🇵🇹 How to Get a Portugal Visa as a U.S. Citizen (2025 Guide)
Whether you’re planning to retire in Portugal, work remotely, study, invest, or simply live a slower, more affordable European lifestyle, Portugal is one of the most welcoming countries for U.S. citizens.
This guide explains:
• The types of Portugal visas available to Americans
• The application process, documents, and timeline
• Costs involved
• Official links and how to apply from the U.S.
✅ Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa for Portugal?
• Short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period): No visa required for tourism, family visits, or business meetings.
• Schengen Visa rules apply.
• Stay limited to 90 days in all Schengen countries combined.
📌 Source: Schengen Visa Info – U.S. Citizens
• Long stays (over 90 days): Yes, you must apply for a Portugal National Visa (Type D) before you enter Portugal.
🇵🇹 Types of Portugal Long-Stay Visas for U.S. Citizens
| Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| D7 Visa | For retirees or remote workers with passive income |
| D8 Visa (Digital Nomad) | For remote workers and freelancers |
| Golden Visa | For investors and high-net-worth individuals |
| Student Visa | For studying in Portugal |
| Work Visa | For job offers or employment in Portugal |
| Entrepreneur Visa (D2) | For opening a business or startup |
| Family Reunification Visa | For joining family already living in Portugal |
🧾 Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Portugal Long-Stay Visa from the U.S.
🪪 Step 1: Choose the Right Visa
Most popular for U.S. citizens:
• D7 Visa – For those with at least €820/month passive income (e.g., Social Security, investments, rental income)
• D8 Visa – For digital nomads earning €3,280+/month remotely
More visa info:
🔗 Portuguese Consulate in the USA – Visa Categories
📄 Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
Although documents vary by visa type, most applications require:
| Required Documents | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa application form | 🔗 Download here |
| Passport | Valid for 3+ months after your intended stay |
| 2 passport-size photos | In color, white background |
| Proof of income or job | D7/D8: Bank statements, contracts, etc. |
| Criminal background check (FBI) | Apostilled + translated into Portuguese |
| Health insurance | Must cover entire stay in Portugal |
| Proof of accommodation | Rental lease, Airbnb receipt, invitation letter, etc. |
| Travel itinerary | Flight reservation (not purchased yet) |
| Cover letter | Explaining purpose of your stay and visa request |
💰 Step 3: Understand the Costs
| Cost | Amount (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | $90 – $120 | Paid at appointment |
| FBI background check | ~$18 | 🔗 Apply here |
| Apostille service | ~$20 – $100 | 🔗 U.S. Apostille Info |
| Translation of documents | ~$20–$60/page | Must be done by certified translator |
| Health insurance | ~$300–$800/year | Must cover €30,000+ |
| Flight and lodging (for proof) | Varies | Can be refundable bookings |
Total cost estimate for most applicants: $400–$1,200 USD
🏢 Step 4: Book an Appointment with VFS Global
The Portuguese government outsources visa appointments to VFS Global in the U.S.
VFS Global Portugal Visa Centers in the U.S.:
• San Francisco
• Washington, D.C.
• New York City
• Houston
• Miami
📬 Step 5: Submit Your Application in Person
Bring all documents to your scheduled VFS Global appointment. They will:
• Collect your biometric data
• Review your documents
• Collect payment
• Forward your file to the Portuguese consulate for review
Processing time: Usually 30–60 days
Track your application here:
🔗 https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/prt/track-application
📨 Step 6: Receive Your Visa and Travel to Portugal
Once approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport. It allows you to enter Portugal within 120 days.
Upon arrival in Portugal, you must:
• Apply for your residence permit (Título de Residência) at SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras)
🏡 Step 7: Register Residency in Portugal
Once in Portugal:
1. Attend SEF appointment with:
• Passport + Visa
• Proof of address
• NIF number (Portuguese tax ID)
• Proof of income
• Health insurance
• 2 passport photos
2. Receive your residence card (valid for 1–2 years)
3. Renew your permit as needed to work toward permanent residency or citizenship
🇺🇸 Taxes and U.S. Obligations While in Portugal
Even while living abroad:
• U.S. citizens must file annual tax returns
• You may need to file FBAR if you hold €10,000+ in foreign banks
• Portugal has a Double Taxation Agreement with the U.S.
Learn more:
🔗 IRS Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens Abroad
🧠 FAQs
❓ Can I work in Portugal with a D7 Visa?
Yes, but the D7 is primarily for passive income earners or retirees. If you plan to freelance or work remotely, consider the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.
🔗 Portugal D8 Visa Info – Government Page
❓ How much income do I need for the D7 Visa?
You must earn at least 100% of the Portuguese minimum wage:
• ~€820/month (as of 2025) for a single person
• 50% more for a spouse and 30% more for each child
Source:
❓ Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. After obtaining your residence permit, you can apply for family reunification to bring a spouse, children, or dependents.
More info:
🔗 Family Reunification – SEF Portugal
❓ Can I apply while already in Portugal?
No. U.S. citizens must apply for their Type D visa at a consulate or VFS center in the U.S. before traveling.
📚 Useful Backlinks Summary
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Portugal Consulate in the U.S. | https://washington.embaixadaportugal.mne.gov.pt/en/ |
| VFS Global (Visa Appointments) | https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/prt |
| Visa Application Form (PDF) | https://vistos.mne.gov.pt/images/formulario_visto_nacional_en.pdf |
| Apostille Your U.S. Documents | https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/records-and-authentications/authenticate-your-document/apostille-requirements.html |
| SEF Portugal (Immigration Office) | https://www.sef.pt/en/Pages/homepage.aspx |
| U.S. IRS Tax Guide for Expats | https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/taxpayers-living-abroad |
| FBI Background Check | https://www.edo.cjis.gov |
🇵🇹 Final Thoughts
Portugal offers one of the most attractive and affordable immigration paths for Americans seeking a better quality of life in Europe. With favorable visa options, low living costs, and warm culture, many Californians, retirees, digital nomads, and families are choosing Portugal as their second home.
Need help apostilling your FBI background check or birth certificate for Portugal? Let me know—I can walk you through that too.
