Portugal has become an increasingly attractive destination for Russian citizens looking for a safe, stable, and welcoming place to live in Europe. Whether you’re a remote worker, retiree, student, or entrepreneur, Portugal offers multiple legal pathways for Russians to obtain long-term residency.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most popular visa options, the steps to apply, and how Borderless Lawyers helps Russian nationals navigate immigration to Portugal smoothly and legally.
🌟 Why Russians Are Moving to Portugal
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✅ EU country with political stability and safety
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✅ Schengen travel access
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✅ Affordable living and healthcare
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✅ Warm climate and scenic coastal cities
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✅ Favorable visa options for remote workers, retirees, and entrepreneurs
🛂 Visa Options for Russian Citizens
Due to Schengen restrictions, Russians need a residence visa to live in Portugal. Here are the most common long-term visa pathways:
💼 1. D7 Visa – Passive Income / Remote Work
Ideal for Russians who earn money from abroad (remote work, rental income, or pensions).
Requirements:
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Minimum passive income of ~€820/month
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Accommodation in Portugal
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Portuguese NIF (tax ID)
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Private health insurance
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Clean criminal record (translated, apostilled, and legalized)
Best For: Retirees, freelancers, and remote employees.
🌍 2. Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers employed or contracted by companies outside Portugal.
Requirements:
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Minimum income of €3,280/month
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Proof of employment or freelance contracts
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Lease agreement in Portugal
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Health insurance
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Apostilled and translated police clearance
Best For: IT professionals, creatives, consultants, and online entrepreneurs.
🧳 3. D2 Visa – Entrepreneur Visa
A path for Russians who want to start or move their business to Portugal.
Requirements:
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Viable business plan
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Company registration and bank account
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Accommodation in Portugal
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Clean criminal record (apostilled)
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Health insurance
Best For: Business owners, consultants, and startup founders.
🎓 4. Student Visa
For Russians studying at a recognized Portuguese educational institution.
Requirements:
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University acceptance letter
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Proof of funds and accommodation
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Health insurance
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Police clearance (translated & legalized)
Best For: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or exchange program students.
👨👩👧👦 5. Family Reunification Visa
If a close family member already holds legal residence in Portugal, you may apply to join them.
Eligible Relatives:
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Spouse or registered partner
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Dependent children
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Dependent parents
📍 Best Cities in Portugal for Russian Expats
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Lisbon – Cosmopolitan capital with international schools and Russian-speaking communities
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Porto – Affordable and culturally rich
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Cascais – Family-friendly and ideal for retirees
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Faro / Algarve – Sunny, calm, and relaxed living
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Braga – Excellent for students and tech professionals
📄 Immigration from Russia to Portugal – Step-by-Step
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Choose your visa path based on income, work, or study
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Gather required documents (translations and apostilles mandatory)
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Apply at the Portuguese consulate or embassy abroad
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Attend visa interview and submit biometric data
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Receive visa and travel to Portugal
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Attend SEF appointment to receive your residence permit
⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Supports Russian Citizens
At Borderless Lawyers, we provide expert legal guidance to Russians seeking to relocate to Portugal through professional and secure immigration pathways.
We help with:
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✅ Visa strategy tailored to your goals
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✅ Translations, apostilles, and document preparation
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✅ NIF, bank accounts, and housing support
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✅ D2 business setup and guidance
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✅ SEF appointment scheduling
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✅ Ongoing support for renewals and reunification
✅ Ready to Start Your Journey from Russia to Portugal?
Whether you’re planning to work remotely, retire peacefully, or invest in a new life in Europe, Portugal is an accessible and welcoming destination.