The Golden Visa (Investment) is one of Portugal's primary residency routes for investors and high-net-worth individuals. Real estate route ENDED Oct 2023. Still available via funds (€500K) or job creation
This visa is designed for non-EU citizens. No income threshold — investment-based pathway.
After 5 years on this visa, you qualify for permanent residency in Portugal. Citizenship becomes available after 5 years of continuous residence.
Tax treatment
Tax treatment
Standard — but only 7 days/year residency required.
Standard Portugal progressive taxation applies (top rate around 28%).
Requirements
€500,000 in qualifying investment funds (NOT real estate as of Oct 2023)
OR €500,000 R&D investment
OR Job creation: 10+ Portuguese jobs
OR €250,000 cultural heritage donation
Spend 7 days/year in Portugal (vs 183 for normal residency)
Application process — step by step
1
Choose investment route
Fund, R&D, jobs, or cultural
⏱ 1 month
2
Make investment
Transfer funds, prove transaction
⏱ 1-2 months
3
Apply for Golden Visa
Through AIMA (formerly SEF)
⏱ 3-12 months processing
4
Visit Portugal 7 days/year
Minimal physical presence required
⏱ ongoing
5
Renew at year 2, 4
Maintain investment
6
Citizenship at year 5
Need to prove A2 Portuguese language
⚠ Common pitfalls
Real estate ENDED Oct 2023 — old applications grandfathered
Fund options have higher risk — vet carefully
AIMA backlog can delay 12+ months
Citizenship requires Portuguese A2 language test (not trivial)
Investment must be maintained throughout 5 years
Cost breakdown
The total cost of obtaining the Golden Visa (Investment) ranges from €13,000 to €30,000, depending on lawyer choice, document translation needs, and country-specific fees.
Application fee: €5,000 (paid to consulate)
Immigration lawyer (recommended): €8,000 on average — strongly recommended for complex cases
Health insurance (annual): €600-1,500 depending on age and coverage
Notary fees (where applicable): €50-200
Family inclusion
Yes — the Portugal Golden Visa allows family members to be included as dependents.
Spouse: Spouse can be included without additional income requirement
Children: Each dependent child adds 0% to income threshold
Same-sex partners: Generally recognized in Portugal, but verify with consulate (especially for non-married partners)
Path to permanent residency and citizenship
The Portugal Golden Visa is renewable and leads to permanent residency after 5 years of continuous legal residence in Portugal.
Citizenship is available after 5 years, subject to language exam (typically A2-B1) and integration interview.
This pathway is therefore valuable not only for relocation but as a long-term route to EU citizenship and freedom of movement across the Schengen area.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for the Golden Visa (Investment)?
€500,000 in qualifying investment funds (NOT real estate as of Oct 2023). OR €500,000 R&D investment. OR Job creation: 10+ Portuguese jobs. OR €250,000 cultural heritage donation. Available to non-EU/EEA citizens.
How much income do I need for the Golden Visa (Investment)?
No income requirement — this is an investor pathway requiring capital investment instead.
What is the tax rate for Golden Visa (Investment) holders?
Standard — but only 7 days/year residency required. Standard rate around 28%.
How long does the Golden Visa (Investment) application take?
Typical processing time is 90-365 days from submission. Plus 2-6 weeks for document preparation beforehand. Account for additional time at consulate appointments and post-arrival residency permit processing.
What does the Golden Visa (Investment) cost in total?
Application fee: €5,000. Lawyer assistance (recommended): €8,000 on average. Total: €13,000-€30,000 including all fees, translations, and apostilles.
Does the Golden Visa (Investment) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — after 5 years of continuous residence under this visa, you qualify for permanent residency. Citizenship is available after 5 years.
Can I bring my family with the Golden Visa (Investment)?
Yes. Spouse income requirement is typically covered. Each child adds 0% to the income threshold.
What are the most common pitfalls with Golden Visa (Investment)?
Real estate ENDED Oct 2023 — old applications grandfathered. Fund options have higher risk — vet carefully. AIMA backlog can delay 12+ months
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Last reviewed: 2026-05-01 · Sources: official government immigration websites + verified immigration lawyer firms.
This page is informational only — not legal advice. Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with a licensed immigration lawyer before applying.