Golden Visa Program

Portugal residency.

It is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain, and a member of the United Nations and the European Union.

Time to Residence Permit
4-5 Months
Schengen Area Country
Yes
Family
Applicant, Spouse, Children and Parents
Residency

About Portugal.

It is a southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain. Its location on the Atlantic Ocean has influenced many aspects of its culture: salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes, the Algarve’s beaches are a major destination, and much of the nation’s architecture dates to the 1500s–1800s, when Portugal had a powerful maritime empire. A member of the United Nations and the European Union, Portugal was also one of the founding members of NATO, the eurozone, the OECD, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.

For individuals seeking European access, Portugal passport investment opportunities often serve your needs. It can act as an attractitve options with long-term stability, and flexible residency options through established investment pathways.

Investment

Investment options.

The Portuguese Residency by Investment Program

The Golden Visa program in Portugal was first created in 2012 to attract foreign investment to the country. Since the introduction of the program, more than 20,000 investor & family members have benefited from the program.

With your Golden Visa permit, you will be registered with the Schengen Area central system which will enable you to enter all European countries without the need for an additional visa.

After five years, you can apply for permanent residency and citizenship. The Portuguese passport is among the top 10 most powerful travel document allowing visa-free travel to 182 countries.

To be eligible for the Portuguese Golden Visa program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Invest at least €500,000 in a Portuguese fund.
  • Pay application, processing and legal fees.
  • Submit proof that investment funds originate from abroad.
  • Have a clean police record.
  • Visit and stay in Portugal at least 7 days for the first year then at least 14 days every two years.
  • Spouse, children up to the age of 24 and parents above 55 can be included in the application.
Tax

Golden Visa Tax Treatment.

Most Golden Visa holders remain non-tax-resident in Portugal, since the program's minimum stay requirement sits comfortably below the 183-day threshold that would trigger Portuguese tax residency. As a non-resident, only Portuguese-source income is taxed — worldwide income and investment fund gains are not.

For investors who do choose to relocate and become tax resident: the previous NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) regime closed to new applicants on January 1, 2024. It has been replaced by a narrower scheme, IFICI, offering a 20% flat tax rate for up to 10 years — but only for specific high-value roles such as scientific research, innovation, or qualifying tech and startup positions.

Not sure which fund is right for you?

Speak with a Global Pass advisor about the qualifying investment funds available for Portugal's Golden Visa.

Book a Free Consultation
Country Profile

Portugal at a glance.

Continent
Europe
Capital
Lisbon
Population
10.2 M
Total Area
92.2 KM2

Portugal could be your gateway to the EU.

Every applicant's situation is different. Talk to a Global Pass advisor about how this program fits your goals.

Book a Free Consultation
Lifestyle

Life in Portugal.

The Golden Visa doesn't require relocation, but it grants investors the freedom to experience Portugal's lifestyle and culture if they choose to.

Quality of Life

Portugal offers one of Europe's best lifestyles, with over 300 days of sunshine, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed pace of life. Ranked among the world's safest countries, it combines excellent infrastructure, fast internet, and modern transport with easy global connections. English is widely spoken, making it accessible for international residents.

Healthcare

Portugal's healthcare system is ranked among the best globally, surpassing the UK and US in cost-efficiency. Both public and private systems are accessible, with private clinics offering top-tier service. Many doctors speak English and are trained internationally.

Economic Environment

Portugal's economy is thriving, led by technology, tourism, manufacturing, and green energy. Lisbon has become a key European tech hub, attracting startups and AI investment, while over 60% of Portugal's electricity now comes from renewable sources. Tourism remains a key pillar of the economy alongside this growth.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

The questions applicants ask most often about this program.

International business executives and investors who are active worldwide consider an alternative citizenship and passport a powerful tool for international tax planning and a safety net should the living conditions at home become unbearable. The residence permit grants the holder the right to work, the right to an education, access to the public health system, and access to the courts. Furthermore, applicants may file for Portuguese/European citizenship after five years of residency if desired.

Yes, spouse, children and parents can be added at the same time as the initial application, or anytime thereafter.

Yes, the program requires a minimum stay of 7 days during the first year. The minimum stay during the second residency period (years 2 and 3) is a total of 14 days. The minimum stay during the third residency period (years 4 and 5) is also a total of 14 days.

No. Once citizenship is granted, there are no residency requirements.

The application takes approximately 4 to 5 months to process after all documentation has been filed and the required investment is made.

Yes. The Golden Residence Permit authorizes the applicant to live and work in Portugal.

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