With picturesque beaches, low cost of living, and vibrant landscapes and cities, Portugal has been on the radar of expats and nomads for a long time. Portugal offers all the best bits of Europe within its boundaries. So if you have decided to move to Portugal for many reasons, it has already been a great start for you!
Portugal has long been the preferred destination for many individuals and families. From education and running a business to retiring, one can enjoy quality time there. However, to head into Portugal, there are certain requirements that an individual and family have to meet.
What you can Expect after Moving to Portugal
Portugal is not all about a holiday destination but a place where you can find the actual meaning of a happy life. And you can expect a lot of spectacular options when you move to Portugal.
· Quality Life
Portugal is known for its pleasant climate and atmosphere. With beautiful beaches and landscapes, it provides a splendid quality of life.
· Low Cost of Living
An affordable lifestyle is one of the best trademarks of Portugal. This is why expats love and enjoy living in Portugal since living there does not force them to break the bank.
· Atmosphere and Environment
Regarded as one of the safest places in the world., Portugal offers its residents the best environment to thrive. Also being one of the safest countries in the world, you can enjoy a comfortable life here.
· Citizenship
Portugal offers residential options and freedom to its expats. It further improves the pathways to citizenship alongside its Golden Visa program with other immigration sources.
· Education and Healthcare
For families and retirees, good education and affordable and quality healthcare is essential. Thanks to Portugal, it is all an accessible reality with ease.
· Exploration Opportunities
Given Portugal’s geographical location, it sets you at the perfect place to begin further exploration into other countries and cities of Europe.
Your Visa Options
Portugal has received a considerable number of immigrants from both European and non-European countries. Here’s what each of these nationals can do to enter Portugal.
· European Union Nationals
A visa holder of a European passport or EEA/Swiss national can enter Portugal by showing their national identity cards upon arrival. European citizens can freely move in Portugal however for an intended stay of more than 3 months, they must request a registration certificate. Also, after a five-year residence in Portugal, they can apply for a permanent residence certificate.
· Non-European Nationals
People from non-European countries who intend to come to Portugal have some kind of visa or residency permit. For this, they can consult the Portuguese Embassy, Portuguese Consulate, or VSF Global for Portuguese visa processing. The Portuguese Immigration Office is responsible for generating your residence visa. Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have international agreements with Portugal. This allows their citizens to stay in Portugal for 90 days within a six-month period without needing a visa.
Different Portuguese Visa Types
Different requirements are present for different visa types. Below is a list of all the different Portuguese visa types and who they pertain to.
1. Schengen Visa
Schengen or Short-Stay Visa is a perfect option for people who like to travel a lot and want to constantly explore other Schengen Areas. This visa allows them to stay in Portugal for 90 days in a six-month period.
2. Temporary Stay Visa
A Temporary Stay Visa for Portugal allows you to stay in Portugal for four months with multiple entries. However, this visa is eligible in the following cases.
- Medical treatment or accompanying a family patient for treatment
- Transfer of workers as per WTO to provide services and professional training
- Temporary or self-employment
- Conducting scientific research
- Teaching in a higher education institution
- Pursuing sports activities
3. Portuguese Residency Visa
The Portuguese Residency Visa is provided to people who intend to stay for longer in Portugal. This visa is granted after arriving in Portugal considering any of the following reasons:
- Employed work, self-employment, or entrepreneurial activities
- Scientific research or teaching
- Student, study, internship, voluntary, or student exchange, and higher education programs
- Family reunion
- Pensioners and people with income
Portugal Visa Requirements
Regardless of the visa type you intend to apply for, you must submit a visa application form to a nearby Portugal Embassy or consulate in your home country. Also, the visa processing time varies from two weeks to two to three months. Hence, when applying for a Portuguese visa, try to keep this in mind.
Here are all the documentation requirements for applying for the visa:
- Two passport photos
- Your passport and copies of previous visas
- Return ticket reservation copy
- Travel insurance covering your Schengen Area travel
- A cover letter stating the purpose of your travel and itinerary
- Flight dates and time
- Accommodation plans for your stay duration
- Sufficient funds to last the duration of your stay
- Civil status proof
- Economic status proof
Why work with Portugal Residency Advisors?
· Local Expertise
We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.
· Holistic Approach
One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle.
· Transparent Service
We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money for clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.
· Simple Process
Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration Guide to Portugal
- Are there any other types of Portuguese visas apart from the above-mentioned three types?
Yes, there are other visa types that you can apply for apart from the above three. These include:
- Portugal Online Worker Visa
- Portugal Tech Visa
- Can the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate ask for extra documents during visa application?
If you are a student, you may be asked for additional documents, such as proof of enrolment in a Portuguese institution.
- What is a Portugal Golden Visa?
Portugal Golden Visa program is for non-EU residents who intend to get a permanent residence certificate in Portugal. Eligible qualifying investors can enjoy a five-year residence-by-investment scheme for themselves and their family members making them eligible for all activities such as living, studying, and travelling to Schengen Areas.