Portugal Residency Visas for Non-EU citizens: Types, Requirements and Application Process
Published:
Last updated: 25 January 2024
Contents
Short-term visas, Temporary stay visas and Residency visas
The D3 "Highly-Qualified Individuals Visa"
The D4 "Short-Term Student Visa"
The D5 "Long-Term Student Visa"
The D6 "Family Reunification Visa"
The D7 "Passive Income / Retirement Visa"
Other requirements for moving to Portugal apart from obtaining a visa
Introduction
Portugal is an excellent destination for those looking to move abroad. This beautiful country boasts a rich history, picturesque landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle and a welcoming community. On top of that, Portugal also has world-class healthcare, an excellent education system, and a favourable climate. Portugal is a relatively affordable country to live in, where expats can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
If you're wondering whether Lisbon could be a good place for to live then check out our blog post on the subject.
Moving to Portugal as a non-EU citizen may seem daunting at first, but it is entirely doable. In this blog post we'll take a closer look at how non-EU citizens can obtain short-term and residency visas in Portugal. We'll consider the different types of residency visas available, their different requirements and suitability, the limitations of each and their application procedures.
Short-term visas, Temporary stay visas and Residency visas
Short-term visas
Short-term visas, such as the Schengen visa, allow non-EU citizens to stay in Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism, business or transit purposes. However, if you are planning to stay in Portugal for a longer period, you will need a residency visa.
As a non-EU citizen, if you are planning to visit Portugal before applying for a residency visa, you will need to get a short-term visa for that trip.
However, it's worth noting that Portugal has agreements with a number of countries to allow visa-free travel. These countries include the UK, the US and Canada. You can see the full list on the Portuguese Government website here.
Temporary-stay visas
If you are considering working in Portugal on a short-term basis, a temporary stay visa may be the best option. These visas allows non-EU citizens to enter and stay in Portugal for less than a year and is ideal for those looking for work or attending a short-term course.
Residency visas
Residency visas offer many benefits such as the ability to work or study in Portugal, travel within the Schengen area and even eventually become eligible for Portuguese citizenship.
If you are a non-EU citizen planning to move to Portugal, obtaining a residency visa is crucial. Portugal offers various long stay residency visas with benefits such as freedom to travel within the Schengen area, study and work permits, family reunification and even eligibility for Portuguese citizenship.
There are a number of visa options which we'll now consider to help you decide which option is most suitable for you.
The D1"Employment Visa"
The D1 Residency Visa is one of the most popular long-stay visas for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to live and work in Portugal. It is also commonly known as the "Employment Visa" as it is designed for individuals who have a job offer or employment contract with a Portuguese company that lasts for at least 12 months.
Requirements
To be eligible for the D1 visa, applicants must provide documents that demonstrate their professional qualifications, such as diplomas, employment contracts, and work experience, as well as their criminal record. In addition, they must also demonstrate that they have sufficient means of support and health insurance.
Suitability
The D1 Residency Visa is suitable for anyone who wants to live and work in Portugal for a longer period of time and is willing to meet the requirements.
Limitations
One limitation is that it is a single entry visa, meaning that travellers will need to apply for a new visa if they leave and want to return to Portugal.
Application Process
To apply for the D1 visa, applicants need to make an appointment at the nearest Portuguese embassy or consulate in their home country. They will need to submit their application along with the required documents, attend an interview with a consular officer, and pay the visa fee. The processing time for the D1 visa application varies, ranging from 30 days to several months depending on the consulate.
The D2 "Entrepreneur Visa"
The D2 residency visa is also known as the "Entrepreneur Visa", and it is a type of visa available for non-EU citizens who want to start a business in Portugal. The D2 visa permits an applicant to move to Portugal and receive a temporary residence permit for up to two years.
Requirements
To apply for the D2 visa, an applicant must meet certain requirements. Firstly, the applicant must be a non-EU citizen, and they must be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Portugal. The minimum investment amount for the business is not set, but it should be enough to support the applicant and any employees.
Additionally, the applicant must provide founding documents and financial statements for their business and must be able to demonstrate that their business is viable and has the potential to create jobs in Portugal. To maintain the resident status, the applicant must spend at least 6 months per year in Portugal continuously or 8 months in total.
Suitability
The Portuguese D2 residency visa is suitable for individuals who plan to start a business or pursue self-employment in Portugal. It is also available for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals seeking to work or establish a startup in the country.
Limitations
While the D2 visa has many benefits, such as being able to travel in the Schengen area, being eligible for family reunification and eventually being able to apply for Portuguese citizenship, there are some limitations. The D2 visa is only valid for up to 2 years, and the applicant must reapply to extend their stay in Portugal.
Application Process
To apply for the D2 visa, an applicant must submit their visa application at a consulate or embassy of Portugal and pay a consular fee. The processing time for the D2 visa can take up to 60 days. Once the visa is approved, the applicant will receive their passport with a pasted visa, allowing them to travel to Portugal and start their business.
The D3 "Highly-Qualified Individuals Visa"
The D3 visa is designed for non-EU citizens who have a special set of skills that are in high demand in Portugal. The D3 visa allows these individuals to work and reside in Portugal for up to one year, with a possibility of extension for another two years.
Requirements
To be eligible for the D3 visa, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a valid international passport, a police criminal record, a tax number (NIF), a social security number (NISS), a rental contract, proof of education, and a work contract with a Portuguese employer. Applicants also need to have health insurance and provide a motivation letter explaining their reasons for moving to Portugal.
Suitability
The D3 visa is suitable for highly-skilled workers who are looking to live and work in Portugal for a limited period.
Limitations
However, it has its limitations. For example, it does not offer a path to permanent residency or citizenship, and applicants need to prove that their expertise is genuinely in demand in Portugal.
Application Process
To apply for the D3 visa, applicants can reach out to their country consulate or visa centre and make an appointment. They will need to provide all the necessary documents and go through an interview process. The Portuguese government offers a priority application turnaround of 30 days for D3 visa candidates.
The D4 "Short-Term Student Visa"
This D4 visa is also known as the student visa, which is specifically designed for non-EU nationals who wish to engage in post-doctoral research activities for up to three months in Portugal.
Requirements
The D4 residency visa has several requirements that must be met for eligibility. Firstly, applicants must provide proof of acceptance to a post-doctoral research program at a Portuguese institution, along with evidence of financial support for the duration of their stay. Secondly, applicants must submit a criminal record certificate, as well as a health certificate attesting that they do not have any contagious diseases.
Suitability
This type of visa is particularly suitable for those who are pursuing academic research or studies in Portugal.
Limitations
However, it is important to note that the D4 visa only grants a temporary stay and should not be used for other purposes, such as employment or business activities.
Application Process
To apply for a D4 residency visa, interested individuals can visit the Portuguese embassy or consulate in their home country. They will need to provide the necessary documents, pay the required fees, and attend an interview. Once approved, they will receive a residency permit that will allow them to stay in Portugal for the duration of their post-doctoral research program.
The D5 "Long-Term Student Visa"
The D5 Student Visa, is a type of visa issued to non-EU citizens who wish to study in Portugal for a period of more than 90 days. This visa allows students to enter Portugal and stay in the country while studying, with the possibility of extending their residence for up to five years.
Requirements
To be eligible for the D5 visa, a non-EU citizen must first gain acceptance into a recognised academic institution in Portugal and obtain the letter of acceptance. Applicants must also provide evidence of sufficient financial means, suitable accommodation, and a clean criminal record. Additionally, applicants must have medical insurance that is valid in Portugal.
Suitability
The D5 residency visa is suitable for non-EU citizens who intend to study in Portugal for a period of over 90 days.
Limitations
It is important to note that the D5 visa does not grant its holders the right to work in Portugal. Therefore, students who wish to work while studying must apply for a work permit separately.
Application Process
To apply for a D5 residency visa, applicants must schedule an appointment at a Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in their home country. They must provide proof of the necessary documents and clearances during their appointment. Once approved, students are granted entry into Portugal and must then apply for a residence permit within three months of arrival.
The D6 "Family Reunification Visa"
The D6 visa is designed for non-EU or non-EEA individuals who are legally resident in Portugal and want to bring their spouse, partner or family to live with them. This visa allows them to reunite with their family members in Portugal and grants them similar rights and length of residency as the primary visa holder.
Requirements
To be eligible for the D6 visa, you must have already settled citizen status as an EU citizen or be in possession of a valid visa for Portugal. You must also have a clear criminal record and provide proof of a stable income source. Additionally, you must prove that you can adequately support your family members during their stay in Portugal.
Suitability
The D6 visa is suitable for individuals who want to bring their family members to live with them for an extended period in Portugal.
Limitations
However, there are some limitations, such as family members cannot apply for citizenship or permanent residency unless they meet certain requirements.
Application Process
To apply for the D6 visa, you need to visit your local Portuguese embassy or consulate to submit your application. You will be required to present the necessary documents, such as passport, proof of income, and your relationship with the family member you are sponsoring. You must also pay the application fee and attend an interview if required.
The D7 "Passive Income / Retirement Visa"
The D7 residency visa, also known as the Portuguese Residence Visa, allows non-EU citizens to move to Portugal for an extended period of time.
Requirements
The D7 visa requires applicants to have a stable source of income, either from a business or retirement funds, and proof of suitable accommodation.
Suitability
This visa is suitable for retirees, business owners, and investors who wish to relocate to Portugal on a long-term basis.
Limitations
One of the limitations of the D7 visa is that it does not allow the holder to work in Portugal. While it is possible to study and pursue educational opportunities, the purpose of the visa is primarily for those who seek retirement or relocation for personal reasons.
Application Process
The application process for the D7 visa requires two steps. Firstly, the applicant must apply for the Portuguese Residence Visa in their home country or the country in which they are currently residing. This application process includes providing financial documentation, proof of accommodation, and a criminal background check.
Once the initial visa is granted, the applicant must then apply for a residency card in Portugal, which allows them to legally reside in the country. This card is renewable on an annual basis.
The D8 "Digital Nomad Visa"
The D8 visa is also known as the Digital Nomad Visa. It is aimed at freelance workers, remote workers, and digital nomads who wish to reside in Portugal permanently.
Requirements
To apply for this visa, you must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen with a remote job and have a minimum monthly income of €1,200. The visa itself is valid for four months, and during this time, you can apply for a residency permit in Portugal, which will allow you to stay for a more extended period.
Suitability
The D8 residency visa is suitable for individuals who work remotely and wish to establish themselves in Portugal legally.
Limitations
However, it is essential to note that once you have a residency permit, you must spend at least 16 months in Portugal during the first two years. This visa is a fast-track procedure designed to make the application process hassle-free.
Application Process
The application procedure involves submitting the necessary documents to the SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) with jurisdiction within the area of the applicant’s current residence.
The D9"Golden Visa"
The Golden Visa is the popular colloquial name for the Portuguese D9 Residence Permit for Investment Activities.
Requirements
To be eligible for the D9 Golden Visa, applicants must fulfill specific investment criteria. This includes investing a minimum of €500,000 in real estate properties located in urban rehabilitation areas or €350,000 in properties that are at least 30 years old. Additionally, applicants must adhere to the usual requirements for a residency permit, such as a clean criminal record and sufficient means of subsistence.
Suitability
The D9 Golden Visa is suitable for individuals who seek to reside in Portugal and engage in investment activities. It appeals to those who wish to acquire property in urban rehabilitation areas or older properties, contributing to the revitalisation of Portuguese cities.
Limitations
It is important to note that the D9 Golden Visa is limited to certain regions within Portugal, typically concentrated in urban and underdeveloped areas. As such, it does not allow unrestricted access to the entirety of the country.
Application Process
To apply for the D9 Golden Visa, applicants must submit the necessary documentation to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). This includes proof of investment, a valid passport, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Once the application is approved, an initial residence permit is granted for one year, which can be renewed for successive periods of two years each, up to a total of five years. After five years, applicants may be eligible to obtain permanent residency or even Portuguese citizenship.
Other requirements for moving to Portugal apart from obtaining a visa
Apart from obtaining a visa, non-EU citizens who wish to move to Portugal must fulfil certain requirements. Here are some additional steps:
Residency Permit
Non-EU citizens need to apply for a temporary residency permit within 3 months of arriving in Portugal. This can be done at the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
Accommodation
You will need to provide proof of suitable accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.
Criminal Record Check
Non-EU citizens must obtain a criminal record check from their home country or any country they have resided in for the past year.
Proof of Income
You may be required to demonstrate a means of financial support during your stay in Portugal. This can be in the form of employment, sufficient savings, or a regular passive income.
Health Insurance
It is mandatory to have valid health insurance coverage while residing in Portugal. This can be from a public or private healthcare provider.
Tax Obligations
You must understand and fulfil your tax obligations in Portugal, including registering with the tax authorities and reporting your income.
Conclusion
In conclusion, non-EU citizens looking to move to Portugal have a variety of options for obtaining full residency visas for long-term relocation.
Portugal offers a path for almost every type of expat. Each visa type comes with its own set of requirements and application processes, and it's important to understand the limitations and suitability of each.
By carefully considering your circumstances and planning accordingly, you can enjoy the rich cultural experience, favourable climate, and high quality of life that Portugal has to offer.
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