When you finish this article, you’ll know all the main ways to live legally in Portugal—from investment routes to job-seeking options—and discover lesser-known paths like family reunification, self-employment permits and how to move from a residency permit to citizenship.
Golden Visa Program
The Golden Visa lets you gain a residency permit through various investments:
- Real estate acquisition (minimum €280,000 in low-density areas{:target=”_blank”}).
- Capital transfer of at least €1 million.
- Investment fund units from €500,000.
- Donation of €250,000 to arts or cultural heritage projects{:target=”_blank”}.
You need to spend just seven days in Portugal during the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period. Family members (spouses, children under 18, dependent parents) can join you under the same permit.
From Golden Visa to Citizenship
After five years of legal residence, you can apply for permanent residency and then citizenship. You’ll need at least A2 level in Portuguese{:target=”_blank”} and proof of ties to the community, such as local contracts or volunteer work.
D7 Visa for Passive Income
Ideal if you have a reliable income stream (pensions, dividends, rental income):
- Minimum income: around €8,460 per year plus €4,230 for a spouse{:target=”_blank”}.
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal (rental contract or property deed).
- Clean criminal record and health insurance.
Some sources distinguish a specific retiree visa, where pensioners demonstrate only retirement income rather than any passive earnings. The application typically takes 3–6 months.
Digital Nomad Visa (D8)
This visa targets remote workers earning abroad:
- Monthly income requirement: €2,800 net{:target=”_blank”}.
- Proof of remote work contract or freelance invoices.
- Must maintain tax residency outside Portugal for at least 183 days.
You’ll enjoy access to local co-working spaces and community events in Lisbon, Porto or along the Algarve coast, plus the option to apply for a two-year renewal.
HQA and Tech Visas
For professionals in fields like engineering, research or IT:
- HQA Visa: Requires a university degree and a job offer from a Portuguese institution.
- Tech Visa: Companies must be approved sponsors; you need an employment contract with a certified tech firm. Learn more about the Tech Visa requirements{:target=”_blank”}.
Both visas speed up work-permit processing and let you bring your immediate family.
Start-up Visa
If you have an innovative business plan:
- Gain acceptance from a certified incubator.
- Show you have at least €15,000 in funding or personal capital.
- Submit your business plan outlining market analysis, team and financial forecasts.
You’ll get a one-year permit, renewable for two more years if you meet growth and job-creation targets.
Job Seeker Visa
This short-term visa gives you time to find employment on the ground:
- Valid for up to six months.
- No job offer needed at application, but you need to prove financial means—around €1,000 per month{:target=”_blank”}.
- If you secure a work contract, you can switch to a work permit without leaving Portugal.
Self-Employment Visa
Different from the start-up route, this lets you work as a freelancer or contractor:
- Show you’re registered with Portuguese tax authorities (NIF number and social security).
- Provide client contracts or proof of past projects.
- Evidence of workspace (can be a home office).
You’ll be responsible for your own health insurance and social contributions but gain full access to the Portuguese labor market.
Family Reunification
If you already hold legal residency in Portugal, you can sponsor close relatives:
- Eligible dependents: spouse, minor children, dependent parents or grandparents.
- You need to prove sufficient housing space and income (same thresholds as D7).
- Application is made via SEF (the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service).
Short-Term Stays: Schengen and Temporary Visas
Not ready to commit? Portugal offers:
- Schengen Visa: Stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period for tourism or business.
- Temporary Stay Visa: For stays between 90 days and one year—ideal for internships or research visits.
These visas don’t lead directly to residency but let you explore the country before choosing a long-term path.
Tax Perks with the NHR Regime
Once you become a tax resident in Portugal, you can apply for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status:
- Flat 20% income tax on certain Portuguese-source professional income.
- Potential 0% tax on foreign dividends, royalties or capital gains for ten years.
- Available to new residents who haven’t been tax residents in Portugal for the previous five years. Learn more about the NHR tax regime{:target=”_blank”}.
Your Next Steps
You’ve seen all the main routes—from Golden and D7 visas to digital nomad and job-seeker permits—plus special options like family reunification and self-employment. Pick the one that fits your profile, gather your documents, and reach out to SEF or a local lawyer to get started. Portugal’s warm climate, welcoming culture and tax perks make it a top choice for your next chapter.