Portugal Golden Visa
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Nadia Dardón
Immigration Content Writer
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Quick Visa Facts
Visa length Initial residence permit valid for 2 years.
Possible to extend? Yes, renewable for additional 3-year periods.
Who can apply? Non-EU nationals who make a qualifying investment in Portugal.
Minimum Income Requirements Proof of financial self-sufficiency of approximately €7,200 per year (around $8,200 USD) per applicant.
Time for visa applications Typically 4 to 6 months from application submission to approval.
Want to know if you can apply?
Complete a visa quiz and see if you qualify!
Looking to invest in Europe and gain the freedom to live, work, or travel across the Schengen Area? The Portugal Golden Visa might be your gateway. Known as one of the most popular residency-by-investment programs in the world, this visa has attracted thousands of international investors thanks to Portugal’s stable economy, high quality of life, and strategic location within the EU.
But with recent legal changes and updated investment options, staying informed is more important than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just exploring your options, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, from who qualifies to how to apply.
Let’s dive into how the Portugal Golden Visa could open new doors for you.
Portugal Golden Visa Overview
⚠ Important Update:
As of June 23, 2025, the Portuguese government has proposed amendments to the nationality law that could affect Golden Visa holders. The draft legislation includes extending the minimum residency period required to apply for Portuguese citizenship. While the changes have not yet been enacted, they are currently under review and may significantly impact future applicants.
The Portugal Golden Visa, officially known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), was launched in October 2012 by the Portuguese government. The program was designed to attract foreign investment and boost the country’s economy, offering residency rights in exchange for qualifying investments.
While Portugal has since updated the eligible investment routes, removing real estate as an option and focusing more on cultural, scientific, and business-related contributions, the Golden Visa remains a sought-after pathway for non-EU nationals seeking residency in Europe.
Who Is It For?
The Portugal Golden Visa is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who want to:
Invest in Portugal through approved channels, such as investment funds or cultural projects.
Live in Portugal (or maintain the option to).
Apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years, provided all requirements are met.
It’s ideal for investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, or global citizens looking for mobility, residency rights in the EU, and a long-term pathway to citizenship.
What Does It Allow You to Do?
With a valid Portugal Golden Visa, you can:
Live, work, and study in Portugal.
Travel visa-free across the 29 countries of the Schengen Area.
Apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship after five years.
Extend residency rights to your family members, including spouse, children, and dependent parents.
Maintain your current lifestyle; only 7 days of stay per year on average are required to keep the visa valid.
The Portugal Golden Visa combines flexibility, low physical stay requirements, and long-term potential, making it one of the most attractive residency-by-investment programs in Europe.
Portugal Golden Visa Requirements
To apply for the Portugal Golden Visa, you’ll need to prepare several documents that demonstrate your identity, investment, and legal standing. Below is an overview of the general and special documentation required for your application.
Completed Portugal Golden Visa application form.
Valid passport and a copy of all used pages.
Two recent passport-sized photos (in line with Schengen photo requirements)
Proof of legal entry into Portugal (such as a Schengen visa or entry stamp)
Criminal record certificate from your country of origin and any country where you’ve lived for over one year.
Declaration of compliance with investment requirements.
Proof of payment for the application and processing fees.
Evidence of a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)
Proof of legal residency in a non-EU/EEA/Swiss country.
Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency
Applicants must show that they have the financial means to support themselves (and any dependents) during their stay in Portugal. While the qualifying investment under the Golden Visa program is generally considered sufficient proof of financial standing, Portuguese authorities may still request supporting documents.
Acceptable forms of proof include:
Bank statements
Proof of income or assets
Evidence of continued access to sufficient funds
As a general benchmark, Portugal’s minimum income thresholds for residency are based on the national minimum wage, so approximately €7,200 per year (around $8,200 USD) per applicant.
Private Health Insurance
Golden Visa applicants must have valid private health insurance that provides coverage in Portugal and across the EU. The policy must:
Be issued by a recognized insurer.
Cover the entire duration of your stay.
Meet the minimum coverage required for healthcare in Portugal.
Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans here.
Proof of Investment
You’ll need to present official documentation proving that your investment meets the eligibility requirements under the Golden Visa program. This varies depending on the type of investment, but may include:
Bank transfer confirmations.
Subscription agreements (for investment funds)
Donation receipts (for cultural or research contributions)
Business registration documents (for company creation)
Note: Keep in mind that each investment route has specific documentation requirements. We break them down below.
Eligible Investment Options for the Portugal Golden Visa
As of recent updates to Portugal’s Golden Visa program, real estate investments are no longer eligible. Instead, the government has refocused the program on innovation, culture, and sustainable development. Below are the current investment routes that qualify under the Golden Visa scheme:
1. Investment in Venture Capital or Private Equity Funds
Minimum investment: €500,000
Must invest in a fund regulated by CMVM and focused on Portuguese companies.
Required Documents:
Subscription agreement or declaration from the fund manager.
Proof of fund registration with CMVM.
Bank transfer receipts confirming the investment.
Declaration that 60% of the fund’s capital is invested in Portugal.
2. Investment in Scientific Research
Minimum investment: €500,000
Funds must support public or private scientific institutions recognized by the Portuguese government.
Required Documents:
Donation or investment agreement with the research institution.
Official receipt confirming the transaction.
Declaration from the receiving institution outlining the research project and the investment’s purpose.
Proof of bank transfer.
3. Donation to Artistic Production or Cultural Heritage
Minimum investment: €250,000
Must support projects endorsed by the Portuguese Ministry of Culture or regional cultural authorities.
Required Documents:
Donation agreement with a recognized cultural entity.
Official receipt of donation.
Certificate or letter from the Ministry of Culture or local authority approving the project.
Bank transfer proof.
4. Creation of a Portuguese Business with Job Creation
Must create and maintain 10+ full-time jobs for Portuguese residents.
Required Documents:
Company formation documents (e.g., Articles of Association)
Portuguese business registration certificate.
Employment contracts for at least 10 full-time employees.
Social Security registration and contribution proof for employees.
Business bank account activity as evidence of operations.
5. Investment in an Existing Business
Minimum investment: €500,000
Must create or maintain 5+ jobs for Portuguese nationals for at least three years.
Required Documents:
Shareholder agreement or capital contribution record.
Proof of job creation or maintenance (employment contracts, payroll, and social security evidence)
Business financial statements and operational history.
Confirmation from company management on the impact of the investment.
Important: All foreign documents must be officially translated into Portuguese and legalized (apostilled or consularly certified). Working with a certified immigration advisor or lawyer is strongly advised to ensure full compliance.
How to Apply for the Portugal Golden Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions
Applying for the Portugal Golden Visa involves several steps, from gathering documents to completing your qualifying investment. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to navigate the process, based on the most recent official procedures:
Step 1: Obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF) and Open a Bank Account
Before making any investment, you must obtain a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF). You’ll also need to open a bank account in Portugal to process your investment and pay associated fees.
Step 2: Choose and Complete a Qualifying Investment
Select your preferred eligible investment option, such as subscribing to a regulated investment fund or making a donation to a cultural project. Ensure all transactions are properly documented and traceable.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation
Gather all necessary documents, including:
Valid passport
Criminal record certificate
Proof of investment
Private health insurance
Proof of financial self-sufficiency
Application forms and photos
Ensure all foreign documents are translated into Portuguese and properly legalized (via apostille or consular legalization, depending on the issuing country).
Step 4: Submit Online Application Through the AIMA Portal
Applications are submitted online through the AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum) portal, which replaced SEF in 2023. You’ll need to create an account and upload your documentation digitally.
Step 5: Wait for Pre-Approval
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. If everything is in order, you’ll receive pre-approval and be invited to schedule a biometric appointment in Portugal.
Step 6: Attend Biometric Appointment in Portugal
You must travel to Portugal to complete biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo) at an AIMA service desk. Family members applying as dependents must also attend.
Step 7: Receive Your Residence Card
Once your application is fully approved, you’ll receive a temporary residence permit card, valid for two years. It can be renewed as long as you maintain your investment and meet the minimum stay requirements.
Minimum Stay Requirements for the Portugal Golden Visa
One of the most attractive features of the Portugal Golden Visa is its low physical presence requirement. Unlike other residency visas, you’re not expected to relocate full-time to Portugal, making this visa ideal for frequent travelers, international investors, and remote professionals.
How Much Time Do You Need to Spend in Portugal?
To maintain your Golden Visa residency status, you must:
Stay in Portugal for at least 7 days per year, averaged over a two-year period.
Or a total of 14 days within each 2-year residence permit period.
These days do not need to be consecutive—you can visit Portugal multiple times a year, as long as the total meets the required minimum.
Renewal Requirement
The initial Golden Visa residence permit is valid for 2 years.
It can then be renewed for 3-year periods, provided you continue to meet the investment and stay requirements.
You must continue to spend at least 14 days in Portugal for every 2-year or 3-year period, depending on your current permit phase.
Citizenship and Permanent Residency
To qualify for Portuguese permanent residency or citizenship, you must:
Maintain your investment and Golden Visa status for at least 5 years.
Meet the 14-day every 2 years stay requirement consistently.
Demonstrate basic proficiency in Portuguese.
Have no serious criminal convictions.
Note: The Portuguese government proposed changes to nationality laws in June 2025 that may affect the required residency period for citizenship. While not yet enacted, future applicants should stay updated on any legislative developments.
How Much Does the Portugal Golden Visa Cost?
The total cost of obtaining the Portugal Golden Visa varies depending on your investment option and the number of family members applying. In addition to the required investment, applicants must also budget for government fees, legal fees, and other administrative expenses.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Qualifying investment:
€250,000 donation to cultural projects (approximately $285,000 USD)
€500,000 investment of funds, research, or business (approximately $570,000 USD)
Application processing fee: €533 per applicant (approximately $605 USD)
Initial residence permit issuance fee: €5,325 per applicant (approximately $6,055 USD)
Residence permit renewal fee (every 2–3 years): €2,663 per applicant (approximately $3,030 USD)
Legal and advisory fees: Typically range from €5,000–€10,000 (approximately $5,685–$11,370 USD), depending on complexity and counsel.
Document translation and certification: €500–€1,500 (approximately $570–$1,705 USD), depending on document volume and languages
Private health insurance: €400–€800 annually (approximately $455–$910 USD) per person, based on age and coverage
Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and may change slightly depending on updates from the Portuguese government or individual circumstances. It’s strongly recommended to work with a qualified legal advisor to receive personalized cost estimates and ensure compliance with all official requirements.
Taxes for People With a Portugal Golden Visa
Holding a Portugal Golden Visa does not automatically make you a tax resident in Portugal. As long as you spend fewer than 183 days per year in the country, you are generally not considered a tax resident and are only taxed on Portuguese-sourced income.
However, if you do choose to relocate to Portugal and meet the 183-day rule (or establish a permanent residence there), you may become a tax resident and be subject to Portuguese personal income tax. In that case, you may also qualify for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which offers substantial tax benefits for your first 10 years of residence, including:
A flat 20% income tax rate on certain Portuguese-sourced income.
Potential tax exemptions on foreign income such as pensions, dividends, interest, and royalties, depending on your home country’s tax treaty with Portugal.
Other taxes that Golden Visa holders should be aware of include:
Capital gains tax on the sale of Portuguese assets.
Inheritance and gift tax (limited in scope and typically only applies to certain non-direct relatives)
Annual wealth tax (AIMI) on high-value Portuguese real estate holdings (not applicable if you're not investing in real estate)
It’s important to consult a tax advisor who understands both Portuguese law and international tax treaties to determine your obligations and optimize your tax position.
Living in Portugal with the Golden Visa
Living in Portugal with a Golden Visa offers the perfect balance between flexibility and access. While you're not required to move permanently to maintain your visa, you have the full legal right to live, work, and study in Portugal. Whether you choose to settle in Lisbon, enjoy the coastal charm of the Algarve, or explore the wine regions of the Douro Valley, Portugal offers a high quality of life, affordable healthcare, excellent infrastructure, and a safe environment. You’ll also have access to public services and the ability to enroll your children in local or international schools.
Golden Visa holders enjoy the freedom to travel across the Schengen Area without additional visas, and can live part-time in Portugal while maintaining their primary residence elsewhere. With a mild climate, rich cultural heritage, and growing expat communities, Portugal is an appealing home base for remote workers, retirees, and international families. Plus, after five years of maintaining your investment and meeting the minimal stay requirements, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship, unlocking even more long-term opportunities in the EU.
Best Cities to Live in Portugal
Portugal offers a diverse range of cities that appeal to different lifestyles—whether you're after vibrant city life, coastal relaxation, or a quiet, historic ambiance. Here are three of the best cities to consider living in with your Portugal Golden Visa:
Lisbon
Portugal’s capital is a dynamic hub of culture, business, and international living. Lisbon offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, with world-class restaurants, tech startups, international schools, and efficient public transport. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and families looking for a cosmopolitan lifestyle with access to beaches, parks, and rich cultural experiences.
Porto
Known for its stunning riverside views and famous wine industry, Porto is a picturesque city in northern Portugal that combines tradition with innovation. It has a more relaxed pace than Lisbon, but still offers excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and education options. With lower living costs and a thriving creative and tech scene, Porto is a favorite among expats and investors seeking an authentic yet modern European lifestyle.
Faro
Faro is the gateway to the Algarve, Portugal’s sunny southern coast known for its beaches, golf courses, and relaxed lifestyle. It’s perfect for retirees, families, or anyone seeking a quieter environment with plenty of sunshine. Faro has an international airport, quality healthcare, and a growing expat community, making it a practical and peaceful base for those living in Portugal under the Golden Visa program.
Cost of Living
The official currency of Portugal is the Euro. €1 EUR = $1.08 USD.
The average net monthly salary in Portugal is around €1,100, which equates to approximately $1,190 USD.
Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:
Lisbon
Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – €1,200 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – €1,800 per month
Basic Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) – €130 per month
Wi-Fi – €30 per month
Public Transport (one-way ticket) – €1.50
Groceries (2 people) – €350–€450 per month
Porto
Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – €900 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – €1,400 per month
Basic Utilities – €110 per month
Wi-Fi – €30 per month
Public Transport (one-way ticket) – €1.20
Groceries (2 people) – €300–€400 per month
Faro
Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – €700 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – €1,100 per month
Basic Utilities – €100 per month
Wi-Fi – €25 per month
Public Transport (one-way ticket) – €1.50
Groceries (2 people) – €280–€380 per month
FAQs
What is the minimum investment amount for the Portugal Golden Visa?
The minimum investment depends on the type you choose, ranging from €250,000 for cultural donations to €500,000 for real estate or investment funds. Exact amounts vary by investment category.
How long do I need to stay in Portugal each year to keep my Golden Visa?
You must spend at least 7 days per year or 14 days every two years in Portugal to maintain your Golden Visa residency.
Can my family members apply with me for the Golden Visa?
Yes, the Golden Visa program allows family reunification, so your spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents can apply as part of your application.
Does holding a Golden Visa grant me Portuguese citizenship?
Holding the Golden Visa itself does not automatically grant citizenship. After maintaining your investment and residency requirements for five years, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship, subject to language and other conditions.
Am I required to pay taxes in Portugal if I hold a Golden Visa?
Not necessarily. You are considered a tax resident only if you spend more than 183 days per year in Portugal or establish a permanent residence. Otherwise, you’re only taxed on Portuguese-sourced income.
Can I get help applying for the Portugal Golden Visa?
If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.
Author
Nadia Dardón is a content creator from Guatemala. She has worked fully remotely for the past six years as a copywriter, editor, and content creator, working for different industries. She started her digital nomad journey in 2022 and currently lives as an expat in Spain.
