Do you need a Visa for Portugal?
The answer to this question is: it depends on the purpose of your trip. Let's explain in more detail.
If you intend to come to Portugal only for tourism, you do not need to apply for a visa. Tourists can enter and stay in the country for up to 90 days, and it is also possible to request an extension of the tourist visa under certain conditions. However, you will need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your date of return from Portugal or another travel document recognized by the Member States of the Schengen Area.
On the other hand, if you plan to move to Portugal, whether for a short period or indefinitely, you will need to apply for a visa that authorizes your entry into the country.
When Do You Need to Apply for a Visa for Portugal?
Whenever you intend to stay in Portugal for more than 90 days, if you do not have European citizenship, you will need to apply for a visa.
The type of visa you choose depends on what you will do in the country and how long you will stay.
There are visas for studies (short or long duration), work, retirees, people with their own income, those who want to invest in the country, digital nomads, or even those looking for a job.
TYPES OF VISAS FOR PORTUGAL
To know which visa you should apply for to live in Portugal, first, we must clarify that there are three categories of visas: temporary stay visa, residence visa, and Schengen visa.
Temporary Stay Visa
This visa is for people who will stay in Portugal for less than 12 months. It can be applied to various purposes, such as:
• Medical treatment, Accompanying a family member in medical treatment
• Independent work
• Seasonal work (for more than 90 days)
• Participation in professional training activities
• Amateur sports activities
• Participation in scientific research activities
• Short courses or exchange programs
Residence Visa for Portugal
This is the correct option for people who will stay in Portugal for more than 1 year. Some situations that may apply to the residence visa request are:
• Study (for a period of 1 year or more)
• Subordinate work (with a work contract)
• Independent work
• Entrepreneurs
• Remote work (digital nomad)
• Job searching
• Development or participation in research at a Portuguese scientific institution
• Participation in a volunteer program
• Family reunification
• Retirees, religious individuals, and people with their own income
Schengen Visa
The Schengen visa is for people from third countries who need a short-term visa (up to 90 days) to enter Portugal. This visa does not cover Brazilian citizens, as entry for periods of up to 90 days for Brazilian nationals does not require a visa application.
MAIN TYPES OF VISA FOR PORTUGAL
1-D7 VISA — OWN INCOME VISA
The Temporary Residence Visa, also known as the D7 Visa, is one of the most popular options for Americans planning to live in Portugal without working locally. This visa is ideal for retirees, investors, and people with passive income. With the D7, you don’t need to invest large amounts of money, buy a property, or start a business—you just need to prove that you can support yourself in Portugal with a regular overseas income. This income can include pensions, investment income, rentals, among others.
Requirements
• Proof of Income: The applicant must demonstrate that they have sufficient passive income to support themselves in Portugal. The minimum amount required is approximately 820 euros per month for the main applicant. It's also necessary that the income should be sufficient to support yourself and any family members. For secondary applicants such as a spouse, partner, or dependent children, a further 30% (for each child) or 50% (for other family members) is required.
• Health Insurance: It is necessary to have valid health insurance in Portugal.
• Accommodation: Proof of accommodation in Portugal, which can be a rental contract or property title.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record certificate.
Benefits
• Initial 1-Year Residence: The visa is initially valid for one year, renewable for two periods of two years each.
• Access to SNS: Access to the National Health Service (SNS) after obtaining residency.
• Possibility of Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residence, it is possible to apply for permanent residency.
The processing time for the D7 visa usually ranges from 2 to 4 months.
2- D2 VISA FOR ENTREPRENURS
The D2 Visa is intended for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent workers who want to establish a business or professional activity in Portugal.
Requirements
• Business Plan: Presentation of a detailed business plan that demonstrates the economic viability of the project in Portugal.
• Proof of Financial Resources: Demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to start and sustain the business.
• Commercial Registration: Proof of registration of the business in Portugal, if applicable.
• Health Insurance: Valid health insurance in Portugal.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record certificate.
Benefits
• Initial 1-Year Residence: The visa is initially valid for one year, renewable for two periods of two years each.
• Growth Opportunity: Allows you to develop and expand your business in Portugal.
• Access to Tax Benefits: Possibility of accessing tax benefits and support programs for entrepreneurs.
3- D8 DIGITAL NOMAD VISA
This is a Portuguese residency visa designed for people who want to live in Portugal while they work remotely for a foreign-based company or as a freelancer for clients outside Portugal.
The D8 can be both a temporary stay visa and a long-term residence permit visa.
The temporary stay visa allows you to live in Portugal for up to one year, while the long-term residence permit visa allows you to stay for up to 5 years in the country, with the possibility of renewal. After 5 years, you will also be able to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Who qualifies for the D8 Digital Nomad Visa?
The D8 visa is ideal for remote workers, freelancers, or digital entrepreneurs. The eligibility criteria for this visa are:
• The applicant must be employed with a foreign company, freelance, or own a location-independent business. The key point here is that the applicant's income source should not come from Portuguese companies or clients.
• The applicant must be able to show that they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay in Portugal. The minimum requirement for approval is proof of income equivalent to 4 Portuguese minimum wages per month (about €3,280 monthly in 2024).
4-D1 VISA FOR WORKERS
The D1 Visa is intended for non-EU-citizens who have a job offer in Portugal. This visa is suitable for qualified professionals who have been hired by a Portuguese company.
Requirements
• Employment Contract: Presentation of an employment contract or job offer from a registered company in Portugal.
• Professional Qualifications: Proof of qualifications and relevant professional experience for the position.
• Health Insurance: Valid health insurance in Portugal.
• Criminal Record: A clean criminal record certificate.
Benefits
• Initial 1-Year Residence: The visa is initially valid for one year, renewable for two periods of two years each.
• Professional Stability: Guarantee of stability through regular employment.
• Possibility of Permanent Residency: After five years of continuous residence, it is possible to apply for permanent residency.
5-D4 VISA- STUDY VISA
For people who will study in higher education (bachelor's, master's, and doctorate) or undertake professional internships.
For courses lasting less than 1 year, the appropriate visa is the temporary stay visa for study.
6-D3 VISA- Highly Qualified Professional Visa
For professionals who will work in Portugal and are considered highly qualified.
The D3 Visa for Portugal, aimed at highly qualified professionals, offers several advantages for those wishing to establish themselves in the country. Despite being valid for only 4 months and allowing only two entries into Portuguese territory, this visa serves as a gateway to obtaining a Residence Permit (AR), enabling the professional to live and work in Portugal for an extended period.
Meeting with AIMA for Residence Card Issuance:
During the validity period of the D3 Visa, the holder must necessarily go to Portugal and schedule an appointment with the Portuguese Agency for Migration and Asylum (AIMA). At this meeting, their biometric data will be collected for the issuance of the Residence Card, an official document that proves their authorization to stay and work on Portuguese soil.
Facilitated Family Meeting:
One of the main differentiators of the D3 Visa is the possibility of applying for accompanying visas for close family members simultaneously with the main application. This means that a spouse, minor children, and dependent parents can immigrate to Portugal together with the highly qualified professional, facilitating the adaptation process to the new life in the country.
What Defines a Highly Qualified Worker?
Portuguese legislation defines a highly qualified activity as one that requires specialized technical skills of an exceptional nature or a higher qualification suitable for the exercise of the function. Although there is no specific list of eligible professions, AIMA considers activities related to the applicant's higher education or those that demand uncommon technical expertise and professional experience of more than 5 years as highly qualified.
General Tips for Applying for National Visas in Portugal
While specific requirements vary for each visa type, here are some general practices all non-EU citizens should consider when applying for residence visas in Portugal:
• Obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF): This is crucial for many everyday activities in Portugal, from finding housing to getting a phone contract.
• Open a Portuguese Bank Account: Having a local bank account simplifies the process for many visa applications, whether temporary or long-term.
• Research Different Visa Options: Portugal offers various visas, so choose the one that best aligns with your needs and goals.
• Consider Consulting a Lawyer: Immigration lawyers can provide invaluable guidance through the complexities of obtaining a visa. While there may be additional costs, their expertise can be well worth it.
• Experience Portugal First-Hand: Before committing to a visa application, consider spending time in Portugal (a few days or weeks). This allows you to experience the country firsthand and ensure it aligns with your expectations. Remember, other Schengen Area countries offer visas for non-EU citizens as well.
Oh, and don't forget to check with the nearest Portugues consulate or embassy in your home country or visit the official Portuguese immigration website for the most accurate and updated information regarding visa types, requirements, and application procedures.
More information Type of Visa - General Information - National Visas - Visa (mne.gov.pt)
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