Portugal Residency Visa Process Flowchart - residency.pt

Portugal Residency Visa Process – Comprehensive Flowchart

Understand every step, timeline, and requirement for D2, D7, Digital Nomad (D8), and Student visas → all the way to Permanent Residence & Citizenship

Total Approximate Timeline (2026 real-world estimates):
• D2 (Entrepreneur): 6–12+ months
• D7 (Passive Income): 4–10+ months
• Digital Nomad (D8): 4–9+ months
• Student Visa: 4–9+ months
(Delays common due to consulate/AIMA backlogs – plan extra buffer time!)
D7 Visa
Digital Nomad (D8)
D2 Visa
Student Visa

D7 Visa (Passive Income / Retirement)

Stage 1: Preparation & Consultation

1–2 months

  • Initial consultation / eligibility check
  • Gather proof of passive income (≥ €870–920/month min. + savings)
  • Collect documents: passport, criminal record, health insurance, etc.

Stage 2: Consulate Application

2–6 months (consulate processing)

  • Book VFS/Global appointment
  • Submit full dossier
  • Biometrics & interview (if required)
Decision: Approved → 120-day entry visa | More info → Request | Denied → Appeal/Reapply

Stage 3: Enter Portugal & AIMA Appointment

1–3 months after arrival

  • Enter Portugal within 120 days
  • Book AIMA residence permit appointment
  • Submit long-term lease + other proofs

Stage 4: Residence Permit & Renewals

Initial 2 years → Renew every 2 years

  • Receive 2-year card
  • Maintain presence & income
After 5 years* → Permanent Residence → Citizenship (A2 Portuguese + clean record)
*Note: Potential change to 10 years under discussion in 2025–2026

Digital Nomad Visa (D8 – Remote Work)

Stage 1: Preparation

1–2 months

  • Prove active income ≥ €3,480–3,680/month
  • Work contract / freelance proof
  • Savings ≥ €10–11k+
Similar path: 5 years → Permanent Residence → Citizenship

D2 Visa (Entrepreneur / Independent Professional)

Business setup → 5 years → PR → Citizenship

Student Visa

Studies → Possible conversion to work visa → Long-term path

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