How to Move from South Africa to Portugal
Moving to Portugal, Visas & Permits
Are you from South Africa and are considering moving to Portugal? If so, then you are in the right place. Let’s learn everything about how to move from South Africa to Portugal.
Portugal is a popular destination for people from all over the world. This country is not only beautiful but has plenty of opportunities for anyone seeking a better life for themselves.
So can South Africans move to Portugal? What is the moving process for an average South African like?
These are some of the things that we will discuss in detail in this article. What’s more, we are also going to discuss all about the ex-pat life in Portugal and generally what makes Portugal a great country for South African ex-pats.
Tag along to find out how to move from South Africa to Portugal.
How to move from South Africa to Portugal
Just like any other country, before moving to Portugal, you will need to have valid documentation to allow you entry and stay in the country.
In this case, you will need to have a Portuguese residence permit or the Golden visa as one of the immigration services programs. Let’s discuss the aforementioned immigration jargon.
Obtaining a residence permit to live in Portugal from South Africa
While some immigration bureaucracies might seem difficult to wrap your head around, it is necessary to understand them to make your immigration process smooth.
First off, for non-EU citizens, having a Visa is not enough to grant you a stay in Portugal for more than 90 days.
In such scenarios, South Africans will need a residence permit to allow them to stay longer. However, to get a residence permit, you will need to meet some requirements, such as:
You must have a job, either self-employed or employed in Portugal.
Make a significant investment in accordance with the Golden Visa regulations.
Get an enrolment in a higher education institution and also possess a valid student visa.
Have a company or start-up and have a business visa.
Types of residence visas South Africans can apply for
There are several types of Visas available for South Africans especially if you intend to stay in Portugal for more than 1 year. Here are some of the popular residence visas that you can take advantage of.
D1 Visa – also known as a work visa, is for anyone with a work contract.
D2 Visa – this type of visa is exclusively for those with an intention of starting a business in Portugal
D4 – Better known as student visa is essentially for university students
D7 – This is available for those with passive income or pensioners.
Application for any of these visas usually has different requirements but the process of application is essentially the same.
Each of these visas grants you the opportunity of bringing your family along with you to Portugal through the family reunification program.
How can I apply for a Portugal residence visa from South Africa?
Processing a Portugal residence visa is the first process as far as your move from South Africa to Portugal.
Fortunately, the process is rather painless and quite straightforward. You will be required to present the right documentation to the consulate General of either Pretoria or Johannesburg. If you are not sure what you need to have, schedule a visit to the consulate offices and you will have all the information that you require.
Also, expect a small fee for the visa application process as well. Here are some of the requirements when applying for a residence visa.
A valid South African passport. Should be valid for six months past your return date.
2 passport size photos
Filled visa application form
Proof of sufficient funds
A valid travel insurance
Visa application fees in Rands
What do South Africans need to apply for the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa, formerly known as Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), is a highly sought-after visa for investors from across the globe. This visa comes with several benefits for instance:
Having the option to apply for Portuguese nationality after 5 years.
Freedom of movement across the Schengen areas without having a visa.
Freedom to invest, study and work as a local.
Your family benefits from these privileges as well.
While this visa comes with a lot of privileges, the application process requires extensive knowledge of the Portuguese immigration bureaucracies.
So what are some of the investments that a South African investor needs to do in order to be eligible for this visa?
Make an investment of at least €500,000 to small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
Start a business in Portugal and create at least 10 employment opportunities.
Invest a minimum of €500,000 in a Portuguese fund of their choice.
Purchase €500,000 property in certain regions in Portugal
Transfer capital amounting to €1.5 million to a Portuguese bank account with your name.
Remember, the Golden visa application is handled by the Portuguese Immigration Service (SEF) in Portugal and not the General Consulate in South Africa.
The truth is, because of the nature of the investment, there is a lot of bureaucratic processes and it is recommended to have a team of professionals to help with the process.
At Viv Europe, we are experts on issues of immigration in Portugal, we will help break down the immigration jargon and simplify the entire process.
What is the cost of living in Portugal?
Generally, the cost of living in Portugal is higher than in South Africa. On average, Portugal is 29.4% more expensive compared to South Africa.
When it comes to the question of the cost of living in Portugal, there is no straight answer to this question. It all boils down to where you decide to settle down.
Big cities like Lisbon and Porto are more expensive than small rural towns. Also, towns inhabited by ex-pats are likely to be more expensive than those with only a few.
Having said that, it is also important to realize that Portugal is one of the most affordable European countries.
In comparison to other countries, living in Portugal is not only affordable but you get to enjoy the same quality of life and services as other European nations.
Compared to South Africa, the cost of living might be higher but you get to enjoy a more quality life.
What are the best places to live in Portugal?
Portugal is increasingly getting popular among ex-pats not only from South Africa but from all over the world.
This country is beautiful and it is common for ex-pats to feel lost especially when deciding what city or town to call home.
To help you in your decision, here are popular options for you as a South African immigrant.
South Africans in Lisbon.
Lisbon the capital city of Portugal is full of life and culture. It is not only a destination for the locals but a home for immigrants as well.
An impressive 21% of the city’s population are foreigners giving you a picture of just how popular it is for ex-pats from South Africa and beyond.
Over 50% of the population in Lisbon is of working age, and it is the epicentre of technology and business in Portugal.
Lisbon is a great city for South Africans who are looking to invest and get employment.
South Africans in the Algarve
If you are moving to Portugal because of the warm weather, then the Algarve coast should be your go-to destination.
Other than the all-year-round sunshine, the Algarve has beautiful sandy beaches and long shores.
The Algarve is quite a smaller city compared to Lisbon but is ideal for retirees and anyone who wants to enjoy a slow-paced life.
South Africans in Madeira
This tropical Island in Portugal is a delight to the eyes. It is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
But there is more, life in Madeira is not as expensive as in the capital Lisbon. As an ex-pat, you have the luxury of experiencing life on an island with the protection of being in Europe.
Is Portugal a safe country?
Portugal is not only safe but peaceful. According to the global peace index, Portugal is ranked fourth which goes to show how safe and peaceful the country is.
The locals are quite welcoming even to strangers, it is uncommon to get into unnecessary confrontations. In fact, the locals go out of their way to try and help tourists.
Another factor that has contributed to the general safety in Portugal is the law against owning a firearm.
In Portugal, you can only own a firearm for hunting or collection. These guns are regulated by the government and self-defence is not a reason for owning a firearm. Because of this law, violent crimes are not as common as in other nations.
However, you should know that petty crimes like pickpocketing and snatching phones do occur in tourist hubs. Be aware of your surrounding and stay safe whenever you go out in public.
Article by Viv Europe - Official Legal and Relocation Partner to KipperTree.
Read the full article here
