Routes to Portuguese residency

From Portugal’s famous Golden visa to its Digital Nomad visa, there are plenty of options for relocating to Portugal.

Through the introduction of various visas by the Portuguese government, it has become possible for a wide variety of individuals to come to Portugal and apply for a residence permit.

D7 or D2 visa

Individuals are typically applying for D7 or digital nomad related visas; essentially a visa for those earning passive and/or independent income, and able to support themselves. This income can be from: property rental income, financial investments, profits and dividends from a company, copyright, etc.

Others, who are more entrepreneurial and wishing to venture to Portugal, are applying for a D2 visa.

Those who can benefit are self-employed individuals or individuals who intend to set up or buy a company in Portugal. This visa requires a business plan to be submitted to the Portuguese authorities, amongst other criteria.

Golden Visa Program

Those wishing to keep Portugal as an option for relocation purposes, can register for the Golden Visa program. It is a quick way for foreign investors from non-EU countries to obtain a valid permanent residence permit in Portugal, and also allows them to travel freely in most European countries (Schengen Area).

Over 17,000 family members have benefited from the Portuguese Golden Visa. The program has specific investment criteria – the most popular in recent times has been an investment in a fund to the value of €500,000. The program has been so successful that the Portuguese government has raised the limit, from the previous minimum of €350,000.

The stay requirements in Portugal are minimal, with an average of only 7 days stay per annum, over a 5-year period, unlike other visas which require you to make a permanent move to Portugal.

As you can see, there is more than just the crispy custard tarts and more than 300 days of sun that Portugal has to ‘shout’ about. The reasons many are relocating to Portugal are numerous – with each person having their own story and set of circumstances.

Dixcart has assisted many families and businesses to relocate to various parts of the world, including Portugal. Please reach out to Dixcart Portugal should you have any questions: advice.portugal@dixcart.com. We appreciate that better decisions can often be made with a professional adviser by your side.

Catarina Sardinha
Director at Dixcart Portugal Lda