Pedro Barata

Portugal has quietly become one of the world’s favourite places to settle. In the Expat Insider Survey 2025, it ranks 9th globally among most popular countries of residence for foreigners\[1\]. The real challenge is not whether to choose Portugal, but how to become a resident. The Globat Talent Programme for highly qualified professionals is entering the scene with a 100% approval rate. How does it differ from the D3 Visa and EU Blue Card for professionals? And when is it smarter to choose the D7 route for freelancers or the D8 for remote workers? This guide breaks down the differences so each goal can be matched to the right status.

Higher education and years of experience can open the door to a new professional setting and even long-term settlement in Portugal. The Global Talent Programme offers both career mobility and long-term residence in the EU. Learn all the nuances and benefits of residency for highly-qualified workers.

A Portuguese residence permit obtained by investment can now be renewed without visiting the AIMA agency. The changes came into force on February 16th, 2026. Pedro Barata, an expert at Immigrant Invest, explains how to renew a residence permit under the new rules.