MadeiraLab provides administrative support services related to obtaining residence permits in Portugal, including document preparation and coordination of related procedures.
For nationals of countries outside the European Union, Portuguese legislation предусматривает several legal grounds for obtaining a residence permit. Depending on the chosen legal basis, the available mechanisms may generally be divided into two categories:
- residence permits not based on an investment model; and
- residence permits based on investment activity.
Non-Investment Residence Permits
This category includes, in particular, cases where an applicant applies for a residence permit on the basis of employment, self-employment, entrepreneurial activity, or the availability of sufficient personal means or passive income.
After the required period of lawful residence, individuals may become eligible to apply for permanent residence status or citizenship, provided that all statutory conditions are met.
Grounds for Non-Investment Residence Permits
Employment
A residence permit may be granted on the basis of an employment contract, a promise of an employment contract, or a documented expression of interest from an employer in hiring a specialist, in accordance with applicable regulations.
Highly Qualified Activity
These programs are designed to attract specialists in priority sectors and offer simplified procedures, subject to meeting qualification and income requirements.
Remote Work (Digital Nomad)
Portugal offers residence permits for individuals working remotely for foreign companies or conducting professional activities outside the country.
This regime requires proof of stable income from foreign sources.
Self-Employment or Entrepreneurship
Portuguese legislation provides relevant grounds for individuals engaged in independent professional activities, as well as for entrepreneurs implementing a business project in Portugal.
Residence Based on Own Means or Passive Income
Certain categories of applicants may obtain a residence visa and subsequent residence permit upon demonstrating sufficient income, including pensions, rental income, dividends, and other lawful sources.
As of 2026, the financial threshold on the official visa portal is linked to the minimum wage of €920 per month, with additional amounts required for family members according to a statutory formula.
Residence Permits through Investment
Portugal continues to maintain the Autorização de Residência para Investimento (ARI) regime, commonly referred to as the Golden Visa.
This program allows individuals to obtain a residence permit based on specific types of investment and does not require continuous residence in the country under general rules.
Eligible Investment Grounds
An investment-based residence permit may be granted upon meeting one of the following statutory criteria:
- creation of at least 10 jobs;
- investment of at least €500,000 in research and development activities;
- investment of at least €250,000 in support of artistic production or the preservation of national cultural heritage;
- investment of at least €500,000 in units or shares of certain investment or venture capital funds;
- investment of at least €500,000 in the incorporation or capitalization of a company in Portugal, subject to job creation or retention requirements.
Additional Support Services
As part of comprehensive assistance, related procedures may also be arranged, including obtaining a tax identification number (NIF), support with social security matters, preparation of documentation packages, and overall process coordination.
