Portugal Golden Visa Program
Gain EU residency through qualifying investment in Portugal.
Key Facts
- Investment from
- €500,000
- Processing time
- 6-12 months
- Visa-free travel
- Schengen Area
- Status
- Open (revised 2023)
Investment Options
Investment Funds
Subscribe to qualifying Portuguese investment funds with a minimum of €500,000.
Research & Development
Contribute €500,000 to approved scientific research activities.
Cultural Heritage
Invest €250,000+ in preservation of national cultural heritage.
Benefits
- EU residency with Schengen freedom of movement
- Path to permanent residency after 5 years
- Path to Portuguese citizenship after 5 years
- Include spouse, children, and dependent parents
- Minimal physical presence requirement (7 days/year average)
- Access to Portuguese healthcare and education systems
Requirements
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationality
- Clean criminal record
- Qualifying investment maintained for 5 years
- Valid passport
- Health insurance valid in Portugal
- Tax identification number (NIF)
Application Process
- Pre-assessment
Evaluate eligibility and select qualifying investment route.
- NIF & Bank Account
Obtain Portuguese tax number and open a local bank account.
- Make Investment
Complete the qualifying investment and obtain proof.
- Submit Application
File application with SEF/AIMA with all supporting documents.
- Biometrics & Approval
Attend biometrics appointment; await approval and residence card.
Costs & Fees
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum investment | €250,000–€500,000 | Depends on route |
| SEF processing fee | €533 | Per applicant |
| Residence permit issuance | €5,325 | Per applicant |
| Legal & advisory fees | Varies | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is real estate still a qualifying investment?
- As of October 2023, direct real estate investment no longer qualifies. Fund-based, R&D, and cultural heritage routes remain available.
- Can I live anywhere in the EU with a Golden Visa?
- The Golden Visa grants Portuguese residency with Schengen travel rights. To reside in another EU country long-term, separate arrangements may be needed.
- What is the minimum stay requirement?
- An average of 7 days per year in Portugal over the 5-year period, though requirements may vary.
Trust & Compliance
Official Sources
We reference only official government and regulatory sources. Always verify directly before making decisions.
- AIMA – Portuguese Immigration Authoritygovernment
- Decree-Law 14/2021 (Golden Visa Legislation)legislation
Last verified: 2026-02-15
Important Notices
- Approval of a Golden Visa application is not guaranteed and is at the sole discretion of the Portuguese immigration authorities.
- This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or immigration advice. Consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions.
- Program rules and fees may change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources.
Information is based on publicly available sources and may not reflect the latest legislative changes. Approval is not guaranteed. This is not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration lawyer.
Ready to Get Started?
Take our free qualification quiz to see if this program is right for you.