What is a Visa and Residence Permit?
A Residence Visa is an authorization granted to foreigners who wish to come to Portugal, whether to work, study, undertake business or reside with their own income. It is the first step towards obtaining a Residence Permit from the Portuguese authorities, allowing access to rights such as healthcare, education, family reunification and, in the future, the Portuguese Nationality.
What is the difference between a Residence Visa and a Tourist Visa?
The Tourist Visa only allows short stays of up to 90 days and does not authorize living, working or studying in Portugal. Using the Tourist Visa to live in the country may generate legal implications and hinder future applications for a residence permit.
Types of Residence Visas
Learn a little about some types of Visa, but count on the advice of VE Consultoria to evaluate the most suitable option for you!
D1 Visa – Subordinate Work
For professionals who already have an employment contract in Portugal for a minimum period of 12 months.
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Main requirements:
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Employment contract or promise of contract;
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Proof of means of subsistence;
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Proof of accommodation (rent or invitation letter);
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International health insurance;
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Certificate of criminal record;
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Among others.​
Advantages:
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Allows legal entry with employment relationship already guaranteed;
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Facilitates subsequent family reunification.
D2 Visa – Entrepreneur
For entrepreneurs, freelancers or service providers who wish to start or invest in a company in Portugal, including self-employed professionals: Establishing a company or professional activity.
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Main requirements:
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A viable business plan (with market and investment analysis);
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Opening of a company or professional activity;
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Proof of income or financial capacity;
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Service provision contract (for self-employed workers);
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Proof of accommodation;
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Health insurance;
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Among others.
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Advantages:
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It is one of the most flexible visas;
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It allows you to undertake freely and legally;
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You can include family members from the beginning (reunification).
D3 Visa – Highly Qualified Professionals
For research, teaching or highly qualified professionals.
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Main requirements:
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Employment contract with qualified position;
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Training compatible with the role;
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Registration or recognition of diploma (in some cases);
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Means of subsistence;
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Accommodation;
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Health insurance;
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Among others.
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Advantages:
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Allows for regrouping; Possibility of rapid recognition of residence in other EU countries (Blue Card)
D4 Visa – Students
For students enrolled in Portuguese educational institutions, including exchange, internship and volunteering.
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Main requirements:
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Letter of acceptance from the educational institution;
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Proof of financial resources (or declaration from the financial guardian);
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Accommodation;
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Health insurance;
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Among others.
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Advantages:
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Allows for professional internships;
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Can be renewed for the duration of the course;
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Facilitates subsequent change to a work visa or permanent residence.
D6 Visa – Family Reunification
For spouses, children or parents of legal residents in Portugal: Allows the family to unite on European territory.
Main requirements:
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Proof of family ties (certificates, dependency);
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Proof that the resident in Portugal has the means to support the family member;
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Health insurance (in some cases);
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Adequate accommodation;
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Among others.
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Advantages:
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Less bureaucratic process;
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Allows the family to unite on European soil;
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Same residence rights as the main holder.
D7 Visa – Retirees and Income Holders
Ideal for retirees or people with income in Brazil who wish to reside in Portugal.
Main requirements:​
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For retirees or people with independent means: Proof of monthly income exceeding the Portuguese minimum wage, plus approximately 50% per dependent;
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Proof of housing;
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Health insurance;
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Income tax return in Brazil (recommended);
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Among others.​
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Advantages:
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Ideal for those who do not want or need to work;
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Provides peace of mind and stable residence with few risks;
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Can include spouse and children.
Visa for Digital Nomads
For professionals who work remotely abroad and wish to live in Portugal.
Main requirements:
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Proof of minimum monthly income (4 Portuguese minimum wages)
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Employer's statement or service provision contracts;
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Means of subsistence and accommodation;
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Proof of legal professional activity in the country of origin;
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Among others.
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Advantages:
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Modern professional lifestyle, with geographic freedom;
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Visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed, as long as the requirements are met;
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Excellent for freelancers or consultants with a stable income.
Special Visas for Investors and Innovators
These visas are aimed at specific investment or innovation profiles, and may involve additional rules.
Job Seeker Visa
For professionals who do not yet have a job offer but intend to enter Portugal legally to search for employment opportunities for a determined limited period.
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Main requirements:
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Statement of purpose explaining your job search intentions in Portugal;
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Proof of financial means to support the expenses during the period;
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Proof of accommodation;
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International health insurance;
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Certificate of criminal record.
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Advantages:
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Allows legal entry into Portugal for the purpose of finding a job;
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A way to long-term legal residency and, eventually, family reunification.
Lorena Teixeira - PT
It is worth hiring the team. They are always willing to help and answer questions when necessary and are very agile in the processes. Mine started on 01/29/2025 and today, 03/14/2025, I did the interview with Aima and got my residency. Now I just have to wait for the card to arrive. Thank you to everyone at VE Consultoria.
Why have Portuguese Nationality?
Movement in Europe: As a Portuguese citizen, you have the right to live, study and work in any country in the European Union.
Security and Stability: Access to better opportunities and greater legal and economic protection.
Ease of Transferring Citizenship: Your descendants will also be able to benefit, ensuring your family's future..
Common Questions
Do I need to be in Portugal to apply for a visa?
No. The application must be submitted in advance in your country of residence.
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How long does it take for the visa to be ready?
The average time is 60 to 90 business days, but it may vary depending on the type of visa and the demands of the respective Consulate.
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Can I bring my family?
Yes. For almost all visas, it is possible to include dependents (spouse and children) in the same process or request reunification.
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Conclusion
Each type of visa has its own rules, specific requirements and risks of rejection if poorly guided. Therefore, it is not enough to fill out forms — you need strategy and technical knowledge to avoid rejections and delays.
VE Consultoria simplifies the process of obtaining Portuguese Nationality, ensuring agility and security. Leave your details and speak to a specialist right now!
