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Residency in Portugal

Portugal Golden Visa – Residency by Investment

About Portugal

Overview

About Portugal

The Portugal Golden Visa (Golden Residence Permit Program) allows non-EU nationals to obtain Portuguese residency through qualifying investments. Launched in 2012 and updated by subsequent reforms, the program offers Schengen mobility, access to Portuguese public services, and a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after meeting eligibility and residency requirements. The program supports multiple investment routes (capital transfer and business investment) and remains a popular option for international investors seeking a European base.

Capital:LisbonLanguage:PortugueseCurrency:Euro (EUR)
Population
10.6 million
Capital
Lisbon
Language
Portuguese
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time zone
WET (UTC+00:00); Azores: UTC−01:00
Climate
Mediterranean

Why Portugal

Key Points

Why Portugal?

  • Low minimum physical presence — commonly ~7 days per year over 5 years on eligible routes.

  • Multiple qualifying investment routes (capital transfer and business investment).

  • Family inclusion: spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.

  • Access to Schengen travel and Portuguese public healthcare as a legal resident.

Process

How it works

  1. Step 1: Step 1

    Pre-application: choose route, obtain NIF, open Portuguese bank account, complete investment.

  2. Step 2: Step 2

    Online application: register on official portal, upload documents, pay analysis fee.

  3. Step 3: Step 3

    Investment review: authorities evaluate the investment and supporting documentation.

  4. Step 4: Step 4

    Biometric appointment: attend fingerprint/photograph capture and pay issuance fee.

  5. Step 5: Step 5

    Residence card issuance: receive Portuguese residence card.

Eligibility — Requirements

Eligibility

Requirements

5 items

The following list outlines the core eligibility requirements for this program.

  • Non-EU nationality (main applicant).

  • Valid travel documents and clean criminal record.

  • Proof of qualifying investment per chosen route.

  • Evidence funds were transferred from abroad and AML compliance.

  • Meet minimum physical presence requirements per route.

Frequently asked questions

Question 1

Typically after 5 years of holding a qualifying residence permit and meeting language and legal requirements.

Question 2

From €250,000 for cultural/artistic support routes; other routes (funds, research, or business) are commonly €500,000 or higher.

Question 3

Many routes require an average of about 7 days per year over the 5-year period for renewals; note tax residency can trigger at >183 days/year.

Question 4

Yes — spouse, children up to 26 years old (financially dependent), and dependent parents can be included.

Question 5

Yes, the Golden Visa allows legal residence, including work and study.

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