Frequently Asked Questions
What is MAROLE & Partners and what services do you provide?
MAROLE & Partners is an international advisory firm providing premium assistance and comprehensive asset solutions, specializing in Portuguese immigration programs (Digital Nomad, D7, Golden Visa) for clients worldwide, with locations in Ukraine, Portugal, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the USA.
What is a Portuguese Permanent Residence Permit?
It grants non-EU nationals the right to reside indefinitely in Portugal. Unlike temporary permits, it doesn't require frequent renewals and offers maximum long-term security.
When do I become eligible for permanent residence or citizenship?
Permanent residence is generally available after 5 consecutive years of legal residency in Portugal. Citizenship, however, now requires 10 years of legal residency for most nationalities, or 7 years for citizens of EU and CPLP member states, following the 2026 nationality law update.
Does your team assist with family relocation?
Yes, we specialize in complete family relocation services, ensuring that all family members receive legal and administrative support throughout the process.
Can I travel or live outside of Portugal once I have Permanent Residence?
Yes, but to maintain your permanent status, you should not be absent from Portugal for more than 24 consecutive months, or 30 non-consecutive months within a 3-year period, unless there are justified professional or personal reasons.
Is it mandatory to buy a property to qualify for residency?
No — and since 2023 reforms, real estate purchases no longer qualify for new Golden Visa applications in Portugal at all. Current qualifying routes include investment funds, scientific research support, cultural contributions, and job creation. For other pathways like the D7 Visa or Digital Nomad Visa, a long-term rental agreement and proof of stable income are sufficient.
Do you only work with clients relocating to Portugal?
No. While Portugal remains our core area of expertise, we also assist clients with Golden Visa programs in Greece, Malta, and Hungary, Digital Nomad visas in Croatia and Estonia, and residency pathways in Italy and Slovenia through our trusted partner network.
What is the difference between the D7 Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa?
The D7 Visa is designed for people with stable passive income (pensions, rental income, dividends), while the Digital Nomad Visa is for people with active income earned remotely, such as freelancers and remote employees.
How much investment is required for a Golden Visa?
Investment amounts vary by country and pathway — for example, regulated investment funds in Portugal, real estate in Greece, or other qualifying options in Malta and Hungary. We assess your specific situation to identify the most suitable and cost-effective route.
Can I include my family in my residency application?
Yes. Family reunification is available across all our core destinations, allowing qualifying family members to obtain the same residence rights as the primary applicant.
Do I need to speak the local language to apply for residency?
Generally, no — language requirements typically apply only later, at the citizenship stage (for example, basic Portuguese is required for Portuguese citizenship, now after 10 years for most nationalities). Most residency applications themselves do not require language proficiency.
How long does the residency application process usually take?
Processing times vary by country and program, typically ranging from a few months to over a year depending on the pathway and current administrative backlogs. We provide a realistic timeline estimate as part of your initial case evaluation.