Portugal Golden Visa
Obtain Portuguese residency through a €500,000 fund investment. Enjoy Schengen-wide freedom of movement and a path to permanent residency in just 5 years.
Program Overview
The Portugal Golden Visa program has been granting residency permits to non-EU nationals in exchange for qualifying investments since 2012. Following the 2023 reforms, real estate purchases are no longer eligible — CMVM-approved investment funds have become the primary route for applicants.
Investment Options
- Fund Investment: Minimum €500,000 in a CMVM-approved fund
- Company Formation: Minimum €500,000 + creation of 5 jobs
- Scientific Research: Minimum €500,000 contribution
Minimum Stay Requirement
Golden Visa holders are only required to spend 7 days per year in Portugal. This is one of the lowest physical presence requirements among European residency programs, making it ideal for those who wish to maintain their lifestyle abroad while securing EU residency.
Schengen Access
As a Portuguese resident, you gain visa-free travel across the entire Schengen Area — 27 European countries including France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. This opens doors for business, education, and leisure throughout Europe.
2023 Reforms
In October 2023, Portugal enacted significant changes to the Golden Visa program. Direct real estate purchases were removed as a qualifying investment category. The fund investment route (€500,000 minimum in CMVM-regulated funds) remains fully available and has become the most popular pathway. These reforms aim to redirect foreign investment toward productive sectors of the economy.
Process & Timeline
The application process takes approximately 6–8 months from start to approval. The initial residence permit is valid for 2 years, renewable for successive 3-year periods. After 5 years, you become eligible for permanent residency. Citizenship may be pursued after 5 years of legal residency, subject to language requirements.
Key Advantages
- Low physical presence: Only 7 days per year in Portugal
- Family inclusion: Spouse, children, and dependent parents can be included
- EU residency: Live, work, and study anywhere in the Schengen Area
- Path to citizenship: Eligible after 5 years of legal residency
- NHR tax regime: Potential tax benefits for new residents