Residence and Immigration in Portugal: Top 5 Ways to Obtain a Resident Card
Since 1992, Feod Group has been providing comprehensive immigration, corporate, and legal services in Portugal and other EU countries
Tailoring immigration programs in Portugal to your needs
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Immigration and Relocation to Portugal
Portugal is recognized as one of the most attractive European countries for immigration due to several objective factors. In recent years, it has established itself as an ideal destination for living and working, offering unique advantages such as a mild warm climate, affordable cost of living, and competitive tax conditions.
Life in Portugal combines diverse natural beauty, convenient infrastructure, and safety. The country boasts over 800 kilometers of Atlantic coastline and numerous opportunities for leisure, work, and business.
One of Portugal’s main advantages is its streamlined path to EU citizenship. After just five years of residency with a residence permit, you can apply for citizenship, gaining freedom of movement and the rights of an EU citizen.
This guide explores the top five ways to obtain a Portuguese residence permit in 2025 and highlights their key benefits to help you make an informed choice.
Benefits of Obtaining a Portuguese Resident Card
Holders of a residence permit in Portugal enjoy many rights and privileges. Key advantages include:
Living in a developed European Union country with excellent conditions for work and life
Freedom of movement within the Schengen Area
The right to work, run a business, and purchase real estate
Access to high-quality healthcare and education
Attractive tax conditions for residents
The opportunity to obtain Portuguese citizenship after five years
How to Obtain a Portuguese Residence Permit (Residence Card) in 2025
A residence permit (commonly known as a residence card) grants foreign nationals the legal right to live in Portugal for an extended period. Typically, the process begins with applying for a visa at the Portuguese consulate in your country of citizenship or permanent residence. Upon arrival in Portugal, you must submit an application for a Portuguese residence card.
Portugal offers a variety of programs for obtaining a residence permit, including options through investment, employment, freelancing, or as a digital nomad. The residence permit is usually issued for a period of 1 to 2 years and can be renewed. After five years of residency with a valid residence permit, you may apply for permanent residency and citizenship, granting access to all rights afforded to European Union citizens.
Special Conditions for Ukrainian Citizens: Temporary Protection Status
Ukrainian citizens benefit from special conditions under the Temporary Protection program introduced in line with a European directive. This status provides expedited access to essential rights, including:
The right to reside in Portugal
Access to healthcare services
Permission to work or study legally
The European Council has extended the Temporary Protection program for Ukrainian nationals until March 4, 2026. This allows Ukrainians to continue living and working legally within the EU.
In the future, those under Temporary Protection status may consider transitioning to other residence permit categories, such as those available through employment, business establishment, or investment opportunities.
Top 5 Ways to Obtain a Residence Permit in Portugal
Below are the most popular and effective pathways to obtain a Portuguese residence permit (residency card). Each option has its unique advantages and is tailored to different types of applicants:
1. Residence Permit for Investors (Golden Visa)
Portugal’s Golden Visa is an investment residency program offering a residence permit in exchange for contributions to the country’s economy. It is a highly sought-after program for individuals looking to combine EU residency with profitable investments. The Golden Visa is initially issued for two years and can be renewed.
One of the program’s key benefits is its flexibility. Unlike other residency options, the Golden Visa does not require permanent residence in Portugal. Residents only need to spend seven days per year in the country to maintain their status. This is especially appealing for applicants wishing to continue living and working outside Portugal while keeping their investments active.
Investment options for the Golden Visa include:
Job creation: Minimum of 10 jobs in any region or 8 jobs in low-density areas.
Company incorporation or capital increase: Investments starting from €500,000 and the creation of 5 jobs.
2. Residence Permit for Financially Independent Individuals (D7 Visa)
The D7 Visa is designed for non-EU citizens with regular passive income who wish to relocate to Portugal. Active income from employment or business activities does not qualify. Eligible income sources include rental property, royalties, dividends, pensions, or other stable passive income.
The initial residence permit is valid for two years and can be renewed. After five years of residency, applicants may apply for permanent residence and citizenship.
Key requirements for the D7 Visa:
Minimum income: From €870 per month (2025 figures) or €10,440 annually for the primary applicant. Additional amounts apply for dependents (50% for a spouse and 30% for each child).
Income proof: Bank statements, rental agreements, pension documents, etc.
Accommodation in Portugal: Proof of renting or owning a property, or intent to relocate.
3. Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs (D2 Visa)
The D2 Visa targets entrepreneurs, business owners, and self-employed professionals planning to start or expand a business in Portugal or work independently as freelancers. The initial residence permit is valid for two years and renewable under specific conditions.
Portugal offers a favorable tax regime for both entrepreneurs and freelancers, with competitive rates for business and personal income tax, making it an attractive destination for launching and growing a business.
Who is eligible for the D2 Visa?
Entrepreneurs: Those planning to start a new business or expand an existing one in Portugal. Requirements include a business plan, a Portuguese bank account, and establishing a limited liability company (LDA).
Freelancers: Professionals working with local or international clients. While company formation is not mandatory, applicants must open a Portuguese bank account, verify their qualifications, and provide evidence of contracts with clients.
Financial requirements: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves. In 2025, the minimum requirement is €10,440 annually for the primary applicant, with additional amounts for dependents (50% for a spouse and 30% for each child).
The D8 Visa is tailored for digital nomads, allowing freelancers and employees of foreign companies to legally reside and work remotely in Portugal. This program is ideal for individuals earning income from clients or companies outside Portugal.
Requirements for Digital Nomad Residency:
Minimum income: An average monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (from €3,480 in 2025) for the past three months.
Proof of employment or self-employment: Documentation confirming remote work for a foreign company or clients.
Tax residency and declarations: Proof of tax residency and filed tax returns.
Accommodation in Portugal: Proof of residence.
Key distinction between D2 and D8 Visas: While both visas cater to professionals, their focus differs. The D2 Visa is for those conducting business within Portugal, while the D8 Visa targets remote workers not directly involved in the Portuguese market.
5. Residence Permit for Highly Skilled Professionals (D3 Visa)
The D3 Visa is designed to attract highly skilled professionals to Portugal, particularly in fields like technology, engineering, healthcare, research, and IT. The residence permit’s validity depends on the employment contract and ranges from one to two years, with renewal options.
Who qualifies for the D3 Visa?
Professionals with proven qualifications and experience in their field.
Applicants with job offers or employment contracts from Portuguese companies.
Researchers, academics, and educators invited to work in universities, research institutions, or large companies.
Applicants must provide an employment contract, ensuring compliance with Portuguese labor laws and minimum salary standards for highly qualified professionals.
Feod Group specialists can help you navigate Portugal’s residence permit programs and choose the best option for your needs. Contact us for tailored immigration consultations and guidance through every step of the process. Get expert advice on immigration to Portugal today!
How to Obtain Permanent Residence and Citizenship in Portugal
After five years of legal residence, you can apply for permanent residence (PR) or Portuguese citizenship.
Permanent residence is granted for five years and can be renewed.
Citizenship provides full access to the rights of European Union citizens, including the ability to live, work, and study in any EU country.
Obtaining Permanent Residence in Portugal
To apply for permanent residence, submit your application to the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) — the Portuguese Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum.
Eligibility requirements for permanent residence:
Holding a temporary residence permit for at least five years.
Proof of sufficient financial resources for self-support.
Proof of residence in Portugal.
Basic knowledge of Portuguese (A2 level).
Obtaining Portuguese Citizenship
Portuguese citizenship offers full EU citizenship rights, including freedom to live, work, and study across EU member states.
Portugal’s legislation allows several pathways to citizenship, such as by birth, descent, marriage, or naturalization. The fastest route for most applicants is naturalization, which requires five years of legal residence.
Requirements for citizenship through naturalization:
Five years of legal residence in Portugal.
Financial independence with a stable income.
Ownership or long-term rental of property in Portugal for at least three years.
Registration with Portuguese tax authorities and the National Health Service.
Knowledge of the Portuguese language at an A2 level (basic communication).
Contact us for consultations on moving to Portugal, obtaining residence permits, tax planning, business registration, and other legal and immigration services!
Portugal is renowned for its affordable cost of living, low taxes, high-quality healthcare, and education. The country’s rich culture, well-developed infrastructure, and safety make it an ideal place to live and work. Additionally, Portugal offers simplified conditions for obtaining citizenship after five years of residence, granting full rights as a citizen of the European Union.
What is the Procedure for Obtaining a Residence Permit in Portugal?
The process for obtaining a residence permit in Portugal depends on the selected immigration program and involves several key steps:
Choosing the appropriate type of residence permit based on your goals and eligibility.
Ensuring you meet the program’s requirements.
Collecting and preparing the necessary documents.
Submitting your application to the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy to obtain an entry visa.
After arriving in Portugal, you must complete the process by obtaining a residence card at the local branch of the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA).
Can You Apply for a Residence Permit in Portugal Remotely?
No, you must first personally obtain an entry visa at the Portuguese Consulate and then finalize your residence card after arriving in the country.
Is Knowledge of the Portuguese Language Required to Obtain a Residence Permit?
Knowledge of Portuguese is not required to obtain a residence permit. However, basic knowledge of the language may be necessary for renewing your status or applying for permanent residence.
How Long Must You Reside in Portugal to Obtain Citizenship?
To qualify for citizenship, you must live in Portugal for five years with a residence permit, maintain a stable income, demonstrate basic knowledge of the Portuguese language (A2 level), and have a residence in the country.
Is It Necessary to Reside in Portugal Permanently to Maintain a Residence Permit?
No, programs like the Golden Visa require minimal presence—just seven days per year. However, other visa types may require more frequent residence in the country.
In 2004 Tetyana Lementarova graduated from the University of Nottingham Trent, London (UK) qualification of Bachelor of International Business (BA Hons) and in 2006 received an MBA from the European School of Economics Rome (Italy), Marketing Management specialisation. Has work experience in UK, Ita...
In 2004 Tetyana Lementarova graduated from the University of Nottingham Trent, London (UK) qualification of Bachelor of International Business (BA Hons) and in 2006 received an MBA from the European School of Economics Rome (Italy), Marketing Management specialisation. Has work experience in UK, Italian and Cypriot companies. 2005-2009 co-founder of an Italian company tour operator New Lands (Rome, Italy). Since 2001, Mrs. Lementarova works as representative of Feod Group abroad. Participates on behalf of the company in international seminars, trainings and conferences on education, immigration and property acquisition abroad. Tetyana Lementarova is an expert in the field of:
planning an academic career abroad;
organisation of new business abroad and purchase of ready business;
Since 1992, Feod Group has been providing a wide range of legal, business and immigration services in Europe, the USA and other countries of the world.
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