Expat Community > Portugal

sepharad
Joined 2017
Posts: 57

Unusual Visa situation

7 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?

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Expat Community > Portugal

Unusual Visa situation

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