Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Portugal Golden Visa, D7 Visa, residency, investment, and citizenship.

Golden Visa

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants non-EU nationals a residence permit in exchange for a qualifying investment. The most common route is a €500,000 investment in CMVM-approved funds.

Can I still get a Golden Visa through real estate?

No. As of October 2023, direct real estate purchases no longer qualify for the Golden Visa. The fund investment route (€500,000 minimum) remains the primary pathway. Indirect real estate exposure is still possible through qualifying real estate funds.

How much do I need to invest for the Golden Visa?

The minimum investment is €500,000 in a CMVM-approved fund. The investment must be maintained for a minimum of 5 years.

How long does the Golden Visa process take?

The typical timeline from application submission to approval is 6–8 months. The initial residence permit is valid for 2 years, renewable for successive 3-year periods.

Do I need to live in Portugal with a Golden Visa?

No. Golden Visa holders only need to spend a minimum of 7 days per year in Portugal. This is one of the lowest stay requirements among European residency programs.

D7 Visa

What is the D7 Visa?

The D7 Visa is a Portuguese residency permit for non-EU nationals with stable passive income. It does not require a large capital investment — just proof of regular income such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or remote work earnings.

How much income do I need for the D7 Visa?

The minimum is approximately €820/month for the main applicant (100% of Portuguese minimum wage), plus 50% for a spouse and 30% for each child.

Do I need to live in Portugal with a D7 Visa?

Yes. D7 Visa holders must spend at least 6 months per year in Portugal. This visa is designed for those who genuinely intend to reside in the country.

Family & Dependents

Can I include my family in my application?

Yes. Both Golden Visa and D7 Visa allow you to include your spouse or partner, dependent children (under 18, or under 26 if in full-time education), and dependent parents (aged 65+ or financially dependent).

Can my family members work in Portugal?

Yes. Family members who receive residence permits through either program have full rights to live, work, and study in Portugal.

Permanent Residency & Citizenship

When can I get permanent residency?

After 5 years of legal residency under either the Golden Visa or D7 Visa, you become eligible to apply for permanent residency in Portugal.

Can I get Portuguese citizenship?

Yes. After 5 years of legal residency, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship. Requirements include basic Portuguese language proficiency (A2 level), a clean criminal record, and ties to the Portuguese community.

Does Portugal allow dual citizenship?

Yes. Portugal fully allows dual citizenship. You do not need to renounce your existing nationality when obtaining a Portuguese passport.

Costs & Fees

What are the costs beyond the investment?

Additional costs typically include: government application fees (~€500–€600 per applicant), legal fees, fund administration fees, and document translation/apostille costs. We provide a full transparent cost breakdown before you commit.

Are there ongoing costs?

Yes. Fund management fees (typically 1–2% annually) and residence permit renewal fees apply. These are standard and relatively modest.

Tax

Will I be taxed in Portugal?

Tax obligations depend on your residency status. If you become a tax resident (spending 183+ days/year in Portugal), you may be liable for Portuguese income tax. However, Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime can offer significant tax benefits for the first 10 years, including reduced rates on foreign income.

Do Golden Visa holders become tax residents?

Not necessarily. Since Golden Visa holders only need to spend 7 days/year in Portugal, they typically do not meet the 183-day threshold for tax residency. However, tax situations vary — we recommend consulting a tax advisor.