CHOICE OF A PORTUGAL RESIDENCE PERMIT BY A NON-EU CITIZEN
6 November 2018
In some cases, such as, for example, those of employees, students, eligible relatives of resident persons, choosing the most appropriate residence permit type is quite easy. But in the case of freelancers, entrepreneurs, investors or people having sufficient passive income, the main factor to take into consideration is whether or not they intend to actually live in Portugal.
In case the intention is to merely hold Portugal residency, so as to enjoy visa-free travel in the EU/EEA/Switzerland and eventually qualify for EU permanent residency or citizenship, then the so-called "Golden Visa", Portugal's residency-by-investment programme, is the permit to go for, given its minimal stay requirements (7 days during the first year and 14 days during each subsequent 2-year period).
But for someone who does intend to live in Portugal, it will be faster, more efficient and more cost-effective to apply for a permit other than the Golden Visa, in which case the general minimum stay requirements are nevertheless quite reasonable (4 months during the first year and 16 months during each subsequent 2-year period, provided in either case that no single absence exceeds 6 consecutive months), and may be waived for proven professional or force majeure reasons.
The so-called "Passive Income Visa" is a popular alternative to the "Golden Visa" for someone who intends to live in Portugal and has a sufficient net regular passive income, given that it does not preclude the holder from having a professional activity in Portugal.
Margarida Tempera | Lawyer
After five years of legal residence, you can secure permanent status under Articles 76 and 80 of Law 23/2007, ending renewals and enjoying stability in Portugal.
Domestic work happens behind closed doors, but Portuguese labour law ensures strong protections and legal duties from day one. Ensure compliance is essential.
On 5 September 2025, Order No. 292/2025/1 amended Portugal’s blacklist of tax havens, first set in 2004 and updated several times to reflect fiscal changes.
The Portuguese Labour Code sets rules on contract types, form, and procedures. Clear contracts ensure compliance and reduce financial and reputational risks.
This provision establishes exceptional residence permits for cases outside Article 122, covering national interest, humanitarian grounds, and public activities.
Buying property in Portugal blends lifestyle and investment. Conformity with the law ensures a valid, compliant, and protected transaction from start to finish.
Portugal is a well-regarded destination for quality healthcare in Europe, with advanced facilities, affordable costs, and a growing international reputation.
Many adults born in Portugal to foreign parents may be unaware that they have a legal right to acquire Portuguese nationality, even without a childhood application.
For Portuguese citizens who marry abroad, the marriage is valid where it was celebrated but only gains legal effect in Portugal after being properly transcribed.