Residency by investment

Portugal Golden Visa...

The Portugal Golden Visa is a highly sought-after Residency by Investment program that offers non-EU citizens the chance to secure residency in Portugal through a qualifying investment. Known for its relatively low investment thresholds and flexible requirements, the program provides a potential pathway to citizenship after a number of years. Portugal is renowned for its high quality of life, stable political environment, and rich culture. As one of the world’s most globalized and peaceful nations, it offers an exceptional living experience, rich in history, nature, and renowned cuisine, which make it an ideal destination for those seeking residency in Europe.

Your Gateway to Europe

The Portugal Golden Visa, officially known as the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, is a five-year residency-by-investment scheme for non-EU nationals. Portugal grants EU members visa-free access to the Schengen Area, with a minimal stay requirement of just seven days per year on average over five years.

Investment

Minimum investment of €250,000

Key benefit

Live, work, and study in Portugal while enjoying visa-free travel across 27 Schengen countries.

KEY BENEFITS

Discover the Advantages of Portugal Golden Visa

Residency

Grants a renewable 5-year residency. Eligible for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years (subject to language and residency requirements).

Citizenship

Apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of legal residence.

Low Stay Requirement

No full-time stay needed. Must spend 7 days in year one and 14 days in each following 2-year period.

Education Access

Entry to excellent Portuguese and international schools and universities.

Visa-Free Travel

Access to all 27 Schengen countries in Europe.

Family Inclusion

Covers spouse, children under 18, and dependent children up to 26 if studying and financially dependent.

High Quality of Life

Enjoy Portugal’s beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and affordable living.

Healthcare & Education

Residents gain access to Portugal’s quality public healthcare and education systems.

Real Estate Market

Strong investment opportunities with growing demand and high returns.

Eligibility Criteria for Portugal Golden Visa

1. Capital Transfer Options
Choose from the following investment routes:

  • Invest €500,000 in an eligible investment or venture capital fund focused on Portuguese businesses (excluding real estate), with a five-year maturity and at least 60% of the fund allocated to domestic companies.
  • Contribute €500,000 towards research initiatives by entities within Portugal’s scientific and technological network.
  • Invest €400,000 in the above options if located in a low-density area.
  • Donate €250,000 to support artistic endeavors or preserve Portugal’s cultural heritage. Contribution drops to €200,000 if directed to a low-density area.

2. Business Investment Options
Qualify by engaging in business activities such as:

  • Creating at least 10 new jobs in Portugal.
  • Creating a minimum of 8 jobs in a low-density area.
  • Investing €500,000 to establish or expand a Portuguese business, leading to the creation or maintenance of at least 5 to 10 jobs for three years.

Required Documents

  • Valid Passport – must be current and not close to expiry
  • Recent Passport-size Photographs – for official identification and application processing
  • Proof of Sufficient Funds – bank statements or financial documents proving minimum €32,000 annual income
  • Police Clearance Certificate – showing no criminal activity in the last 5 years
  • Medical Certificate – confirming the applicant is free from contagious diseases
  • Spain-based Health Insurance Policy – must cover the applicant’s stay in Spain
  • Proof of Accommodation – rental contract, hotel booking, or property ownership documents
  • Marriage Certificate / Birth Certificates – for spouse and children if applying with dependents
  • Work Contract / Proof of Business – official documentation from employer or freelance contracts
  • CV / Degree Certificates – resume and academic qualifications, including a Bachelor’s Degree

Program Overview: RC by Invest’s Guide

Processing time:

Processing times may vary from case to case, but it generally takes 12 to 18 months

Visa-free travel:

All 27 Schengen countries in Europe

Investment Types:

Portuguese capital transfer, real estate, business investment

Minimum Investment

Starting from €500,000

Eligible Dependents

Spouse, financially dependent children and financially dependent parents

INVESTMENT OPTIONS & COSTS

Explore Investment Opportunities
Portugal Golden Visa

Arts & Culture

Contribute €250,000 (€200,000 in low-density areas) to preserve Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

Scientific Research

Support innovation with a €500,000 investment (€400,000 in low-density areas) in Portuguese research initiatives.

Business Development

Invest €500,000 in a business that creates at least 5 jobs and boosts local economic growth.

Investment Funds

Commit €500,000 to government-approved funds that support Portuguese businesses and offer strong potential returns.

Government Fees and Additional Costs

Please note that additional fees, including due diligence, processing, and administrative costs, apply to all investment options. For detailed information, please contact us.

TIMELINE

Application process

MONTH 1
Complete KYC checks and sign the agreement. Gather initial documents and obtain a Portuguese Tax ID (NIF).
MONTH 2

Open a local bank account, and transfer investment funds.

MONTH 3- 4

Finalise all documentation and submit the residency application to SEF.

MONTH 12 - 18

Application undergoes security screening and official review. Visit Portugal for biometric submission, and receive residence cards upon approval.

FAQs

Everything You Need to Know

The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU nationals to obtain Portuguese residency by making a qualifying investment in the country.
You can invest in Portuguese venture capital funds (€500,000), invest in cultural heritage, create jobs through business setup, and more. Investments in low-density areas may qualify for reduced thresholds.

After 5 years of legal residence, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided you meet basic language and residency requirements.

No, full-time residence is not required. You just need to meet the minimal physical presence requirement to renew the permit.

Visa-free travel in the Schengen Area, the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, access to world-class healthcare and education, and a high quality of life.