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🇵🇹Portugal · investor

Golden Visa (Investment)

Real estate route ENDED Oct 2023. Still available via funds (€500K) or job creation

Income req
Investment
No salary req
Tax rate
28%
Progressive
Processing
90-365d
From submission
Total cost
€13,000-€30,000
App + lawyer + fees

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Overview

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

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.

Family inclusion

Yes — the Portugal Golden Visa allows family members to be included as dependents.

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.