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For Canadians looking to secure EU residency while enjoying sunshine, safety, and a high quality of life, Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of the most attractive options.
This residency-by-investment program not only provides the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, but also offers visa-free travel across the Schengen Area—and the possibility of citizenship after five years.
From investment options and eligibility requirements to recent rule changes, this guide breaks down everything Canadians need to know about applying for the Portugal Golden Visa in 2025.
📣 Portugal Citizenship Law Update 2025
On October 28, 2025, the Portuguese Parliament approved proposed amendments to the Nationality Law and the immigration framework, following their initial presentation by the government on June 23, 2025. This development marks a major step forward in Portugal’s ongoing legislative reform process.
The proposal aims to extend the minimum residency period for citizenship from five to ten years, or seven years for EU and CPLP nationals, and to revise how residency time is calculated—starting from the issuance of the first residence permit rather than the date the application was submitted.
The bill is not yet in effect, as it still requires Presidential review. The President may approve, veto, or refer the legislation to the Constitutional Court, and the final version could still be modified before promulgation.
Portugal Golden Visa Program for Canadians
The Portugal Golden Visa program is accessible to individuals who are not citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland and are over 18 years old. Applicants must also provide a clean criminal record to qualify.
- Subscribing to a qualifying Golden Visa nvestment fund in Portugal for €500,000
- Establishing a company that generates a minimum of ten jobs for Portuguese citizens
- Investing €250,000 in the Cultural Golden visa through arts or national heritage refurbishment projects in Portugal.
Golden Visa Investment Options no longer Valid
- Purchasing a property valued at €500,000 or aged over 30 years, and requiring renovation (no longer eligible)
- Purchasing property in a low-density area with a minimum investment of €280,000 (no longer eligible)
- Making a capital transfer of €1.5 million to Portugal (no longer eligible)
Requirements for the Golden Visa for Canadians
To qualify for the Golden Visa program, the primary applicant must:
- Hold citizenship from a non-EU, non-Swiss, and non-EEA country
- Demonstrate a reliable source of income to meet the minimum investment requirement
- Possess a clean criminal record
- Spend an average of at least 7 days per year in Portugal
- Maintain the designated investment in Portugal for the duration of the five-year program
Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa for Canadian Citizens
The advantages of the Portugal Golden Visa program for Canadians include:
Include Your Family Members
The program allows you to bring your family members along, ensuring you can all benefit from Portugal’s residency.
Live, Work, and Study in Portugal
As a Golden Visa holder, you have the flexibility to reside, work, and pursue education opportunities in Portugal.
Become an EU Citizen
After meeting the residency requirements, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship, granting you EU citizenship and its associated rights.
Affordable Cost of Living
Portugal offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for Canadians.
Easily Travel Within Europe
With residency in Portugal, you gain access to the Schengen Area, allowing for visa-free travel to numerous European countries.
Several International Schools
For families with children, Portugal offers several international schools, providing quality education options in English or other languages.
Portugal Golden Visa Application Process
Step 1 – Know the Golden Visa Requirements
Start by getting familiar with the basic rules of the Portugal Golden Visa. Check the eligibility criteria and gather the key documents you’ll need, such as a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and any supporting paperwork related to your investment.
Step 2 – Get Your Portuguese NIF
Next, obtain your Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) and appoint a fiscal representative if you’re not yet a resident. The NIF is essential for any financial or legal procedure in Portugal. You can also open a Portuguese bank account remotely, which makes the process much easier.
Step 3 – Complete Your Investment
Choose the investment route that best suits your goals. Options include real estate, investment funds, capital transfer, job creation, or scientific research. Make sure your investment meets the minimum amount and requirements set for your chosen category.
Step 4 – Submit Your Online Application
Once your documents and investment are ready, submit your Golden Visa application through the AIMA online portal. Upload all required files and pay the application fee. Double-check everything to avoid delays.
Step 5 – Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After submitting your application online, AIMA will invite you to attend your biometrics appointment in Portugal. This visit involves fingerprinting and a photograph and must be completed in person. Once your application is approved, you’ll be issued a two-year residency permit, which can be renewed.
Get In Touch With a Portugal Golden Visa Specialist
Portugal Residency Advisors® has assisted numerous international investors in securing residency in Portugal through the Golden Visa Program. Get in touch with a specialist today and discover how we can support you in starting your investment journey in Portugal.
Document Requirements for the Portugal Golden Visa for Canadians
The documentation required for the Portugal Golden Visa may vary and is subject to change at the discretion of the Portuguese Immigration Authorities. Below are the typical documents needed:
- Golden Visa application form
- Valid passport and, if applicable, a valid Schengen visa, for each applicant
- Criminal record certificate
- Applicant’s authorization for AIMA (formerly SEF) to access their Portuguese criminal record
- Proof of residence, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement
- Valid health insurance coverage in Portugal
- Proof of professional occupation, such as an employer-issued letter
- Documentary evidence of family members’ eligibility for the visa
- Certificate of no debts from Portuguese tax and insurance authorities
- Signed statement confirming commitment to meet investment requirements
- Evidence of the minimum investment
- Letter from a local bank confirming funds transfer
Portuguese Citizenship for Canadians
Both Portugal and Canada permit dual citizenship, allowing individuals to acquire Portuguese citizenship without relinquishing their Canadian citizenship.
However, attaining Portuguese citizenship is contingent upon holding the Golden Visa for a minimum of five years and maintaining the required investment.
Initially, the Portugal Golden Visa provides a two-year temporary residency permit, which can be renewed for an additional three years. It’s worth noting that residency in Portugal is not mandatory during this period; maintaining your status only requires visiting Portugal for an average of seven days per year.
To qualify for citizenship, you must meet the five-year residency requirement and successfully pass a basic Portuguese language examination.
For more videos about investing or moving to Portugal, explore our YouTube channel here: YouTube Channel Portugal Residency Advisors®.
Why Choose To Work With Us For Your Portugal Golden Visa Application
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Canadians apply for the Portugal Golden Visa program?
Yes, Canadians are eligible to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa program.
What are the benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa for Canadians?
The Portugal Golden Visa offers various benefits for Canadians, including residency rights in Portugal, the ability to travel freely within the Schengen Area, and eligibility to apply for Portuguese citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
What are the investment options available for Canadians under the Golden Visa program?
Canadians can choose from a range of investment options, job creation, investment funds, cultural donation or scientific research.
Can family members of Canadian Golden Visa holders also apply for residency?
Yes, family members of Canadian Golden Visa holders, including spouses, children, and dependent relatives, can also apply for residency under the same application.
Are there any language requirements for Canadians applying for the Golden Visa?
No, there are no language requirements for Canadians applying for the Portugal Golden Visa program.
Can Canadians maintain their Canadian citizenship while holding Portuguese residency or citizenship?
Yes, Canada allows dual citizenship, so Canadians can maintain their Canadian citizenship while holding Portuguese residency or citizenship obtained through the Golden Visa program.
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