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Resident Visa options in Portugal

Send us an email here to get more information on this matter: info@cscadvogada.com

The Portuguese Residence Card for EU citizens

From the European Union (UE),  European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland?

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens hold automatic rights for residency in Portugal. All that they must do is register with the civil authorities.

Residence Card for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Dependent Family Members

After registration of the EU/EEA/Swisscitizen, the non-EU/EEA/Swiss spouse (or common-law spouse of at least three years), dependent children and dependent parents may apply for a residence card, valid for five years. Individuals of other nationalities may, however, obtain a Portuguese residence permit under many circumstances. We have in-depth knowledge and extensive experience in this field and can assist clients with all their requirements.

From Temporary to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

All classes of residence permits granted by Portugal are initially issued for one year and are subsequently and indefinitely renewable every two years. However, after having held a legal residency in Portugal for five years, passing a language proficiency test and showing ties to the Portuguese community, one is entitled to permanent residency or citizenship. As a permanent resident of Portugal, it is easier to later apply for a residency permit anywhere in the EU/EEA/Switzerland. As a citizen, one is entitled to live anywhere in the EU/EEA/Switzerland, without need for a permit.

Types of Portuguese Residency Permits

The various types of residency permits issued are as follows:

1.   Residency-by-investment permits, commonly known as a Golden Visa;

2.   D7 visa for retirees, passive income earners, or high net-worth individuals ;

3.    For studies, non-remunerated internships or voluntary work;

4.    The EU Blue Card, granted to highly qualified professionals with a high-level employment contract, except when applicants already hold a right to reside in Portugal;

5.    For qualified ministers of an established denomination;

6.    For researchers, educators at an institution for higher learning, or other highly trained professionals;

7.    For freelancers or entrepreneurs establishing a business - The D2 visa to Portugal.

A Favorable Tax Regime for New Residents

People who have moved to Portugal but were not tax-resident during the previous five years may apply for Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status. This scheme grants new residents of Portugal a 10-year tax exemption on most non-Portuguese-sourced income, regardless of whether they are taxed at source, or whether, under a double taxation agreement (DTA), the tax at source is reduced (e.g., dividends, interest, or royalties) or even eliminated (e.g., pension income derived from private sector employment).

How Can We Assist?

We provide a one-stop-shop for all your needs in connection with your relocation to Portugal, including your residency permit, tax affairs, and settling-in support.