Long Stay Visas
Who it’s for
Portugal’s D visas are typically a good fit for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to move to Portugal and live there more consistently, usually by relying on work, independent income, passive income, study, or family ties (rather than an investment-led route).
Specially suited for
Remote workers / freelancers / consultants
who want to base themselves in Portugal and can demonstrate qualifying income and a stable work situation.
Retirees or individuals with passive income
who can support themselves (and dependants, if applicable) in Portugal.
Entrepreneurs and business owners
planning to start or relocate a business activity to Portugal and build a longer-term base.
People with a clear intention to relocate
who are committed to making Portugal their primary base and meeting the residence requirements that come with a D visa.
Key Benefits
Clear path to legal residence in Portugal
A D visa (residence visa) lets you enter Portugal to apply for a residence permit. It is typically valid for two entries and 4 months, during which the residence permit step is completed.
Right to live (and usually work) with a residence permit
Once your residence permit is granted, it gives you a stable legal basis to live in Portugal and, depending on the permit type, work. Many temporary residence permits are issued for 2 years and are renewable.
Schengen travel for short stays
A long-stay visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen State allows travel/stays in other Schengen countries within the 90 days in any 180-day period short-stay limit.
Family reunification options
Portuguese law provides family reunification pathways, subject to eligibility and the rules in force at the time.
Access to public services (including healthcare) as a legal resident
Foreign nationals with legal residence in Portugal can obtain an SNS user number and access the National Health System under the applicable rules.
Long-term options
With continued legal residence, you may become eligible to apply for permanent residence and, where requirements are met, Portuguese nationality by naturalisation after 5 years of legal residence (subject to conditions).
How the application works
A step-by-step guide to obtaining your Portuguese D visa, from choosing the right route to collecting your residence card.
1
Choose the right D Visa route
Select the residence visa that matches your profile (work/remote work, independent activity, passive income, study, family, etc.). The right route depends on your professional and income profile, and requirements can vary by consulate.
2
Prepare the main applicant’s documents
You’ll typically need core documents such as a valid passport, criminal record certificate(s), proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient means of subsistence, plus route-specific evidence (e.g., work contract, service contract, admission letter, etc.).
3
Prepare family documents (if applying together)
For each accompanying family member: passport/ID, proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates), and criminal record certificate(s) for adult dependants, plus any additional documents required for that route/consulate.
4
Submit the visa application and pay government fees
Submit your application through the Portuguese Consulate/Embassy (or the official external provider where applicable), and pay the relevant government fees.
5
Receive the residence visa and travel to Portugal
A residence visa generally allows two entries and is typically valid for 4 months (120 days).
6
Attend the AIMA appointment (residence permit request)
Once in Portugal, attend your scheduled AIMA appointment to submit biometric data and request your residence permit. Bring all original documents, certified translations, and proof of address in Portugal.
7
Residence card + renewals
Once approved, your residence permit card is issued (typically valid for 2 years). Renew before expiry by demonstrating you still meet the requirements, including sufficient means and ongoing ties to Portugal.