Question 1

Which Portugal visa is right for me?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your income source and lifestyle. The D7 visa suits retirees and those with passive income. The D8 is for remote workers and digital nomads. The D2 is for entrepreneurs starting a business in Portugal. The D3 is for highly qualified professionals. The Golden Visa is for investors.

Question 2

Can 9 Oeste help me understand the different visa options for relocating to Portugal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer personalised consultations to help you understand which visa is the right fit. In a single video call, we assess your income, lifestyle, and goals and give you a clear, actionable roadmap.

Question 3

Why should I use a relocation consultant instead of doing it myself?

Accepted Answer

Portugal's bureaucratic processes can be slow, complex, and full of pitfalls for foreigners. We use our first-hand expat experience and local network to make your move faster, smoother, and stress-free.

Question 4

How do I get started with 9 Oeste?

Accepted Answer

Book a video consultation. In 40 or 60 minutes, we will assess your situation, recommend the right visa pathway, and give you a clear, personalised action plan for your move to Portugal.

Question 5

How can I schedule an online consultation with 9 Oeste Relocation Consulting?

Accepted Answer

Book directly on our Appointments page at 9oesteconsulting.com/appointments. Choose between a 40-minute or 1-hour video consultation and we will confirm your booking by email.

Question 6

What languages do you work in?

Accepted Answer

We work primarily in English and Turkish. Our team has first-hand experience as expats in Portugal.

Question 7

Do you offer bundled packages for the full relocation process?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many clients use multiple services together. We tailor a package to your specific situation.

Question 8

Do I need to be in Portugal to use your services?

Accepted Answer

No. Most of our services are delivered fully remotely. We manage everything on your behalf from wherever you are.

Question 9

Can I apply for a Portugal visa from outside the EU?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most of our clients apply from Turkey, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and beyond. We guide you through the entire process remotely.

Question 10

How long does a Portugal visa application take?

Accepted Answer

D7 and D8 applications typically take 3 to 5 months. Once we start working together, we guide you through every step to ensure your application is submitted as quickly as possible.

Question 11

What documents do I need for a Portugal visa?

Accepted Answer

Generally a valid passport, proof of income, a clean criminal record, travel or health insurance, and a cover letter. Our Document Review service ensures your full dossier is submission-ready.

Question 12

What is the difference between the D7 and D8 visa?

Accepted Answer

The D7 is for people with stable passive income such as pensions, rental income, or investments. The D8 is for remote workers and digital nomads earning income from outside Portugal.

Question 13

Are there consulting services that help digital nomads relocate to Portugal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We specialise in helping digital nomads relocate to Portugal through the D8 visa, including document preparation, income verification, and accommodation requirements.

Question 14

What income do I need to qualify for the D7 visa?

Accepted Answer

Main applicant 920 EUR per month; spouse or partner an additional 460 EUR per month; each dependent child an additional 276 EUR per month. Accepted sources include pensions, rental income, dividends, interest, and royalties.

Question 15

What is the difference between the D7 visa and the D7 residency permit?

Accepted Answer

The D7 visa is the entry visa issued by a consulate, valid for 4 months. Once in Portugal, you apply for a D7 residency permit through AIMA, initially for 2 years and renewable for 3-year periods. After 5 years you may apply for permanent residency.

Question 16

Can I work in Portugal on a D7 residence permit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once you obtain your D7 residence permit, you will have authorisation to work in Portugal, including for Portuguese employers or as a freelancer.

Question 17

Is proof of accommodation necessary for the D7 visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A signed rental agreement registered with the Portuguese Tax Authority covering at least one year is mandatory. We recommend having this in place before submitting your application.

Question 18

Can I use an Airbnb or short-term rental for the D7 visa?

Accepted Answer

Generally no. Portuguese consulates require a long-term rental agreement of at least 12 months. Short-term rentals and Airbnb bookings are not accepted as proof of accommodation.

Question 19

What is a NIF and why do I need it?

Accepted Answer

The NIF is your Portuguese tax identification number, required for opening a bank account, signing a lease, applying for a visa, buying property, and paying taxes.

Question 20

Can I get a NIF before moving to Portugal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Non-residents can obtain a NIF remotely through a fiscal representative. We act as your fiscal representative and handle the entire process.

Question 21

What are the required documents to obtain a NIF in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

EU/EEA citizens need a valid passport or ID and proof of address. Non-EU nationals also need a fiscal representative in Portugal. Documents not in Portuguese or English require certified translation.

Question 22

How long does NIF registration take?

Accepted Answer

Once we receive your documents, we typically complete NIF registration within 3 to 7 business days.

Question 23

Do I need a NIF to open a bank account in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A NIF is required before you can open a Portuguese bank account. We can handle both together.

Question 24

Can I open a Portuguese bank account as a non-resident?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Several Portuguese banks allow non-residents to open accounts. We partner with leading financial institutions to make this as straightforward as possible.

Question 25

How long does it take to open a bank account in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

Once your NIF is in place, bank account opening typically takes 1 to 2 weeks through our service.

Question 26

How does your lease management service work?

Accepted Answer

We search for properties matching your criteria, vet landlords and contracts, negotiate terms, and manage the entire signing process in compliance with Portuguese tenancy law.

Question 27

Which cities do you cover for housing in Portugal?

Accepted Answer

We primarily cover Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Contact us for other regions.

Question 28

Can you help me find an apartment in Portugal before I arrive?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our housing service covers property search, shortlisting, virtual tours, and full lease management without you needing to be in Portugal.

Question 29

Is renting in Portugal difficult as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

It can be. Landlords require a NIF, proof of income, and references. We handle all of this on your behalf using our local network.

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