RESIDENCY, VISAS
& YOUR QUESTIONS
ABOUT THE ALGARVE
Clear answers on the Golden Visa, the D7, buying and selling — from a team working in the Algarve market since 2006.
Residency by investment,
clearly explained.
The Portugal Golden Visa allows non-EU citizens to apply for a residence permit based on qualifying investments. You do not need to live in Portugal full time. The structure of the programme has evolved, so it is important to approach this with up-to-date information, not assumptions.
What the Golden Visa actually is
A form of Portugal residency by investment. Non-EU citizens can apply for a residence permit based on qualifying investments — without committing to full-time residency in Portugal.
Does buying property still qualify?
No, real estate was previously one of the main routes, but the property purchase route closed in October 2023. Buying property no longer qualifies for the Golden Visa.
How can I obtain a Golden Visa
The Golden Visa in 2026 can be obtained in various ways.
Investment funds, with a minimum of euro 500.000 subscription into regulated private equity or venture capital funds.
Scientific Research, minimum investment of Euro 250.000 to support national or technological research activities.
Cultural heritage & art, minimum of Euro 250.000 investment supporting artistic output and recovery of national heritage
Job creation, the creation of at least 10 permanent jobs through a business structure
Keep the property decision separate
Whether opting for D-7 or Golden Visa, research what is best for you with immigration or local lawyer.
How we support you
We are not immigration advisors. We guide everything related to your property purchase and connect you with professionals who can advise on Golden Visa requirements.
What to think about
before you commit
If you are considering the D-7, or Golden Visa while buying property, a few practical steps make the process much smoother.
Speak to an immigration or local lawyer
Do this before making any decisions. Confirm what is currently possible and get a clear picture of what the Visa requirements are.
Will your investment be eligible under the Golden Visa?
What are the minimum investment requirements?
What conditions apply to the type of investment?
Understand the timelines
Visa and property timelines are separate processes. Understanding both from the start prevents decisions that do not make sense later.
How long does the process take for the visa?
What is required for renewal?
Run both conversations in parallel, not sequentially.
Keep documentation organised
Be organised from the start. Documentation delays are one of the most common causes of setbacks — both on the visa side and during the property transaction.
Be clear on your long-term plans in Portugal.
Consider the different Visa alternatives if you plan to live here full time. Connect with us for the property side — we guide everything from here.
For those who plan
to really live here.
The D7 is about having a reliable income. It is typically for people who can prove they will support themselves in Portugal without seeking local employment — retirees, semi-retirees, and families with stable passive income who want to build a life here, not just visit.
Typical planning considerations
| Topic | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Timeline When do you want to move? |
Plan early |
| Proof of income Documents verifying steady earnings |
Required |
| Medical & insurance There may be obligatory stipulations |
Check early |
| Family members Children and dependants |
Varies by case |
| Tax residency Spending more time here can change your tax situation |
Speak to a specialist |
* This is not legal advice. Regulations can change and every case is unique. Always confirm details with a qualified immigration specialist.
How the D7 shapes your property search
If you are moving for a substantial part of the year, priorities shift. Winter comfort — insulation, heating, orientation — matters as much as aesthetics. Proximity to year-round services and communities matters too.
Layouts that work for long stays and visiting family. Reliable internet and workspace options if you will work remotely. These are details that holiday-home buyers rarely consider.
Lagos, Carvoeiro, Lagoa, Vilamoura, Almancil — each area has its own character. We walk you through what daily life really feels like in each, so you are not choosing based on pictures alone.
Your questions about
buying, answered.
The most common questions we hear from international buyers, answered clearly.
Do I need to be a resident to buy?
No. In most cases, non-residents can buy property in Portugal. The buying process is typically handled with the support of an independent lawyer who can act on your behalf.
Does buying give me residency?
Not automatically. Residency is based on a specific visa or residency route. If residency is part of your plan, speak with an immigration specialist early — before making any property decisions.
How long does buying take?
Timelines depend on due diligence, financing, and paperwork. If everything lines up, things can move quickly. If legal or technical obstacles arise, the process is likely to take longer.
How many properties do buyers usually view?
Most international clients come with a very narrow shortlist. If you know exactly what you want and do some homework, things go much easier. We build your shortlist before your visit.
What should I prioritise when viewing?
Think about day-to-day practicality — orientation, sun exposure, insulation, heating. Privacy, noise, access, and the condition of important systems all count as much as design.
New build or resale?
Both can be excellent. New builds offer modern energy performance and contemporary layouts. Resale can offer established locations and mature plots. The right choice depends on your priorities.
Selling smart,
and the legal essentials.
Whether you are selling a property or working through due diligence on a purchase, these are the questions that come up most.
Selling in Algarve
How long does it take to sell?
It depends on location, condition, and pricing. Correct positioning from day one is one of the biggest factors in achieving a strong outcome.
How do I price my property correctly?
Set your price based on real comparisons, exact location, the property's condition, and what buyers want right now. A smart pricing strategy beats testing the market with a wide number.
What makes a property sell faster?
Clear presentation. Good photos, strong descriptions, video tour, and all paperwork ready — these things make the process smoother for buyers and reduce friction at every stage.
Should I sell exclusively or non-exclusively?
It depends on your goals and how you want to sell. We will show you the advantages and disadvantages of each and recommend what is best for you.
What are the main costs when selling?
Account for agency fees, possible capital gains taxes, and small updates to get your property looking its best. Full details are in our Sellers Guide.
Legal & due diligence
Yes — always. An independent lawyer stands up for you and makes sure everything checks out legally. This is not optional; it is essential.
Your lawyer confirms who is legally registered as owner, that all licences and registrations are current, and that the built construction matches the approved plans on record.
Some transactions take longer if discrepancies need to be resolved. A good lawyer will advise on risk and the correct path forward — before you are committed.
Move ahead
with clarity and confidence.
We focus on the property side. We help you make the right purchase decision and connect you with people who can guide you on the legal and immigration side. We have been working in the Algarve real estate market since 2006.
What areas do you cover?
We focus solely on the Algarve, specialising in Western and Central Algarve, supported by three offices: Lagos, Lagoa (Carvoeiro), and Vilamoura.
What makes your approach different?
A no-pressure, highly personalised service. We listen carefully, prepare a shortlist that matches your requirements, and share honest information at every stage.
Next steps
Speak to a specialist to confirm what is currently possible on the visa side. Then focus on the property search with a clear understanding of your options. Get in touch with our team — we'll take it from there.
Exclusive Algarve Villas has won various awards over the years, from "Best Real Estate Agency Website" to "Best Real Estate Agency Portugal" by the International Property Awards in London. Furthermore has also won an award in 2019 by Best Luxury Real Estate Agency 2019 by Build Magazine.
Contact Us
Discover The Best
Properties In Algarve
Over 275 hand-picked villas, apartments and plots across the Algarve — from beachfront homes in Lagos to golf-front estates in Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo.
DISCOVER LUXURY