Why choose Portugal for living and residence permit?
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Discover why Portugal is one of the best places to live in Europe. Learn about residency, climate, safety, healthcare, cost of living, and citizenship opportunities.
Portugal is more than just sunny beaches and pastel de nata. It is one of the most comfortable and accessible European countries for living, doing business, and obtaining a residence permit (residency). Thanks to its stable political environment, high safety level, and welcoming society, Portugal is becoming increasingly popular among immigrants from around the world.
In this article, we'll explain why Portugal is an excellent choice for relocation and what advantages a residence permit provides.
In this article, we'll explain why Portugal is an excellent choice for relocation and what advantages a residence permit provides.
Reasons to choose Portugal for living
1. Mild Climate All Year Round
With over 300 sunny days per year, mild winters, and pleasant summers, Portugal offers ideal living conditions.
2. Affordable Housing and Services
Compared to other EU countries, the cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower, especially outside Lisbon and Porto.
3. High-Quality Healthcare
Healthcare in Portugal meets European standards, with both public and private options to suit various budgets.
4. High Level of Safety
Portugal consistently ranks in the top 10 safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index.
5. Welcoming to Foreigners
Locals are friendly towards immigrants, and English is widely spoken, especially among the younger population and in tourist areas.
6. Excellent Education
Portugal offers public and international schools, as well as renowned universities with English-language programs.
With over 300 sunny days per year, mild winters, and pleasant summers, Portugal offers ideal living conditions.
2. Affordable Housing and Services
Compared to other EU countries, the cost of living in Portugal is significantly lower, especially outside Lisbon and Porto.
3. High-Quality Healthcare
Healthcare in Portugal meets European standards, with both public and private options to suit various budgets.
4. High Level of Safety
Portugal consistently ranks in the top 10 safest countries in the world according to the Global Peace Index.
5. Welcoming to Foreigners
Locals are friendly towards immigrants, and English is widely spoken, especially among the younger population and in tourist areas.
6. Excellent Education
Portugal offers public and international schools, as well as renowned universities with English-language programs.
How to obtain a residence permit in Portugal
1. Registering as a Sole Proprietor or Starting a Business
A popular option is registering as an individual entrepreneur and applying for residency from within the country.
2. Golden Visa Program
Investments starting from €250,000 in funds, business creation, or cultural support provide a path to residency for the whole family.
3. University Enrollment
Studying at a Portuguese university allows legal residence during the study period.
4. Family Reunification
Family members of a resident can obtain residency through reunification procedures.
5. Employment Contract with a Portuguese Employer
Having a valid job offer enables you to apply for a resident visa and obtain a permit.
A popular option is registering as an individual entrepreneur and applying for residency from within the country.
2. Golden Visa Program
Investments starting from €250,000 in funds, business creation, or cultural support provide a path to residency for the whole family.
3. University Enrollment
Studying at a Portuguese university allows legal residence during the study period.
4. Family Reunification
Family members of a resident can obtain residency through reunification procedures.
5. Employment Contract with a Portuguese Employer
Having a valid job offer enables you to apply for a resident visa and obtain a permit.
Required documents for a residence permit
- Valid passport
- Proof of address in Portugal
- Financial documents (bank statement, tax returns)
- Health insurance valid in Portugal
- Police clearance certificate
- Documents supporting the basis for residency (rental contract, sole proprietorship registration, etc.)
Processing times and government fees
- Application review: 3 to 6 months
- Government fees: from €83 for initial application + resident card issuance fee (from €158)
- Validity of the residence permit: 2 years with a possible 3-year extension
Additional benefits of a residence permit in Portugal
- Free movement within the Schengen Area
- Eligibility for permanent residence after 5 years
- Citizenship after 6 years without renouncing your current passport
- Freedom to work, study, or run a business
- Possibility to include family members in the application
Conclusion: Portugal as your gateway to European stability
Relocating to Portugal offers a path to high quality of life, security, and European opportunities. The country provides multiple legal ways to obtain residency, and the process is clear and accessible.
If you're considering relocation, Portugal might be your ideal destination.
Contact Visa Dan for a free consultation — we'll help you choose the best path to residency in Portugal, prepare your documents, and support you every step of the way.
If you're considering relocation, Portugal might be your ideal destination.
Contact Visa Dan for a free consultation — we'll help you choose the best path to residency in Portugal, prepare your documents, and support you every step of the way.
Why do customers choose Visa Dan?
Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:
- Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
- Complete transparency and support at every stage.
- A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
- Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.
The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!