Residency
Portugal has become a favourite destination in Europe for relocation. But non EU/EEA/EFTA citizens need a Visa allowing them to stay in Portugal legally.
European citizens (as well as citizens from the EEA/EFTA) don’t need to obtain residency in the country to be able to live in Portugal. In these cases it will just be necessary to register with the Portuguese tax authorities and the Local Town Hall, who will issue a residence certificate valid for five years.
But third countries citizens need a residence visa. The residence visa needs to be applied for in your country of origin via the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate. With a valid Residence Visa you can then apply for the Residence Permit when you are in Portugal.
The Residence Visa can be obtained via the following ways, depending on your personal circumstances and on why you are moving to Portugal:
- Investment (Golden Visa)
- Retirement;
- Study;
- Work;
- Marriage;
- Family reunification;
A temporary residence permit is (since 2021) valid for two years from the date of issue. It can be renewed for consecutive periods of three years after that.
After five years of temporary residence, you can apply for a permanent residence permit, which has to be renewed every five years.