Step 7: Becoming a Resident in Portugal and the Golden Visa Program

Step 7: Becoming a Resident in Portugal and the Golden Visa Program

Many Canadians who fall in love with Portugal eventually want more than a vacation home — they want the ability to spend longer stretches of time here, live part-time, or even make Portugal their full-time residence.

Portugal offers several residency pathways for non-EU citizens, including the well-known Golden Visa Program. Each option is designed to make it easier for you to live, work, retire, or invest in this beautiful country.

Below is an easy-to-understand breakdown of how residency works and the programs Canadians most often choose.

What Does It Mean to Be a Resident in Portugal?

Becoming a resident gives you the right to live in Portugal beyond short tourist visits. You can stay for months at a time — or even year-round — depending on the type of residency permit you hold.

As a resident, you can:

• Live in Portugal legally for extended periods

• Access public healthcare and education

• Travel freely across most of Europe (Schengen Area)

• Work or run a business (depending on your visa type)

• Apply for permanent residency or citizenship later on

Residency is often the step people take when they realise Portugal offers a lifestyle they truly want to enjoy long-term.

The Golden Visa Program

The Golden Visa Program remains one of Portugal’s most globally recognised residency options. It was created to attract foreign investment and offers excellent flexibility for people who don’t plan to live in Portugal full-time.

The program is open to individuals from outside the European Union who make an eligible investment in Portugal.

While purchasing real estate no longer qualifies as a Golden Visa investment (as of 2024), several strong pathways still exist, including:

• Investing in a qualifying investment fund

• Supporting cultural projects

• Supporting scientific or research projects

• Creating jobs in Portugal

Golden Visa holders have one of the most flexible residency requirements in Europe — they only need to spend a few weeks per year in Portugal to maintain their status.
This makes it ideal for investors, part-time residents, or anyone who wants a European residency option without relocating full-time.

Other Residency Options

If the Golden Visa isn’t the right fit for you, Portugal offers several other popular programs that many Canadians choose:

D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa)
Ideal for retirees, investors, or anyone who receives income from sources like pensions, rental properties, or savings.

Digital Nomad Visa
Designed for remote workers who earn stable income online from outside Portugal.

Work Visa
For those hired by a Portuguese employer or running a Portuguese-based business.

Each residency pathway has different income requirements and application steps — but all of them offer a clear route to living in Portugal more permanently.

The Benefits of Living in Portugal

Whether you stay part-time or year-round, residency gives you the chance to fully enjoy Portugal’s lifestyle and culture, including:

• A mild, sunny climate

• Safe and welcoming communities

• Fresh local food, wine, and vibrant markets

• Beautiful beaches, countryside, and historic towns

• A relaxed pace of life and strong sense of community

• An affordable cost of living compared to Canada

Residency is what allows many people to slow down, enjoy their surroundings, and experience Portugal the way locals do.

Full 8-Step Series Recap (All Steps)

Here are all 8 steps in the full Portugal buying journey, with links to each guide:

Full guide to Step 1: NIF for Canadians Buying Property in Portugal

Full guide to Step 2: How Canadians Can Open a Bank Account in Portugal

Full guide to Step 3: Best Areas in Portugal for Canadian Buyers

Full guide to Step 4: The Legal Process of Buying Property in Portugal for Canadians

Full guide to Step 5: Moving and Settling in Portugal for Canadians

Full guide to Step 6: Investing and Renting Out Property in Portugal

Full guide to Step 7: Residency and Golden Visa Options for Canadians

Full guide to Step 8: What Life in Portugal Is Like for Canadians

FAQs: Residency in Portugal and the Golden Visa Program

What does it mean to become a resident in Portugal?

Becoming a resident allows you to stay in Portugal longer than short tourist visits. It gives you access to public healthcare, education, the ability to travel within the Schengen Area, and—depending on your visa—permission to work or run a business.

Can Canadians apply for residency in Portugal?

Yes. Canadians are eligible for several residency pathways, including the Golden Visa, D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa), Digital Nomad Visa, and work-based residency options.

Is buying property enough to qualify for the Golden Visa?

No. As of 2024, real estate purchases no longer qualify. Other eligible investments include investment funds, cultural or scientific contributions, and job creation.

How long do I need to stay in Portugal each year with a Golden Visa?

Golden Visa residents only need to spend a few weeks per year in Portugal to maintain their status, making it one of the most flexible residency programs in Europe.

What is the D7 Visa and who is it for?

The D7 Visa is the Passive Income Visa. It’s ideal for retirees, investors, and anyone with stable income from pensions, rental properties, dividends, or long-term savings.

What is the Digital Nomad Visa?

This visa is designed for remote workers who earn income online from outside Portugal. It’s popular among Canadians who work remotely and want to live part-time or full-time in Portugal.

Can I work in Portugal with these residency visas?

It depends on the visa. Some visas allow work, while others focus on passive income or remote employment. Your lawyer can help explain which options fit your plans.

How long does it take to gain permanent residency or citizenship?

Most residency visas offer a pathway to permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship after five years, provided you meet stay requirements and other legal criteria.

Is the residency process complicated?

The process is clear and well-structured, but it involves paperwork and specific financial requirements. Working with a lawyer or consultant makes it much easier for Canadian applicants.

Does residency give me access to healthcare in Portugal?

Yes. Once you obtain residency and register at your local health centre, you can use Portugal’s public healthcare system. Many newcomers also choose private health insurance for more flexibility.

Is Portugal a safe place for Canadians to live full-time or part-time?

Yes. Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe, with friendly communities, low crime rates, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Can I live in Portugal part-time and keep my home in Canada?

Absolutely. Many Canadians split their time between the two countries. Residency simply gives you the legal right to stay longer in Portugal whenever you choose.

Ready to Learn More About Residency in Portugal?

If you’re considering residency or want guidance on choosing the right visa program, I can connect you with trusted professionals who specialise in helping Canadians make the move with confidence.