Portugal Golden Residence Permit
Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program
The Portugal Golden Residency program for immigrant investors was launched by the Portuguese government in 2012. This program aims to attract high net worth individuals and their capital to Portugal for investment. This allows the Portuguese economy to grow and develop while the investor also benefits by gaining permanent residency in the EU, as well as the opportunity to obtain Portuguese citizenship.
Eligibility Requirements
• The applicant must be over 18 years.
• The applicant must meet one of the relevant 'Investment Options' listed below to qualify for permanent residency.
• The Applicant must spend a minimum of seven days in Portugal for the first year, then no less than 14 days each subsequent two-year period (this is called the stay requirement).
• It is necessary for the applicant to keep the investment for a period of 5 years.
• The applicant is required to provide proof of good character from their country of citizenship or residency.
Program Benefits
• The applicant and immediate family are entitled to Portuguese residency after the investment is made.
• Once golden residency is issued to the applicant and family, they are then able to travel freely within the Schengen region without visa.
• The applicant is able to live, work, and study in Portugal.
• The applicant can apply for permanent residency in Portugal.
• Golden residence permit holders are eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years.
• The minimum residency requirement is very easy and achievable.
Investment Options
1. Job creation – The creation of, at least, ten permanent job positions in Portugal. OR;
2. Scientific research – EUR 500,000 for investing in research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions involved in the national scientific or technology system. OR;
3. Investment funds – EUR 500,000, or higher, for the acquisition of units of investment funds or venture capital fund of funds dedicated to the capitalization of companies, capital injected under the Portuguese legislation, whose maturity, at the moment of the investment, is, at least, of five years and, at least, 60% of the investments is realized in commercial companies with head office in national territory. OR;
4. Artistic support – EUR 250,000 for investing in artistic output or supporting the arts, for reconstruction or refurbishment of the national heritage, through the local and central authorities, public institutions, public corporate sector, public foundations, private foundations of public interest, networked local authorities, local corporate sector organizations, local associations and public cultural associations, pursuing activities of artistic output, and reconstruction or maintenance of the national heritage. OR;
5. Commercial Societies – EUR 500,000, or higher, for constitution of a commercial society with head office in the national territory, combined with the creation of five permanent working jobs, or for the reinforcement of the share capital of a commercial society with head office in national territory, already existing, with the creation or keeping of working jobs, with a minimum of five permanent jobs, and for a minimum period of three years.
Portugal Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Portugal golden visa closing?
The Portugal Golden Visa program is continuing but investment routes and amounts have been changed.
2. Can I obtain Golden visa (residency) in Portugal through purchasing a real estate property?
No. On July 19th, 2023 the Portuguese parliament passed a bill ending the real estate route to the Golden Visa. Once this is signed into law (earliest August/September 2023) it will no longer be possible to apply for the Portuguese Golden Visa under the real estate route.
3. Does the Golden Residency program grant you permanent residency right away?
No, the Golden Residency Program is a temporary residency visa program where the visa is valid for one year only. However, you are entitled to renew it after two years. After five years, temporary residence holders may request a permanent residency permit.
4. Does Portugal recognize dual citizenship?
Yes, therefore you and your family can keep your original citizenship.
5. If I invest by purchasing a real estate property, when can I resell my property?
One of the requirements of this program is to hold the investment for a minimum period of 5 years, including real estate investments. Therefore, you will be able to resell your property after 5 years.
6. Can I include my family members in the Golden Visa application?
Yes, the applicant’s family members can apply for the “family reunion” option under the Golden Visa program in order to obtain residence permits. Family members included in this feature are the investor’s spouse, children and dependent family members. After five years, family members will be authorized permanent residency. After one year of permanent residency, family members are eligible to obtain Portuguese citizenship.
For more information, please fill out our Free Assessment and find out if you qualify.
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