The Portugal Golden Visa is a program through which foreigners can obtain residency in the country by investing. Participation in the program gives foreigners not only the status of a residence permit, but also the opportunity to study, work and travel in Portugal, and you can also travel outside the country throughout the Schengen area.
How to get a Golden Visa
To participate in the program, a foreigner needs to invest in one or more areas in:
- Scientific research — from €500,000 ,
- Commerce — from €500,000 to create your own company in the country, which will provide at least five working rates; or you can invest in an existing company so that it creates an additional ten jobs or retains the old ones for three years,
- Jobs - they need to be provided in areas with a low level of population, the minimum number of such places is 8,
- Cultural heritage — from €250,000 ,
- A collective action — from €500,000 .
What documents do I need to apply?
The standard set of documents includes:
- Questionnaire
- A copy of the passport,
- Police clearance certificate,
- Documents about spouses and children (if necessary),
- Documentary evidence of the money invested in the country,
- Receipt for payment of the application fee.
In addition, you need to provide information about your current place of residence and familiarize yourself with the judicial system in Portugal.
Advantages of obtaining a Golden Visa
In addition to the previously mentioned opportunities for holders of "golden visas", there are additional advantages, for example, living in a comfortable climate all year round, without sudden temperature changes and long winters. On the plus side, there is also a strict tracking of the number of days spent in Portugal during the year: in the first two years, for example, it is enough to spend only 14 days in the country, and the next three years - 21 days each. After five years, citizenship can be applied for in Portugal.
What Has Changed in the Golden Visa Application Requirements in 2025
- All applicants must now apply online through the ARI system.
- You can pay for a document allowing residence in the country by card during the collection of biometrics.
- Registration for biometrics will occur automatically.
- If old applicants have not been active for more than six months, then their applications may be canceled.