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Portugal conjures up visions of a stunning landscape, huge beaches, and breathtaking beauty.  Portugal's alluring environment is one of the many reasons why so many expats decide to make it their new home.  It also contains a variety of cities and towns, from the vibrant Lisbon neighborhoods to the enigmatically ancient villages like Obidos.  The inhabitants of this nation are also famous for being extremely kind and welcoming.  Living in Portugal is an unforgettable experience when you think about it all.

For all these reasons and more, Portugal is frequently at the top of the list for Americans considering relocation or retirement.  Americans who want to live in Europe's top nations often relocate from the United States to Portugal.  More than 60,000 foreigners have chosen to reside in Portugal, with 11% of them being US citizens, according to recent surveys.  Portugal draws new people from all over the world thanks to its low cost of living, wonderful environment, well-developed infrastructure, and top-notch healthcare facilities.   International Living Magazine releases The World's Best Places To Retire List every year.  The "world's greatest locations to retire list" for 2023 has Portugal at the top of the list.

You are reading this because you most likely already know that moving to Portugal would be ideal for you.  At issue is how to make your dream happen.

How to Live or Work in Portugal

Americans technically don't require a visa to enter Portugal.  Anyone traveling for work or pleasure with an American passport may stay in the nation for up to 90 days.  However, if your aim is to relocate from the US to Portugal, you'll need to obtain the necessary residency permission.

The Portuguese government offers a variety of visas, including those for residency, employment, and family reunion.  If you intend to stay in Portugal for more than three months, you must obtain a Portuguese residency visa.  Five years of lawful presence in Portugal are required before you may apply for citizenship or permanent residency.

Eligible Visas For Long-Term Residence In Portugal.

The D7 visa is the first option, which is a favorite among retirees in Portugal.  It is frequently referred to as the "passive income" or "retiree" visa.  This open-ended residency pathway can be used using pension, rental, dividend, investment, or royalty income.  (Note: If you're a remote employee earning a salary and want to relocate to Portugal, you should apply for the Portugal digital nomad visa rather than the D7.)

Having proof of income is crucial for obtaining one of these visas.  You can also be required to provide evidence that you have enough money in the bank to support you and your dependents for a year, depending on the embassy.  The Portuguese minimum wage, which is one of the lowest in the EU at €740 per month, serves as the base for determining income levels.

The Portuguese government is interested in learning whether D7 applicants are self-sufficient enough to support themselves in Portugal.  You should be qualified for the D7 visa if you are able to achieve it and don't have any criminal convictions.

The D7 residency visa is valid for two years.  Following that, you'll have to reapply for your status and prove that you have enough money and funds to last another three years.

To be continued:  Additional Visa Options for Portugal Residency.