Understanding the composition of foreign residents
Resident Categories
182,000
EU Citizens
17.4%
EU Share
858,000
Third-Country Nationals
82.6%
Non-EU Share
🇧🇷
Brazil
368,449
35.3% of foreign residents
🇦🇴
Angola
55,589
5.3% of foreign residents
🇨🇻
Cape Verde
48,885
4.7% of foreign residents
👨
53%
553,801 males
👩
47%
490,437 females
Residence Permits & Visas
Pathways to Portuguese residency
2023 Residence Permits
328,978
↑ 129.9% from 2022
💼
Labour Migration
44%
of long-term permits
✈️
Free Mobility
25%
EU movement
👨👩👧👦
Family Reunification
25%
family-based
🎓
Students
9,700
international students
💰
Golden Visa
2,901
investment permits
🤝
EU Postings
57,000
intra-EU transfers
Integration & Naturalization
Building an inclusive society
🇵🇹
41,393
New Portuguese Citizens (2023)
👶
21.9%
Births to Foreign Mothers
💼
76.9%
Foreign Employment Rate
📈
18.7%
Higher Employment
Foreigners vs nationals employment rate
Strong labor participation
📉
-10.5%
Citizenship Acquisitions
Year-over-year change
Processing adjustments
🌱
0.6%
Humanitarian Protection
Of long-term permits
Refugee integration
Policy Developments
Recent changes shaping immigration landscape
January 2024
Digital Family Reunification
Family reunification applications for third-country dependents (ages 5-9) can now be submitted fully online via AIMA's portal, streamlining the process significantly.
2024 Transition
AIMA Agency Launch
SEF functions absorbed by the new Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), reporting record permit volumes and continuing to streamline visa and residency processes.
September 2024
Golden Visa Update
2,901 investment-based residence permits authorized under the Golden Visa program, maintaining Portugal's position as an attractive destination for investors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about moving to Portugal
Portugal offers several visa options for non-EU citizens:
D7 Visa: For retirees or individuals with passive income
D2 Visa: For entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals
D8 Visa: For digital nomads and remote workers (introduced October 2022)
Note: The Golden Visa program was terminated in October 2023
Portugal has a lower cost of living compared to other Western European countries:
Housing: €750/month for a two-bedroom apartment in Lisbon
Dining Out: Around €30 per person for fine dining
Transportation: Public transport costs approximately €1 per journey
Costs may vary significantly by region and area
Yes, Portugal offers both public and private healthcare options:
Access to public healthcare system (SNS) for residents
Private health insurance available for reduced wait times
Many expats opt for a combination of both systems
The tax situation for expats is changing:
Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime ends in 2024
Standard tax rates will apply to most new residents
Consultation with a tax professional is recommended
Tax laws are subject to change
Several ways to integrate:
Enroll in Portuguese language courses
Join local expat communities and events
Participate in community activities
Engage in local cultural events and festivals
Start Your European Journey Today
Get expert guidance on visa programs, investment options, and citizenship pathways. Our immigration specialists are here to help you every step of the way.
Why Choose Movingto for Your Residence Visa, or Citizenship
Proven Expertise
Decades of combined experience in golden visa processing with deep knowledge of programs in Portugal, Spain, and Greece. Our expert team ensures a smooth and successful application process.
Personalized Service
One-on-one consultations and tailored guidance based on your unique financial, personal, and business goals. Each client receives dedicated support throughout their journey.
Comprehensive Support
End-to-end service including application preparation, legal guidance, and tax consultancy. Our network of local experts ensures compliance and efficiency at every step.
Global Reach, Local Expertise
Access to our extensive network of trusted local partners across Europe, combined with multilingual support to ensure clear communication throughout your application.
100%
Success Rate
2,500+
Satisfied Clients
Expertise
In-House, Licensed Solicitors
AS SEEN ON
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Our Offices Worldwide
Local Expertise, Global Reach
With offices strategically located across Europe, Asia, and Australia, we provide personalized service with local market knowledge wherever your global mobility journey takes you.
🇵🇹
Portugal
Lisbon
Edificio, Avenida Dom João II
1990-095 Lisboa
R. do Mar Vermelho 50
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