The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program

Portugal is widely admired for its peaceful environment, high quality of life, and exceptional reputation as one of the most globalized countries in the world. The country enjoys a very high ranking on the Human Development Index, showcasing its excellent healthcare, education, and living standards. The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, also known as the Portugal Golden Visa Program, offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain a five-year residence permit through investment. This permit grants the right to live, work, and study in Portugal and provides access to free movement within the Schengen Area. A major advantage of the program is that it requires a minimal physical presence in Portugal—just an average of seven days per year over the five-year period.

 Key Advantages  

Enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area and the freedom to live, work, and study in Portugal.

Ability to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years, while retaining your original citizenship(s).

Minimal physical presence requirements, with just 14 days required during the first two years and 21 days in the following three years.

Access to excellent education through renowned international and Portuguese schools and universities.

A high standard of living, enriched by Portugal’s rich culture, renowned cuisine and wines, and mild climate, all in a safe environment.

Access to high-quality healthcare through international-standard clinics and hospitals.

Requirements

  • Applicants can choose from any one of the following categories for investment:

Capital Transfer:

Select one of the following options:

  1. EUR 500,000 for purchasing units in an investment or venture capital fund focused on capitalizing companies incorporated under Portuguese law, with a maturity of at least five years. At least 60% of the investment must be in companies based in Portugal (real estate funds are not eligible).
  2. EUR 500,000 dedicated to research activities conducted by public or private entities within Portugal’s scientific and technological system.
    • EUR 400,000 if the investment is made in a low-density population area*.
  3. EUR 250,000 to support artistic production or contribute to the restoration or maintenance of Portugal’s cultural heritage.
    • EUR 200,000 if invested in a low-density population area*.

Business Investment:

Choose one of the following:

  1. Creation of at least ten new jobs.
    • Eight new jobs if located in a low-density population area*.
  2. EUR 500,000 to establish a commercial company based and registered in Portugal, which must create a minimum of five permanent jobs for three years (alternatively, increasing the share capital of an already established company to create or maintain at least five permanent jobs for three years).

*Low-density population areas are defined as regions with fewer than 100 inhabitants per square kilometer or a GDP per capita below 75% of the national average.

Procedure

  • Initial Steps:
    • The applicant is introduced to the Portugal team, either remotely or in person.
    • Prepare necessary legal documentation and obtain a taxpayer number.
    • Select a suitable investment option.
    • Open a bank account.
  • Application Submission:
    • After completing the investment and gathering personal documents, the application is submitted online to the government for review and acceptance.
  • Biometric Data & Document Submission:
    • The applicant and their family must visit Portugal to provide biometric data and submit original documents to the immigration office.
  • Residence Permit Issuance:
    • Once the application is approved and residence card fees are paid, a two-year residence permit is issued.
    • This permit is renewable for an additional three years.
  • After the Initial Period:

At the end of the initial five-year period, the applicant can:

    • Extend the temporary residence permit further.
    • Apply for permanent residence.

    • Apply for citizenship.

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