Madeira follows Portugal’s national immigration rules. Which route fits you depends on your nationality, your income and whether you plan to run a business or work remotely for a foreign employer.
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens
You can live and work in Portugal without a visa. You register your residence with the local authority once you stay beyond the short-stay period.
Non-EU citizens: the main routes
- D2, entrepreneur or independent worker visa. For people who start or invest in a business, or work independently in Portugal. You normally need to show a business plan or contracts, enough funds and a clean record.
- D8, remote worker visa. For people who work remotely for employers or clients outside Portugal. It requires proof of regular income above a threshold tied to the Portuguese minimum wage. Reports for 2026 put that threshold at €3,680 per month, plus extra amounts for family members. Confirm the figure with the consulate.
- Residence by investment (“Golden Visa”, ARI). Since the 2023 “Mais Habitação” law (Law 56/2023), buying property no longer qualifies, and funds with real-estate exposure are excluded. The routes reported for 2026 are regulated investment funds (about €500,000), cultural support (about €250,000), research and job creation. Confirm the current routes and amounts with AIMA before you plan around them.
Practical steps
- Choose the route and gather documents: passport, criminal record certificate, proof of income or funds, health insurance and proof of accommodation.
- Apply at the Portuguese consulate in your country, or as the route requires.
- After arrival, finalise your residence permit with the immigration agency.
- Get a tax number (NIF) and set up your tax residence correctly. Where you are tax resident changes what you owe.
Be careful
Immigration rules and thresholds change often and processing times vary a lot. Many websites that sell visa services quote outdated figures. Use the official sources below and a licensed immigration lawyer for your own case.
Official and primary sources
Some links on this page may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you. They never change what we write.