Embassy of Portugal's Consular Section in Bern

What are the Portuguese formalities to relocate to Portugal?

Portugal offers several visa options for those looking to relocate from Switzerland. Before applying for any visa, you'll need to obtain two essential items:

• Portuguese Tax Number (NIF - Número de Identificação Fiscal): This is a unique tax identification number required for financial transactions in Portugal. You can obtain it at any tax office or through a fiscal representative, learn more here.
• Portuguese Bank Account: Major banks include Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, and Santander. We can help you getting a bank account in Portugal, learn more here

Here are the main visa types available from Switzerland:

• D1 Work Visa: Designed for those who have secured a work contract with a Portuguese company. You'll need to provide your employment contract, criminal record, and proof of accommodation. This visa is initially valid for 4 months and can be converted into a 2-year residence permit.
• D2 Entrepreneur Visa: For individuals planning to start a business or transfer an existing one to Portugal. You must present a viable business plan and demonstrate sufficient financial means. The investment amount varies based on the business type and location.
• D3 Highly Qualified Worker Visa: Targeted at professionals with specialized skills or higher education. You must have a job offer in Portugal that matches your qualifications and meets minimum salary requirements.
• D4 Study Visa: For students accepted into Portuguese educational institutions. You need acceptance letters, proof of financial means, and health insurance. This visa allows you to study and work part-time.
• D5 Research Visa: Specifically for researchers and scientists working with recognized Portuguese institutions. You'll need a hosting agreement from a research institution and proof of qualifications.
• D6 Family Reunification Visa: Allows family members to join relatives already legally residing in Portugal. You must prove family relationships and demonstrate that the resident family member can support you.
• D7 Passive Income Visa: Popular among retirees and digital nomads. You need to show stable passive income from sources like investments, pensions, or rental properties.
• D8 Digital Nomad Visa: A recent addition for remote workers earning income from non-Portuguese sources. You must demonstrate a stable monthly income and proof of remote work arrangements.
• D9 Golden Visa: An investment-based residence permit requiring significant capital investment in Portuguese real estate, business, or other qualifying investments. The minimum investment varies by type and location, starting from 250,000€.

The application process typically involves submitting documents through the Portuguese consulate in your home country if you are not from Switzerland. Most visas initially grant temporary residence, which can be converted to permanent residence after five years. Remember that requirements may change, and processing times vary.

Others Portuguese Consular Network in Switzerland

Find below all the different consular representation through Switzerland.