CPLP Visa and Residence for PALOP Nationals
Legal support for nationals of Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau and São Tomé and Príncipe who want to live, work, study or invest in Portugal, from the first visa to citizenship.
Provided by VPA — Venture Partners Advogados, a law firm registered with the Portuguese Bar Association, with offices in Lisbon and Rio de Janeiro.
Overview
VPA, a law firm in Lisbon, supports nationals of the Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP) and their families in Portugal, with service in Portuguese. Law no. 61/2025 of 22 October, in force since 23 October 2025, changed the rules for CPLP nationals: the CPLP residence permit is now requested in Portugal, from AIMA, by those who entered with a residence visa, and entering as a tourist no longer serves as the basis for the application. The first step is therefore the consular visa, requested in the country of origin before travelling. We help choose the right route (work, higher education or vocational training, the D7 visa for those with their own income, entrepreneurship, investment through funds or the IFICI tax regime), prepare the documents and follow the case with the consulate, AIMA, IRN and the Tax Authority. We also handle family reunification, renewals, Portuguese citizenship (seven years of legal residence for CPLP nationals under the 2026 law, counted from the issue of the residence permit, and other routes such as Portuguese descent) and property and inheritances in Portugal when the heirs live abroad. Each case is assessed individually; the first meeting can be held in Lisbon or by video call.
Common processes
- Residence visa at the consulate in the country of origin
- CPLP residence permit with AIMA
- Work, study and post-graduation visas
- D7 visa, investment and IFICI
- Family reunification
- Renewals and permanent residence
- Portuguese citizenship
- Property and inheritances in Portugal
Frequently asked questions
Can I enter Portugal as a tourist and apply for the CPLP residence permit here?
Since 23 October 2025, no. Under Law no. 61/2025, the CPLP residence permit is requested by those who entered Portugal with a residence visa, obtained at the consulate before travelling. If you already have an application in progress, the applicable rules depend on its date and type.
Which visa should I apply for?
It depends on why you are coming: work, study, your own income (D7), setting up a business or investing. We assess your situation and indicate the most suitable route and the list of documents.
How long do I need to live in Portugal to apply for citizenship?
For CPLP nationals, seven years of legal residence, counted from the issue of the residence permit, under Lei Orgânica n.º 1/2026. Applications filed before it came into force follow the previous rules. Other routes, such as Portuguese descent, may apply.
Can I bring my family?
Residence permit holders can apply for family reunification for their spouse, children and other dependent relatives. The requirements and timing depend on the type of permit and the family situation.
Does studying in Portugal allow me to stay after the course?
At the end of the course you may apply for a residence permit to work, if you meet the requirements. We explain the process in our article on staying and working in Portugal after your studies.
I inherited a house in Portugal. What do I need to do?
Usually the heirs must be formally identified, the inheritance reported to the Tax Authority and the land registry updated. Deadlines run from the date of death, so it is best not to delay. We handle the process even if the heirs live abroad.
Do you hold meetings by video call?
Yes. The first meeting can be held by video call from any country.
Related areas
Team
Contact
For advice on this service, contact VPA — Venture Partners Advogados, Lisbon.