In recent years, Portugal’s foreign resident population reached an all-time high of nearly 1 million. Foreign nationals are moving to Portugal for a number of reasons — including a pleasant climate, a lower cost of living, a welcoming community, a rich cultural heritage, and more.
While there are numerous ways to settle in Portugal, the Golden Visa program has gained significant traction. Let’s find out why.
Here’s a short guide explaining the benefits and requirements of the Golden Visa program and how you can apply:
What is the Portugal Golden Visa?
Launched in October 2012, the Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program. It grants non-EU and Swiss residents a renewable five-year residence permit in exchange for a qualifying investment.
The program was initially launched to attract foreign capital investment into the country and to recover from the financial crisis of 2008. As of 2025, the program has granted residency to over 12,000 international investors and their families. The country, in turn, has raised over €7.5 billion in qualified investments.
Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa Program
The top benefits of golden visa Portugal include:
Visa-free travel
The Golden Visa program is your permit to enter the Schengen Area. In simple terms, you can visit and stay in 29 European countries without an additional visa. If you get Portuguese citizenship, you can travel to 188 countries without the need for a visa.
Legal right to live, work, and study
The Portugal Golden Visa gives you the legal right to live, work, and study in Portugal. If you decide to live in the country full-time, you will have access to all public services, including healthcare and education.
Minimal stay requirements
This is one of the most standout benefits of the Golden Visa program. To be eligible, you only need to stay seven days in the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period.
Pathway to Citizenship
After holding the Golden Visa for five years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship and have dual nationality. That said, you must meet the following conditions:
- No outstanding tax payments in Portugal
- No criminal records from Portugal and your home country
- Passing a basic language test
Favorable tax environment
Portugal offers a favorable tax environment for business owners and high-net-worth individuals. For instance, you will not bear any tax responsibility unless you spend more than 183 days of the year in Portugal.
Who is Eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa?
You can apply for the Portugal Golden Visa if:
- You are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national.
- You are at least 18 years old.
- You hold a clean criminal record from your home country.
- You can invest a minimum of €500,000 in a qualified investment fund, OR make a €250,000 contribution to arts and cultural heritage.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa:
- Obtain a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF).
- Open a bank account in Portugal and make a qualifying investment.
- Gather the necessary documents, including a valid passport, criminal record certificates from your country of origin, and proof of investment.
- Have your lawyer or legal team submit the application through the AIMA ARI Portal.
- Pay the non-refundable Golden Visa application processing fee.
Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to travel to Portugal for your appointment at the immigration office. If your application is approved, you’ll receive your Golden Visa residence card.