Portugal started issuing residence permits through investment in 2012. The program is popular among investors: 27,000 applicants got Golden Visas in the last 10 years.

Investors choose between seven options. Applicants often buy a property for restoration for €350,000 or a new real estate for €500,000. The purchase of investment fund units for €500,000 is also gaining popularity. Golden Visa holders’ maintain their residence status by spending seven days a year in the country.

1. Visa-free travel to Schengen countries
   Portuguese residents visit the Schengen Area without a visa and spend up to 90 days out of 180 there.
2. Moving to Portugal or creating a “safe haven”
   The Golden Visa gives the holder the right to enter Portugal anytime, even when the country’s borders are closed. Residents can stay in the country without time limits. At the same time, living in Portugal is a right, not an obligation.
3. Tax optimisation
   Investors can get a particular Non-habitual Resident (NHR) status in Portugal for 10 years. An NHR doesn’t pay taxes on global income in Portugal, and the tax rate for the income earned in Portugal is reduced to 20%. The income tax rate in Portugal can be as high as 48% without the NHR status.
4. EU citizenship in five years
   Investors can apply for permanent residence or citizenship after five years as a resident. At the same time, they don’t have to live in the country. This is enough to meet the program terms and renew their residence permits to maintain their status.
   Portuguese citizens can live in any EU country and travel to 187 countries visa-free, including the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia.

1st option
Real estate purchase
€280,000+

2nd option
Purchase of investment fund units
€500,000+

3rd option
Supporting the arts and restoring cultural heritage
€250,000+

4th option
Investments in research activities
€500,000+

5th option
Capital transfer
€1,500,000+
With the creation of at least 5 jobs.

6th option
Business investments
€500,000+

7th option
Opening a company
Creation of at least 10 jobs.

The process takes 2-6 months.