Portugal immigration guide

An EU-wide route for highly skilled employees, with mobility rights across other Blue Card countries built in from the start.

For joining a spouse, parent or other close family member who already holds residency in Portugal.

A golden-visa route built on capital invested directly into a Portuguese company, paired with a commitment to create jobs there.

A golden-visa route funded through a non-recoverable donation to a Portuguese cultural, arts or heritage project — the money is not returned or reinvested.

A golden-visa route through a regulated investment fund rather than a direct purchase — the route most applicants now use since the original property option closed.

A golden-visa route earned by creating and maintaining a set number of permanent jobs in a Portuguese company, an operating commitment rather than a lump-sum investment.

A golden-visa route through capital directed to a Portuguese public or private scientific research institution.

The standard route for someone moving to Portugal on a salaried job offer, built around the employment contract rather than personal savings.

For people starting a business or working independently in Portugal, assessed on a business plan and proof you can support yourself while it gets going.

A route for specialist and managerial hires on higher salaries, with an easier qualifying path for roles inside Portugal's certified technology-sector programme.

For enrolling in higher education or another recognised study programme in Portugal, with proof of both admission and living costs.

For remote employees and freelancers whose income comes from clients or an employer based outside Portugal.

Built for retirees and others living on pensions, rental income or other passive income, rather than local employment.

For founders with an innovative business idea accepted into Portugal's official startup incubation programme, a route judged on the project rather than capital brought in.