By Penelope Fernandez
If you asked me two years ago whether I’d be reading through the immigration laws of Portugal for fun, I’d have laughed.
But here I am: coffee in hand, tabs open on AIMA, staring at acronyms (D7, D2, D8, and AIMA) and trying to make sense of it all so you don’t have to.
Let me walk you through what’s new for 2025; what’s changed, what’s trending, and what you really need to know if you’re thinking about calling Portugal home.
When I started, all the options felt overwhelming. But here is how they stack up now:
Still one of the most popular paths to go when applying for visas in Portugal.
In 2025, the required income is at least 10.440€ /year for a single applicant.
-Add 50% for a Spouse
-Add 30% for dependent children
-You’ll also need proof of accommodation in Portugal (Rental or Ownership)
Perfect; if your income comes from abroad.
This option keeps growing in popularity among freelancers and remote professionals.
While many thought this program had vanished, some of the Golden Visa investment routes still exist.
However, expect stricter requirements and longer waiting times:
● Current processing time: 12-24 Months
● AIMA is managing a backlog of about 45,000 Golden Visa applications
● A fully digital system is planned for January 2026; which should streamline everything
If you’re imagining a smooth “submit it and get a response in three months” journey, think again.
After replacing SEF, AIMA inherited thousands of pending cases. They’re hiring new staff and opening more offices, but delays still stretch 3-9 months for biometrics and card issuance.
Processing times depend heavily on where you apply. Consulates in the US, UK and Brazil all have different interpretations of document requirements. Sometimes even adding steps Portugal doesn’t officially require.
Even after investing, you might wait months for your residence card. Certain fund and property routes face heavier bottlenecks.
Proposals surfaced in mid-2025 to extend the citizenship eligibility timeline from five to ten years for many foreign nationals. It hasn't passed yet but it is worth watching closely for any new developments.
After five years of legal residency, you can apply for citizenship; provided that you:
✅ Pass an A2 Portuguese Language exam
✅ Show cultural integration
✅ Maintain clean records and legal residence throughout the process
But from the beginning 2025, discussions could extend that timeline to ten years. It is smart to stay informed about the evolving requirements, but don’t worry, we'll do all the heavy lifting for you!
Buying property or moving abroad isn’t a transaction that you forget about the next week. It is the start of a new chapter in your life.
And while Portugal’s visa process might test your patience (as it tested mine!), the reward at the end?
Waking up to blue-tiled balconies, pastel mornings, and a pace that feels like home rather than a rush through life.
