1. What is the Portugal Golden Visa?
A residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to obtain legal residency in Portugal through qualifying investments.
2. What are the main benefits of the Golden Visa?
- Legal residency in Portugal
- Visa-free travel in the Schengen Area
- Minimal stay requirement (14 days every 2 years)
- No tax residency requirement
- Eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years
3. What types of investments qualify?
- Investment in regulated funds (€500,000) – popular option
- Scientific research (€500,000)
- Cultural heritage support (€250,000)
- Company creation or capitalization (€500,000)
4. Is real estate still a valid investment option?
No, real estate investments are no longer eligible under the Golden Visa.
5. Who can be included in the application?
- Spouse or legal partner
- Dependent children (under 18 or up to 25 if studying, unmarried and financially dependent)
- Dependent parents (or over 65yo)
- Underage siblings under legal guardianship
6. How long does the application process take?
Typically 12–24 months, including pre-approval, biometrics, and issuance of the residence card.
7. How long is the Golden Visa valid for?
The initial residence permit is valid for 2 years and renewable every 2 years.
8. What are the stay requirements?
A minimum of 14 days (consecutive or not) every 2 years.
9. Can I apply remotely?
Yes, most of the initial process can be done remotely with Power of Attorney.
10. What is a regulated investment fund?
A fund authorized by the Portuguese CMVM that invests in Portuguese companies (non-real estate).
11. Can I split the investment between multiple funds?
Yes, even thought multiple funds are nor recommended. Two or three is ok.
12. What are the government fees?
- Pre-analysis fee: ~ €773.74
- Approval fee: ~ €7,730.11 per applicant
- Renewal fee: ~ €3,865.79
13. Is tax residency required?
No, unless you spend more than 183 days per year in Portugal.
14. Can I become a tax resident if I want to?
Yes. You may also be eligible for the NHR 2.0 regime, which offers reduced taxation for 10 years.
15. What documents are required?
- Valid passport – all applicants
- Criminal record certificates for over 16 yo applicants
- Proof of investment
- NIF – all applicants
- Foreigner NIF (taxpayer number) – main applicant only
- Portuguese bank account – main applicant only
- Sworn statement of compliance – main applicant only
- Proof of family connection with the main applicant (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc)
16. Can I work or study in Portugal with a Golden Visa?
Yes, it grants full rights to live, work, and study.
17. Can I travel in Europe with a Golden Visa?
Yes.
18. What happens if my application is rejected?
You can appeal through administrative or judicial means. Legal assistance is highly recommended.
19. Can I apply if I already have another Portuguese visa?
Yes, but you must meet the investment requirements separately and give up the previous visa/residency (can´t have two simultaneously).
20. Can I change my investment after applying?
No, unless you reinvest in the same eligible category before divesting the original.
21. Do I need to speak Portuguese?
Not for the Golden Visa. But for citizenship or permanent residency, A2-level is required.
22. Can I apply through a company or trust?
Only if the structure is fully owned and controlled by the applicant.
23. What happens after 5 years?
You can apply for citizenship, permanent residency, or renew your Golden Visa.
24. Can I switch to another visa later (like D7)?
Yes, but you must meet the requirements of the new visa type, including full-time residence.
25. What if I spend more than 183 days in Portugal?
You may trigger tax residency and should consult a tax advisor regarding NHR 2.0 or other implications.
26. Is there a limit to the number of Golden Visas issued?
Currently, there is no quota cap, but government policies may change in the future.
27. What is the best way to begin?
Engage a legal team experienced in immigration and investments to guide you through the full process, from fund selection to residence permit issuance.
