Immigration Legal Services
Expert legal guidance for Portuguese visas, residency, and immigration matters
Navigating Portuguese immigration law requires expert guidance to ensure successful visa applications and smooth relocation processes. Diana Gondim Advocacia provides comprehensive immigration legal services for individuals, families, and businesses seeking to establish residence in Portugal.
With extensive experience in Portuguese immigration law and deep understanding of EU regulations, we offer personalized legal solutions for all types of visa applications, from Golden Visa investments to family reunification and work permits.
Whether you're an investor, skilled professional, student, or seeking family reunification, our expert immigration team ensures your application meets all requirements and maximizes your chances of success in obtaining Portuguese residency.
Our Immigration Legal Services
Comprehensive legal solutions for your Portuguese immigration journey
Golden Visa Applications
Complete assistance with Portuguese Golden Visa applications, from investment planning to residency card issuance, ensuring compliance with all program requirements.
Residency Permits
Expert guidance for all types of Portuguese residency permits including work permits, family reunification, study visas, and temporary residence applications.
Work Visa & Employment
Comprehensive support for employment-based immigration, including work visa applications, highly skilled professional permits, and entrepreneur visas.
Family Reunification
Legal assistance for bringing family members to Portugal, including spouse visas, dependent children applications, and parent reunification procedures.
Student Visas & Education
Complete support for student visa applications, university enrollment procedures, and educational residency permits for international students.
Visa Renewals & Extensions
Professional handling of visa renewals, residency permit extensions, and status changes to ensure continuous legal residence in Portugal.
Our Immigration Application Process
A structured approach to ensure successful visa and residency applications
Initial Assessment
We evaluate your circumstances, goals, and timeline to determine the most suitable visa category and develop a customized immigration strategy for your situation.
Eligibility Verification
We conduct thorough eligibility checks, review financial requirements, and ensure you meet all specific criteria for your chosen visa category before proceeding.
Document Preparation
Our team guides you through collecting, legalizing, and translating all required documentation, ensuring every document meets Portuguese immigration authority standards.
Application Filing
We prepare and submit your complete application to the appropriate Portuguese authorities, ensuring all forms are correctly completed and deadlines are met.
Application Monitoring
We track your application progress, respond to any requests for additional information, and keep you informed of status updates throughout the review process.
Biometrics & Interviews
We prepare you for biometric appointments and any required interviews, providing guidance on procedures and helping you understand what to expect.
Residence Card Collection
Upon approval, we assist with residence card collection procedures and provide guidance on your new rights, obligations, and next steps in Portugal.
Portuguese Visa & Residency Options
Multiple pathways to Portuguese residency based on your circumstances
Golden Visa (Investment)
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€500,000 real estate investment minimum -
Minimal residency requirements (7 days/year) -
Schengen Area travel freedom -
Path to permanent residency and citizenship
Work Visa & Employment
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Employment contract required -
Various categories for different skill levels -
Renewable residence permits -
Family reunification possible
Family Reunification
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For spouses and dependent children -
Proof of relationship required -
Financial support demonstration -
Same rights as primary applicant
Student Visa
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Enrollment in Portuguese institution -
Proof of financial resources -
Limited work permissions -
Potential transition to work visa
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Portuguese immigration and residency
What is the Portuguese Golden Visa program?
The Portuguese Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants residence permits to non-EU citizens who make qualifying investments in Portugal. The most common route is a €500,000 real estate investment (or €400,000 in low-density areas). The program leads to permanent residency after 5 years and potential citizenship after 6 years, while providing visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area.
How long does it take to get a Portuguese residency permit?
Processing times vary by visa type: Golden Visa applications typically take 6-12 months for initial approval. Work visas usually take 2-4 months. Family reunification can take 3-6 months. Student visas typically process in 1-3 months. We recommend applying well in advance of your intended travel date, as processing times can vary based on application volume and complexity.
Can I work in Portugal with a Golden Visa?
Yes, Golden Visa holders have the right to work in Portugal without needing a separate work permit. The residency permit granted through the Golden Visa program allows for employment, self-employment, and business activities throughout Portugal and provides access to the Portuguese job market.
What are the residency requirements for maintaining a Golden Visa?
Golden Visa holders must spend a minimum of 7 days in Portugal in the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period. This is one of the most flexible residency requirements among European investment visa programs, allowing holders to maintain their primary residence elsewhere while keeping their Portuguese residency status.
Can my family members be included in my visa application?
Yes, most Portuguese visa applications allow for family inclusion. Golden Visa applications can include spouse, dependent children (under 18 or up to 26 if students), and dependent parents over 65. Work visas and other residence permits also typically allow for family reunification, though specific requirements and timelines may vary by visa type.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to get a residence permit?
Portuguese language proficiency is generally not required for initial residency permits, including Golden Visa, work visas, or family reunification. However, basic Portuguese skills may be helpful for daily life and become important if you later apply for permanent residency or citizenship, which do have language requirements.
What is the difference between temporary and permanent residency?
Temporary residency permits are issued for specific periods (usually 1-2 years) and must be renewed. They're tied to specific purposes like work, study, or investment. Permanent residency provides indefinite residence rights without renewal requirements, typically available after 5 years of continuous temporary residence. Permanent residents have more stability and fewer restrictions on their activities in Portugal.
Can I travel freely in Europe with a Portuguese residence permit?
Yes, Portuguese residence permit holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area (26 European countries) for short stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period without additional visas. For longer stays or work in other EU countries, additional permits may be required, but the Portuguese residence permit significantly facilitates European travel and mobility.
Ready to Start Your Immigration Journey?
Contact Diana Gondim for expert legal guidance on your Portuguese visa and residency application.
Schedule a Consultation