Thinking of swapping the Aussie lifestyle for Portugal’s sunny charm, cobblestone streets, and warm Atlantic breeze? Whether you’re chasing a slower pace of life, remote work freedom, or European residency perks, Portugal offers flexible visa pathways for Australians.
This guide breaks down your options, step-by-step processes, and how Borderless Lawyers can help make your Portuguese dream a reality.
✈️ Why Move to Portugal from Australia?
Australians are increasingly drawn to Portugal for its:
-
✅ Affordable cost of living compared to most EU countries
-
✅ Mild climate and stunning coastal cities
-
✅ Digital Nomad-friendly policies
-
✅ Easy access to the Schengen Zone
-
✅ Welcoming culture and English-speaking locals
🛂 Visa Options for Australians Moving to Portugal
As an Australian citizen, you can stay in Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day Schengen period. But to live long-term, you’ll need a residence visa. Below are your best options:
💼 1. D7 Passive Income Visa (Retirees & Remote Workers)
Perfect if you have stable income from outside Portugal.
Requirements:
-
Proof of passive income (e.g., pension, investments, rental income)
-
Minimum monthly income: ~€820 for the main applicant
-
Accommodation in Portugal
-
Clean criminal record
Great For: Retirees, remote workers with savings, or digital entrepreneurs.
🌍 2. Digital Nomad Visa (For Remote Workers)
Tailored for remote workers earning foreign income.
Requirements:
-
Remote job or freelance contracts outside Portugal
-
Monthly income of at least €3,280 (4x Portuguese minimum wage)
-
Accommodation in Portugal
-
Valid health insurance
Great For: Tech professionals, freelancers, remote employees.
🧳 3. D2 Entrepreneur Visa
Ideal if you plan to start or relocate your business to Portugal.
Requirements:
-
Business plan that supports Portugal’s economy
-
Proof of sufficient funds
-
Local accommodation
-
Tax ID and company registration
Great For: Entrepreneurs, business owners, startup founders.
👨👩👧👦 4. Family Reunification Visa
Bring your family with you once you’re a legal resident.
Eligible Family Members:
-
Spouse or partner
-
Minor children
-
Dependent adult children or parents
🏠 Where Do Australians Typically Settle in Portugal?
-
Lisbon – urban, cosmopolitan, digital nomad hub
-
Porto – artsy, cultural, slightly more affordable
-
Algarve – laid-back beach lifestyle, great for retirees
-
Braga & Coimbra – charming university towns, less touristy
📄 How to Apply: Step-by-Step
-
Choose your visa type
-
Gather required documents (certified, translated if needed)
-
Apply through the Portuguese consulate in Australia
-
Attend a visa interview
-
Receive your visa & travel to Portugal
-
Book your SEF (immigration) appointment in Portugal
-
Receive your residence permit
💼 How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
Moving to a new country is exciting—but legal paperwork and visa rules can be overwhelming. At Borderless Lawyers, we specialize in:
-
✅ Tailored visa guidance for Australians
-
✅ Full document preparation & translations
-
✅ Business registration & tax setup
-
✅ Family immigration support
-
✅ SEF appointment booking & legal representation
✅ Ready to Immigrate to Portugal?
Whether you’re chasing sunshine, remote work freedom, or European residency, Portugal is a top choice—and we’ll help get you there smoothly.