some this option can either feel less attractive or more risky. Therefore, we did our homework to find a couple of funds we feel could be attractive options. If you want to have a conversation about it, contact us at [email protected].
Relevant for non -EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
Perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers or service providers outside the EU who want to live in Portugal.
You can start a new business, transfer an existing one or invest in a Portuguese company.
You must prove that you have enough economic means to subsist in. Portugal
The visa is valid for 2 years and renewed for periods of 3 years.
It is obtained visa the Portuguese embassy in your country of origin/residency.
There are minimum stay requirements. For the first 2 years of the visa, you must be in Portugal for a minimum of 16 months.
The D7 visa, also known as the retirement visa or passive income visa, is relevant for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
All applicants must have a minimum passive income which will vary according to the number of family members in the applicant’s household. The minimum passive income required is significantly higher than the Portuguese minimum wage.
Main applicant: 9,840 Euros/year. 50% of this amount will need to be added for the partner and 30% for each dependent child.
Applicants must stay in Portugal for a minimum of 183 consecutive days each year or 8 months with breaks within the year.
Relevant for non- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Applicant must be employed by a company outside of Portugal or self-employed.
Applicant must demonstrate an average monthly earning of €3,040. The required monthly earning is significantly higher than the Portuguese minimum wage.
Applicants will need to deposit in a Portuguese bank account 9840 euros for the main applicants and more funds for additional dependents.
Two options are available: the temporary stay or resident permit.
Temporary stay visas are designed for short-term stays in Portugal, typically up to 90 days. Temporary stay visas are different from a temporary residence permit, which is required for stays longer than three months. These visas are ideal for tourists, business travelers, and individuals visiting family and friends. To apply for a temporary stay visa, you will need to provide a valid passport, proof of financial means, and health insurance. This type of visa is perfect for those who want to explore Portugal without committing to a long-term stay.
A Family Reunion Visa is designed for family members of Portuguese citizens or residents who wish to join them in Portugal. This visa is available for spouses, children, parents, and other close relatives. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific requirements, including holding a valid passport, providing proof of family ties, and demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support their stay. This visa ensures that families can stay together and enjoy life in Portugal.
International students aiming to pursue their education in Portugal will need a Student Visa. To qualify, students must have a valid passport, proof of admission to a recognized Portuguese university or educational institution, and sufficient financial resources to cover their living expenses during their stay. This visa allows students to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture while gaining a world-class education.
For individuals seeking medical treatment in Portugal, a Medical Treatment Visa is required. Applicants must provide a valid passport, proof of medical necessity, and evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the cost of treatment and stay in Portugal. This visa ensures that individuals can access the high-quality healthcare services available in Portugal.
Residency in Portugal comes with a multitude of benefits that make it an attractive option for many. As a resident, you have the right to live and work in Portugal, gaining access to the country’s robust healthcare system and enjoying various tax benefits. Additionally, after five years of residency, you may be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, opening the door to even more opportunities.
Residents can travel freely throughout the Schengen Area, making it easy to explore other European countries. Portugal also offers excellent investment opportunities in real estate and businesses, providing a stable environment for financial growth. Furthermore, residents have access to the Portuguese education system, which is known for its high standards.
Living in Portugal also means immersing yourself in a rich cultural heritage and learning the Portuguese language, enhancing your overall experience. Whether you’re looking for a better quality of life, new business opportunities, or a vibrant cultural scene, residency in Portugal offers numerous advantages that cater to a wide range of needs and aspirations.
A Portugal residence permit is a crucial document for non-EU citizens who wish to live and work in Portugal for an extended period. It forms an essential part of obtaining Portuguese residency. This permit not only allows you to stay in Portugal but also grants access to various benefits, such as healthcare and education. To obtain a residence permit, applicants must meet specific requirements and follow a formal application process. Understanding these requirements and the steps involved can help ensure a successful application.
To apply for a Portugal residence permit, you must meet several key requirements:
Hold a valid passport
Have a minimum income of €7,200 per year
Possess health insurance
Have no criminal convictions
Meet the specific criteria for the type of residence permit you are applying for, such as work, study, or family reunification
To apply for a Portugal residence permit, also known as a residency permit, you must meet several key requirements.
In addition to these requirements, applicants must provide various documents, including a completed application form, proof of income, and health insurance documents. The application process typically takes several months, and you may be required to attend an interview at the Portuguese embassy or consulate. By preparing thoroughly and understanding the requirements, you can increase your chances of obtaining a Portugal residence permit and starting your new life in this beautiful country.
