A residency visa for non-EU nationals coming to Portugal for higher education, secondary education, doctoral or post-doctoral research, internships or volunteer work at a recognised institution for more than a year.
International students and researchers admitted to a recognised Portuguese institution.
Our licensed advisors assess your eligibility, build a strategy to strengthen your application, and manage the process end to end, so you submit a complete, competitive application with confidence.
Yes. Lawful time as a D4 student resident generally counts toward the residence period for permanent residence, though some study time may be weighted differently for citizenship.
The D4 is Portugal's residency visa for study and research — for higher or secondary education, doctoral or post-doctoral research, internships or volunteer work at a recognised institution for more than a year.
A frequent cause of refusal is failing to prove enough means of subsistence for the full study period, or submitting an enrolment that is not for an eligible, accredited programme.
You can usually continue on the D4 if you move to another accredited institution or programme, but you must keep valid enrolment and inform AIMA so your residence permit stays accurate.
Family members can join a D4 holder through family reunification once you hold your Portuguese residence permit, subject to AIMA approval and proof you can support them.
The D4 visa itself is a short-validity entry visa (about four months). After you arrive in Portugal you must apply to AIMA for a residence permit, which is what lets you stay for the duration of your studies.
Yes. D4 students enrolled in a full-time programme of at least one academic year may work part-time, generally up to about 20 hours per week during term, and full-time during official school holidays.