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Portugal Golden Visa Program

The Portugal Golden Visa program offers non-EU investors the opportunity to reside, work, and study in Portugal by either donating a minimum of EUR 250,000 or investing a minimum of EUR 500,000. This initiative serves as a gateway for those looking to invest in Portugal, granting applicants the chance to qualify for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.

portugal golden visa benefits

Residency and Family Inclusion

Dependents included:

  • Spouse or common law partner.
  • Dependent children; and
  • Parents.

Travel and Quality of Life

  • Right to live, work and study in Portugal.
  • High standard of education and healthcare system.
  • Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.

Ease of Access

  • Short physical residency requirement.
  • No language, education or management requirements.
  • Pathways to obtaining Permanent Residency and Citizenship in Portugal after 5 years.
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Portugal golden visa requirements

  • Be over 18 years of age and a Non-EU/EEA Citizen.
  • Make a qualifying investment in Portugal using funds from abroad.
  • Hold the investment for a minimum of 5 years after issue of residence permit.
  • Have no debt to Portuguese authorities.
  • Have a clean criminal record.
  • Have private health insurance.
  • Not have entered or stayed illegally in Portugal.
  • Obtain a tax identification number and open a bank account in Portugal.
  • Must meet residency requirements in Portugal of an average of seven days a year. (or 14 days every 2 years), with at least 7 days in the first year.
  • Russian / Belarusian not eligible.

Portugal Residency by Investment Options

Investment or Venture Capital Fund

Invest a minimum of EUR 500,000 into a Portuguese Investment Fund or Venture Capital Fund:

  • Maturity of at least 5 years.
  • Minimum 60% of the investments realized in commercial companies headquartered in Portugal.

Donation

EUR 250,000 Donation by way of capital transfer which is applied in investment or support to artistic production, recovery or maintenance of the national cultural heritage, through qualified public entities or private foundations with public utility status.

portugal golden visa process

Processing Time : To be Announced

Due Diligence And Application

  • Obtain a tax identification number in Portugal.
  • Open bank account in Portugal.
  • Complete the qualifying investment.
  • Meet all application documentation requirements.
  • Submit application to Portugal border agency now known as the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA).

Approval And Investment

Upon approval, the applicant must visit Portugal for biometric submission before the residence permit issuance.

Residency

  • The applicant receives the Portugal Golden Visa.
  • The residence permit is valid for a period 2 years, renewable every 2 years subject to conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa program, established in October 2012, is a residency-by-investment initiative aimed at non-EU citizens. It allows investors and their families to obtain residency permits by making qualifying investments in Portugal, paving the way for potential citizenship after five years.

Do family members of the applicant also benefit from the Portugal Golden Visa?

Portugal Golden Visa Program extends to the investor’s spouse, dependent children, and financially dependent parents or siblings.

How long is the Portugal Golden Visa valid?

Initially valid for two years, the Portugal Golden Visa can be renewed every two years if the investment is maintained.

Is there a language requirement to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Applying for the Golden Visa in Portugal does not require proficiency in Portuguese; this is only needed for permanent residency or citizenship.

Are there any residency requirements for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Golden Visa holders must spend an average of seven days per year in Portugal to meet residency requirements.

What are the investment requirements for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Investment options include a minimum of €500,000 in a Portuguese investment fund or a €250,000 donation.

Can holders of the Portugal Golden Visa work in Portugal?

Golden Visa holders are permitted to work in Portugal.

With the Portugal Golden Visa, which countries can the holder visit without a visa?

The Portuguese Golden Visa holders can travel visa-free within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Is a visit to Portugal required for applicants of the Golden Visa?

Applicants must visit Portugal for biometrics after pre-approval and fulfill a minimum stay requirement annually.

How long must the investor maintain their investment in Portugal?

Investors should maintain their qualifying investment for at least five years to qualify for permanent residency or citizenship.

Can investors make additional investments in Portugal beyond the qualifying investment for the Golden Visa?

Golden Visa holders are free to make additional investments or acquisitions in Portugal.

Can holders of the Portugal Golden Visa apply for the Portugal PR?

Yes, holders of the Portugal Golden Visa can indeed apply for permanent residency after five years of maintaining their residency status. The Golden Visa program is designed to attract non-EU nationals through qualifying investments, and it provides a pathway to both permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship.

Does Portugal allow dual citizenship?

Yes, Portugal allows dual citizenship. Individuals can hold Portuguese nationality without renouncing their original citizenship, and the country permits multiple citizenships as well. This means that a person can be a citizen of Portugal and one or more other countries simultaneously.

Here is an interesting article to read about this topic
Dual Citizenship for Americans, Pros and Cons

What is the economy of Portugal?

Portugal’s economy has transformed from agriculture-based to a service-oriented model, with the services sector contributing about 75.8% of GDP of Portugal. 

Key highlights include:

  • GDP Growth: The economy rebounded with a growth rate of around 6.7% in 2022, slowing to approximately 2.3% in 2023.
  • Unemployment: The unemployment rate is around 6.6%, showing stability despite slight increases.
  • Trade: The EU accounts for over 70% of Portugal’s trade, with manufactured goods being the primary exports.
  • Fiscal Health: The budget deficit is about 0.7% of GDP, with public debt projected to fall below 100% by 2025.

Overall, Portugal’s economy is resilient, driven by tourism and strategic investments in modernization and sustainability.

Does the Portugal citizenship by investment exist?

While Portugal does not have a straightforward citizenship by investment program, it provides an attractive alternative through its Golden Visa initiative. This program allows non-EU citizens to gain residency in Portugal via qualifying investments, which can eventually lead to citizenship.

What is the Portugal Golden Visa Qualified Investment Fund ?

The Portugal Golden Visa Qualified Investment Fund program offers a streamlined pathway for non-EU citizens to obtain residency in Portugal through financial investment. This option has gained significant traction, particularly following recent regulatory changes that have shifted focus away from real estate investments. Below is a comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know about this investment route.

Do I Need a Portuguese Immigration Lawyer for the Golden Visa?

Securing Portuguese residency through investment necessitates expert knowledge of immigration law and evolving regulations, making it essential to work with a qualified Golden Visa lawyer who can provide tailored investment advice, guide you through document preparation and submission, represent you in dealings with authorities, and offer strategic planning for long-term residency and citizenship goals.

How can I immigrate to Portugal from US?

One of the most attractive options for american to move to portugal from US is through the Portugal golden visa scheme. This residency-by-investment scheme offers a streamlined path to Portuguese residency and potential citizenship.

Portugal Golden Visa for UK Citizens is it interesting?

Is the Portugal Golden Visa program a worthwhile investment for UK citizens? Absolutely! This residency-by-investment scheme offers British investors a unique opportunity to secure residency in Europe, providing access to the EU market and lifestyle after Brexit.

Is Portugal golden visa worth it?

The Portugal Golden Visa program represents a strategic investment opportunity for global investors seeking European residency with exceptional flexibility. Unlike traditional immigration pathways, this program offers a unique combination of minimal physical presence requirements, potential citizenship, and diverse investment routes. Investors can secure residency by contributing to venture capital funds, scientific research, or cultural heritage projects, starting from €250,000. The program’s key advantages include visa-free Schengen travel, access to world-class healthcare and education, and a potential pathway to Portuguese citizenship after five years. Portugal’s stable economic environment, high quality of life, and attractive tax regime through the Non-Habitual Resident status make it particularly appealing. While the program demands careful financial planning and understanding of legal requirements, it provides a compelling option for entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, and those seeking a strategic entry point into the European market. The Golden Visa is not just a residency permit, but a comprehensive lifestyle and business investment that offers long-term personal and professional opportunities.