Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Portugal Forum

6 years ago

Unusual Visa situation

6 years ago
Hello all, I am fairly imminently, moving to Portugal, to retire. My return path does not follow the typical type 1 and 2 visa route. I am "returning" to Portugal through Ministry of Justice Decree-Law No 30-A / 2015, Feb. 27.

This is a path for people of Sephardic descent and culture to return after expulsion during the inquisition. Much of what I have had to do is the same as for a type one visa, criminal background check, copy of my passport etc. But I have also had to show my family background, continuing use of language, music, traditions etc. This path leads to actual citizenship and an E.U. passport.

I have been vetted by the Jewish congregation of Porto, my local Rabbi, completed all of my papers, paid all my fees and now wait while the government makes a decision and a ruling. It could take them another year.

Here-in lies my problem. I am ready to retire now and prefer to live in Portugal and to travel in Europe, but am in limbo. Not a citizen yet, but not wanting to apply for a type 1/2 visa, when I may be completing citizenship, within the year.

I am not even sure if I can or would be advised to mix the two routes. I plan on paying for my own medical in the remaining year, so will not be a burden on the social system, but also want to begin establishing myself in the meantime. Get an apartment, a vehicle, Portuguese license, bank account etc.

How can I accomplish this? Ms. Korthouse notes in her article; United States Citizens Moving to Portugal: Demystifying the Paper Trail:

"If you're not currently pursuing citizenship or investing at this level (Golden Visa), you'll start by getting your residence visa from the US. This entitles you to travel to Portugal to obtain your temporary Residence Permit."

Can I move to Portugal somehow, while I AM pursuing citizenship?

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Living in Portugal GuideLiving in Portugal Guide

Our Living in Portugal Guide is a primer on everything about living in Portugal: best places to live, cost of living, pros and cons, healthcare and insurance, obtaining a driver's license, how to bring your pet with you and more.

Portugal Forum Portugal Forum
Join our Portugal forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Portugal.

Contribute to Portugal Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Portugal.

Best Places to Live in Portugal Best Places to Live in Portugal

If you're thinking about living in Portugal, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Portugal in 2023.

Healthcare in PortugalHealthcare in Portugal

Expats in Portugal with a residency visa can participate in the national health care system. Here's what you need to know about the SNS and the combination of public and private services you'll need to manage your health in Portugal.

Cost of Living in PortugalCost of Living in Portugal

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Portugal.

Moving to PortugalMoving to Portugal Guide

Expats moving to Portugal are drawn by a variety of places to live, a rich history and so much more. Here are some tips on what it means to move there, and how to make it happen.

Real Estate in PortugalReal Estate in Portugal

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Portugal.

Pros Cons of Living in PortugalPros & Cons of Living in Portugal

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Portugal.

Retiring in PortugalRetiring in Portugal

Advice for people retiring in Portugal.

Visa and Residency PortugalPortugal Visa & Residency Guide

Thanks to Susan Stults Korthase for this helpful overview of current requirements to begin the process of obtaining a Residency Visa when moving from the US to Portugal.

10 Tips for Living in Portugal10 Tips for Living in Portugal

If you've recently arrived in Portugal, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Portugal.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Contribute to Portugal Network Contribute
Help others in Portugal by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Portugal.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal