PORTUGAL GOLDEN VISA PROGRAM

Key Facts

Processing Time
Approximately 18 months

Visa-Free Travel
Access to the European Schengen Area

Minimum Investment
Starting from €200,000

Family Eligibility
The main applicant, spouse or legal partner, children under 18, unmarried dependent children over 18 enrolled in full-time education, dependent parents over 55, and parents over 65

Main Advantages

• Eligibility to apply for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years (A2 Portuguese language requirement applies)
• Portuguese citizenship grants full EU mobility rights, including Switzerland
• Low physical presence requirement – only 14 days every 2 years for residence renewal
• Right to live, work, and study in Portugal
• Access to high-quality education and public healthcare
• Excellent quality of life with a mild climate, natural landscapes, and a peaceful environment
• Visa-free travel across 29 Schengen countries
• No inheritance, gift, or wealth taxes

About Portugal

Since its launch in 2012, Portugal’s Golden Visa has become one of the most popular residence-by-investment programs in Europe. The country consistently ranks among the top 10 safest nations globally (Global Peace Index) and offers a welcoming environment where English is widely spoken.

Portugal maintains double taxation agreements with over 70 countries, including the United States. While the program grants residency, it is widely recognized as one of the most flexible pathways to European citizenship.

Application Process Overview

The application process begins remotely. It typically takes 18–24 months before applicants are invited by AIMA for biometric data submission.

We provide full legal support throughout the process, including obtaining a tax identification number (NIF), opening a bank account, selecting the most suitable investment option, submitting the application, and managing renewals.

Step 1: Initial due diligence and signing the client agreement
Step 2: Legal setup in Portugal (NIF acquisition, bank account opening, investment structuring)
Step 3: Compilation and electronic submission of application to AIMA
Step 4: Coordination of biometric appointment upon AIMA invitation
Step 5: Issuance of residence permits (valid for 2 years, renewable with minimum stay requirement)

Applicants must spend at least 14 days in Portugal within each 2-year period to maintain and renew their residency.

Qualifying Investment Options

Applicants may choose from the following options:

• Venture Capital Funds: €500,000 investment in qualifying funds with no exposure to real estate
• Job Creation: Creation of at least 10 full-time jobs in Portugal
• Business Investment: €500,000 investment to establish a Portuguese company and create at least 5 permanent jobs
• Scientific Research: €500,000 capital transfer (donation) to public or private research institutions
• Cultural & Artistic Support: €250,000 donation supporting arts or cultural heritage (reduced to €200,000 in low-density areas, subject to availability)

In some cases, retirement funds (such as 401(k), IRA, or equivalent) may be used for the investment component.

Requirements

• Applicants must be over 18 years old
• Must have a clean criminal record and pose no national security or reputational risk