Portugal

Securing residency in Portugal by investment opens the door to a wealth of benefits, both immediate and long-term. After only five years, investors and their families may apply for Portugal citizenship by investment, gaining one of the most powerful passports in the world, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 187 countries.

One of the standout advantages is the minimal physical presence requirement. Applicants need to spend just seven days in the country during the first year and fourteen days every two years thereafter. This totals only 35 days over five years - far less than most comparable European programs.

Portugal also offers a highly attractive lifestyle package. The climate is one of the sunniest in Europe, the cost of living is significantly lower than in Northern European nations or the United States, and safety levels are among the best globally. Additionally, investors may benefit from Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which offers favorable tax treatment for certain foreign income. Families enjoy the ability to include spouses, children, and even dependent parents under one Golden Visa application, ensuring a smooth relocation or residency plan for the entire household.

The Portugal residency by investment program stands out for its flexibility and investor-friendly terms. Unlike many other European schemes, it does not require permanent relocation, allowing investors to maintain their primary business or lifestyle abroad while still benefiting from EU residency.

Its relatively low investment threshold, starting at €250,000 for cultural heritage contributions, makes it one of the most cost-effective routes to EU residency. Family reunification is generous, covering spouses, dependent children up to 26 (if unmarried and studying), and dependent parents over 65.

Most importantly, the pathway to citizenship is shorter than in many other EU countries, with eligibility beginning after five years rather than the typical seven to ten. This combination of affordability, flexibility, and speed makes Portugal a highly competitive choice for those seeking a European passport by investment.

The Portugal Golden Visa is one of Europe’s most successful residency-by-investment programs and the primary pathway for non-EU nationals to secure residency in the country. It was launched in 2012 to attract foreign investment into Portugal’s economy and has since become a benchmark in the global investment immigration market.

The program grants a renewable residence permit in return for a qualifying investment, with the option to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years. Unlike many other programs, Portugal does not require applicants to permanently relocate, making it highly convenient for international investors who travel frequently.

Investment routes include contributions to private equity and venture capital funds regulated by Portuguese authorities, capital transfers to local banks, donations to cultural heritage projects, funding of scientific research, or direct job creation through business incorporation. With minimum investments starting as low as €250,000, the Portugal Golden Visa is also one of the most accessible programs in the European Union.

The Portugal Golden Visa is open to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals who are at least 18 years of age. Applicants must prove that their investment funds originate from outside Portugal and demonstrate a clean criminal record from both their home country and any other country where they have resided for more than one year.

To qualify for citizenship after five years, applicants must maintain their residency status, spend the required minimum time in Portugal, and demonstrate integration into Portuguese society. This includes passing a basic Portuguese language test at the A2 level, which is designed to be accessible for residents. Other requirements include proof of legal residence, a valid residency card, an up-to-date criminal record certificate, and payment of government fees.

These requirements ensure that investors not only contribute to Portugal’s economy but also establish a genuine link with the country before securing EU citizenship.

The application process for the Portugal Golden Visa is transparent and structured, though it requires careful preparation.

1. Select an Investment Route – Applicants decide on the most suitable investment option, such as equity funds, cultural donations, or business creation.
2. Gather Documentation – Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of investment, evidence of fund origin, clean criminal record certificates, proof of health insurance, and other personal documents.
3. Submit Application – Applications are submitted through the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
4. Biometric Appointment – Applicants must attend an appointment in Portugal to provide biometrics.
5. Receive Residence Permit – Once approved, a renewable residence permit valid for two years is issued.
6. Maintain Residency – Meet the minimum stay requirement and renew every two years.
7. Apply for Citizenship – After five years, submit an application for Portuguese nationality with proof of residency, language test results, and other supporting documents.

Fees:

• Initial Golden Visa application fee: ~€5,325 per applicant.
• Renewal fees: ~€2,663 every two years.

Citizenship application fee: €250.

Portugal has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for high-net-worth individuals seeking a second residency or citizenship. With a Mediterranean lifestyle, rich cultural history, and a modern infrastructure that balances tradition with innovation, Portugal is more than just a beautiful country - it is a strategic choice for global investors and families.

The nation is famous for its scenic coastline, world-renowned gastronomy, and vibrant cities such as Lisbon and Porto, which consistently rank high for quality of life. Beyond lifestyle, Portugal offers stability and security, ranking 6th worldwide on the Global Peace Index. As a member of the European Union, Portugal grants its citizens and residents access to one of the world’s most influential political and economic blocs. This means visa-free mobility across 27 EU member states, access to top-tier healthcare and education systems, and freedom to live, work, or invest anywhere within the Union.
In short, Portugal is not only a desirable place to live but also a powerful gateway to Europe and beyond.