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The Portuguese Residence by Investment Program, commonly known as the Golden Visa, allows non-EU citizens to obtain residency in Portugal by making a qualifying investment. The program offers a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after five years, without requiring full-time residency in Portugal.

Eligibility requirements include:

• Being a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen

• Having no criminal record

• Making a qualifying investment in Portugal (fund investment or donation)

• Meeting the minimum investment thresholds specified by the program.

Key benefits include:

• Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone.

• Opportunity to apply for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.

• Minimal physical presence requirement (only seven days per year on average).

• Access to Portugal’s high-quality healthcare, education, and business opportunities.

• Inclusion of family members in the application.

The minimum investment depends on the type of investment chosen, such as:

• €500,000 investment in a fund

• €250,000 donation in arts or cultural heritage projects

The application process typically takes 4 - 6 months from submission to approval, depending on the complexity of the case and processing times at SEF (Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service).

Eligible investments include:

• Company Establishment and Creation of at least 10 jobs in Portugal.

• Minimum Investment of EUR 500,000 in a qualified Portuguese fund

• Minimum Donation of EUR 250.000 to a scientific research or cultural projects

Yes, Portugal permits dual citizenship. After five years of residency, Golden Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship without renouncing their original citizenship.

Golden Visa holders are not automatically subject to Portuguese taxes unless they reside in Portugal for more than 183 days in a year. Portugal also offers the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which provides significant tax benefits for new residents.

Commonly required documents include, but not limited to:

• Valid passport

• Proof of qualifying investment

• Criminal record certificate from the country of origin

• Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)

• Proof of health insurance coverage in Portugal

Yes, family members, including a spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents, can be included in the application. They will also enjoy the same residency benefits.

Residency cards are initially issued for one year and then renewed for two-year periods. Applicants must maintain their investment and meet the minimum stay requirement (seven days per year or 14 days every two years).

No, the program requires minimal physical presence. You must stay in Portugal for at least seven days per year or 14 days over a two-year period to meet residency obligations.

Yes, the fund investment must be maintained until you obtain permanent residency or citizenship. Afterward, you may potentially get back your investment without affecting your status.

Portugal is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other EU countries. Monthly expenses for a family of four can range between €2,000 and €3,000, depending on the city and lifestyle.

Portugal’s Golden Visa stands out due to its flexible residency requirements, relatively low investment thresholds, and the ability to gain citizenship in just five years. It also offers access to the Schengen Zone and a high quality of life.