Portugal Golden Visa

Overview

Portugal’s Golden Visa is an investment-based residency program designed for non-EU nationals seeking long-term European residency with flexible physical presence requirements. The program allows qualifying investors to obtain Portuguese residency through approved investment routes, while maintaining the freedom to live outside Portugal if desired.

Successful applicants gain visa-free travel across the Schengen Area and a clear pathway to permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, subject to compliance with legal requirements over time. The program is particularly suited to investors, business owners, and globally mobile individuals seeking EU residency without immediate relocation.

Eligible Investment Options

To qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa, applicants must complete one of the approved investment routes under current legislation. Real estate investments are no longer eligible. The most common qualifying options include:

Investment Fund Subscription

Minimum investment: €500,000

• Capital invested into a Portuguese-regulated investment or venture capital fund.

• Funds must be approved by Portuguese authorities and meet specific regulatory criteria.

• This is currently the most popular Golden Visa route due to flexibility and compliance.

Scientific Research Contribution

Minimum investment: €500,000

• Capital contribution to public or private scientific research institutions in Portugal.

• Funds must support accredited research activities.

Cultural Heritage Contribution

Minimum investment: €250,000

• Donation supporting the preservation of national cultural heritage or artistic production.

• In designated low-density areas, the minimum may be reduced to €200,000.

• This is a non-refundable contribution.

Business Investment / Job Creation

• €500,000 capital injection into a Portuguese company and creation or maintenance of qualifying jobs
  OR

• Creation of a minimum number of full-time jobs in Portugal (requirements assessed case-by-case).

Required Documents

Golden Visa applications typically require:

• Valid passport and legal entry documentation

• Proof of qualifying investment

• Criminal record certificates from country of origin and residence

• Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)

• Portuguese bank account

• Proof of health insurance

• Completed application forms and declarations

• Payment of applicable government fees

Additional documents may be required depending on the investment route and family members included.

Application Requirements

To qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa:

• The applicant must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national

• A qualifying investment must be completed and maintained

• Clean criminal record and background checks are required

• Funds must originate from outside Portugal

• The applicant must meet minimum stay requirements over each renewal period

Family members may be included under the same application, subject to eligibility.

Physical Presence Requirements

The Golden Visa is known for its flexible stay conditions. Applicants are required to spend only a limited number of days in Portugal during each residency period, making it suitable for those who cannot relocate full-time.

Processing Time

Processing timelines vary depending on the investment route, document readiness, and government workload. While timelines are subject to change, applications typically proceed in stages, beginning with investment completion and followed by residency approval and biometric appointments.

Things to Consider

• Investment selection is critical and should be assessed carefully

• Regulations may change, making timing an important factor

• Proper structuring and documentation significantly reduce delays

• Long-term planning is required to maintain eligibility for renewals and citizenship

Final Notes

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of Europe’s most established residency-by-investment programs. However, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Proper eligibility assessment, investment structuring, and legal oversight are essential to ensuring a smooth and compliant application process.