How do I get residency in Madeira?

When you have the Golden Visa in Madeira, if you maintain your residence permit and investment for five years, you qualify for permanent residency. You then have the option of applying for Portuguese citizenship.



Excellent question! Obtaining residency in Madeira, Portugal, is a popular goal, and the process is the same as for mainland Portugal, as it’s an autonomous region of the country. Madeira offers specific advantages, like the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime and a high quality of life, which make it especially attractive.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the main pathways, with specifics for Madeira.

Key Pathways to Portuguese Residency

There are several routes, but the most common for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens are:

1. The D7 Passive Income Visa (The Most Popular Route)

Often called the “Retirement Visa,” it’s actually for anyone with sufficient passive income. Requirements: Proof of stable, regular passive income (pensions, rental income, dividends, royalties, etc.). The minimum is Portugal’s minimum wage (€820/month in 2024), but for a strong application, aim for at least €1,200-€1,500 per month. Process: 1. Apply for a D7 Visa at your local Portuguese consulate in your home country. You’ll need to show proof of income, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of accommodation in Portugal (a rental contract or property deed in Madeira is ideal). 2. Once in Portugal, you apply for a Residence Permit at SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras), which is valid for two years and renewable. Madeira Specifics: You must demonstrate ties to Madeira. A long-term rental contract

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One route is through the Golden Visa program. In exchange for foreign investment, Golden Visa holders are granted a residence permit. After holding a Golden Visa for five years, you can apply for permanent residency.

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For EU- Citizens, EEA Citizens and Swiss Citizens European Citizens can live in Madeira Island for a period of up to 3 months without registering their residence with local authorities. After this period (3 months), European citizen have a period of 30 days to register, which they will obtain a certificate.

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Funchal, the capital of Madeira Island, is known for its beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and relaxed lifestyle. According to Numbeo, a family of four can expect to spend around 1,943.8€ per month without rent in Funchal, while a single person's estimated monthly costs amount to 542.5€ without rent.

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Choosing to buy or rent a property in Madeira Island and moving for retirement, is absolutely the best choice. In Madeira you can enjoy not only one of the best climates in the world and almost the most hours of sunshine in Europe, but also good health services and favorable tax climate for retirees.

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This is also the place where most expats and digital nomads live so people are more likely to speak English. With over 100,000 people living in Funchal, it is the main center of Madeira. The capital is known for its lively nightlife, incredible restaurants, and for having loads of cultural activities to enjoy.

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The average standard of living tends to be a bit lower than in mainland Portugal, and the local autonomous government gives generous subsidies coming from the tourist industry revenues and from the Portuguese national budget. Go where the locals go and everything will be cheap.

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Visiting Madeira For those who want a fully autonomous and comfortable experience, renting a car or a motorcycle in Madeira is the best option. Find available car hire companies here. However, there are other means of transport available such as buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycles and scooters.

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Legal and Financial Considerations: As a foreigner purchasing real estate in Madeira Island, you'll need to follow the legal and financial requirements of Portugal. This may include obtaining a fiscal number (NIF), opening a bank account, and hiring a lawyer to handle the legal aspects of the transaction.

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Popular areas for expats include Funchal, the capital city, as well as Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Santana, São Martinho, and Ribeira Brava. These areas offer a mix of coastal and mountain living options.

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If your definition of quality of life means safety, tranquillity, natural beauty and little traffic, then Madeira could be a good option. Far from the bustle of Lisbon and Porto, the island is calm and peaceful.

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