About Defesa Legal
Your trusted partner for Portuguese immigration and legal services. We specialize in helping international clients navigate Portuguese law with confidence and clarity.
Our Story
Premium Legal Services for International Clients
For over 15 years, Defesa Legal has been helping international clients successfully relocate to and invest in Portugal. We are a Portuguese law firm with a specialized focus on immigration law, citizenship services, and legal representation for foreign nationals.
Our team understands the unique challenges that international clients face when navigating Portuguese bureaucracy and legal systems. We provide clear communication in English, personalized attention, and expert guidance throughout every step of your legal journey.
Whether you're seeking Portuguese residency through the Golden Visa or D7 Visa, claiming citizenship through Portuguese heritage, or investing in Portuguese real estate, we combine deep legal expertise with a commitment to exceptional client service.
Our Track Record
Meet Your Immigration Attorney
Experienced legal counsel with over two decades of expertise in Portuguese immigration law

Jorge Ferraz
Managing Partner – Immigration Law Practice
🏛️ Licensed Attorney - Portuguese Bar Association
Member since October 2002 (22+ years)
22+ years of legal practice in Portuguese and international law
Successfully represented clients in over 3,500 legal cases
Specialized expertise in immigration law, Golden Visa, and international investment
Helped hundreds of American families successfully relocate to Portugal
"Our commitment goes beyond legal representation. We become your trusted partners in building a new life in Portugal, ensuring every step of your Golden Visa journey is handled with the utmost care and expertise."
Professional Memberships & Associations
Ordem dos Advogados Portugueses
Licensed Member since 2002
Portuguese Bar Association

AILA
International Associates
American Immigration Lawyers Association

ABA
International Associates
American Bar Association

AEA
Members
Association of European Attorneys
Our Values
What Sets Us Apart
International Expertise
Specialized focus on serving international clients from the US, UK, Canada, and beyond. We understand cross-border legal complexities.
Premium Service
Dedicated attention from experienced Portuguese lawyers. We provide personalized service tailored to your unique situation.
Clear Communication
Fluent English communication with no legal jargon. We explain complex processes in clear, accessible language.
Proven Results
Over 2,500 successful cases across Golden Visa, citizenship, residency permits, and business services.
End-to-End Support
Comprehensive service from initial consultation through final approval. We handle every detail of your case.
Trusted Network
Established relationships with Portuguese authorities, investment partners, and real estate professionals.
Trusted by International Legal Associations
Proud members of leading professional organizations

American Bar Association

Association of European Attorneys

American Immigration Lawyers Association
Setting the standard for excellence in Portuguese immigration law
Our Expertise
Comprehensive Portuguese Legal Services
Our comprehensive range of services covers all aspects of Portuguese immigration, citizenship, and business law for international clients.
Immigration & Residency
Golden Visa, D7 Visa, D8 Digital Nomad, D2 Entrepreneur, Start-up Visa, and Family Reunification.
Portuguese Citizenship
Citizenship by descent for children and grandchildren, and citizenship by naturalization after residency.
Real Estate & Investment
Legal advisory for property purchases, due diligence, contract review, and investment structuring.
Business & Tax Services
Company incorporation, NIF registration, tax representation, and Portuguese tax law advisory.
Ready to Start Your Portugal Journey?
Contact us today for a consultation with our experienced legal team. We're here to help you achieve your Portuguese immigration and legal goals.

