How to live in Portugal | Important tips

The writer of this article is a lawyer in Portugal and works with different types of visas and residence permits.

The first step to live in Portugal

The first step is to choose the type of visa. Therefore, you must choose the type of visa that is most suitable for you.

There are visas for employed workers, self-employed workers, students, entrepreneurs, investors, among others.

How to apply for a visa

After choosing a visa, you must send the necessary documents to the Consulate in your country. There is a link with more information at the bottom of this page.

What documents should I send?

The types of documents are required according to the type of visa.

For example, a student visa requires evidence of registration in an education institution. In the case of a self-employed worker visa, the applicant need evidence of founding of a partnership or service contract with a company as a liberal professional.

Documents common to all visas

• Evidence of sufficient means of subsistence
• Evidence that the applicant has adequate accommodation
• Criminal record of the applicant’s country of nationality

Immigration and Border Services – SEF/SEA – Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras

All applications for a residence permit are analyzed and accepted by the SEF (The Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras de Portugal). Therefore, even if the request is made at the Consulate in your country, the approval of the residence permit will be made by the SEF.

As we know, the visa is in your passport and you need to receive your residence card. So, after entering Portugal, you will have a deadline to appear at the SEF and apply for a residence permit. All documents will be checked again.

How to apply for a visa?

You can apply for a visa yourself at the Consulate of Portugal. There is no need to hire a professional.

Basically, you need to send the required documents and schedule your appointment.

Adriano Martins Pinheiro is lawyer in Portugal and works with different types of visas and residence permits.

You have doubts? Talk to me! My Whatsapp here

                    Adriano Martins Pinheiro, lawyer in Portugal

Ministry of Foreign Affairs