Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
Find comprehensive answers to common questions about Portuguese visas, immigration, and our services.
Investment residency
Golden Visa
What is the Portugal Golden Visa?
The Portugal Golden Visa is a residence-by-investment programme for non-EU nationals. It is still available, but real estate is no longer an eligible route. The current qualifying options are a €500,000 investment in eligible Portuguese investment funds or a certified cultural donation of €200,000 in low-density areas or €250,000 in standard areas. It provides access to EU residency and the Schengen area while you maintain your existing citizenship.
What are the current Golden Visa investment options?
Real estate investments are no longer eligible for the Golden Visa (abolished in 2023). The two qualifying routes are: Investment funds — a minimum subscription of €500,000 in a qualifying Portuguese investment fund. Cultural donation — a donation of €250,000 to a certified cultural project, or €200,000 if the project is in a designated low-density area. Both options lead to the same residence permit with the same benefits, including family reunification and a path to citizenship after five years. We assess the most appropriate route for each client during the initial consultation.
How long does the Golden Visa process take?
From initial engagement to residence card issuance, the Golden Visa process typically takes 9 to 12 months. This includes document preparation, investment execution, application submission, and biometrics at AIMA. In late 2025, the Portuguese government announced in parliament that AIMA would prioritise the resolution of pending Golden Visa cases throughout 2026. Since December 2025, our firm has been receiving biometrics appointments scheduled approximately six months after application submission — a significant improvement over previous wait times.
Can I bring my family with the Golden Visa?
Yes, your spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents can be included in your Golden Visa application as dependents. They receive residency permits valid for the same period as yours.
For retirees and passive income earners
D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa)
Who is eligible for the D7 Visa?
The D7 visa is for non-EU nationals who can support themselves through stable passive income, such as pensions, rental income, dividends, royalties, or similar recurring sources. Once you hold a D7 residence permit, you may also work in Portugal. There are no age restrictions, though the visa is popular among retirees. If your main income comes from active remote work or freelancing, the D8 Digital Nomad Visa is usually the more appropriate route.
What is the required passive income amount?
For 2026, the baseline is at least €920 per month for the main applicant, plus 50% for a spouse or second adult and 30% for each dependent child. The income must be stable, recurring, and supported by official documentation.
How long can I stay with the D7 Visa?
The D7 Visa is initially granted for 1 year and can be renewed for 2-year periods. After 5 years of continuous residence, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
For remote workers and digital nomads
D8 Digital Nomad Visa
Who is the D8 visa designed for?
The D8 Digital Nomad Visa is for non-EU nationals who work remotely for employers or clients outside Portugal. Unlike the D7 visa (which requires passive income), the D8 is specifically designed for people earning active income through remote work, freelancing, or self-employment for foreign entities.
What are the income requirements for the D8 visa?
You must demonstrate a monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (approximately €3,680/month in 2026). The income must come from work performed for entities established outside Portugal.
Can I bring my family with the D8 visa?
Yes. Your spouse and dependent children can be included in your application. Additional income thresholds apply for each family member.
What is the difference between D7 and D8 visas?
The D7 visa is for passive income earners (pensions, rental income, dividends). The D8 visa is for active remote workers and digital nomads who earn income from foreign clients or employers. If your income comes from active work, the D8 is the appropriate visa.
Claim Your Heritage or Establish New Roots
Portuguese Citizenship
Who can apply for Portuguese Citizenship through family?
Children and grandchildren of Portuguese citizens can claim citizenship through family descent. Your parent or grandparent must have been a Portuguese citizen when you were born (for direct descent) or at any time (for grandchildren through naturalization).
How long does the citizenship application process take?
The process typically takes 12-24 months, depending on the completeness of your documentation and the workload of the civil registry office. Complex cases may take longer.
What documentation do I need for a citizenship application?
You'll need birth certificates, marriage/divorce certificates, death certificates (as applicable), your ancestor's naturalization documentation, and proof of your lineage. All documents must be apostilled and translated into Portuguese.
General Questions
The Immigration Process
Do I need a Portuguese lawyer?
While not always legally required, having an experienced immigration lawyer significantly improves your chances of approval. We handle documentation, submissions, and communications with Portuguese authorities.
Can I work in Portugal with a residence permit?
This depends on your visa type and stage. While your application is still being processed, your ability to work may be limited. Once you hold a valid residence permit — whether through the D7, Golden Visa, or another route — you may generally work or be self-employed in Portugal without a separate work permit. Note that D7 visa qualification is based on passive income, not employment. If your main plan is active remote work from Portugal, the D8 Digital Nomad Visa is usually the better fit.
What happens if my application is denied?
If denied, you have the right to appeal. We analyze the rejection reasons and prepare a comprehensive appeal or advise on alternative visa options that may be better suited to your situation.
Can I maintain my current citizenship if I get Portuguese residency or citizenship?
Most countries allow dual citizenship. Portuguese law permits dual citizenship for those with Portuguese heritage. For residency visas like Golden or D7, you maintain your original citizenship.
Investment and Timing
Costs & Timeline
What are your legal fees for visa applications?
Our fees depend on the visa type, number of applicants, and complexity of the case. We provide a detailed, written fee proposal after your initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect before committing. Contact us to request a free eligibility assessment and fee estimate.
Are there government fees in addition to legal fees?
Yes. Government fees include visa application costs (€75-€200), biometric appointment fees, and administrative charges. These vary by visa type. We provide a complete breakdown of all costs during your consultation.
How quickly can I move to Portugal after approval?
Once your visa is approved, you can schedule a biometric appointment and receive your residency card within 2-4 weeks. You can then move to Portugal immediately. The entire timeline from initial consultation to residency card is typically 4-6 months.
Still Have Questions?
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Our team is ready to answer your specific questions and help you find the right visa solution for your situation.