Portugal
Portugal is one of Europe's most accessible destinations for non-EU nationals seeking long-term residency, investment opportunities, or a base within the Schengen Area. As a member of the European Union, Portugal offers a stable legal framework, a high quality of life, and a range of well-established immigration pathways — from short-stay business visas through to permanent residency and citizenship.
Hudson McKenzie advises individuals, families, and corporate clients on all aspects of Portuguese immigration law, including the Golden Residence Permit, the D7 Passive Income Visa, the Digital Nomad Visa, work authorisations, and long-term residency planning.
Schengen business visa
Citizens of certain non-EU countries must hold a short-stay visa when travelling to the Schengen area. This visa is required for individuals attending business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, seminars. A Schengen visa is an entry permit for non-EU nationals to make a short, temporary visit of up to 90 days in any 180-day period to a country in the Schengen area.
Work Visa (Short Term)
Temporary stay visa: Designed for work-related activities in Portugal for periods up to one year, accommodating various employment scenarios:
- Seasonal work: For employment in industries with seasonal demand.
- Self-employment/Freelance work: For individuals intending to engage in freelance or self-employed activities.
- Skilled employment: For highly skilled professionals undertaking specific projects or roles.
Work Visa (Long Term)
- Work and residence visa and permit: For non-EU nationals who intend to reside and work in Portugal, typically requiring a job offer from a Portuguese employer.
- Intra-company transfer: For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Portuguese branch.
- EU blue card: For highly qualified non-EU nationals with a binding job offer in Portugal, offering higher salary thresholds.
- Digital nomad visa: For remote workers who wish to live in Portugal while continuing their employment with companies outside of Portugal.
Golden Residence Permit (Golden Visa)
Portugal's Golden Residence Permit is the country's flagship residency-by-investment programme, designed for non-EU nationals seeking European residency with minimal stay requirements. It grants a five-year renewable residence permit with the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, and provides free movement across the Schengen Area.
Investment options start from €200,000 for cultural or heritage projects in low-density areas, rising to €500,000 for venture capital, scientific research, or business investment routes.
For full details on eligibility, investment pathways and the application process, see our dedicated Golden Visa Programme — Portugal service page.
D7 Passive Income Visa
The D7 Visa is designed for non-EU nationals who can demonstrate sufficient passive income to support themselves in Portugal without local employment. It is particularly popular among retirees, remote workers, and individuals with rental income, dividends, or pensions.
Successful applicants receive a two-year renewable residence permit with a pathway to permanent residency after five years and Portuguese citizenship after six years. Unlike the Golden Visa, the D7 requires applicants to spend the majority of the year in Portugal, making it best suited to those planning to relocate full-time.
Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers employed by companies outside Portugal to live in the country while continuing their existing employment. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage. It is available as both a short-stay visa and a longer-term residence permit for those planning to remain beyond one year.
Citizenship
Portuguese citizenship is available to long-term residents who have held legal residence in Portugal for at least five years. Applicants are assessed on their ties to Portugal, including Portuguese language proficiency, integration into local society, and a clean legal record.
Golden Visa holders who maintain their qualifying investment and meet the minimal physical stay requirements may also apply for citizenship after five years — making Portugal one of the few European investment residency programmes to offer a direct pathway to EU citizenship.
Hudson McKenzie advises clients on citizenship eligibility, application preparation, and long-term residency planning aligned with individual and family goals. Contact our team for a confidential assessment.
Additional Services
Hudson McKenzie provides a full range of supporting legal services for clients relocating to or investing in Portugal, including notarisation, apostille, legalisation, document translations, and general immigration consultations. Our team works closely with clients throughout the entire process — from initial assessment through to residency and long-term planning.
Request a consultation | Email us | Call +44 (0) 20 3318 5794
The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules and requirements are subject to change. Please contact Hudson McKenzie for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
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