Updated: March 24, 2026

Foreign nationals eager to move to or visit Portugal can choose from various visa types based on the duration and reason of their stay. 

Portugal Visas come in four main categories: Short-term visas, temporary stay visas, job seeker visas, and type D residency visas. Each visa type has its own subcategory, requirements, and eligibility criteria. 

In this guide, we will take a closer look at the various visa types in Portugal and each subcategory. We’ve also outlined the steps of the application process so you can kick-start your Portugal immigration journey.  

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Different Types of Portugal Visas: Key Takeaways

  • Portugal visa requirements depend on your nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can enter freely and register after 90 days. Visa-exempt nationals may stay up to 90 days, but need long-term visas for extended stays.
  • The main categories of Portuguese visas include short-stay (Schengen), temporary stay, job-seeker, and residence (type D).
  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals need a type D visa for temporary residency in Portugal, such as the D7 (Passive Income or Retirement Visa), D2 (Entrepreneur Visa), or D8 (Digital Nomad Visa).
  • As of 31 December 2024, the AIMA recorded 1,543,697 foreign residents in Portugal, +18% increase in just one year.

Do you need a visa for Portugal?

Whether you require a visa for Portugal hinges on your citizenship. 

  • EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland can enter Portugal without a residence visa. They just need a valid passport or national ID card. While EU citizens can stay in Portugal indefinitely, they must register their residence with the local authorities if they plan to stay for more than 90 days. 
  • Visa-exempt (Schengen waiver) countries: Citizens of around 60+ non-EU countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan, can enter Portugal without a visa for short stays. They can stay in Portugal for a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period, which is designed for tourism, business, or family visits. To stay longer than that, you need a long-term visa or Portugal residence permit. 

Tip for UK citizens: If you’re a British citizen planning to relocate, you will need to apply for a visa before moving. Check out our full guide on moving to Portugal from the UK for detailed steps. 

Countries Whose Citizens Can Enter Portugal Visa-Free

Below you can find the countries whose citizens can enter Portugal visa-free.

Australia 

Kiribati 

Serbia¹ 

Bahamas 

Malaysia 

Seychelles 

Barbados 

Marshall Islands 

Singapore 

Bosnia and Herzegovina¹ 

Mauritius 

Solomon Islands 

Brazil 

Mexico 

South Korea 

Brunei Darussalam 

Micronesia 

St Kitts and Nevis 

Canada 

Moldova¹ 

St Lucia 

Chile 

Monaco 

St Vincent and the Grenadines 

Colombia 

Montenegro¹ 

Timor-Leste 

Costa Rica 

New Zealand 

Tonga 

Dominica 

Nicaragua 

Trinidad and Tobago 

El Salvador 

North Macedonia¹ 

Tuvalu 

Georgia¹ 

Palau 

Ukraine¹ 

Grenada 

Panama 

United Arab Emirates 

Guatemala 

Paraguay 

United Kingdom 

Holy See 

Peru 

United States of America 

Honduras 

Samoa 

Uruguay 

Israel 

San Marino 

Venezuela 

Japan 

 

The following can enter Portugal, but only if they hold a biometric passport.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Montenegro

Serbia

Georgia

North Macedonia

Ukraine

Moldova

Overview of Portugal Visa Types

Portuguese visas have four main categories according to the duration and purpose of your stay. These include: 

  • Short-stay visa: Also referred to as the Schengen Visa, it is valid in Portugal and the entire Schengen area. The Schengen Visa could offer either single or multiple entries to Schengen countries. You can use it for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. 
  • Temporary stay visa: This type of Portugal visa is a multiple-entry visa and is valid for a year. The temporary stay visa is for specific visa applicants, such as those who attend study programs, short-term work, medical services, or religious purposes. The temporary stay visa allows a stay of up to 12 months.  
  • Job seeker visa: This is a single-entry visa valid for 120 days and could be extended by an extra 60 days. It is for non-EU nationals who want to enter Portugal to seek employment. They don’t have an employment contract yet. 
  • Residence visa: Also known as a type D visa, this residency visa in Portugal is for people who plan to stay in Portugal for over a year. Their goal is to eventually apply for Portugal residence permit cards. The type D visa can cover various purposes, from family reunification to employment, passive income, education, and more. Residence visas often provide two entries and a maximum stay of 120 days (four months).  

Types of Portugal Visas

There are many Portugal visa types to cater to different individuals, whether they are looking to visit or relocate to the country. Below, we will break down the various subcategories for the various visa types in Portugal. 

Visa type

Best for

Portugal Tourist Visa

Short stays, tourism, and visiting family or friends

Portugal Business Visa

Attending meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities

Portugal Job Seeker Visa

People who want to find a job in Portugal

D1: Portugal Work Visa

People with a job offer from a Portuguese employer

D2 Visa: Entrepreneur Visa

Entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners starting or relocating a business

D3 Visa: Highly Qualified Activities Individuals Visa

Highly skilled professionals with specialized qualifications

D4: Student Visa

Students enrolled in degree programs in Portugal

D5: Study and Research Visa

Researchers, academics, and participants in exchange programs

D6 Visa: Family Reunification Visa

Family members joining a legal resident in Portugal

D7 Visa: Passive Income or Retirement Visa

Retirees or people with stable passive income (rent, dividends, pensions)

D8 Visa: Digital Nomad Visa

Remote workers earning income from outside Portugal

E8 Visa: Seasonal Work Visa

Temporary or seasonal workers (e.g., agriculture, tourism)

D9 Visa: Portugal Golden Visa

Investors seeking residency through investment options

Portugal Tourist Visa 

A woman on a Portugal visa traveling in Lisbon

The tourist visa is a short -term Schengen Visa that is valid for up to 90 days and allows non-EU citizens to visit Portugal for tourism, business, or to see family. It is the most common Portuguese visa category. 

You should apply for a Schengen Tourist Visa from the resident country or from your first entry point in the Schengen Zone. You will need to have travel insurance and sufficient funds in your bank account.

  • Visa conditions: The visa is valid for 90 days (within a 180-day period)
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA extension fee: €34

Note:AIMA is the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum. They are responsible for issuing residence permits in Portugal. 

Portugal Business Visa 

You can get a Portuguese Business Visa if you are attending business meetings or conferences in Portugal. It allows the person to enter the Schengen Area for a specific period of time, usually from 1 to 90 days. A good example is if you are visiting Web Summit in Lisbon. 

  • Visa conditions: Valid from the exact date for two years, but stays are limited to 90 days (within a 180-day period) 
  • Visa application fee: €90
  • AIMA extension fee: €34

Portugal job seeker visa 

A man on a Portugal Job Seeker Visa The job seeker visa entitles the visa holder to find work in Portugal. Individuals with this visa are able to carry out subordinated work activity in the country until the visa expires or until they secure a Portugal residence permit. Applicants need to secure a job or apply for a residence permit within 120 days, or they will have to leave Portugal. 

  • Visa conditions: Valid for 120 days and can be extended for a further period of 60 days
  • Application fee: €75
  • AIMA extension fee: €38

June 2025 update: A new draft law proposed several changes to Portuguese immigration law and citizenship law in Portugal. Among them is a push by lawmakers to make the job seeker visa eligible only to highly qualified individuals, and a Portuguese language proficiency test for residence permits.  

D1: Portugal Work Visa 

This Portuguese Work Visa is a long-term type D-Visa that allows non-EU and non-EEA nationals to work in Portugal, provided they have a job offer from a Portuguese employer. 

The D1 Portugal Work Visa usually has a validity of one year and can lead to the individual getting a residence permit, meaning that they can live long-term in Portugal. As with other visas, after five years, the visa holder can apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship. 

You will need to show proof of employment or an invitation from a Portuguese company to qualify for the Portugal work visa, alongside documents that show your qualifications and suitability for the job position. 

  • Visa conditions: One year
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA extension fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

D2 Visa: Entrepreneur Visa 

An Entrepreneur on an D2 Visa in Portugal

The Portuguese government introduced the D2 Visa, also known as the Entrepreneurship Visa, to attract individuals who intend to launch businesses in Portugal to instigate growth for the Portuguese economy. 

There is no minimum requirement for the Portugal D2 Visa, although you will need to demonstrate sufficient funds to establish and run your business and your livelihood for one year. You will need to show your business plan outlining your proposed venture.

  • Visa conditions: Four months, extended to two years with an application for a residency permit
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA extension fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

D3 Visa: Highly Qualified Activities Individuals Visa 

The Portugal D3 Visa, also known as the Highly Qualified Activities Individuals Visa, is a Portugal long-term visa tailored towards non-EU and non-EEA nationals who have specialized skills, advanced degrees, or extensive professional experience. 

Highly qualified professionals need to have a job offer or be employed in a highly qualified position, such as in scientific research, academic teaching, or managerial roles, to qualify for the Portugal D3 Visa. 

  • Visa conditions: At least one year
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

D4: Student Visa 

student on a Portugal student Visa

Student Visas for Portugal are for individuals who have been accepted into a Portuguese educational institution. The Portugal D4 Visa, also known as the Student Visa, is for non-EU and non-EEA nationals and enables them to stay in Portugal for full-time studies, academic research, or vocational training. 

This can be for individuals doing their bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD in Portugal at a recognized Portuguese University, and those looking to stay in Portugal for exchange programs or educational training. Many universities in Portugal are recognized for their top-tier programs, quality education, and affordable tuition.  

  • Visa conditions: 90 days minimum
  • Application fee: €75
  • AIMA fee: €82

D5: Study and Research Visa 

The Portugal D5 Visa is a long-stay visa for researchers, students, and interns, allowing non-EU students and researchers to study or commit to research in Portugal for more than 90 days. 

Applicants will need to have been accepted into a higher education institution in Portugal for research or highly qualified academic activities, such as teaching or engaging in academic or scientific research. 

Students pursuing postgraduate studies or researchers involved in scientific or academic projects at recognized Portuguese institutions can also apply for this visa type. Under the D5 Visa, you can live in Portugal for the duration of your research or academic activities. 

  • Visa conditions: Depends on the length of academic activities
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

D6 Visa: Family Reunification Visa 

A family living in Portugal on a Family Reunification Visa

The Portugal Family Reunification Visa, officially known as the D6 Visa, allows family members of Portuguese citizens or residents to join them in Portugal. This visa allows non-EU/EEA family members to secure a residence permit so that they can live in Portugal. 

Eligible family members include: 

  • Spouses or partners recognized under Portuguese law
  • Dependent children (including adopted children)
  • Children of the resident’s partner
  • Dependent children or adults over the age of 18 who are dependent on the main applicant or their spouse/partner. They need to be single and study at a Portuguese educational institution.
  • Minor siblings, provided they who are dependent on the main applicant

Under the Portugal D6 Visa, family members are given the same permanent residence type as other foreign permanent residents. 

  • Visa validity: Same as the residence permit holder 
  • Application fee: €90
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

D7 Visa: Passive Income or Retirement Visa 

The Portuguese D7 Visa, also known as the Portugal Retirement Visa or Passive Income Visa, is attractive to retirees and individuals with passive income who are seeking to retire or reside in Portugal. Passive monthly income can include sources such as pensions, intellectual property, real estate investments, rental income, or other financial equity. 

The Portugal D7 Visa allows the visa holder free movement within the Schengen area, allowing them to live, work, and study in Portugal, while providing access to Portugal’s healthcare system. To qualify for this visa, you will need €920 per month (as of 2026), or €11,040 per year. You will need to apply for the D7 Visa at the Portuguese Consulate in your home country. 

  • Visa validity: At the start two years, which you can renew for another two years 
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA visa fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

Want to compare the D7 Visa with the D8 (Digital Nomad Visa)? Read our guide on D7 vs D8 Visa Portugal.

Looking for accommodation in Portugal to support your visa? Learn more about the Goldcrest property search service

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D8 Visa: Digital Nomad Visa 

A digital nomad working in Portugal on a D8 Visa

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa) was launched in 2022 and provides a clear route for remote workers and self-employed professionals to relocate to Portugal. The D8 Visa is intended to attract global talent, with there being two routes to this visa. 

Portugal D8 Visa is a shorter-term visa valid for one year, perfect if you want to stay in the country for less than a year (can be renewed if you decide to stay in Portugal) 

Long-term residency visa, allowing for a two-year initial visa that can then be renewed for up to five years, whereby you change your temporary residence permit and apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship (and a Portuguese passport), provided you meet the requirements under Portuguese Nationality Law. 

The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8) has quickly come one of the most popular visa options for remote workers seeking to work in Europe. You will need to work for a non-Portuguese company or be self-employed to qualify, alongside having a minimum monthly income of €3,680 (four times the Portuguese minimum wage) and €11,040 in savings. 

  • Visa validity: One year, or two years (and renewable), depending on the option you choose
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

E8 Visa: Seasonal Work Visa 

The Portugal E8 Visa is a temporary stay visa for individuals seeking to work in sectors in Portugal where there is high demand for work during certain times of the year, for example, in the tourism, hospitality, and agricultural sectors. 

Under the E8 Visa, you can live and work in Portugal for longer than 90 days and up to 270 days, specifically working in seasonal employment. You will need to have a valid work contract, or a valid work offer with a temporary work company, or an employer established in Portugal. 

For the application, you will need to submit a letter from a company that states the following:

  • Location
  • Time and duration
  • Type of work
  • Salary
  • Paid vacation
  • Compliance with national legal profession (for regulated professions)
  • Accommodation or lease agreement in Portugal

The Portuguese employer can provide accommodation or a lease agreement if they have staff lodgings. You will also need to provide proof of health insurance and whether the employer provides work accident insurance.

  • Visa validity: 270 days
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA fee: €82
  • Reception and analysis fee: €95

D9 Visa: Portugal Golden Visa 

A woman looking for Portugal Visas Types

Portugal’s Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU foreign citizens to secure Portuguese residency by making a qualifying investment in Portugal. Investments include investment funds, business creation, scientific research, or cultural heritage projects. 

The Portugal Golden Visa was launched in 2012 and, since then, has become one of the most successful residency by investment programs of its kind. It’s short stay requirement, range of investment options, and pathway to Portuguese citizenship are key advantages of the program. 

The minimum investment options for the Golden Visa are different for each route you take. The financial resources required are €250,000 for cultural donation, €500,000 in investment funds, €500,000 in scientific research, or €500,000 in business investment with jobs. However, the minimum investment can be lower in Portugal’s low-density areas 

Golden Visa holders can include family members in their application. The Golden Visa requires applicants to provide the correct documentation, such as marriage certificates and birth certificates. 

  • Visa validity: Renewable
  • Application fee: €90
  • AIMA fee: €3,023
  • Reception and analysis fee: €605

Read our ultimate guide to buying property in Portugal by local experts

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Other Portugal Visas

Alongside business and tourist visas, there are several other types of Portugal visasThey are known as the C-Type Visas and are for people coming to Portugal for a short period.

  • Airport Transit Visa:This visa type allows individuals to pass through the international transit area of a Schengen airport. The Airport Transit Visa is for those passing through a Schengen country on route to a non-Schengen country as their destination. 
  • Medical Visa:Schengen Medical Visa is for people who need treatment in a Schengen country. If you are seeking to benefit from Portugal’s healthcare, you’ll be able to stay in Portugal for the duration of your treatment, which can be days to months, depending on the procedure. You will need to show proof of your medical condition (such as a letter from a doctor or hospital) and medical insurance to cover the cost of medical expenses. 
  • Cultural Purposes Visa:This visa is for individuals travelling to the Schengen area to participate in sports, religious, cultural, or film-related activities, usually for a period of between 1 and 90 days. 
  • Official Visit Visa: As the name suggests, this visa is for official delegations, government officials, and diplomats visiting Portugal. The individual will need to provide an official invitation from the Portuguese government or a relevant Portuguese organization and proof of their position. They will need to provide adequate financial means and medical insurance. 
  • Spouse Visa of a Portuguese citizen:Individuals that are married to Portuguese nationals can enter and reside in Portugal. They will need to show proof of adequate financial means and medical insurance. This visa is usually valid for a one-year period, but it can be renewed. 
  • Amateur Sports Activity Visa:This visa is for amateur sportspersons. They will need to provide proof of their participation in a sports event, such as proof of registration in the competition or an invitation letter from the organizing sports club. 

Statistics of Obtaining Visas in Portugal

The expat population is steadily growing. According to the AIMA, as of 31 December 2024, Portugal recorded 1,543,697 foreign residents, which is an 18 percent increase in just one year. 

In 2024, Brazilian nationality remains the largest foreign resident community, accounting for 31.4 percent of the total expat population. Indian citizens are the second most represented nationality. In terms of regional groups, the largest increases were recorded among citizens from CPLP countries, the Indian subcontinent, and Europe. 

Which Portugal Visa should you choose?

There are various types of Portugal Visas, so the ideal choice depends on your current circumstances. Here are a couple of examples that may narrow down the options for you. 

Choose the D7 if you want rental properties or persons and want to enjoy the beautiful coastline affordable lifestyle in Portugal.  

Choose the D2 if you have an entrepreneur mindset and want to tap into the Portuguese economy. 

Choose the D8 if you work remotely with a high income and want to be part of the local community. 

Choose the Golden Visa if you want a Portuguese residency in exchange for an investment.  

How to Get Citizenship after Residency in Portugal

people in an airport on different types of Portugal visasPortugal offers citizenship by naturalization to foreign nationals who maintain their Portugal residence, pass an A2 Portuguese language test, and have clean criminal records. 

Long-stay, type D visas in Portugal provide a temporary permit, which you can use to meet the requirements for a permanent residence permit. It takes five years of maintaining temporary Portugal residency to become eligible for citizenship by naturalization.  

The only exception to this timeline is for people who apply for Portuguese citizenship after marrying a Portuguese citizen. In this example, they must maintain residency and stay legally married or in a registered partnership for at least three years. 

When you are ready to apply for Portuguese citizenship, you will need to submit the Modelo 6.1 completed application form to the local authorities. By becoming a citizen, you become part of the Portuguese community and gain a deeper connection to Portuguese culture. 

If you are seeking to relocate to Portugal and would like to discuss your options, get in touch with our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions. 

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

  • Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
  • Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
  • Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
  • Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
  • Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.

Frequently Asked Questions about Portugal Visas

In 2026, you don’t need a visa to travel to Portugal if you are a citizen of the EU/EEA or Switzerland. However, if your home country is not visa-exempt, you will need to apply for a Schengen Visa (Portugal Tourist Visa). 

The four main types of Portugal visas are: Short-term visas, temporary stay visas, job seeker visas, and type D residency visas. Each option has its own subcategory, eligibility criteria, and requirements. 

You choose the appropriate visa type, fill out the application form, and submit your visa application to the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your country of residence, or through a private visa application center. 

Portugal offers plenty of visas to choose from, whether you are interested in travel, business opportunities, investment, or retirement, there is a visa to Portugal for every taste. 

Yes, a third-country national can obtain a visa to Portugal if they meet the requirements for the chosen visa type. 

It depends on the type of visa you apply for in Portugal, but in most cases, it is a good idea to submit your visa application at least two months in advance. 

No. American nationals don’t need a visa to Portugal if they plan on staying for 90 days or less. For longer stays, they can apply for any of the available national visas. 

The most popular visas in Portugal are the type D visas, mainly the D9 Golden Visa for Investors, D8 for digital nomads, and D7 for retirees and people with passive income. 

The required documentation for most visas in Portugal include: 

  • Valid passport  
  • Completed visa application form 
  • Passport photos  
  • Proof of accommodation 
  • Proof of sufficient income/employment 
  • Travel or health insurance 

To obtain Portuguese residency, foreign nationals need a valid long-stay visa or type D visa. Other personal documents to apply for permanent residency are proof of accommodation, income or employment, medical insurance, and a clean criminal record certificate. You can qualify for a permanent residence permit after five years of maintaining legal residence in Portugal.