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Yes. The D4 study and research visa is the entry route, and after your studies you can typically move onto a work route such as the D1 or D3, or set up under the D2. Years of legal residence count towards permanent residence and citizenship.
International students and researchers enter Portugal on the D4 visa for study and research lasting more than a year, leading to a residence permit with AIMA. It is the foundation for building a longer stay if you decide Portugal is for you.
After your studies, the usual way to stay on is to move onto a work route — the D1 for a standard employee role, the D3 for a highly qualified position, or the D2 if you want to set up a business or work as an independent professional. Time spent legally resident also counts towards permanent residence, generally available after five years with A2 Portuguese, and towards eventual citizenship under the current rules.
Planning that progression early makes the transition smoother, especially given the recent changes to the citizenship residence period. ACME can help you sequence the move from study to work and on towards settled status, and we recommend confirming the current conditions on the official portals.
Get a free, personalised assessment from a licensed ACME advisor, or ask Acey.
Guidance only, not legal advice. ACME is an independent consultancy, not affiliated with any government. Rules change, confirm details with official sources.