Portugal Visa Guide for U.S. Citizens & Real Estate Investors

Why Portugal?

Portugal has become one of the most attractive destinations for American investors, retirees, and digital nomads, thanks to:

A warm climate and high quality of life
Affordable real estate
Favorable tax regimes
Easy residency options for property buyers
Visa pathways that can lead to European Union residency or citizenship

Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa for Portugal?

For short stays up to 90 days, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Portugal (as part of the Schengen Area). This allows time for property visits, tourism, and initial meetings.

Popular Portugal Visa Options for U.S. Citizens

D7 Visa (Passive Income/Retirement Visa)

Perfect for:

Retirees
Individuals with steady passive income (pension, dividends, rental income, remote work)

Key Requirements:

Proof of minimum income: ~€820/month (as of 2025) for the main applicant
Portuguese bank account & NIF (tax number)
Long-term rental or ownership of property in Portugal
Health insurance
No criminal record

Benefits:

Live in Portugal
Family reunification possible
Path to permanent residency and citizenship
Access to healthcare and education

D2 Visa (Entrepreneur/Business Visa)

Perfect for:

Entrepreneurs, freelancers, or those starting a business in Portugal
Investors looking to launch a venture (e.g. real estate, tourism)

Key Requirements:

Business plan or proof of self-employment
Portuguese bank account & NIF
Proof of funds to support the business and personal expenses
Lease or proof of address in Portugal

Benefits:

Full residency rights
Option to bring family
Five-year path to citizenship

Digital Nomad Visa (New in 2022)

Perfect for:

Remote workers earning income from outside Portugal

Requirements:

Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts
Monthly income of at least 4x the Portuguese minimum wage (~€3,280/month in 2025)
Accommodation in Portugal
Health insurance

Benefits:

1-year visa (extendable)
Fast-track residency
Live and work from Portugal legally

Required Steps to Apply for a Portugal Visa

Step 1

Get a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF)

You can obtain one via a fiscal representative. We assist clients with this step.

Step 2

Open a Portuguese Bank Account

You can obtain one via a fiscal representative. We assist clients with this step.

Step 3

Secure Accommodation

Lease or purchase property — Invest in Porto can help you find the right property.

Step 4

Gather Documents

Including proof of income, insurance, passport, FBI background check (apostilled), etc.

Step 5

Apply at a Portuguese Consulate in the U.S.

Schedule your visa appointment online.

Step 6

Move to Portugal & Apply for a Residence Permit

After entering Portugal with your visa, you’ll apply for your residence card (Cartão de Residência) with SEF (Immigration and Borders Service).

Documents Checklist

Timeline

1-2 Weeks

NIF + Bank Account

Often 1–3 months wait

Visa Appointment: Varies by consulate

90 Days

Processing Time

Schedule After Interval

SEF Appointment (In Portugal)

Path to Permanent Residency & Citizenship

Portugal offers one of the fastest EU paths to citizenship. After 5 years of legal residency (on D7, D2, etc.), you may apply for:

Permanent Residency
Portuguese Citizenship (requires basic language proficiency A2 level)

How We Can Help

At Invest in Porto, we specialize in guiding American investors, retirees, and expats through the entire relocation and property investment journey: