How to Get a Golden Visa in Portugal?
Our Vision
Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of Europe’s most attractive residency-by-investment pathways for globally mobile investors seeking EU access, long-term flexibility, and a future route to citizenship. Designed for non-EU nationals, the programme offers residency in Portugal through qualifying investment, with minimal physical stay requirements and no obligation to relocate full-time.
Why Portugal’s Golden Visa?
Portugal’s Golden Visa is designed for investors who want the benefits of European residency without disrupting their existing lifestyle, business interests, or tax footprint.
Key advantages include:
- Minimal stay requirement – Spend an average of just 7 days per year in Portugal (35 days over 5 years)
- Pathway to EU citizenship – Eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years
- No automatic tax residency – Maintain your existing tax structure if you spend fewer than 183 days per year in Portugal
- Freedom to relocate or remain global – Live in Portugal if you choose, or simply retain residency while living elsewhere
This makes Portugal especially appealing for investors, entrepreneurs, and internationally based families seeking mobility, security, and long-term optionality.
The Golden Visa Process
Applying for Portugal’s Golden Visa is a structured, multi-stage process requiring legal coordination, compliance, and government submission. With the right advisory team, the process is streamlined from onboarding to residency card issuance.
Step 1: Programme & Investment Selection
Determine the most suitable Golden Visa route based on your objectives, timeline, and preferred investment structure.
Step 2: Obtain Your Portuguese NIF
A Portuguese tax number (NIF) is required to proceed with the application and open local accounts.
Step 3: Open a Portuguese Bank Account
Set up a local bank account to complete the investment and support the application process.
Step 4: Complete the Investment
Transfer funds and finalise the qualifying investment. This typically includes legal due diligence, fund subscription, and supporting declarations.
Step 5: Submit the Golden Visa Application
Prepare and submit your residency application through AIMA (Portugal’s immigration authority), including compliance documents, investment records, and legal certifications.
Step 6: Attend Biometrics in Portugal
Applicants attend an in-person biometrics appointment in Portugal as part of the formal residency process.
Step 7: Residency Approval & Card Issuance
Following approval, residency cards are issued and delivered, granting legal Portuguese residency under the Golden Visa programme.
Timeline
The full process typically takes 15–18 months, based on current processing timelines and AIMA approval stages. This includes:
- Onboarding and compliance
- NIF and bank account setup
- Investment completion
- Application submission
- AIMA review
- Biometrics
- Residency card issuance
Once approved, residency is renewable and can lead to permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
A Strategic Route to Europe
Portugal’s Golden Visa is not simply a residency programme — it is a long-term strategic planning tool for investors seeking greater global mobility, access to Europe, and generational optionality.
For those looking to secure European residency while preserving international flexibility, Portugal offers one of the most efficient and investor-friendly pathways available today.
Qualifying Investment Options
Portugal’s Golden Visa is no longer based on residential real estate acquisition. Instead, applicants qualify through approved strategic investment routes that support the Portuguese economy.
Current qualifying options include:
1. Investment Funds
Invest a minimum of €500,000 into an eligible Portuguese investment or venture capital fund.
This is now the most popular route for international investors, offering:
- Exposure to professionally managed Portuguese assets
- No property management obligations
- A streamlined institutional investment structure
- Eligibility under the Golden Visa framework
2. Scientific Research
Invest a minimum of €500,000 into approved scientific or research activities in Portugal.
3. Arts, Heritage & Culture
Make a donation of at least €250,000 toward arts, national heritage, or cultural
preservation initiatives.
4. Business & Job Creation
Qualify through one of the following:
- Create at least 10 jobs in Portugal, or
- Invest €500,000 into a Portuguese business while maintaining at least 10 jobs
Expert Agents
Our team of experienced agents are knowledgeable about the local real estate market and are committed to providing excellent customer service. We strive to make your real estate experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
How can we help you?
Luxe Terra Group also supports clients looking to buy or sell residential property, locally and internationally.
Whether you’re:
- Buying your first home
- Selling an investment property
- Exploring lifestyle or international options
We’ll guide you through the process with clarity and care.