Immigration planning is a process of preparing and strategizing for the legal and logistical aspects of moving to a new country for work, study, or personal reasons. It involves identifying the necessary steps and requirements to obtain a visa or resident permit, securing necessary documentation, and making arrangements for housing, employment, and other logistics in the destination country.
Immigration planning may also involve identifying potential challenges and risks associated with the move, such as cultural differences, language barriers, or legal and financial considerations. As part of the planning process, individuals may consult with immigration lawyers to ensure that they have a comprehensive understanding of the legal and regulatory requirements for immigration to the destination country.
Immigration planning is particularly important for individuals who are planning to move to a new country on a permanent basis, as it can help them avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a smoother transition to their new home. However, it can also be useful for those who are moving temporarily, such as for work or study abroad, as it can help them navigate the complex legal and logistical requirements of their stay in the new country.
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Portugal has several growing industries that offer opportunities for professionals with a range of skills and expertise. Some of the best professions in Portugal include:
Technology
The tech industry in Portugal is growing rapidly, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals in areas such as software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Renewable Energy
Portugal has set ambitious goals for renewable energy, and there are many job opportunities in areas such as solar and wind power.
Healthcare
With an aging population, there is a high demand for healthcare professionals in Portugal, including doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists.
Engineering
Portugal has several large engineering firms, and there is a high demand for professionals with expertise in areas such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
Tourism and Hospitality
Tourism remains an important industry in Portugal. There are job opportunities in areas such as hotel management, restaurant services, and tour guiding.
It is worth noting that competition for jobs can be tough, particularly in popular urban areas like Lisbon and Porto.
English and Portuguese
It is important to be fluent in English and Portuguese.
The real estate market in Portugal has been growing steadily in recent years, particularly in major cities such as Lisbon and Porto. There has been a significant increase in demand for properties in Portugal, with many foreign buyers, including Europeans, Americans, and Chinese, looking to invest in the country’s real estate market.
The Portuguese government has implemented several measures to attract foreign investors, such as the Golden Visa program, which provides residency permits to non-EU citizens who invest in Portuguese property. This program has been particularly popular among Chinese investors.
In terms of prices, Portugal’s real estate market is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. The average price per square meter in Lisbon, for example, is around €3,000, which is significantly lower than cities like Paris and London.
Despite the growing demand for properties in Portugal, there are still opportunities to find good deals, particularly in rural areas or smaller cities. However, it’s important to work with a reputable real estate agent or lawyer to ensure that you are making a sound investment and that all legal requirements are met.
Overall, the real estate market in Portugal is considered to be stable and growing, with opportunities for both local and foreign investors.
This visa is designed for people who work remotely and earn income outside of Portugal.
Below is a list of the main documents:
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
National Visa application filled and duly signed by applicant (For minors and incapacitated, forms should be signed the legal guardian) 2 Photos, even, passport type, recent and in good condition to identify the applicant (1 for this form).
Passport or other travel document, valid for 3 months after the estimated date of return.
Proof of regular situation in case of residence in a country other than the country of current nationality, which must be valid 3 months after the estimated date of return.
Valid travel insurance, covering necessary medical expenses, including urgent medical assistance and possible repatriation.
Criminal record certificate, issued by the competent authority of the country of the applicant’s nationality or of the country where the applicant has resided for over a year (except for applicants under sixteen), with the Hague Apostille (If applicable) or legalised.
Request for criminal record enquiry by the Immigration and Border Services (SEF) (Not applicable to minors under the age of sixteen).
SPECIFIC DOCUMENTS
In case of subordinate work, one of the following documents:
Work contract;
Declaration by employer confirming the labour link.
In case of independent professional activity, one of the following documents:
Society contract;
Contract of services provision;
Document attesting the services provided to one or more entities.
Proof of average monthly income for the last three months with a minimum value equivalent to four monthly minimum guaranty remuneration.
Company certification at IAPMEI in Portugal refers to the process of SME (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) certification conducted by the Institute for Support to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Innovation (IAPMEI).
SME certification is a quality label that recognizes companies that meet performance and financial solidity criteria, and that are in good conditions to face market challenges. This certification is valid for a period of three years and can be renewed.
To obtain SME certification, the company must meet the following requirements:
Have an annual turnover of less than 50 million euros;
Have a total balance sheet of less than 43 million euros;
Have a number of employees less than 250.
IAPMEI SME certification can bring several benefits to companies, such as:
Access to credit lines and financing specifically for SMEs;
Priority in public procurement processes;
Possibility of reduction of fees and taxes in certain circumstances.
To obtain SME certification, companies must submit application on the IAPMEI and provide financial information and other relevant information.
The application is evaluated based on financial performance, management, and business strategy criteria, and the company must demonstrate compliance with current norms and regulations.
In Portugal, only lawyers can open a company by power of attorney.
You do not need to be in Portugal. We do everything online.
If you want to open a company in Portugal, you will need to follow these steps:
Choose a company name
The first step is to choose a name for your company that is unique and not already registered with the Portuguese Companies Registrar.
Choose a legal form
The next step is to choose a legal form for your company, which can be a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a limited liability company. The most common form for small and medium-sized enterprises is a limited liability company (LLC), which offers the protection of limited liability for shareholders.
Appoint a legal representative
You will need to appoint a legal representative for your company who will act as the company’s legal representative and will be responsible for signing contracts and other legal documents on behalf of the company.
Register with the Companies Registrar
You will need to register your company with the Portuguese Companies Registrar, which is called “Registo Nacional de Pessoas Coletivas” (RNPC).
Obtain a tax number
You will also need to obtain a tax number for your company, which is called “Número de Identificação Fiscal” (NIF). You can obtain this number by registering with the Tax Authority (Tax Identification Number).
Open a bank account
You will need to open a bank account for your company in Portugal, which can be done at any Portuguese bank.
Hire employees
If you plan to hire employees, you will need to register with the Social Security and obtain an employer identification number.
Comply with accounting and reporting requirements
You will need to comply with Portuguese accounting and reporting requirements, which include filing annual financial statements and tax returns.
Overall, opening a company in Portugal can be a relatively straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and meet the legal requirements. It’s recommended to seek professional advice to ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
Is Portugal a good country for entrepreneurs?
Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for entrepreneurs in recent years. The country has made significant progress in improving its business environment, and there are now many resources available to support entrepreneurs and startups.
In 2018, the Portuguese government launched the StartUP Visa program, which offers a fast-track visa application process for foreign entrepreneurs who want to set up businesses in Portugal. The program provides a range of support services, including mentoring, incubation, and access to funding.
There are also many co-working spaces and startup accelerators in Portugal, particularly in cities like Lisbon and Porto, which offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to network with other business owners and access resources and support services.
In addition to the government’s efforts to support entrepreneurship, Portugal’s location and strong ties to other Portuguese-speaking countries can provide entrepreneurs with unique opportunities to expand their businesses globally. The country is also known for its relatively low cost of living, which can be an advantage for entrepreneurs who are just starting out and need to keep costs low.
Overall, Portugal can be a good country for entrepreneurs, particularly those in the technology and innovation sectors. However, as with any country, there may be challenges and barriers to entrepreneurship that vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and the nature of their business.
