The Process

The steps for the initial application are as follows:

• Obtain a Portuguese fiscal number (NIF) and open a local bank account.
• Decide on your investment type (and make sure to consult a local independent lawyer before finalizing anything)
• Gather all required documentation from your country of origin (at most three months before submitting your application as it goes out of date).
• Have all documentation legalized and translated into Portuguese.
• Gather necessary documentation in Portugal (your lawyer can help with this)
• Instruct your lawyer to fill out and submit the application.
• Pay the processing fee.
• Wait until you hear back from SEF with a preliminary approval.
• Request a visitor visa for your first visit
• Pick a date, time, and place where you will meet in person for your interview.
• Bring along the originals of the documentation that was submitted with the application to your personal interview.
• Wait for final approval.
• Get your residence card.
• Repeat a substantial portion of the same process at the end of year 1 and again at end of year 3.