Golden Visa
Who it’s for
The Golden Visa is typically a good fit for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want a Portugal (and EU/Schengen) residency option through a qualifying investment, without needing to relocate full-time immediately.
Specially suited to
Investors
who want a residency pathway connected to an eligible investment route (e.g., funds), rather than employment or passive-income routes.
International families
who want to include eligible family members under one main application and keep a unified relocation plan.
People who need flexibility
(business owners, frequent travelers, globally mobile professionals) and prefer a residency status that can work alongside an international lifestyle.
Those seeking long-term optionality
i.e., a structured path that may support longer-term residence and, where eligible, potential citizenship later (subject to rules and eligibility at the time).
Clients who value “Plan B” security
diversification, and the ability to anchor part of their life in a stable EU jurisdiction.
Key Benefits
Residence Visa Waiver
for entering Portugal and all Schengen countries
Stay Requirements
7 days in the first year and 14 days in the subsequent 2 year periods
Possibility of Acquiring
Portuguese citizenship by naturalization or permanent residence after 5 years
Family Reunification
Include your spouse, children, and dependent family members.
Access and Enrollment
to the National Health System
How the application works
A step-by-step overview of the Golden Visa application process, from choosing your investment route to receiving your residence card.
1
Select a qualifying investment route
Choose the route that best fits your goals and profile, for example:
Arts / cultural heritage:
typically €250,000 (may be reduced to €200,000 for eligible low-density projects).
Investment funds / venture capital funds:
typically €500,000, with key conditions (e.g., minimum maturity and a required portion invested in Portugal
2
Prepare the main applicant’s documents
Provide core documents such as a valid passport, proof of legal stay/entry where applicable, criminal record certificate(s), and evidence that the investment has been completed and remains valid.
3
Prepare family documents (if applying together)
For each family member: passport/ID, proof of relationship (e.g., marriage/birth certificates), and criminal record certificate(s) for adult dependants.
4
Submit the application and pay government fees
Complete the online process and pay the required fees for the main applicant and each family member (fees vary and can change).
5
Attend biometrics
Provide biometric data (typically fingerprints and photo) as part of identity verification.
6
Approval and residence card issuance
Once approved and formalities are completed, the residence permit card is issued.
7
Renewals (every two years)
Renew the ARI residence permit periodically by showing the investment is still maintained and the minimum stay requirements are met (AIMA references at least 7 days in the first year and 14 days in subsequent years).