What You'll Learn on This Page
- • How Portuguese visa and residency processes differ from other countries
- • Main visa categories for non-EU citizens moving to Portugal
- • How AIMA (formerly SEF) works and what to expect
- • What varies between Lisbon, Porto, and smaller cities
- • Common friction points that slow down applications
How Portugal Differs
Portugal has become a popular destination for expats, particularly retirees and remote workers. This has led to processing backlogs at AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum, which replaced SEF in 2023). Wait times for appointments and decisions can be substantial, especially in Lisbon.
The NIF (tax identification number) is central to life in Portugal. Unlike some countries where tax registration happens after arrival, you often need a NIF before opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, or completing many official processes. Non-residents typically need a fiscal representative to obtain a NIF.
Portuguese bureaucracy operates primarily in Portuguese. While English is more common in Lisbon and Porto, government offices generally expect communication in Portuguese. Having documents translated and bringing a Portuguese speaker to appointments can prevent delays.
What tends to be more structured
- Document requirements are generally well-documented
- Clear visa categories for different situations
- Online appointment scheduling systems exist
- Digital nomad visa created specifically for remote workers
What tends to be less predictable
- AIMA appointment availability varies widely
- Processing times can extend to many months
- Requirements may be interpreted differently by location
- System transitions (SEF to AIMA) have caused disruptions
Main Visa Categories
Portugal offers several long-stay visa categories for non-EU citizens. The right category depends on your income source, work situation, and plans. Here are the most common pathways.
D7 Visa (Passive Income)
The D7 visa is designed for people with passive income—pensions, rental income, investment returns, or similar regular income. It has been popular with retirees and those with independent means.
Typical requirements
- Proof of regular passive income meeting thresholds
- Health insurance valid in Portugal
- Criminal background check (apostilled)
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- NIF (tax identification number)
What to consider
- Income thresholds based on Portuguese minimum wage
- Primary income should be passive, not active work
- Initial visa typically valid for 4 months
- Convert to residence permit after arrival
Digital Nomad Visa
Introduced in 2022, this visa is specifically for remote workers employed by or contracting with companies outside Portugal. It provides a legal framework for those who work remotely for foreign entities.
Typical requirements
- Proof of employment or contracts with non-Portuguese entities
- Income meeting threshold requirements (typically 4x minimum wage)
- Health insurance coverage
- Criminal background check
- Proof of accommodation
What to consider
- Higher income threshold than D7
- Work must be for entities outside Portugal
- Tax implications for Portuguese tax residency
- Relatively new visa category; processes evolving
Golden Visa (Investment)
The Golden Visa provides residency through qualifying investments. Property investment options have been restricted in recent years, with the focus shifting to fund investments, job creation, and other qualifying activities.
Current investment options
- Investment funds (minimum thresholds apply)
- Job creation (minimum number of positions)
- Cultural heritage and scientific research investments
- Property options now restricted to interior/low-density areas
What to consider
- Rules have changed significantly; verify current options
- Minimum stay requirements are relatively low
- Path to permanent residency and citizenship exists
- Professional legal guidance is typically necessary
D2 Visa (Entrepreneurs)
For those starting or operating a business in Portugal. Requires demonstrating a viable business plan and sufficient capital or investment.
Who it may suit
- Entrepreneurs starting businesses in Portugal
- Investors in Portuguese startups
- Freelancers serving Portuguese clients
- Self-employed professionals
What to consider
- Business plan may be required
- Proof of investment capital needed
- Must demonstrate viability of business
- Tax and social security obligations apply
EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
EU citizens have freedom of movement and do not need visas to live in Portugal. However, registration is required for stays over 90 days.
What applies
- No visa required
- Full right to work
- Registration certificate required after 90 days
- NIF still required for most activities
What to consider
- UK citizens post-Brexit are non-EU
- Registration process is generally straightforward
- Healthcare access may require EHIC or S1 initially
- Tax residency rules still apply
What Varies by Region
Visa applications are handled by consulates abroad. After arrival, residence permits and renewals are managed by AIMA. Experiences differ significantly by location.
Lisbon
The largest volume of applications means longer wait times for AIMA appointments—sometimes several months. The large expat community means more English-speaking services are available, but the immigration system is under significant strain.
Porto
Portugal's second city has a growing expat population. Wait times are generally shorter than Lisbon but have increased. The tech sector presence means more English speakers in business contexts.
Algarve
Popular with retirees and seasonal residents. AIMA offices may have shorter wait times. Strong tourism infrastructure means more English is spoken. Seasonal population fluctuations affect service availability.
Smaller Cities and Interior
Generally shorter appointment wait times. Fewer expat-focused services. Portuguese language becomes essential. Some Golden Visa property options now limited to these areas.
Common Friction Points
These issues frequently cause delays or complications for people navigating Portuguese immigration.
Not arranging a fiscal representative early
Non-residents need a fiscal representative to obtain a NIF, and many processes require a NIF. Arranging this after arrival delays everything. Some accountants and legal services offer this remotely before you travel.
AIMA appointment scarcity
Appointment availability, especially in Lisbon, can be severely limited. Some people wait months for appointments. The SAPA portal for scheduling often shows no availability, requiring repeated checking.
Documents without apostilles
Criminal background checks, birth certificates, and other official documents typically need apostilles. Obtaining these after leaving your home country is significantly more difficult and time-consuming. Get them before you go.
Confusion between D7 and Digital Nomad visa
The D7 visa is for passive income; the Digital Nomad visa is for active remote work. Applying for the wrong one based on your income source can lead to rejection. Understand which applies to your situation.
Language barriers at government offices
Government offices generally operate in Portuguese. Staff may speak limited English. Misunderstandings about requirements or next steps can cause problems. Having a Portuguese speaker accompany you, or using a professional service, reduces risks.
Underestimating the full timeline
From initial application to final residence permit can take many months—sometimes over a year for complex cases or during backlogs. Planning for a lengthy transition period is important for maintaining insurance, managing finances, and staying legal.
Where to Go Next
Your visa status affects nearly every other aspect of setting up life in Portugal. Consider these related topics as you plan.
Banking in Portugal
Your NIF and visa status affect which banks will work with you
Healthcare in Portugal
SNS access depends on your residency status
Cost of Living
Income thresholds for visas relate to actual living costs
Portugal Overview
Return to the country hub for a complete setup checklist
Visas Hub
General visa concepts and how processes work across countries
Digital Nomad Visas
Compare remote work visa options across countries
Explore Cities in Portugal
Visa processes are handled at the national level, but your experience with AIMA appointments and local services varies by city.
Sources Consulted
Official Portuguese Government Sources
- SEF/AIMA – aima.gov.pt – Immigration and Borders Service
- Portuguese Consulates – portaldascomunidades.mne.gov.pt – Consular services
- ePortugal – eportugal.gov.pt – Government services portal
EU Sources
- European Commission – Migration Portal – home-affairs.ec.europa.eu
- EU Immigration Portal – Portugal – Country-specific information