Portugal Golden Visa Program
Portugal is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe. With its warm Mediterranean climate, beautiful landscape, growing economy, and affordable cost of living, this country welcomes hundreds of thousands of people every year, and a lot of them come in through the Portugal Golden Visa program.
What Is the Portugal Golden Visa Program?
The Portugal Golden Visa program, officially known as the residence permit for investment activity (ARI), is a residency scheme that allows non-EU investors to live, work, and study in Portugal for up to five years. It was introduced by the Portuguese Government in October 2012 to attract foreign investment and strengthen the economy. This program has been very popular among international investors seeking European residency. Since its launch, more than 12,000 foreigners and their families have benefited from the Golden Visa program.
Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa
The Golden Visa offers plenty of advantages for investors. These include:
Visa-Free Travel
As a Golden Visa holder, you can travel to all 29 Schengen countries without needing to obtain a visa.
Live, Work, and Study in Portugal
Portugal Golden Visa gives you the opportunity to live, work, and study in Portugal. So, you can start a business, attend top British and American international schools, and enjoy the country's excellent healthcare.
Relocate with Your Family
You can move to the country with your loved ones. As an applicant, you may include family members like your spouse, unmarried children, and parents in your Golden Visa application.
Citizenship
You can be eligible for citizenship after five years of holding a Golden Visa. The Portuguese passport will give you visa-free access to over 180 countries worldwide.
Tax Advantages
As a Golden Visa holder, you don't pay any income tax in Portugal unless you spend more than 183 days of the year in the country.
Eligibility Criteria for a Portugal Golden Visa
- Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
- Have a clean criminal record
- Be above 18 years of age
- Invest at least €250,000
- Spend a minimum of 7 days a year in Portugal
Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options
Individuals who want to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa can consider the following investment options.
Fund Investment
Contribute at least €500,000 to a qualifying Portuguese fund, such as Private Equity and Venture Capital. Funds that have direct or indirect links to real estate are excluded.
Company Creation
Create a new business that employs at least 10 full-time workers in an urban area or at least 8 full-time workers in a low-density area in Portugal.
Another option is to invest a minimum of €500,000 in an existing business in Portugal. Note: this business must hire a minimum of five new full-time workers for at least three years.
Donation
Donate a minimum of €250,000 towards the preservation and reconstruction of Portugal's cultural heritage, or donate a minimum of €500,000 to scientific research institutes in the country.
Capital Transfer (no longer available)
Transfer capital of €1.5 million or above to Portugal. Note: This investment option was discontinued in October 2023.
Real Estate Acquisition (no longer available)
Buying real estate worth €500,000 can make you eligible for a Portugal Golden Visa. The minimum investment reduces to €400,000 if the property is located in a low-density area.
Golden Visa Portugal Properties
At Arcus Estates, we have plenty of luxurious properties in Portugal that could qualify you for a Golden Visa. Unfortunately, real estate investments are no longer a viable option for obtaining the Golden visa as of October 2023.
However, you can still consider alternative routes, such as research funding, cultural support, and investment funds. For example, investing in venture capital funds, like the Mercan Hospital Investment fund, can get you the Portugal Golden Visa. Read more here.
How to Apply for A Portugal Golden Visa?
The process of obtaining a Golden Visa is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps you need to take:
Decide On the Investment Type
First, you need to research all the available options and choose the one you want to use. The investment fund is one route that has become very popular nowadays. Before making your decision, you may want to speak with a professional for expert advice and guidance.
Gather All Necessary Documents
Collect all the documents you need for the application.
Get a NIF and Create a Bank Account
You need an NIF to do financial transactions in Portugal. Get a NIF and use it to open a bank account.
Make the Investment
Once you've decided which option to use, make the payment and finalize your investment.
Submit Pre-Application
Complete your pre-application on the SEF official website.
Schedule an SEF Appointment
After reviewing your application, SEF will give you a date for a biometrics appointment.
Get Your Golden Visa
You and your dependents will receive your Golden Visa residence cards that can be renewed every two years.
Get in Touch With Us Today
Need help securing a Portugal Golden Visa? Contact us to speak with one of our courteous and friendly representatives. Our experts will be happy to answer all your questions and guide you every step of the way.