What is the Portugal Golden Visa?
The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency by investment program that allows non-EU nationals to obtain Portuguese residence by making a qualifying investment — without the requirement to live in Portugal full-time.
Key facts at a glance:
- Minimum stay requirement: 7 days per year
- Family inclusion: Yes
- Path to permanent residency & citizenship: Yes
- Visa-free travel across Schengen: Yes
How The Golden Visa Process Works?
01/ Strategy & eligibility assessment
We assess your goals, timeline, and risk profile.
02/ Investment Selection & Structuring
Legal, tax-aware, and compliant from day one.Please add your description here
03/ Application submission
Document preparation, filings, and biometric scheduling.
04/ Residence approval
Maintain minimal stay requirements.
05/ Long-term outcomes
Permanent residence or citizenship eligibility.
Current Investment Options*
- €500,000 – Investment funds (regulated, non-real-estate)
- €250,000 – Cultural donation (limited availability, high demand)
*Real estate investments are no longer eligible for the Golden Visa.
Portugal Golden Visa Requirements
Minimum residence requirement
The Golden Visa requires you to spend seven days in Portugal for the first year, and 14 days for each subsequent year.Maintain the qualified investment for the duration of the visa
You must present supporting evidence that you have invested the minimum amount required, and a declaration of honor, committing to maintain the investment for the duration of the visa, is also needed.Required documents for the Portugal Golden Visa
Paperwork can be daunting to get right. Global Citizen Solutions ensures that Golden Visa applicants correctly submit the following documents for the initial application and each renewal:- Portugal Golden Visa application form
- Copy of a valid passport and travel documents
- A declaration from your bank in Portugal confirming the transfer of funds from abroad
- Proof of health insurance in Portugal (Enrollment in SNS is required if the investor resides in Portugal)
- A background check or a police clearance letter from your country of origin, issued no more than 90 days before submitting your application.
- A declaration of honor promising to maintain the investment for five years.
- Documents showing a good standing with the relevant tax authorities
- Document showing non-enrollment or good standing with the Social Security
- A receipt showing that you have already paid the application processing fee
All documents issued by a non-Portuguese entity must be legalized, with an apostille required if the issuing country is part of the Hague Convention. Additionally, any document not in Portuguese must be translated and certified, typically by a notary.
Why Investors Choose Portugal?
- EU residency without relocation: Maintain your lifestyle while securing European residence.
- Family security: Include spouse, children, and dependent parents.
- Long-term optionality: Citizenship eligibility after 5 years (subject to legal requirements).
- Strong legal framework: Portugal remains one of Europe’s most established residency programs.
Why Work With Global Citizen Solutions
Trusted by 10,000+ investors worldwide
$3.5B+ investments facilitated
Presence in 17+ countries
Book a call with a Portugal Golden Visa specialist
Take the first step and speak with our team of Portugal Golden Visa specialists.
Book a free call with a specialist today
Frequently Asked Questions
01/ Is the Portugal Golden Visa still available?
Yes. The program remains active, but since October 2023 real estate investments no longer qualify. Eligible routes now include investment funds, scientific research, and cultural donations.
02/ Is the Portugal Golden Visa available for UK citizens?
Yes. UK nationals can apply through qualifying investment options and may become eligible for permanent residence or citizenship after five years, subject to legal requirements.
03/ Is the Portugal Golden Visa available for US citizens?
Yes. US citizens are eligible to apply through approved investment routes such as venture capital funds, research contributions, or cultural donations.
04/ Do I need to take a Portuguese language test?
A Portuguese language test at A2 level is only required if you apply for citizenship after five years. It is not required to obtain or renew the Golden Visa residence permit.
05/ Do dependents qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa?
Yes. Eligible dependents include a spouse, minor children, dependent adult children (typically up to age 26 if studying), and dependent parents of either the main applicant or spouse.
06/ What healthcare benefits does the Portugal Golden Visa provide?
Golden Visa holders can access Portugal’s public healthcare system and may also opt for private health insurance, which is widely used and affordable.
07/ What is the processing time for the Portugal Golden Visa?
Processing timelines typically range from 12 to 24 months, depending on application complexity, document readiness, and government processing capacity.
08/ Is it possible to get your investment back through the Portugal Golden Visa?
Returns depend on the chosen investment. The Golden Visa itself does not guarantee capital return, and outcomes vary based on the performance and structure of the investment vehicle.
09/ What is Portugal’s “Golden Passport”?
The term refers to Portuguese citizenship. After maintaining legal residence for five years under the Golden Visa program, applicants may apply for citizenship and obtain a Portuguese (EU) passport, subject to legal requirements.