Portugal is making it easier for Latin Americans to emigrate, aiming to boost its population and economic growth. With a current expatriate community of half a million foreign residents, Portugal has become an attractive destination to live, offering a fascinating culture, low cost of living, and high quality of life.
Why Emigrate to Portugal?
Portugal needs to attract people to build up its population and ensure economic growth, as most of its population is elderly. The country invests heavily in attracting young people, offering stability and quality of life.
Residence Visa for Portugal
Obtaining a residence visa grants several rights, including living in a secure and tranquil country, moving and doing business freely in the EU, and bringing close relatives to work, study, or develop their business.
Types of Residence Visas
– D1 (Residence visa for subordinate professional activity): For those who want to work in Portugal with an employment contract.
– D2 (Residence visa for independent professional activity and entrepreneurial immigrants): For freelancers, service providers, or those starting a business.
– D3 (Residence visa for research or highly qualified activity): For those admitted to a research center or engaged in highly qualified professional activity.
– D4 (Residence visa for study, student exchange, professional internship, or volunteering): For higher education students, interns, or volunteers for more than one year.
– D5 (Residence visa for higher education student mobility): For students in exchange programs between universities.
– D6 (Residence visa for family reunification purposes): For family members of those with a residence card in Portugal.
– D7 (Residence visa for pensioners or income holders): For retirees or those with income from securities or real estate assets.
General Requirements for Residence Visa
Applicants must go to the nearest Portuguese Embassy or Consular Representation. The decision on a residence visa application takes up to 60 days. The visa is valid for four months, during which the applicant must travel to Portugal and apply for a residence permit/card. The fee for a temporary visa is $80, and the application fee for a residence visa is $100.
Residence Permit in Portugal
The residence permit allows foreign citizens to legally live in Portugal. After collecting the necessary documentation and complying with legal requirements, applicants can schedule an interview with the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF). If everything is in order, biometric data will be collected for the issuance of the residence card.
Residence Card
The residence card identifies the foreigner in Portugal and is initially issued for two years. It must be renewed for another three years. The permanent residence permit has no validity limit but must be renewed every five years or when there are changes in registered identification elements.
Portuguese Citizenship
Obtaining Portuguese nationality allows you to acquire a Portuguese passport, travel to 140 countries without a visa, and establish residence in any EU Member State. Citizenship can be obtained through residence in Portugal for a minimum of five years or through a family member who is already Portuguese.
Requirements for a Work Visa
To live and work in Portugal, a visa is required. Work permits are obtained at Portuguese consulates. Requirements include an employment contract, passport, cover letter, proof of accommodation, certificate of good conduct, medical certificate, international health insurance, and a passport photo.
Special Considerations for Emigrating
– Complete consular registration at the Portuguese consulate in your country.
– Obtain a Tax Identification Number (NIF) for various procedures in Portugal.
– Bring your driver’s license, valid for the first 90 days, until you change it.
Emigrating to Portugal is easier than you might think, offering a promising future with stability and quality of life.
Source: Q´Pasa
