Portugal Golden Visa & EU Residency Pathways
Eligibility Overview
Portugal’s Golden Visa gives non-EU citizens the chance to live, work, and travel freely in Europe — without giving up their current passport. It’s one of the most flexible residency programs in the EU.
Who Can Apply:
- Non-EU citizens who invest in eligible Portuguese assets
- Applicants with clean criminal records and valid health insurance
- Individuals who can meet the minimum stay requirement
Qualifying Investments (Updated 2025):
- €500,000 in a regulated investment fund
- €500,000 in research and development (R&D) projects
- €250,000 in cultural preservation or the arts
- €500,000 to launch a business creating 5+ local jobs
Special Exception: Only 7 days per year required. You don’t need to live full-time in Portugal. Just visit for a total of 7 days each year (on average) to keep your visa valid — that’s only 35 days over 5 years.
Step-by-Step Process
- Pick Your Investment Path: Choose a fund, R&D project, cultural donation, or business that meets visa criteria.
- Work with a Local Expert: A Portuguese lawyer or advisor ensures your investment meets legal standards.
- Get a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): This is your Portuguese tax ID, needed to open a bank account.
- Make the Investment: Transfer your funds and finalize paperwork through a Portuguese bank.
- Apply to SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras): Portugal’s immigration agency reviews your documents and background.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: After conditional approval, go to Portugal for fingerprinting and ID verification.
- Receive Your Residence Permit: Your 2-year Golden Visa is issued and renewable, with a path to citizenship after 5 years.
Benefits of Portugal’s Golden Visa
- Live and work in Portugal or keep as a global backup plan
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone (26 countries)
- Include your spouse, children, and dependent parents
- Only 7 days/year required to keep your visa
- Apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years
- Portugal allows dual citizenship
- Enjoy top healthcare, education, safety, and lifestyle
Frequently asked questions.
Can I still qualify by buying property?
No. Since 2024, residential real estate is no longer a valid investment path. Focus on funds, R&D, cultural donations, or business investment.
Do I need to live in Portugal full-time?
No. You only need to spend 7 days per year in the country to keep your visa active.
Does this lead to EU citizenship?
Yes — after 5 years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship, which gives you an EU passport.
Can my family come with me?
Yes. You can include your spouse, children (even adult children in school), and dependent parents in your application.
Can I keep my current citizenship?
Yes. Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original passport.
How long does it take to get approved?
Most applicants receive their residence permit in 6–12 months, depending on SEF’s review timeline.