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.
A valid Golden Visa residence permit also allows short stays in other Schengen Area countries, up to 90 days in any 180-day period, without an additional visa.
Golden Visa residence may count toward a later application for permanent residence or nationality, but neither outcome is automatic. For nationality applications submitted under the rules effective 19 May 2026, the minimum legal-residence period is seven years for nationals of EU or Portuguese-speaking countries and ten years for other nationals, alongside language, knowledge, good-standing and other requirements.
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.
- A spouse or partner, qualifying dependent children and qualifying dependent parents may be included through family reunification, subject to evidence required under the current rules.
