The Ultimate Guide to the Portugal Golden Visa: Investment Options, Benefits, and Application Process

Portugal’s Golden Visa program is one of the most sought-after residency-by-investment programs in Europe. Since its introduction in 2012, it has attracted thousands of international investors looking to gain European residency while benefiting from Portugal’s high quality of life, favorable tax incentives, and visa-free Schengen travel.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, investor, or high-net-worth individual, the Portugal Golden Visa offers a unique opportunity to secure EU residency with a minimal physical stay requirement.

In this guide, we’ll explore the requirements, investment options, benefits, and step-by-step application process to help you determine if the Golden Visa is right for you.

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants non-EU citizens the right to live, work, and study in Portugal in exchange for a qualifying investment in the country.

Unlike other visas, the Golden Visa does not require full-time residency, making it an attractive option for investors who want to maintain global mobility while securing European residency.

Golden Visa holders can also apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship after five years, without needing to live in Portugal full-time.

Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa

1. Visa-Free Travel in the Schengen Zone

Golden Visa holders can travel freely across 29 European Schengen countries without additional visas.

2. Fast Track to Portuguese Citizenship

After five years of holding the Golden Visa, investors can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, gaining access to one of the strongest passports in the world.

3. No Full-Time Residency Requirement

Unlike other visas, the Golden Visa requires a minimal stay of just 7 days per year in Portugal in the first year and 14 days for each following 2-year period.

4. Family Reunification

Golden Visa holders can include spouses, children, and dependent parents in the same application.

5. Access to Portugal’s Healthcare and Education

Residency grants access to Portugal’s public healthcare system (SNS) and education system.

6. Strong Investment Market

Portugal offers a stable economy, growing real estate market, and strong investment incentives, making it a top destination for international investors.

Golden Visa Investment Options

As of 2025, Portugal has eliminated real estate investments from the Golden Visa program. However, investors can still qualify through several alternative investment routes.

1. Investment in Investment Funds (€500,000 minimum)

Invest in qualified venture capital or private equity funds focused on Portugal’s economy.
Funds must support sectors like technology, industry, or renewable energy.

2. Business and Job Creation (€500,000 minimum)

Invest at least €500,000 in a Portuguese company.
The company must create at least 5 permanent jobs.

3. Scientific or Technological Research (€500,000 minimum)

Contribute to scientific or technological research projects conducted in Portugal.

4. Cultural Heritage and Arts Investment (€250,000 minimum)

Support cultural activities, arts, or national heritage preservation.
Lower investment threshold compared to other options.

5. Job Creation

Create at least 10 permanent jobs in Portugal in accordance with Portuguese labor law.

These investment options provide flexibility for investors looking to obtain Portuguese residency while contributing to the country’s economy.

Golden Visa Requirements

To qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Non-EU/EEA Citizenship

Only non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can apply for the Golden Visa.

2. Minimum Investment Requirement

Applicants must choose a qualifying investment and maintain it for at least five years.

3. Proof of Legal Source of Funds

Investors must demonstrate that their investment funds come from legal sources.

4. Minimum Stay Requirement

Golden Visa holders must spend at least:

7 days per year in Portugal
14 days every two years afterwards

5. Clean Criminal Record

Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate from their home country.

6. Valid Health Insurance

Golden Visa applicants must have private health insurance valid in Portugal.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Choose an Investment Option

Decide on a qualifying investment fund, business investment, or cultural donation.
Complete the investment and obtain legal documentation.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Valid passport
Proof of investment transaction
Bank statements showing the source of funds
Portuguese NIF (tax number) and bank account
Health insurance policy
Criminal background check

Step 3: Submit Application Online

Apply through the AIMA (formerly SEF) Golden Visa portal.
Pay the initial processing fee of €605.10 per applicant).

Step 4: Schedule Biometrics Appointment

Once pre-approved, schedule an in-person biometric appointment at an AIMA office in Portugal.
Pay the Golden Visa issuance fee €6,045.20 per applicant.

Step 5: Receive Your Golden Visa Card

If approved, you’ll receive a two-year residence permit.
Renew it for an additional three years.

Step 6: Apply for Permanent Residency or Citizenship

After five years, investors can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Investing in Non-Qualifying Real Estate – As of 2023, real estate investments no longer qualify for the Golden Visa.

Failing to Meet the Minimum Stay Requirement – Spending at least 7 days per year in Portugal is mandatory.

Not Securing Proper Documentation – Ensure all investment, tax, and legal documents are accurate before submission.

Delaying Biometrics Appointments – AIMA processing times can be slow, so book biometrics as early as possible.

Not Planning for Citizenship – After five years, apply for permanent residency or citizenship to enjoy full EU benefits.

Final Thoughts

The Portugal Golden Visa remains one of the most attractive investment residency programs in Europe. With its low residency requirements, strong investment options, and pathway to citizenship, it continues to be a top choice for international investors.

For those looking to secure European residency while maintaining global mobility, the Golden Visa is a perfect solution.

If you’re considering applying for the Portugal Golden Visa, consulting with an immigration lawyer can help streamline the process and ensure compliance with investment regulations.

Need expert assistance with your Golden Visa application? Contact MSP Lawyer today for professional immigration support.