How to Immigrate to Portugal from China
Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for Chinese citizens seeking a better quality of life, a stable investment climate, and access to Europe’s Schengen Area. Whether you’re planning to study, work remotely, retire, or start a business, Portugal offers several immigration pathways tailored to different lifestyles.
In this guide, you’ll discover the most suitable visas for Chinese nationals and how Borderless Lawyers can guide you through the process from start to finish.
🌍 Why Portugal Attracts Chinese Immigrants
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✅ Access to the EU and Schengen travel freedom
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✅ Lower cost of living compared to Western Europe
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✅ Mild climate and excellent healthcare system
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✅ Business-friendly environment
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✅ No need for Portuguese language upfront for many visas
🛂 Visa Options for Chinese Citizens Moving to Portugal
Chinese nationals need a visa for any stay longer than 90 days in Portugal. The following residence visa options are ideal based on your goals:
💼 1. D7 Visa – Passive Income or Remote Work
For individuals with steady income from abroad (retirement, rent, dividends, or freelance).
Requirements:
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Monthly passive income of at least €820
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Rental contract or property deed in Portugal
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Portuguese NIF (tax number)
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Private health insurance
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Criminal background check (translated and legalized)
Best For: Retirees, freelancers, remote workers.
🌍 2. Digital Nomad Visa
Designed for remote workers employed by non-Portuguese companies.
Requirements:
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Monthly income of at least €3,280
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Employment contract or proof of freelance income
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Proof of accommodation in Portugal
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Health and travel insurance
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Background check (translated & legalized)
Best For: Chinese tech workers, consultants, and creatives.
🧳 3. D2 Visa – Entrepreneur or Freelancer
Ideal for entrepreneurs wanting to start or relocate a business to Portugal.
Requirements:
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Viable business plan
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Proof of investment funds
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Portuguese tax registration (NIF)
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Company registration
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Accommodation and health insurance
Best For: Startups, small business owners, or independent professionals.
🎓 4. Student Visa
If you’ve been accepted into a Portuguese university or accredited school.
Requirements:
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Letter of acceptance
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Proof of funds
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Valid passport
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Accommodation and insurance
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Background check (translated and apostilled)
Best For: Undergraduate, graduate, or language school students.
👨👩👧👦 5. Family Reunification
Join a family member who is already legally residing in Portugal.
Eligible Family Members:
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Spouse or legally recognized partner
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Minor children or dependent adult children
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Dependent parents
Family reunification visas are typically faster when the main applicant already has a valid residence permit.
🌆 Popular Cities for Chinese Expats in Portugal
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Lisbon – Capital city with job opportunities, good schools, and expat networks
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Porto – Historic, welcoming, with growing Chinese business presence
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Faro (Algarve) – Ideal for retirees or entrepreneurs in tourism
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Coimbra – Known for top universities and student-friendly costs
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Cascais – Safe, upscale coastal living close to Lisbon
📄 Step-by-Step Process to Immigrate from China
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Choose the visa that fits your goals
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Collect all required documents (with certified translations and apostilles where needed)
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Submit your visa application through the Portuguese consulate in China
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Attend a visa interview
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Receive your residence visa and travel to Portugal
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Attend SEF appointment to receive residence permit
⚖️ How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
Immigrating to Portugal from China involves legal steps, documentation, and cross-border coordination. At Borderless Lawyers, we offer:
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✅ Visa strategy tailored to your needs
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✅ Certified translation and document prep
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✅ NIF, bank account, and tax setup
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✅ Business setup for D2 applicants
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✅ SEF appointment guidance
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✅ Ongoing support after you arrive
✅ Let’s Make Your Move to Portugal a Success
Whether you’re investing in your future, planning retirement, or giving your children access to European education, Portugal is a stable and welcoming option. With the right guidance, your transition can be smooth and legally secure.