Launched in 2012, Portugal’s residency-by-investment program has become one of Europe’s most attractive pathways to citizenship. It appeals to global investors, retirees, and families seeking long-term opportunities in Europe.

Through this Portuguese Golden Visa, applicants gain European residency by making eligible investments. Key benefits include visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, access to Portugal’s exceptional quality of life, and the opportunity to obtain Portuguese citizenship after just five years.

For many, the main question is what makes this European residency program stand out and how it supports a long-term immigration strategy in today’s world.

📣 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.

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program. It started in 2012 to bring foreign money into the country.

It lets non-EU citizens get a Portuguese residence permit. You do this by making a smart investment. Your options include investment funds, job creation, or cultural projects.

With the Golden Visa, investors and their families can live, work, and study in Portugal. You only need to spend 7 days per year in the country. That’s really easy to manage.

The visa also gives you visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. This makes it one of the best EU investment programs.

Overview of the Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal’s Golden Visa program was made to attract international investment. It offers many benefits to people who join. Some call it a “golden passport Portugal” program.

This program gives investors and their families important rights and chances. Key features include:

  • Different investment options: You can choose from cultural contributions, investment funds, business setups, or private scientific research.
  • Low minimum investment: Starting from €250,000. Venture capital funds need a minimum of €500,000.
  • Family inclusion: You can include your spouse, children, and parents in your application.
  • Low residency requirement: Just seven days in the first year. Then, 14 days every two years after that.
  • Visa-free travel: Access to EU and Schengen Zone countries without a visa.
  • Path to citizenship: You can get Portuguese citizenship after five years.

Portugal's Golden Visa no longer includes real estate purchases

As of October 2023, Portugal’s investment immigration program has undergone major changes. Real estate purchases and property-related funds are no longer allowed.

Real estate investment is no longer eligible. But the program still offers other great investment chances. These are perfect for people seeking Portuguese residency.

The government made this change to focus investment on other areas. This helps Portugal’s economy in different ways.

european union flag

Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa Program

1. Visa-Free Travel

Enjoy free movement across all 27 Schengen Area countries, making travel within Europe simple and convenient.

2. Residency Rights

Gain the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, with no obligation to relocate full-time.

3. Family Inclusion

Your family such as, spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents can all be included under one application, enjoying the same rights.

4. Healthcare & Education Access

Benefit from Portugal’s public healthcare system and education services, available to residents.

5. Pathway to Citizenship

After 5 years of maintaining residency and meeting the A2 Portuguese language level, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

6. Tax Flexibility

Simply holding the Golden Visa does not make you a tax resident. You can choose your tax residency based on where you spend most of your time.

Obligations of Portugal Golden Visa Program

1. Minimum Stay

You must spend at least 7 days in Portugal during the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period, averaging 7 days per year.

2. Maintain the Investment

The qualifying investment must be held for at least 5 years to remain eligible for residence renewal and future citizenship.

3. Clean Criminal Record

Applicants and dependents must maintain a clean criminal record both in Portugal and their country of residence.

4. Language Requirement (for Citizenship)

To apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years, you’ll need to prove basic Portuguese language skills at A2 level.

5. Ongoing Renewals

The residence permit is renewed every 2 years, provided the minimum stay and investment conditions continue to be met.

hand holding a passport in the airport

Portugal Golden Visa Eligibility

To qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa program and to obtain your Golden Passport, you must meet these requirements:

  • Clean Criminal Record: You must have no criminal record. 
  • Non-EU/Swiss/EEA Nationality: Only for those individuals. 
  • Minimum Investment: Make a minimum qualifying investment of €250,000.
  • Residency Requirement: Spend an average of 7 days per year in Portugal.

Portugal Golden Visa for US Citizens

The Portugal Golden Visa program offers US citizens the chance to gain residency in Europe. They benefit from Portugal’s affordable cost of living, high quality of life, and great location.

With minimal residency requirements, Americans who want to relocate to Portugal can choose to move permanently. Or they can use it as an investment opportunity while enjoying flexibility. They can keep their lifestyle in the US. Find out more about the Portugal Golden Visa for US Citizens.

Portugal’s lower living costs are appealing. This is especially true compared to cities like New York or San Francisco. This makes it great for retirees and families.

The Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax regime gives big tax benefits for foreign income. This makes Portugal financially attractive.

Golden Visa Portugal holders get visa-free access to the Schengen Area. After five years, they can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

This opens the door to EU benefits. These include free movement, work, and study chances across member states. This makes Portugal great for global mobility and a secure future.

Portugal Golden Visa for UK Citizens

After Brexit, the Portugal Golden Visa program offers UK citizens a chance to keep ties to the European Union.

As third-country nationals, British people can apply for residency in Portugal. They enjoy affordable living costs, beautiful landscapes, and a welcoming environment.

Portugal’s affordability compared to other Western European countries is great. It has excellent healthcare and an expat-friendly culture. This makes it a top choice for UK nationals.

Many see it as perfect for retirement, remote work, or owning a second home. They enjoy a peaceful Mediterranean lifestyle.

With the Golden Visa, UK citizens can pursue Portuguese citizenship after five years of residency. This restores their access to EU rights. These include free movement and work chances across member states.

For British people seeking a European connection post-Brexit, Portugal is perfect.

Woman in front of a phone boot

Investment Options for Portugal Golden Visa

1. Golden Visa Investment Funds

Contribution of €500,000 or higher, for the acquisition of units of investment funds or venture capital fund of funds under the Portuguese legislation, whose maturity, at the moment of the investment, is, at least, of five years and, at least, 60% of the investments is realized in commercial companies with head office in national territory.

2. Golden Visa Cultural Donation

Known as the Cultural Golden Visa, donation of a minimum of €250,000 for investing in artistic output or supporting the arts, for reconstruction or refurbishment of the national heritage, through the local and central authorities, public institutions or, private foundations of public interest. If the investment takes place in a ‘low-density’ area, then a 20 percent discount applies.

3. Scientific research

Transfer €500,000 or more for research investment in public or private scientific institutions participating in the national system. If the investment is located in a designated ‘low-density’ area, then a 20 percent discount applies.

4. Company Set-up

Foreign entrepreneurs and investors can contribute to Portugal’s economy by establishing or investing in businesses, with the potential to create new jobs. There are two main investment options in this category:

  • Establish a new company in Portugal: Invest a minimum of €500,000 in share capital and create at least five permanent jobs.
  • Invest in an existing Portuguese company: Increase its share capital by €500,000 and create a minimum of five new full-time jobs for at least three years.

5. Creation of 10 Jobs

Under the program, investors are required to create a minimum of ten full-time jobs. In low-density population areas, this requirement is reduced to eight, thanks to a 20% reduction incentive. 

All jobs created must comply with Portugal’s labor laws and social security regulations, ensuring fair and legal employment practices.

Golden Visa Investment Options no Longer Available

Until recently, Portugal’s investment visa offered several popular options that are no longer available:

  • Real Estate Investment: Purchase property in Portugal valued over €500,000
  • Real Estate Rehabilitation: Invest in property older than 30 years or in urban regeneration areas, with a total investment of at least €350,000
  • Capital Transfer: Transfer a minimum €1.5 million into Portugal
Man with a phone checking funds performance

Portugal Golden Visa Requirements

Minimum Stay Requirement

The Portugal Golden Visa program requires a minimum stay of seven days during the initial year, followed by an additional requirement of 14 days for each subsequent two-year period.

When applying for visa renewals, the Portuguese border agency may request evidence of your compliance with the minimum stay requirements. 

This evidence can be provided in the form of passport stamps, flight tickets, and proof of accommodation.

It is important to note that your eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after five years is not affected by the actual duration of your stays in Portugal under this investment visa program, as long as you meet the minimum stay requirements.

Required Documents for the Portugal Golden Visa Program

The documents required for the Portugal Golden Visa are listed below. These can change at the discretion of the Portuguese Immigration Authorities.

  • Golden Visa Portugal application
  • Valid passport and, if applicable, a valid Schengen visa, for each applicant. 
  • Criminal record certificate • Applicant’s permission for AIMA to access his/her Portuguese criminal record. 
  • Proof of residence. This can be a recent utility bill or a recent bank statement.
  • Proof of having health insurance valid in Portugal. 
  • Proof of professional occupation. A letter from the employer should be submitted. 
  • Documentary evidence of the eligibility of family member applicants. 
  • Certificate of no debts from the Portuguese tax and insurance offices. 
  • Signed statement affirming their commitment to meet the investment requirements. 
  • Evidence of the minimum investment.
  • Letter from a local bank confirming the funds’ transfer.

Translation and Legalization of Golden Visa Documents

All documents required for the Portugal Golden Visa application, including the application form, must be legalized, translated into Portuguese, and certified. 

Legalization can be done through the Portuguese Consulate or by obtaining an apostille under The Hague Apostille Convention, depending on the applicant’s country of origin.

Any original documents submitted as part of the Portugal Golden Visa application must include an official Portuguese translation. This translation must be certified by one of three authorized agents: a Portuguese Consulate, a Portuguese lawyer, or an official notary. 

Proper translation and certification are essential to comply with legal Golden Visa requirements and to prevent any delays in the application process.

Obtaining a Portuguese NIF Number

The NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is a tax identification number in Portugal, issued by the Portuguese tax authorities. 

It is essential for a wide range of activities, including opening a bank account, purchasing property, signing contracts, paying taxes, and investing in the Golden Visa program. 

As your taxpayer ID, the NIF is a vital piece of identification for anyone living, working, or doing business in Portugal.

Obtaining a NIF can be challenging due to the long queues and limited appointments at tax offices in Portugal. 

However, Portugal Residency Advisors® can handle the entire application process on your behalf, including appointing a legal representative to manage the application, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Opening a Portuguese Bank Account

For the Golden Visa application, you’ll also need to open a Portuguese bank account. Unfortunately, not all banks in Portugal accommodate foreign citizens, making the process more complicated. 

Portugal Residency Advisors® can assist you in opening your Portuguese bank account even before you arrive in the country, streamlining the process and ensuring compliance with all necessary requirements for the Golden Visa program.

bank in Portugal

Portugal Golden Visa Costs

AIMA Fees

When submitting your application, please take into account the Immigration Office AIMA fees, which encompass both the permit fees and biometrics/application fees. 

These fees are applicable per person and it is important to note that they are subject to annual revisions. 

Golden Visa Application Legal Fees

The legal application fees for Portugal’s Golden Visa generally range between €5,000 and €8,000 for a single applicant. 

If you choose to include family members, the fees will increase depending on their age and the complexity of their applications, so take this aspect into consideration when evaluating the Portugal Golden Visa costs. 

For each family member, you can expect to pay an additional €500 to €2,000, depending on whether they are minors or adults.

Golden Visa Renewals Legal Fees

For renewing your Golden Visa application, you can expect to pay between €500 and €2,500 per applicant. 

Please note that you are required to renew your Golden Visa twice during the five-year program.

Portugal Golden Visa Application Process - How to Obtain your Portugal Golden Passport

Step 1 – General Requirements

Familiarize yourself with the general requirements of the Golden Visa program, including eligibility criteria and necessary documentation. 

Prepare the required paperwork, such as a valid passport, criminal record certificate, and other supporting documents.

Step 2 – Setup your NIF and Bank Account

To apply for the Portugal Golden Visa, you need to obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) and appoint a fiscal representative. 

The NIF is a unique identification number that is required for tax purposes. Opening a bank account can be done remotely.

Step 3 – Complete your investment

Choose an eligible investment option, such as job creation, investment funds, or scientific research. 

Make the required investment according to the specific criteria of your chosen option.

Step 4 – Online application

Submit your Golden Visa application online through the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) website. 

Provide all the required information, upload the necessary documents, and pay the application fee.

Step 5 – Biometrics in Portugal

Once your application is submitted, schedule an appointment with AIMA in Portugal to provide your biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph. 

This step typically requires your physical presence in Portugal.

Step 6 – Golden Visa approval

After completing the biometric appointment, the AIMA will review your application. If all requirements are met and the application is approved, you will receive a residency permit (Golden Visa) valid for an initial period.

Portugal Golden Visa Processing Time

Although the execution timings are the responsibility of the immigration authorities, here’s a summary of the Portuguese Golden Visa timeline.

Golden Visa Processing Time

Portugal Golden Visa Renewal Process

The Golden Visa residency permits have an initial validity of 2 years and are subsequently renewed every 2 years. 

The first renewal occurs at the conclusion of the second year, following the issuance of the residency card, while the second renewal takes place at the end of the fourth year. 

Golden Visa Renewal Process

Golden Visas could be renewed online until 31 December 2023. Unfortunately, this option is no longer available, and Golden Visa renewals now require an in-person biometrics appointment. 

While there is still a significant backlog of applications, AIMA’s streamlined focus on renewing existing applications is expected to help clear the backlog at a faster pace.

Golden Visa Renewals Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate they have met the required stay in Portugal: 7 days per year on average during the initial residency period (or 14 days over two years).

A valid passport is required for the main applicant and any dependents included in the renewal process.

Evidence that the qualifying investment has been maintained, such as:

  • Property ownership documents (e.g., land registry certificate, tax records, or updated property deed).
  • Proof of financial investments (e.g., bank statements or certificates).
  • Documentation related to job creation or capital transfer investments, depending on the chosen route.
  • A criminal record certificate issued within the last 90 days from the applicant’s country of origin or any country where they have resided for more than six months in the past year. A Portuguese criminal record certificate is also required.
  • Certificates confirming no outstanding debts with Portuguese Tax Authority and Social Security.

For more videos about investing or moving to Portugal, explore our YouTube channel here: YouTube Channel Portugal Residency Advisors.

Portugal Golden Visa 2026: What to Expect?

AIMA’s Streamlined Procedures

Portugal’s immigration agency, AIMA, is making steady progress in reducing the backlog of pending applications. While not all applicants have yet been invited for biometric appointments, the recovery process is clearly underway.

This improvement means that new applicants are unlikely to face the long delays—previously up to 24 months—that earlier Golden Visa holders experienced before receiving their residence cards.

Pathway to Portuguese Citizenship

Under the proposed Nationality Law amendments, the minimum residency requirement for citizenship eligibility would increase from five to ten years for most applicants, or seven years for CPLP and EU nationals.

Importantly, the countdown would begin from the date the first residence permit is issued, rather than from the application submission date.

The proposal also introduces new requirements for citizenship applicants. In addition to demonstrating A2-level Portuguese language proficiency, candidates would need to pass a Portuguese civic knowledge test covering the country’s culture, history, and citizens’ rights.

The Rise of Golden Visa Investment Funds

With the real estate investment route now closed, Portugal’s Golden Visa program has shifted toward regulated investment funds, which have rapidly gained popularity—especially among U.S. investors.

The investment landscape is now more diverse and attractive than ever, with over 50 qualifying funds available across various sectors. These include start-ups, renewable energy, agriculture, hospitality, and even sports, allowing investors to diversify their portfolios while supporting key areas of the Portuguese economy.

This evolution offers investors the chance to align financial objectives with personal values, contributing to Portugal’s sustainable growth and innovation.

How We Can Assist You

Local Expertise

We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.

Honest Guidance

We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.

All-in-One Solution

One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle.

Seamless Process

Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.

Frequently Asked Questions

This program is classified as a second residence through investment initiative, whereby individuals who invest in Portugal are entitled to obtain residency status along with associated privileges, including access to education, social services, employment opportunities, and healthcare. 

Furthermore, participants in this program gain entry to the Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within every 180-day period. Additionally, after a period of five years, they become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

After the last changes from October, 7, 2023, the main investment options include job creation, investment funds, or scientific research.

The minimum investment varies depending on the investment option chosen. For the investment in Arts and cultural heritage is €250,000.

Yes, family members, such as a spouse, children, and dependent parents, can be included in the Golden Visa application.

The program grants residency rights, allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, and provides access to healthcare (in case of tax resident) and education systems. After five years, it may lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

 

No, Portugal has not suspended the Golden Visa program.
The program is still active, but real estate investments are no longer eligible since October 2023. Investors can still qualify through alternative routes, such as investment funds, cultural support, research contributions, or job creation. The government continues to process new applications under these updated rules.

No, there is no language requirement for the Portugal Golden Visa application.

Yes, Golden Visa holders have the right to work and live in Portugal. They can also establish and manage businesses.

Certainly, after five years of holding a Golden Visa and meeting certain requirements, it is possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship by investment.

Sure, dependent children who are over 18 years old and financially dependent on the main applicant can be included in the application.

As a resident in Portugal, you will have tax obligations. It is important to consult with a tax advisor to understand your specific tax liabilities and obligations.

No, the Golden Visa program only allows for the inclusion of a spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents in the application.

Yes, the program was established back in 2012 and has undergone recent revisions, resulting in the removal of certain investment options tied to the real estate sector. This updated legislation has been in effect since October 2023.

No, Golden Visa holders are required to spend a minimum of 14 days in Portugal every two years. Therefore, the Golden Visa typically does not have an immediate tax impact on a personal level unless the applicant chooses to make Portugal their permanent residence.

i) Creation of minimum of 10 job positions. 

ii) Transferring a minimum capital of €500,000, allocated to research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions integrated into the national scientific and technological system. 

iii) Transferring a minimum capital of €250,000, earmarked for investment in or support of artistic production, restoration, or preservation of the national cultural heritage, in collaboration with accredited public entities or private foundations with public utility status. 

iv) Transferring a minimum capital of €500,000, intended for the acquisition of shares in non-real estate collective investment entities established under Portuguese law, with a minimum maturity of five years at the time of investment, and where at least 60% of the investments’ value is directed toward companies based in Portugal. 

v) Transferring a minimum capital of €500,000, either for establishing a company headquartered in Portugal while creating a minimum of 5 permanent job positions or for increasing the social capital of an already established company in Portugal, with the creation of at least 5 permanent jobs or the preservation of at least 10 jobs, including a minimum of 5 permanent employees, for a minimum period of 3 years.

Indeed, the Job Creation, Cultural, and Scientific investment options offer a 20% reduction in the minimum investment requirement when situated within municipalities and parishes designated as “interior territories” with fewer than 100 inhabitants per square kilometer or a per capita gross domestic product (GDP) below 75% of the national average.

No, recent revisions to the law have prohibited all forms of real estate investment, whether direct or indirect, regardless of the chosen investment option.

No, there is no mandatory requirement. Nevertheless, the law does stipulate the need for a declaration issued by a bank authorized to operate in Portugal, verifying the utilization of foreign capital in the investment. Therefore, it is strongly advisable for each investor to establish a bank account.

Yes, Golden Visa residency permits have an initial validity of 2 years and are subsequently renewed every 2 years. The updated legislation does not impede the renewal of existing cases, including those granted based on investment options that have since been revoked.

At present, applications may require between 18 to 24 months for processing. The processing authority, AIMA, is currently undergoing restructuring, and a new entity is expected to take over administrative processing of residence applications in 2023. This transition could potentially have a substantial impact on processing times.

The government fees are subject to annual adjustments. Presently, there is an analysis fee of €618.60 per person, €6,179.40 per person for each initial card, and half of this amount for card renewals.

No, the Portuguese government launch a new NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) program that offer attractive tax incetives for the portuguse sourced income.

You can obtain Portuguese citizenship by investment by first getting a residence permit through the Portugal Golden Visa program. Investors who meet the eligible investment criteria, such as investing in a qualifying fund, creating jobs, or supporting cultural or research projects, can apply for Portugal residency by investment. After five years of legal residence, Golden Visa holders may apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship by investment, provided they maintain their investment, have a clean criminal record, and pass a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level).

Excellent

4.9  |  47 Reviews

TABLE OF CONTENTS

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

Californians

Portugal Golden Visa for Americans and US Citizens: What Makes It So Popular?

Read More
Man with a phone checking funds performance

Portugal Golden Visa Investment Fund: Complete New Guide 2025

Read More