Moving to Portugal from the US - 2026 Guide
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Portugal

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Policy Overview

Managed by AIMA. Portugal offers specific 'D-series' visas based on the source of your income.

Short-Term Entry & Tourist Rules

US/UK/Canadian citizens enter visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period.

Long-Term Residency Paths

Passive Income Visa (D7)
The Retiree or Investor

Income: €920/month (100% of minimum wage) from passive sources (dividends, pension, rental).

Savings: A minimum of €11,040 must be held in a Portuguese bank account.

Path: Apply at a VFS Global center in your home country before moving to Portugal.

Digital Nomad Visa (D8)
The Digital Nomad

Income: €3,680/month (4x minimum wage) from remote work/freelancing.

Path: Submit remote work contract and payslips. Apply at a VFS Global center.

Student Visa (D4)
The Student

Savings: Proof of €9840/year (€820/month, the Portuguese Minimum Wage) or a scholarship.

Note: Requires a NIF and a Portuguese bank account for the fastest approval.

Highly-Qualified Professional Visa (D3)
The High-Skill Pro

Path: For tech/healthcare pros with a local contract. Offers a faster path to residency and the EU Blue Card.

Grandparent Rule
Ancestry & Heritage Path

Path: You qualify if you have a Portuguese parent or grandparent. Grandchildren must now prove a 'basic knowledge' of Portuguese (A2 level) and 'effective ties' to the community.

Note: The Sephardic Path is now significantly restricted and requires 3 years of residence in most cases.

Family Reunification (D6)

Primary applicant adds spouse (+50% of min. wage) and children (+30% each) to their income/savings requirement.

Expert 2026 Tips

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