The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency‑by‑investment program that allows non‑EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to gain Portuguese residence rights and eventual permanent residency or citizenship through qualifying investments.

Key Benefits

• European Residency: Live, work, study, and retire in Portugal.

• Schengen Travel: Visa‑free travel across the Schengen Area.

• Family Inclusion: Spouse, children, and dependent parents can be included.

• Low Physical Residency Requirement: Only a few days’ stay required per year.

• Path to Permanent Residency & Citizenship: Possible after 5 years (subject to rules at the time).

Eligibility Requirements

• Be 18 or older.

• Hold a valid non‑EU passport.

• Clean criminal record.

• Make a qualifying investment and prove legal source of funds.

• Meet minimum stay requirements: very limited — currently ~7 days per year.

Current Investment Options (2025)

(Real estate is no longer eligible since 2023)

1. Investment Funds – €500,000+ in a Portuguese approved fund.

2. Scientific Research – €500,000+ in R&D projects.

3. Arts & Cultural Projects – €250,000 minimum donation.

4. Business/Jobs Creation – Establish or invest in a company and create jobs (often 10 jobs, reduced in low‑density areas).

Application Process (Simplified)

1. Choose your investment route.

2. Appoint a Portuguese lawyer/representative.

3. Open a Portuguese bank account and get a tax number (NIF).

4. Make your investment and obtain documentation.

5. Submit your application to AIMA online.

6. Attend biometric appointment.

7. Receive residence card and renew every 2 years.

Notes & Tips

• A2 Portuguese language test is required for citizenship, not for the visa itself.

• Real estate investment is no longer accepted for new applications.

• Rules may evolve, especially around citizenship timing and residency requirements.