D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering
Non-EU students enrolled in a Portuguese higher-education programme, internship, or volunteer scheme.
The D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering is a Portuguese study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit) and processing time (~60 days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering is for
Non-EU students enrolled in a Portuguese higher-education programme, internship, or volunteer scheme.
Study time counts at half-rate toward the 5-year residence requirement for PR/citizenship.
D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering - eligibility criteria
- Acceptance letter from a recognised institution
- Proof of tuition payment or scholarship
- Proof of subsistence means
- Accommodation in Portugal
- Health insurance
D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering (Portugal) is ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit, with an indicative processing time of ~60 days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at AIMA (Portugal).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Portuguese consulate abroad, then AIMA in Portugal |
| Length of stay | Duration of the course, residence permit 1-2 years, renewable |
| Work rights | Part-time work allowed (up to ~20 hours/week during term) |
| Study rights | Full-time enrolment in the approved programme |
| Government fee | ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit |
| Processing time | ~60 days |
| Route to PR | Study time counts at half-rate toward the 5-year residence requirement for PR/citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Study time counts at half-rate toward the 5-year residence requirement for PR/citizenship.
Many applicants also compare Student Mobility · Student Mobility / Erasmus Residence Visa, Research · Residence Visa for Scientific Research and Higher Education Teaching, Job Seeker · Job-Seeking Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Portuguese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering pitfalls we fix
D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering - frequently asked questions
How much does the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering cost?
The D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering government fee is ~€110 visa + ~€170 AIMA residence permit. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at AIMA (Portugal) before applying.
How long does the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~60 days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering lead to permanent residence?
Study time counts at half-rate toward the 5-year residence requirement for PR/citizenship.
Can I work on the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering?
Work rights: Part-time work allowed (up to ~20 hours/week during term).
Who can apply for the D4 Residence Visa for Study, Internship or Volunteering?
Non-EU students enrolled in a Portuguese higher-education programme, internship, or volunteer scheme.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Portugal government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- AIMA (Portugal) - official Portugal immigration authority