Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa program, officially known as the residence permit for investment activity (ARI), is a Residency by Investment program intended for non-European Union citizens. This program was introduced by Portugal in October 2012 and its primary goal is to draw international capital into the country. The program has achieved remarkable success, accumulating more than €6 billion in investments since its inception.
Portugal has been actively encouraging foreign direct investments into the country since 2012 to enhance its economic prospects. Over the years, Portugal has granted residency visas to over 10,000 individuals through various investment schemes, with some of them obtaining Portuguese citizenship as well.
Portugal takes pride in its diverse cultural heritage and is committed to preserving it while simultaneously embracing contemporary economic and cultural transformations. In a proactive measure to strengthen its efforts, Portugal has introduced several investment immigration programs specifically tailored for non-EU citizens, attracting the necessary investments to support its development.
Portugal Golden Visa: New Rules and Changes (Oct 2023)
In October 2023, Portugal made changes to its Golden Visa program by removing the option of investing in real estate. This change represents a remarkable transformation in the Portuguese real estate sector. The sector has transformed itself from a weak one to a strong one.
Can You Still Get a Portugal Golden Visa?
Yes, you can get a Portugal Golden Visa through other available investment options. The available options are:
Capital transfer options
- €1,500,000 minimum capital transfer into a Portuguese bank account or approved investments.
- €500,000 for the acquisition of investment fund or venture capital fund units committed to the capitalization of companies incorporated under Portuguese law, with a maturity of at least five years and with at least 60% of the investment portfolio in companies with a registered office in Portugal.
- €500,000 for research activities of public or private entities that are part of the national scientific and technological system.
- €250,000 in support of artistic production or in the recovery/maintenance of national cultural heritage.
Note: Points 3 and 4 may qualify for a 20% reduction if carried out in low-density areas of Portugal. “Low density” is defined as having < 100 inhabitants/km² or a GDP per capita < 75% of the national average. Notably, Madeira and the Azores do not fall under low-density zones.
Business investment options
- Creation of a minimum of 10 new jobs.
- 8 new jobs in a low-population-density area.
- €500,000 for the incorporation or increase of share capital of a company that is registered in Portugal, creating or maintaining a minimum of five permanent jobs for a period of three years.
NOTE: A low-population-density area is defined as < 100 inhabitants/km² or with a GDP per capita < 75% of the national average.
🎥 Watch overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnqIEPS4TXI
Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa
- Affordable investment opportunity (with €500k funds route).
- Access to European markets and Schengen mobility.
- Pathway to become European residents (not restricted to Portugal).
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.
- Access to world-class healthcare and education.
- Pathway to Portuguese citizenship (subject to residency and language criteria).
- Tax benefits (program-dependent; seek bespoke advice).
- Family permit (include spouse and dependents).
Reach Out to Our Investment Migration Experts Today!
XIPHIAS Immigration and our dedicated team of investment migration experts are here to guide you through every step of the Portugal Golden Visa application process. We offer a comprehensive assessment, end-to-end support, expert due diligence, and post-landing assistance to ensure a smooth transition.
Know More About the Application Process and Your Eligibility
Please get in touch with our expert consultants at +91-9019-400-500 or email us at [email protected].
FAQs
Can I still qualify without buying property under the Portugal Golden Visa? Yes. Real estate is no longer eligible, but €500k CMVM-regulated funds, €500k research, €250k culture/heritage, and job-creation/business routes remain open.
What is the minimum stay requirement for the Golden Visa? Historically, the Golden Visa has required minimal physical presence (averaging 7 days/year). Always verify current AIMA/SEF guidance before applying.
Are fund investments safer than real estate? Each route carries distinct risks. CMVM-regulated funds offer regulatory oversight, but investors should review fund strategy, fees, and liquidity and obtain independent advice.
Can my family be included in the same application? Yes. The family reunification framework generally allows inclusion of spouse/partner and dependent children (and, in some cases, dependent parents) subject to documentation and AIMA rules.
How long until citizenship via the Golden Visa? Applicants may apply for citizenship after meeting legal residence duration and language requirements (commonly 5 years of legal residence); timelines depend on AIMA processing and compliance.
