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Portugal is one of the most attractive destinations for UK and Irish citizens seeking a new lifestyle abroad. From safety and sunshine to rich cuisine and affordable living, the country offers countless benefits. Importantly, Portugal also provides a clear and flexible visa system for investors, retirees, remote workers, and families.
Schengen vs. National Visas
Choosing the right visa should always be assessed on a case by-case basis, taking into account the individual’s goals and the purpose of their stay in Portugal.
Broadly speaking, there are two main categories of visas for
entry into Portugal:
● Schengen Visa
● National Visa
The Schengen Visa is intended for short stays of up to 90 days and is typically used for tourism, family visits, business trips, meetings, or other short-term purposes.
For stays exceeding 90 days, individuals must apply for a National Visa, which includes:
Temporary Stay Visa – for stays of more than three months and up to one year, often granted for seasonal work, extended medical treatment, or similar circumstances.
Residence Visa – for stays longer than one year.
Among the residence visas, the most frequently used by foreigners looking to reside and regularise their status in Portugal are the D2 – Entrepreneur Visa, D7 – Passive Income visa, and D8 – Digital Nomad Visa.
Golden Visa Portugal (ARI): For Investors
The Golden Visa, officially known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), is ideal for those who wish to invest in Portugal without relocating permanently. It is a residence permit — not a visa — applied for directly in Portugal once investment is confirmed.
Eligible investments include:
- Approved venture capital or private equity funds
- Donations to scientific research or cultural projects
- Business creation or capitalisation
- Job creation
Stay requirement: Only 14 days in Portugal every two years.
D2, D7 and D8 Visas: Living in Portugal Full-Time
For those planning to live in Portugal, the most common visas are:
D2 – Entrepreneur Visa: Aimed at non-EU citizens intending to start a business or work as self-employed individuals in Portugal.
D7 – Passive Income Visa: Designed for non-EU citizens who
can demonstrate a stable income from pensions, real estate,
intellectual property, or financial investments.
D8 – Digital Nomad Visa: a. Intended for remote workers —
freelancers or employees of foreign companies — who wish to
live in Portugal while working for clients or employers outside
the country.
Residency rule: You must not be absent from Portugal for more than six consecutive months or eight non-consecutive months during the permit period.
New Tax Incentive: RNH 2.0 (IFICI)
Following the closure of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime, Portugal introduced RNH 2.0 — officially IFICI — to attract talent in research, science, innovation, finance and start-ups.
To qualify, you must:
- Become a tax resident in Portugal
- Not have been a tax resident in the previous five years
- Work in a qualified role (scientific, tech, finance or start-ups)
Tax benefits include:
- 20% flat tax rate on qualifying income
- Exemptions on most foreign income (excluding pensions)
- Valid for 10 years, if conditions are maintained
Choosing the Right Option
Whether you're looking to retire in the Algarve, invest in Lisbon, or work remotely from Porto, Portugal has a visa pathway that fits. Each option has its own criteria, so it’s important to consult AIMA and seek professional advice to ensure you're making the right decision for your future.
Portugal remains open and welcoming to British and Irish nationals, offering opportunity, lifestyle and stability — all within a few hours’ flight from home.