Portugal offers not only a scenic, safe, and stable environment but also attractive immigration options for an affordable lifestyle.

GFDL Advogados offers end-to-end legal and tax services for U.S. citizens looking to relocate full time to Portugal or put together a strategic “Plan B.”

From its high quality of life to excellent healthcare and property affordability, Portugal has become a top choice for U.S. citizens looking for a more relaxed and safer lifestyle.

• Safety and Stability: Portugal ranks among the safest and most politically stable countries in the world, making it ideal for families, retirees, and individuals seeking peace of mind.
• Affordability: Portugal offers a high standard of living at a lower cost compared to the U.S. Real estate, healthcare, and everyday expenses are affordable, with diverse property options ranging from city apartments to beachside homes.
• High-Quality Healthcare: Portugal has a public free healthcare system accessible to residents. High-standard private healthcare is also widely available and affordable.
• Multiple paths for residency: Portugal offers several alternatives for residence, depending on your background, type of activity or investment to carried out in Portugal. You can opt between full time resident programs and plan B setups like the Golden Visa.

We understand the complexities of international relocation. Our firm provides expert guidance in every aspect of moving to Portugal, from immigration to tax and estate planning, making your transition as seamless and efficient as possible.

• The Passive Income Earner Residence Permit (PIERP), also known as D7 Visa, is a temporary residence permit available to U.S. citizens with the financial means to reside in Portugal without needing an employment contract with a Portuguese company or rely on Government Social Aid or welfare. It is considered one of the best alternatives to obtain residence in Portugal and does not require investing, contrary to the Golden Visa. Nevertheless, it is only a proper choice for those who want to live in Portugal over an extended period, as compliance with minimum stay requirements will likely trigger tax residency. It is particularly attractive for retirees and investors who derive income from pensions, social security payments, IP rights, financial assets/investments, or real estate outside of Portugal.
• The Digital Nomad Residence Permit, also known as D8 Visa, is ideal for remote workers. To apply for a D8, proof of financial means, connected to earned income above a legal minimum threshold, is required. Minimum income threshold is set at four times the Portuguese minimum wage (Euro 3.280,00 per month). If the applicant works as a freelancer or for a third-party, official authorization to work overseas must be obtained from the employer before applying for the first stage of the visa.
• Golden Visa: The Golden Visa program allows residency through qualifying investments in Portugal. Our specialists handle all steps, from validating qualifying investments to legal structuring and compliance, helping you secure this powerful Plan B. Golden Visa holders may reside in Portugal as long as they wish and move within the Schengen area (and other territories with open borders within Europe). Flexibility is part of the appeal of this residency scheme. Golden Visa holders are required to stay in Portugal for as few as 7 days per year during the first year and as few as 14 days in the following two-year periods – 35 days in a five-year period.
• Family regrouping: In addition to the right to reside in Portugal for the applicant and freedom of movement within the Schengen area, the Golden Visa, the D7 and the D8 grant the right to family regrouping for spouses and dependents.
• Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years on certain residence permits, including the D7, D8 and Golden Visa, holders can apply for permanent residency or citizenship if further requirements are met. We assist with navigating the complex application process, ensuring eligibility and compliance.

• Dual Tax Compliance: For U.S. citizens, understanding both U.S. and Portuguese tax obligations is critical. Our tax advisors ensure your strategy is compliant with both tax systems, helping you avoid double taxation and optimize your tax structure.
• Personalized Tax Planning: Our team provides customized tax strategies tailored to your unique financial situation, considering both short-term and long-term tax obligations. Whether you have passive income or substantial investments, we help you maintain compliance and tax efficiency.
• Wealth Structuring and Asset Protection: For high-net-worth individuals, we offer asset protection services to secure your wealth and manage inheritance. We create tax-efficient solutions for wealth preservation in Portugal.

• Real Estate Acquisition: From luxury estates to affordable city apartments, Portugal’s property market offers diverse options for all types of buyers. Our team handles all aspects of property acquisition, including due diligence, negotiations, and contract drafting.
• Real Estate Planning: We help structure property investments for maximum tax efficiency, whether it’s a family home, rental property, or commercial investment. Our services include local compliance and guidance on Portuguese property laws, landlord rights, and rental agreements.

• Will and Succession Planning: Portugal’s inheritance laws differ from those in the U.S., which can lead to unexpected outcomes if not properly planned. Our lawyers design wills that align with both Portuguese and U.S. laws and most importantly with your goals, safeguarding your assets and ensuring they are distributed according to your wishes.
• Trust and Estate Structuring: To preserve your wealth across generations, we advise on asset protection and legacy structures such as trusts and foundations.
• Inheritance and Gift Tax Advisory: We provide strategic advice to minimize inheritance and gift taxes in both countries, preserving family wealth effectively.

• Business Formation: Whether you’re starting a business or expanding an existing one, we guide you through company formation, licensing, and compliance in Portugal.
• Corporate Strategy: Our team develops tax-efficient strategies for U.S. businesses operating in Portugal, addressing contract structuring, licensing and regulatory obligations, data privacy laws, VAT and Tax compliance, employment law, and social security.
• Investment Structuring: If you’re looking to invest in Portugal, we provide guidance on structuring your investments to maximize returns and ensure regulatory compliance.

GFDL Advogados is your dedicated partner in making Portugal your new home or new business hub.

Every day, we support the aspirations of entrepreneurs, families, and private enterprises and their proprietors. Through our comprehensive suite of tax and immigration services, we provide strategic guidance for residency and citizenship.

Our team speaks fluent English, has in-depth knowledge of U.S.-Portugal legal matters, and provides personalized, results-oriented service to make your move as easy and efficient as possible.

Our Private Client brochure is available here.

Contact us today for a personalized consultation. We advise you to secure your benefits as soon as possible.