Residency & Golden Visa Program of Portugal

Time to citizenship

6 - 9 months

Minimum Investment

€250,000

Type of investment

Donation, Investment Fund, Business Set-up

Visa free Countries

Schengen countries

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Overview of Portugal

Portugal stands as one of the oldest countries in Europe, celebrated for its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant culture, ancient vineyards, historic villages, and remarkable architecture. Situated at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Africa, and America – Portugal holds a strategic position that has positioned it as a pivotal hub for trade along major international routes.

Portugal boasts an excellent reputation and is considered one of the world’s most globalized and peaceful nations, with a high quality of life and a very high Human Development Index ranking. Additionally, Portugal is recognized for its esteemed public healthcare system, contributing to its status as one of the safest countries globally. Nestled on the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal enjoys a delightful Mediterranean climate and is steeped in a rich and expansive cultural heritage.

Language

Language

Portuguese

Currency

Currency

Euro

Land

Total Area

92,212 km2

Capital

Capital

Lisbon

Government

Government

Semi-presidential Republic

Population

Population (2024)

10,196,828

Golden Visa Program of Portugal

The Golden Residence Permit Program of Portugal was introduced in 2012, providing non-EU/EEA applicants and their families with a special residence permit. This permit affords the holder the privilege of residing, working, and studying in Portugal, with the added benefit of unrestricted movement within the Schengen Area in Europe. 

Notably, participants are only obligated to spend an average of seven days per year in Portugal throughout this timeframe, a requirement that can contribute towards meeting eligibility criteria for citizenship after the completion of five years. While the residence permit requires renewal every two years, applicants seeking citizenship must establish substantial connections to Portugal and pass a basic language test.

Family

Which Family Members Can Be Added in the Same Portugal Golden Visa Application?

  • Spouse
  • Dependent children under the age of 18
  • Children aged 18 and above that are dependent and studying full or part-time
  • Dependent parents aged 66 and above

Benefits of Portugal Residency & Golden Visa

International investors see Portugal as a one-of-a-kind opportunity to get EU residence and a preferred place to invest in a second passport. When assessing a Golden Visa program, crucial factors include a nation’s quality of life, safety, and serenity. The Portugal Golden Visa program, enhanced by its exceptional safety rating, positions itself as an unparalleled investment opportunity and destination within Europe.

  • Visa-free access to all Schengen countries
  • Flexibility to maintain residency without residing in the country
  • Opportunity for legal family dependents to obtain a residency permit
  • International quality healthcare clinics and hospitals
  • The ability for investors and their dependents to live, work, and study in Portugal
  • The option to apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years
  • High quality of life, local cuisine, rich culture, mild climate, and a high level of security
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Portugal Golden Visa Options

As of early 2024, the Portugal Golden Visa program underwent notable revisions, and it no longer permits the inclusion of real estate or real estate-related funds as qualifying investments. The avenue of purchasing real estate is no longer accessible for investors seeking the golden visa. However, alternative investment options remain viable, and will continue to qualify for the program.

Investment options are:

  • Capital transfers equal to or exceeding €500,000 in qualifying venture capital funds (with no real estate investments)
  • Creation of at least 10 jobs
  • Capital transfer equal to or more than €500,000 in research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions
  • Capital transfers of €250,000 or more in supporting artistic production, recovery, or maintenance of national cultural heritage

Portugal Golden Visa Cost

Chosen Investment Type

€250,000 or €500,000
(depends on the option)

Initial Application Fee

€5,325 per person

Renewal Fee

€2,663 per person

Processing Fee

€533 per applicant
€83 per family member

Legal Fee

Depends on the investment type

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How to Qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa?

  • Investors must be a third-country national, meaning they are not Portuguese or EU/EFTA citizens
  • Applicants must have no criminal record
  • At least seven days must be spent in Portugal during the first year, followed by at least 14 days every two years after that
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Portugal Citizenship and Passport

Citizens of Portugal enjoy a high quality of life, with the country ranking as the 12th most globalized nation in the world according to the KOF Globalization Index. Portugal provides a highly attractive investment environment with excellent infrastructure. The real estate market is thriving, and the political environment remains stable, offering generous tax advantages.

To qualify for Portuguese citizenship and a passport, applicants need to have a Golden Visa for at least five years, demonstrate ties to the country and successfully pass a basic language test.

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Reach us to learn all about Portugal Program, Application Details and Visa-Free Countries

In recent years, the Portuguese government has effectively expanded the list of countries offering Visa-free access for Portuguese citizens.

Learn More

FAQ’s About Residency & Golden Visa Programs of Portugal

Does Portugal Golden Visa lead to citizenship?

Yes, Golden Visa holders can apply for citizenship after five years. However, applicants must demonstrate tangible ties to the country and pass a basic language test.

Do I need to reside in Portugal or can I live in other countries?

Having a Golden Visa in Portugal doesn’t necessitate full-time residency; rather, you are only required to spend a minimum of seven days per year in the country. Beyond this requirement, you have the flexibility to reside in your country of origin or any other location of your preference.

What is Portugal's Golden Visa program?

The Golden Visa program in Portugal provides applicants and their families with a unique residence permit, requiring investing in the country.

How can I get permanent residency in Portugal?

Permanent residency in Portugal can be obtained by qualifying for a Golden Visa.

Who in my family benefits from my Golden Visa?

The main applicant’s spouse, minor children, dependent children, and dependent parents also obtain the Golden Visa through family reunification.

Is the cost of living in Portugal low or high?

Portugal has a low cost of living compared to the rest of Europe.

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