Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden visa is a residency-by-investment program exclusively for non-EU nationals who wish to procure a legal residence in Portugal through means of approved investment. The program is an attempt to attract foreign investment to Portugal.

This program allows eligible applicants to live in Portugal while having visa-free access over the Schengen Area.With flexible investment options and a structured framework, the Portugal Golden Visa program continues to be an attractive choice for individuals planning to relocate to Europe.

Why choose the Portugal Golden Visa?

• The Portugal Golden Visa scheme is an attractive one as it can lead to permanent residency and citizenship provided the required conditions are met. Investors can be flexible with their investments as Portugal offers multiple qualifying investment routes unlike similar Golden Visa programs that rely heavily on real estate.
•  It offers applicants a regulated and transparent route to residency without requiring full-time relocation to Portugal, an added benefit for applicants who do not wish for immediate relocation.
• For non-EU nationals, it is a great program. Portugal offers scenic landscapes and easy access to all of Europe, all while delivering a high standard of living at prices lower than most other Western countries.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

• Age 18 or above.
• Be non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
• Have a clean criminal record (In Portugal as well as their home country).
• Make a qualifying investment under one of the approved Portugal Golden Visa categories, with minimum investment thresholds ranging from €250,000 to €500,000, depending on the chosen route.
• Meet the minimum stay requirement of 7 days in the first year and 14 days in subsequent two-year periods.

Portugal Golden Visa Benefits

Portugal Golden visa benefits are many in number and makes it a preferred Golden Visa compared to its EU counterparts. Some of them include:

• One of the shortest EU citizenship or permanent residency timelines at five years.
• No immediate relocation needed,with limited stay obligations of 7 days in the first year and 14 days in each subsequent 2-year period.
• Visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.
• The right for the main applicant and eligible family members to live, work, retire, and study in Portugal.
• The right for your immediate family to join you.
• Permission to hold dual citizenship.
• Multiple investment options, starting from €250,000.
• Tax advantages for new residents.
• Free access to public healthcare and education.

Portugal Golden Visa Requirements

Applicants for the Portugal Golden Visa are required to meet specific eligibility requirements and provide certain supporting documents as part of the application process:

• Applicants must be a non-EU / non-EEA / non-Swiss national.
• Valid passport.
• Clean criminal record.
• Legal source of funds.
• Completion of an approved investment.
• Health insurance.

Investment Options for the Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa program offers several approved investment options for applicants to choose from. Each of these options is defined under Portuguese immigration regulations and offers applicants flexibility in choosing a path that aligns best with their financial objectives and eligibility criteria. Applicants can choose between the following:

I. Investment Funds

The funds must be approved and regulated by the Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM).
Minimum investment: €500,000

II. Donation to Scientific Research

The contribution is non-refundable and must be made to recognized public or private research institutions operating within Portugal.
Minimum investment: €500,000

III. Donation to Cultural Heritage or Artistic Projects

This investment must support approved cultural heritage preservation or artistic production projects in Portugal.
Minimum investment: €250,000

IV. Job Creation through Business Incorporation

The job creation route works in two distinct ways under the law:

Option A: Job Creation Only

• Creation of at least 10 permanent jobs.
• No minimum investment amount required.

Option B: Capital Transfer + Jobs

• Capital transfer of €500,000 into a Portuguese company.
• Creation of at least 5 permanent jobs.

Portugal Golden Visa Process Step-by-Step

Here is a step-by-step process involved in applying for Portugal Golden Visa:

Step 1 – Pre- Application Preparation

• Selection of a qualifying investment option.
• Obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF).
• Opening a Portuguese bank account.
• Completion of chosen investment and collection of all supporting documents.

Step 2 – Online Application Submission

The application is then submitted through the ARI portal (AIMA’s online platform). Applicants are required to complete the application form, upload all required documents and pay the Golden Visa analysis fee.

Step 3 – Investment verification

AIMA verifies the authenticity of your investment documents to ensure it meets the program’s eligibility requirements.

Step 4 – Biometric appointment and Final review

• Applicants must attend an in-person biometric appointment scheduled by AIMA, where photographs and fingerprints are taken.
• Applicants pay the residence permit issuance fee.
• Verification of documents by AIMA.
•  Once approved, the residence card is valid for a total of two years. It is then delivered to a Portuguese address or collected in person.

Step 5 – Renewal and Long- Term Options

• After the initial 2 years, renewals are conducted at the end of second and fourth year.
• After five years, applicants are eligible for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship provided they meet all required conditions.

Portugal Golden Visa Costs & Fees

Visa costs and fees for Portugal Golden Visa as per 2025:

1. Processing fee when submitting the initial application : € 605.10
2. Initial residence permit fee :  € 6045.20 (upon approval of the golden visa)
3. Renewal fee (years 2 and 5) : € 3023.20 (applies to each renewal cycle)

Portugal Golden Visa for UAE and Middle East Applicants

For applicants based in the UAE, including those exploring the Portugal Golden Visa from Dubai, this program remains a preferred option as it is exclusively available to non-EU nationals. Applicants are not required to immediately relocate to Portugal.

A large portion of the application process can be managed through authorized legal representatives, making it a convenient choice for individuals who continue to reside outside Portugal while completing the required steps.

Conclusion

The Portugal Golden Visa program provides a well structured and regulated route within the Portugal immigration framework for non-EU nationals seeking long-term residence in Europe. The scheme offers potential investors flexible investment options to choose from alongside less strict minimum stay obligations. Over time, eligible applicants can progress towards permanent residency or citizenship. With a clear understanding of the requirements and appropriate guidance, the application process can be a confident and manageable one. For official details and updates, visit the official Portugal Golden Visa page.