The Portuguese Golden Visa program is a residency by investment program that grants residency permits to non-EU citizens in exchange for a qualifying investment in Portugal. This program allows for visa-free travel within the Schengen Area and can lead to permanent residency and citizenship after 5 years of continuous residency in Portugal.
Eligible investments include real estate purchases, capital transfers, and creation of jobs. The minimum investment amount required is €500,000 for real estate purchases or €350,000 for capital transfers or job creation.
Benefits of the Portuguese Golden Visa program include access to Portugal’s high-quality healthcare system, education system, and lifestyle, as well as the ability to live, work, and study in the country. Additionally, successful applicants and their families can enjoy visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area.
It is important to note that while the Portuguese Golden Visa program offers a number of benefits, it is a significant investment and it is recommended to carefully consider the terms and conditions of the program before making a decision.
Requirements for the Portuguese Golden Visa program
- Investment: Make a qualifying investment in Portugal, such as real estate purchase of minimum €500,000, capital transfer of minimum €350,000, or creation of at least 10 jobs.
- Health insurance: Hold valid health insurance coverage for you and your dependents.
- Criminal record: Provide a criminal record certificate from your country of origin and, if applicable, from any country you have lived in for more than one year in the past 5 years.
- Residency: Maintain a minimum of 7 days of physical residency in Portugal in the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period.
- Portuguese language proficiency: Demonstrate a basic knowledge of Portuguese language.
- Financial sustainability: Prove that you have sufficient means to support yourself and your dependents without relying on public funds.
Benefits of the Portuguese Golden Visa program
- Residency: Obtain residency in Portugal and visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area.
- Path to Portuguese citizenship: After 5 years of continuous residency, eligible for permanent residency and citizenship.
- Lifestyle: Enjoy Portugal’s high-quality healthcare system, education system, and lifestyle.
- Business opportunities: Access to the Portuguese market and the wider European Union market.
- Family benefits: Dependents, including spouse and children under the age of 18, can also obtain residency.
- Tax benefits: Portugal offers attractive tax benefits, including a non-habitual residency tax regime for certain categories of income.
- Flexibility: No requirement to live in Portugal full-time, allowing for a flexible lifestyle.
It is important to note that these benefits may be subject to change and it is recommended to verify the most up-to-date information with the Portuguese immigration authorities.
Seek the assistance of one of our qualified immigration lawyer to fully understand the benefits and obligations of the Portuguese Golden Visa program.