GOLDEN VISA
What is the Portugal Golden Visa Program?
PortugalZap is your trusted partner for residency-by-investment solutions. The Portugal Golden Visa offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain Portuguese residency through qualifying investments, including real estate. Whether you’re investing in a stylish Lisbon apartment, a coastal Algarve villa, or a countryside estate, our team ensures your property purchase aligns seamlessly with Golden Visa requirements.
Ideal for investors looking for a strategic entry point into Europe, the Golden Visa allows individuals to enjoy a high standard of living, access to the EU, and long-term benefits without the need for permanent relocation. With relatively low physical presence requirements and investment options like venture capital funds, it’s a popular choice for global investors.
Top Features of the Golden Visa
✅ Legal residency in an EU country
✅ Full access to Portugal’s healthcare and education systems
✅ Right to work, study, and start a business
✅ Bring family members, including spouse, children, and dependent parents
✅ Visa-free travel across the Schengen Area (27 European countries)
Key Requirements and Investment Options
To qualify, applicants must make a minimum investment of €500,000 in a regulated Portuguese investment fund, among other approved options.
Minimum stay requirement:
Only 14 days in Portugal every two years.
Timeline to citizenship:
5 years to permanent residency or citizenship, provided other legal conditions are met.
Why Consider the Portugal Golden Visa?
Whether you’re seeking long-term residency, a gateway to EU citizenship, or a second home in a country known for its safety, sunshine, and lifestyle—Portugal offers one of the most attractive residency programs available today.
If you’re thinking about applying or want to learn which investment route best suits your goals, I can help explain the process further or connect you with professionals who specialize in Golden Visa applications.
Want to explore your options? Let’s talk.
BENEFITS
What Are the Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa?
1. Travel Without Borders
Enjoy visa-free access throughout the Schengen Zone, making it easier to explore Europe for leisure, business, or family visits.
2. Work and Study in Portugal
Golden Visa holders have the legal right to work, run a business, or pursue studies in Portugal without additional permits.
3. Access to Public Services
Get access to Portugal’s high-quality public healthcare and education systems—a major plus for families.
4. Minimal Residency Obligation
Unlike many other countries, Portugal does not require you to relocate. You only need to be in the country for 7 days in the first year, and 14 days across every two-year period thereafter.
5. A Clear Path to Citizenship
After five years, you can apply for Portuguese permanent residency or citizenship. You’re not required to keep your investment after this period, unlike many other programs.
6. Exit Your Investment Freely
Once you've reached the five-year mark and obtained citizenship or permanent residency, you are free to divest your original investment without impacting your immigration status.
7. Enjoy a Better Lifestyle
With its mild climate, welcoming culture, and relaxed pace of life, Portugal offers a great environment to call home or visit regularly.
8. Tax Efficiency with the NHR Regime
Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offers up to 10 years of tax benefits, including possible exemptions on foreign income like pensions and dividends.
Investment Routes & Additional Costs
Portugal provides several pathways to obtain a Golden Visa through investment, giving you and your family the flexibility to choose what suits your goals best.
There are six main investment options available, each offering unique benefits depending on your preferences and long-term plans.
Purchase of investment fund units — €500,000+
By investing a minimum of €500,000 in a qualifying fund focused on residential or commercial real estate in Portugal, investors become eligible to apply for a Golden Visa.
The investment must be maintained for at least five years and typically yields positive returns within six to ten years, on average.
Tax benefits also apply: Portuguese residents are subject to a 14% tax rate on returns, while non-resident investors benefit from a 0% tax rate.
Support Cultural Heritage & the Arts
From €250,000
You can qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa by making a donation of €250,000 or more to a fund dedicated to preserving Portuguese cultural heritage and supporting the arts.
While this contribution does not generate a financial return, it offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Portugal’s rich cultural legacy.
Invest in Scientific Research
From €500,000
This Golden Visa pathway allows you to invest a minimum of €500,000 in research initiatives carried out by public or private organizations within Portugal’s national scientific and technological system.
All investments must be made through entities that are officially approved by the government, ensuring alignment with national innovation goals.
Capital Transfer via Bank Deposit
From €1,500,000
You can qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa by transferring a minimum of €1.5 million into a Portuguese bank account.
This option is ideal for investors looking to maintain liquidity while meeting the Golden Visa requirements through a straightforward capital deposit.
Invest in a Portuguese Business
From €500,000
By investing at least €500,000 in a Portuguese company and creating a minimum of five permanent jobs, you can qualify for a Golden Visa for yourself and your family.
This route not only supports the local economy but also opens the door to long-term residency in Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal’s Golden Visa Program
Is Portugal ending the Golden Visa program?
No. Despite recent changes, the Golden Visa program remains active in 2025 and beyond. Applications are still being accepted under the updated rules.
What’s the most affordable investment route?
The lowest-cost qualifying option is a €250,000 donation to Portuguese arts or cultural projects.
What changed in the 2023 Golden Visa reform?
Real estate investments, capital transfers, and real estate-related funds no longer qualify. The focus has shifted to productive and cultural investments.
Can my family be included in the application?
Yes. Spouses, minor children, dependent adult children, and dependent parents can be included through family reunification.
How long does the process take?
From the time you make the investment, expect a wait of over a year to receive your residence card. Timelines vary based on AIMA's (formerly SEF) processing capacity.
Can I use a loan for the investment?
You must bring the full qualifying amount into Portugal. Loans from non-Portuguese institutions may be used, but funds from Portuguese banks cannot count toward the minimum investment.
Can I apply without legal assistance?
You can, but it's highly recommended to work with a legal advisor to avoid costly mistakes and ensure your application is handled correctly.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not legally required, but strongly advised. A qualified lawyer helps manage documentation, compliance, and government interactions.
Will I have to pay taxes in Portugal?
Not unless you become a tax resident (by staying more than 183 days/year). Portuguese-source income is taxable. Thanks to double taxation agreements, you won’t be taxed twice.
What taxes apply to income in Portugal?
Rental income from Portuguese property is taxed at a flat 28%. Most qualifying funds offer tax efficiency for non-residents.
Will I be taxed on global income?
Only if you spend over 183 days in Portugal in a calendar year. Otherwise, you’re not considered a tax resident.
What is a NIF, and why do I need it?
A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is a tax number required to open a bank account, make an investment, or complete any official process in Portugal.
Do I need to live in Portugal full-time?
No. The minimum stay requirement is just 7 days in the first year and 14 days every two years after that.
When can I get permanent residence?
After five years under the Golden Visa, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
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