Golden Visa Portugal: How to Get Residency by Investment

What is the Golden Visa in Portugal?

The Golden Visa is a residency program aimed at foreign investors who are not nationals of the European Union or the European Economic Area.

Launched in 2012 under the name Residence Permit for Investment (ARI), the Golden Visa was designed to attract foreign investors and stimulate the Portuguese economy. It grants a residence permit in exchange for a qualifying investment.
 

What are the benefits of the Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa allows its holder and their family to live and work in Portugal. They can also travel freely within the EU and the Schengen Area.

After 5 years, the Golden Visa holder can apply for Portuguese citizenship.
They can also benefit from tax advantages under the IFICI, such as the 20% flat income tax rate. Additionally, they may be exempt from taxes on foreign income for 10 years, as well as inheritance and gift taxes.
 

How to obtain the Golden Visa?

In 2025, a reform of the Golden Visa program excluded real estate from the list of eligible investments.

However, there are still several ways to qualify:

• Invest €500,000 in Portuguese private equity or venture capital funds.
• Donate €500,000 to public or private scientific research in Portugal.
• Donate €250,000 to support artistic production or the preservation of national cultural heritage.
• Invest €500,000 to establish a commercial company in Portugal, creating at least five permanent jobs.

Investment funds must be registered with the CMVM, the Portuguese Securities Market Commission, and have a minimum lifespan of five years.

Granted for a period of two years, the Golden Visa can be renewed if the investment is maintained. To keep the visa, the holder must be physically present in Portugal for at least 7 days in the first year and 14 days every two years thereafter. Finally, they must not have a criminal record in Portugal or be subject to an entry or residence ban in the Schengen Area.