To be a legal resident in Portugal

Legally residing in Portugal involves complying with certain legal and bureaucratic requirements, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. The main steps to becoming a legal resident in Portugal are:
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Citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA).

If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country, the residency requirements are quite simple:

• Registration in the Register of European Union Citizens
• Within 90 days of your arrival in Portugal you must register at the City Council of your residential area.
• European Union Citizen Registration Certificate: After registering, you will receive a registration certificate proving that you are a legal resident in Portugal. There is no need for a visa.
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Non-EU citizens (third country nationals)

If you are a citizen of a non-EU country, you will need a visa or a residence permit. The process generally follows these steps:

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Step 1: Obtain a visa

Depending on the intended purpose of your stay (work, study, family reunification, investment, etc.) you will need a visa. The most common types include:

• Work Visa: If you already have a labour contract in Portugal.
• Student Visa: For those who wish to study in Portugal.
• Entrepreneur or Investor Visa (Golden Visa): For those making a significant investment in the country.
• Family Reunification Visa: If you are joining family members who are already legal residents.
• Remote Work Visa: If you are coming to work remotely in Portugal.
• Retired Persons Visa: If you are coming to live in Portugal with passive income.

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Step 2: Apply

After your arrival, you need to apply for a Residence Permit from AIMA - the Agency for Migration Integration and Asylum.

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Obtaining Portuguese Nationality

After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Portugal, you can apply for Portuguese nationality, as long as you fulfill certain requirements, such as:

• Demonstrate integration into Portuguese society.
• Have basic knowledge of the Portuguese language.
• No criminal records.

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The procedures for legally residing in Portugal will differ depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. EU/EEA citizens have a simplified process, while non-EU citizens need to follow a more complex process, obtaining a visa and a residence permit.

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At Over the Sea (OTS), we have a team of experts specialised in NHR and international taxation. We are available to help you understand the tax impact of a potential change of residence to Portugal, taking into account your individual circumstances, and to develop a tailored solution to meet your needs.