Residency
Portugal — Residency: Visa Overview
Portugal distinguishes short-stay Schengen visas from long-stay national visas for people who want to live, work, study or retire in the country. Nationals of EU and EEA member states generally have the right to live in Portugal under freedom of movement. The national residence visa, for example for remote work or professional activity, is valid for two entries and four months, during which the holder applies to the immigration agency AIMA for a residence permit. Documents and income thresholds follow the guaranteed minimum monthly wage, €920 in 2026. Check the Vistos portal for the visa that fits your purpose.
VerifiedGovernment / official sourceVistos (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) — national visasLast reviewed: 2026-10-23
Key facts
- Portugal is in the Schengen Area; long stays need a national visa.
- Nationals of EU and EEA member states generally have the right to reside under freedom of movement.
- A national residence visa is valid for two entries and four months; the holder then applies to AIMA for a residence permit.
- Means-of-subsistence tests refer to the guaranteed minimum monthly wage (€920 in 2026).
Common mistakes
- Treating the residence visa as the final permit — you must then apply to AIMA.