Because of the favorable environment, delectable cuisine, inexpensive cost of housing, and numerous other advantages, Portugal has long become a favored destination for Britons. Since the United Kingdom is a member of the EU, Brits can easily travel to and stay in Portugal. But the real kicker is that you may still visit Portugal even after Brexit.
Statistically, over 40,000 Brits are currently residing in Portugal. Although the majority picks the Algarve home, there is also a sizable British diaspora in the capital Lisbon as well as Porto. Just in case you are befuddled about the reasons behind moving to Portugal from the UK, here are the top 4 reasons and how you may apply for a d7 visa.
Why should you move to Portugal from the UK?
Coupled with a detailed history and thriving culture, Portugal is bound to be a fun place all year long. when compared to the UK; you may find
compelling reasons to stay here, including:
1. Pleasant climate
The Portuguese climate is one of the key factors behind Brit’s quest for relocation. British nationals are relocating to Portugal for various reasons, including Mediterranean weather. Portugal is shone by the sun throughout the year in contrast to the soggy UK. When you are longing for a temperate environment, Portugal will provide you with sunny summer, warmer springs, and fairly cold winters.
2. Cost-Effective Lifestyle
The Portuguese have a significantly lower cost of living when compared to the United Kingdom. Portugal offers more reasonable rent, foodstuffs, utilities, and mobility. In fact, rental housing is often 20 to 50 % less expensive compared in the United Kingdom.
It will be quite cheap to stay in Portugal, and the best thing is that you need not reduce your standards. What you need is a stable income, and if everything goes as planned, you may save a few pounds!
3. English is becoming more recognized.
Portugal has a large ex-pat population; hence English is widely used. Since the majority of folks in Portugal have familiarized themselves with English, thus making communication easy. The sizable British population makes it simple to meet people and fit in better.
4. Affordable Residences
Portugal is much less expensive, unlike the UK, when it comes to the real estate market. Suffice it to say; there are a variety of housing options which all depend on your interests. If it’s your imagination to have a house by the beach, you can make that a reality. Still, you may find a vacation villa to be a comfy place.
Can I move to Portugal from the UK?
If you are from the UK, you have the green light to move to Portugal. In fact, in recent times, Portugal has become notable for its fairness to Brits. For instance, UK nationals are permitted a three months stay in Portugal without a visa. You will only be required to get a visa should you intend to live in Portugal for longer than the 90 days provided initially. Still, on visas, Portugal provides a variety of visas that you might take advantage of.
But, based on an economic threshold, the D7 Visa might be convenient if your monthly income is at least €1,000. The D7 still qualifies one to stay in Portugal. However, within the initial two years, you must remain in Portugal for at least a year and four months.
When you are still in the United Kingdom, you will have to submit your application for the D7 visa. Together with essential documentation, you must also show evidence of your long-term housing.
When should I apply for the D7 visa in Portugal from the UK?
One of the best things about applying for a visa before flying is that it avoids the frustrations that delays may cause. Assume you are already in Portugal and have hit the 90-day mark, but if the D7 visa fails to be processed in time, you will be in bad books with the migration authorities. So, to apply for the D7 from the UK, you have to;
Obtain an NHIF, then proceed to open a bank account
The NIF is required for all legal actions you take in Portugal. In Portugal, the official tax identification number gives you access to the nation’s financial systems. Normally, the Finanças offices in Portugal are where you may get them. But since you are in the UK, you might consider having an attorney obtain it on your behalf. After receiving the NIF, you must establish a Portuguese bank account. Additionally, you can do this online.
Make travel arrangements
The next step is to confirm that you have booked your lodging. You have the option of renting or purchasing real estate. Apply for a D7 visa from any Embassy of Portugal in the UK. The D7 application is submitted at Portuguese embassies overseas. Therefore, you must go to the embassy within your region. Although the necessary paperwork may change, generally speaking, you need to accompany your application with the following:
- Travel passport – The required passport has to be valid for six months after the expiration date of the D7
- Two recent passport color photographs
- A letter regarding the application’s rationale
- Proof of health insurance plan. Alternatively, you may issue a document of an affidavit stating that you will obtain healthcare coverage in Portugal just before 90 days elapse following your arrival.
- Your background check details.
- Your Schengen visa traveling insurance
- A document proving your residential destination in Portugal, such as a property title, lease contract, or mortgage contract
- Confirmation of funds
- You need to provide an accounting of your residual income, free of expenses. The primary applicant must have a yearly wage of €7,200, followed by €3,600 for every extra adult or 2,160 Euros per kid.
Travel to Portugal
You will be given a stopgap visa as soon as your D7 application is accepted. Visit Portugal and schedule an interview with Portuguese Immigration and Border Services for your biometric clearance. This board will also process your D7 visa, whose validity may either be 12 or months.
Obtain a new residence permit
You may renew the initial D7 as soon as it expires. Keep in mind that to qualify for renewals, you must satisfy the stay criteria. Every year, a minimum of 6 straight months or eight interrupted months must be spent in Portugal.
Make an application for the Portuguese indefinite leaver to remain or citizenship.
You might be qualified for naturalization or indefinite leave to remain after spending five years in Portugal.
Wrapping up
So that’s it, you have the option of a cheap cost of living, residence, and favorable climate in Portugal for 90 days without a visa. But why should we go for the bare minimum? With the steps mentioned above, you can apply for the D7 visa and get a shot at permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
