Portugal Golden Visa Process 2025 – Application Process

Portugal’s Golden Visa program continues to be one of the most attractive residency-by-investment pathways in Europe. The program grants non-EU/EEA citizens the ability to live, work, and study in Portugal by making a qualifying investment in the Portuguese economy.

Benefits:

1. Residency in Portugal

The Golden Visa grants you and your family legal residency in Portugal, allowing you to live, work, and study in the country.

2. Visa-Free Travel in the Schengen Area

Golden Visa holders can travel visa-free to over 27 countries in the Schengen Zone, including France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

You may apply for permanent residency after five years and for Portuguese citizenship if you meet requirements such as basic Portuguese language skills and a clean criminal record. Portugal allows dual citizenship.

4. Minimal Stay Requirement

Only seven days of physical presence per year in Portugal are required to maintain the visa. This makes the program attractive to those who do not plan to relocate immediately.

5. Family Reunification

You can include your spouse or legal partner, dependent children, and dependent parents of either spouse in the application. All family members receive the same residency rights.

6. Access to Public Services

As a legal resident, you and your family can access Portugal’s public healthcare system and public education, subject to standard residency rules.

7. Business and Tax Flexibility

You may start or run a business in Portugal. Depending on your situation, you may also benefit from the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax regime, which offers favorable tax treatment for up to 10 years.

8. Stable Investment Options

Although real estate is no longer eligible, you can still qualify through approved investment funds, job creation, or support for research and cultural projects. These investment paths are regulated and vetted by the Portuguese government.

Check Also: Portugal Work Visa Process – Visit Here

Who Can Apply for Portugal Golden Visa Process 2025?

Eligible applicants must:

• Be non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
• Be 18 years or older
• Hold a clean criminal record (Portugal and country of residence)
• Provide proof of legal source of investment funds
• Commit to maintaining the investment for at least 5 years
• Meet minimum stay requirements: 7 days in year 1; 14 days in each subsequent 2-year period

Family members eligible for inclusion:

• Spouse or legal partner
• Children under 18
• Dependent children over 18 enrolled in school
• Dependent parents of the applicant or spouse

Qualifying Investment Routes:

Portugal now encourages investments in areas that support economic, cultural, and scientific development. Real estate in high-density cities is no longer eligible.

• Investment Funds
  • Minimum: €500,000
  • Must invest in qualifying Portuguese venture capital or private equity funds regulated by CMVM
• Scientific Research
  • Minimum: €500,000
  • Contribute to research conducted by certified institutions in areas like health, science, or technology
• Cultural Heritage & Arts Donation
  • Minimum: €250,000
  • Donate to public or private projects preserving Portuguese culture or supporting the arts
• Company Formation & Job Creation
  • Minimum: €500,000
  • Create at least 5 full-time jobs and maintain them for 5 years

Application Process:

• Choose Your Investment
  • Work with a qualified legal or financial advisor to select a compliant and suitable option
• Get a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF)
  • Required to open a bank account and make an investment
• Open a Portuguese Bank Account
  • Use this account to transfer and track investment funds
• Gather Required Documentation
  • Passport, proof of investment, police clearance, proof of legal entry, NIF, health insurance, marriage/birth certificates (if applicable)
• Make the Investment
  • Transfer funds and execute the qualifying investment
• Submit the Application Online
  • Use the official SEF platform; often done by your legal representative
• Attend Biometrics Appointment
  • In person in Portugal or at a Portuguese consulate
• Receive Residence Permit
  • Initial permit valid for 2 years, then renewable every 2 years

Residency Renewal Requirements:

• Maintain qualifying investment
• Fulfill minimum physical presence (14 days per 2-year period)
• Provide updated documents and proof of investment at each renewal

Path to Permanent Residency & Citizenship:

After 5 years, Golden Visa holders can apply for:

• Permanent Residency: Unlimited stay and work rights in Portugal
• Citizenship: Requires basic Portuguese language proficiency and passing a citizenship test

Fees and Costs (Estimated):

• Government application fee: €533 per applicant
• Initial Golden Visa issuance fee: €5,325 per applicant
• Renewal fees: €2,663 per applicant
• Legal fees: €5,000–€10,000 (varies)
• Additional costs: translation, notarization, document certification

Tax Considerations:

• Golden Visa holders are not automatically tax residents
• If they relocate to Portugal, they may apply for the NHR tax regime
• NHR offers reduced tax on foreign income, pensions, and dividends for 10 years

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Choosing ineligible investment routes (e.g., urban real estate)
• Incomplete or improperly certified documentation
• Missing renewal deadlines
• Not maintaining the investment for the full 5-year term

Final Thoughts:

The Portugal Golden Visa remains a powerful gateway to European residency and eventual citizenship. While the investment landscape has shifted, the benefits remain substantial for those who plan wisely. Partner with licensed professionals, follow updated government guidelines, and take advantage of one of the most flexible residency-by-investment programs in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions: