Can I Move to Portugal If I Have a Criminal Record?
Thinking about moving to Portugal but worried your minor criminal record might be a problem? Concerned about the clean criminal record requirement for visas like the D7, Digital Nomad Visa, and golden visa? You’re not alone, and this is a common question that comes up in Portugalist webinars. The good news is that Portugal might be more welcoming than you think. Let’s break down some expert advice from Lisbon-based lawyer Sandra Gomes Pinto in a way that’s easy to understand …
Portuguese Permanent Residency: What Changes When You Hit the 5-Year Mark?
As you learn about Portuguese visas and residency requirements, you’ll hear terms like temporary residency, permanent residency, and Portuguese citizenship used a lot. Trying to understand the differences can be confusing, particularly if it’s your first time moving abroad. In this article, we’ll break down one of those terms, permanent residency, and what it means to have it. Can I Get Permanent Residency Straight Away? One of the most common misconceptions is that you can obtain permanent residency in Portugal …
Moving Back to Portugal: What You Need to Know
Have you lived in Portugal before and are now considering a return? You’re not alone. Many people who have experienced life in this beautiful country often find themselves drawn back to its sunny shores, relaxed lifestyle, and rich culture. Whether you’re planning for retirement or simply looking to enjoy life a little more, Portugal can be an excellent choice. But what does the process of moving back entail? Let’s explore. Are There Special Benefits for Previous Residents? You might be …
Does Portugal Offer Citizenship By Investment?
No, Portugal does not offer direct citizenship by investment. However, Portugal does offer something potentially more valuable: a legal, EU-approved pathway to citizenship through its residency-by-investment program, commonly known as the Golden Visa. Unlike Caribbean citizenship-by-investment schemes or programs that the EU has challenged (Malta’s program was ruled illegal by the EU Court of Justice in 2024), Portugal’s Golden Visa provides a legitimate route to EU citizenship. Here’s what this means in plain English: You invest in Portugal, obtain residency, …
Can I Move to Portugal Through If I Have Permanent Residency in Another EU Country?
Already living in the EU with a long-term residence permit but aren’t an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen? Dreaming of making Portugal your next home? Article 116 of Portugal’s immigration code might be your ticket to Portuguese residency. Let’s dive into what this means for you and how you can make that move to Portugal happen. Overview of Article 116 Think of Article 116 as the EU’s way of saying “Mi casa es su casa” – if you’ve already proven yourself as a …
Portugal Looks to Sweeten Golden Visa Incentives — But Will Promises Be Delivered?
Portugal’s Golden Visa program, long seen as one of Europe’s most appealing residency-by-investment options, may soon become even more attractive. According to a Bloomberg report, the Portuguese government is considering reforms to streamline the application process and introduce improved financial incentives — potentially aligning the Golden Visa more closely with Portugal’s favourable tax regime. In short, Portugal’s new centre-right government appears determined to reinforce its commitment to international investors, talent, and entrepreneurs. Portugalist Insight: A Timely Boost for Golden Visa …
Investing in Funds for Portugal’s Golden Visa
Portugal’s has one of the most popular golden visa programs in the world, and one of the ways that you can obtain this visa and obtain residency in Portugal is by investing in a qualifying fund (or funds), such as a private equity or venture capital fund. There are a number of qualifying funds, in sectors ranging from startups and technology to renewably technologies, wine, and football teams. After five years of residency, it’s possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, …
Portugal’s Startup Visa: A Golden Ticket for Global Entrepreneurs
The Startup Visa is a program run by IAPMEI in Portugal, designed for entrepreneurs from outside the EU/EEA/Swiss region. It’s an initiative to draw investment, talent, and innovation into Portugal’s growing startup scene. As well as dependent family members, up to five partners can be included on the application. With this residency visa, entrepreneurs not only get the chance to live in Portugal but also gain access to the wide array of supports and incentives offered by the StartUP Portugal …
What’s an Atestado De Residência?
While many companies and government departments will accept a utility bill or rental contract as proof of address, that’s not enough for some and they make ask for an Atestado De Residência. It may also be required if you don’t have a rental contract or if the contract isn’t in your name. An Atestado De Residência is a document that confirms you live where you say you do. Although you will typically need a document like a rental contract to …
Luxury Travel Agent Marisa DeSalvio on Moving to Lisbon from Washington, DC
After falling in love with Portugal, Marisa DeSalvio made the decision to move from her busy life in Washington, DC to Lisbon. As she already ran a luxury travel agency, DeSalvio Travel, she used Portugal’s D2 or entrepreneur visa to apply for residency. Thankfully, it was accepted and she was able to make a new life in Portugal. James: What made you move to Portugal? Marisa: So many reasons! It’s been a 15 year dream of mine to move to …