Obtaining residency in Portugal is a process that opens the door to a life in a country with a high quality of life, an excellent healthcare system, and growing job opportunities. There are two main ways to obtain residency, each with its advantages and limitations. In this article, we explain in detail how to obtain residency in Portugal without being a European citizen and what you need to meet the requirements.

Options for obtaining residency in Portugal

There are two ways to begin the process of obtaining legal residency in Portugal. The first is to apply from your country of origin or legal residency, through a visa obtained from the Portuguese embassy. The second, for those already in Portugal, is to apply for residency directly within the country, although this option is limited to certain specific cases.

If you’re a European citizen, obtaining a residence permit is different and much simpler. Check out our article on Immigrating to Portugal with a European passport.

Apply for a visa in your country of origin or residence

The ideal and most organized option for obtaining residency in Portugal is to apply from your country of origin or where you hold legal residence. This process involves applying for a visa at the Portuguese embassy in your country, which guarantees a legal and orderly entry. There are various types of residency visas, such as the D7 visa for passive income, the work or job seeker visa, the digital nomad visa, and a student visa .

For detailed information on the steps and requirements for applying for a visa, see our article on how to apply for a visa to Portugal.

Applying for residency while in Portugal (without a visa)

For those already in Portugal, there is the option of applying for residency directly in the country. This option allows you to begin a residency process with a visa waiver, although it is limited to certain specific cases. The types of residency that can be applied for under this option are:

• Secondary, higher or vocational studies (does not include language studies). Article 92 .
• Highly skilled work . Article 90 .
• Family reunification : Article 98 for family members who are third-country nationals residing in Portugal. Article 15 for family members of European citizens residing in Portugal. Article 122k for parents of minors residing in Portugal or Portuguese citizens studying in Portugal.

Disadvantages of applying for visa-free residency in Portugal

The process of applying for visa-free residency in Portugal can be complex due to the difficulty in getting an appointment with the Portuguese Immigration and Asylum Agency (AIMA). Appointments are released every few months, with no scheduled date or advance notice, and when they do open, the help lines often become overloaded quickly, making it very difficult to secure an appointment. Furthermore, the process can be long and unpredictable, making it a less organized option than applying from your country of origin.

Alternative through legal action

If you can’t get an appointment at AIMA, you can initiate legal proceedings with a lawyer in Portugal. This process allows you to apply for residency through legal means, although it is considerably more expensive and can take a couple of months. It’s a useful alternative in specific cases, but it’s not always feasible due to the costs and length of the process.

Duration of residence in Portugal and possibility of renewal

Residency in Portugal is generally granted for an initial period of two years . Once this period is completed, it is possible to renew it for another three years , which allows you to meet the five years of legal residency required to apply for Portuguese nationality for a period of residence.

In the case of family reunification with a Portuguese or European Union citizen, residency is usually granted for five years from the start. This duration allows greater stability for those accompanying family members residing in the country, such as spouses or children.

Advantages of obtaining a residence visa in Portugal

Access to the Portuguese healthcare system

One of the main advantages of obtaining residency is that you’ll have access to the national healthcare system, which is largely free. Furthermore, legal residents are entitled to access both the public healthcare system and private health insurance.

Job opportunities

Having a residence visa allows you to work legally in Portugal, opening the door to numerous job opportunities, especially in growing sectors such as technology, tourism, and services.

Residence in a country of the European Union

By obtaining residency in Portugal, you’ll also have the ability to travel and move freely within the member countries of the European Union, which represents an important advantage for those looking to explore new opportunities or enjoy Europe’s rich cultural diversity.

Access to Portuguese nationality

One of the great benefits of obtaining residency in Portugal is the possibility of applying for Portuguese nationality after five years of continuous legal residence in the country. This status allows you to work, study, and settle in any EU member state, opening up a range of professional and personal opportunities in Europe.

Other aspects to consider when obtaining residency in Portugal

Before starting the process, it’s important to keep in mind that both the required documents and the deadlines may vary depending on the type of residency you choose. Below are some additional points to consider:

• Required Documentation : For both processes, you’ll need documents such as a valid passport, proof of income, and documents that support your purpose in Portugal (e.g., a letter of admission for students or an employment contract for workers).
• Health Insurance : In most cases, health insurance covering your stay in Portugal is required. For more information on insurance and coverage in the country, see our guide to health insurance in Portugal .
• Tax Registration : Upon obtaining residency in Portugal, you must register with the Portuguese tax system, obtaining a NIF (Tax Identification Number), which is essential for activities such as opening a bank account, renting a property, or working in the country.

Conclusion

There are several ways to obtain residency in Portugal , each with its own advantages and limitations. Applying for a visa from your country of origin is the most organized option and avoids logistical problems upon arrival in Portugal. However, for those already in the country, applying internally is viable in specific cases. Both options allow access to an initial two-year residency, with the possibility of renewing it and, after five years, applying for Portuguese nationality.

Portugal offers an attractive and safe environment for those looking to settle in Europe, and obtaining legal residency is the first step toward a stable and profitable life in this country. If you’re considering moving to Portugal, explore our guides and resources on immigrating to Portugal to get all the information you need.