Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program
The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, commonly known as the Portugal Golden Visa Program, offers a five-year residence permit to non-EU nationals through investment. This permit grants the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, and allows free circulation within the Schengen Area. Notably, the program has a low physical presence requirement, making it easier for applicants to maintain their residency status.
Advantages of Acquiring Portuguese Golden Visa
- Visa-Free Travel: Enjoy visa-free entry within any country of Europe’s Schengen Area.
- Residency Rights: Live, work, and study in anywhere of Portugal.
- Path to Citizenship: Eligibility to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residence, while retaining other citizenship(s).
- Low Physical Presence Requirement: Only seven days of stay in Portugal during the first year and 14 days per year for the subsequent two years are required.
- High Quality of Life: Access to excellent international and Portuguese schools, quality healthcare, rich cultural heritage, and a mild climate.
Investment Options for the Portuguese Golden Visa
Applicants can choose from the following investment options:
- Capital Transfer:
- EUR 500,000 for acquiring investment fund units dedicated to capitalizing Portuguese companies with at least a five-year maturity and a portfolio with at least 60% in Portuguese companies (excluding real estate).
- EUR 500,000 for supporting research activities in public or private entities within Portugal’s scientific and technological system.
- EUR 400,000 in an area where population density is low*.
- EUR 250,000 in support of artistic production or cultural heritage recovery/maintenance.
- EUR 200,000 in a low population density area*.
- Business Investment:
- Creation of a minimum of ten new jobs or eight jobs in a low population density area*.
- EUR 500,000 for incorporating or increasing the capital of a commercial company in Portugal, creating or maintaining at least five permanent jobs for three years.
*Low population density areas are defined as regions with fewer than 100 inhabitants per km² or a GDP per capita below 75% of the national average.
Procedures and Time Frame
- Application Process: Applicants must make two trips to Portugal:
- To select the qualifying investment, start the legal process, and open a bank account.
- To provide biometric data and original documents for the residence permit.
- Permit Issuance and Renewal: The first permit is generally issued for one year, though it has been extended to two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Subsequent renewals are valid for two years each.
- Processing Time: The process to acquire the Portuguese Golden Residence Permit typically takes over 18 months.
Ongoing Requirements
- Biometric Data: After receiving the permit, clients must provide biometric data and updated original documents at each renewal.
The Portugal Golden Visa Program offers a strategic route to residency and potential citizenship in one of Europe’s most desirable locations, balancing flexibility with significant investment opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program?
The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, which is also commonly known as the Portugal Golden Visa, grants residence to individuals and their families through significant economic contributions to Portugal.
What types of investment options available for the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program?
Type of investment opportunities include:
- Capital Transfer: Invest in Portuguese investment or venture capital funds, research activities, or cultural projects.
- Low Population Density Areas: Invest in areas with fewer than 100 inhabitants per km² or with a GDP per capita below 75% of the national average.
- Business Investments: Create new jobs, incorporate or expand a commercial company in Portugal, or contribute to job creation and maintenance.
What are the advantages of acquiring Portuguese residence through investment?
Benefits include:
- Residency Rights: Live, work, and study anywhere in Portugal.
- Visa-Free Travel: Access to the Schengen Area and visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 destinations.
Path to Citizenship: After five years of residency eligibility to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
What is the investment requirement for the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program?
The minimum investment starts at EUR 250,000, depending on the chosen investment option.
How long does the application process take?
The processing time is typically more than 18 months.
Is it possible to include family members in the application?
Yes, that’s correct. Under the Greece Citizenship by Investment Program, the main applicant can include:
- Spouse: The applicant’s partner.
- Dependent Children: Children who are financially dependent of the main applicant
- Dependent Parents: Parents who are financially dependent on the main applicant.
What are the residency requirements?
Applicants must stay minimum seven days in Portugal during the first year and minimum 14 days in each of the subsequent two-year periods.
What documents are required to apply?
Required documents include:
- A valid passport
- Proof of investment
- Health insurance
- A clean criminal record
- Other supporting documents as required
Is it possible to acquire Portuguese citizenship through the golden visa program?
Yes, upon maintaining residence for five years successfully, investors are eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
How to apply to the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program?
Applicants must:
- Make a qualifying investment.
- Submit the application with necessary documents.
- Undergo a due diligence process.