Portugal Residency by Investment
The Portugal Golden Visa Program offers a structured and flexible pathway to European residency, combining minimal stay requirements with long-term access to the European Union.
Program Overview
The Portugal Golden Visa Program allows investors and their families to obtain residency through qualifying financial contributions.
It provides a clear pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, while maintaining one of the lowest physical presence requirements among European programs.
Key Details
Investment
Minimum investment of 250,000 EUR
Key Benefit
The right to live, work, and study in Portugal
Residency by Investment Overview
The Portugal Residency by Investment Program, also known as the Portugal Golden Visa, is a five-year residency program designed for non-EU nationals.
Portugal, as a full member of the European Union, provides residents with visa-free access across the Schengen Area. The program is widely recognized for its flexibility, requiring an average stay of just 7 days per year.
Investment Options
Applicants must choose one of the following:
- Capital Transfer Options
- 500,000 EUR investment in venture capital or investment funds
- Minimum maturity: 5 years
- At least 60% invested in Portuguese companies
- 500,000 EUR investment in research activities
- 400,000 EUR investment in low population density areas
- 250,000 EUR contribution to cultural heritage or artistic production
- 200,000 EUR contribution in low-density areas
A low-density area is defined as:
- Less than 100 inhabitants per km², or
- GDP per capita below 75% of the national average
- Business Investment Options
- Creation of 10 jobs
- Creation of 8 jobs in low-density areas
- 500,000 EUR investment in a Portuguese company with:
- Creation of at least 5 permanent jobs for 3 years, or
- Maintenance of at least 10 jobs over the same period
Key Benefits
- Visa-free travel across Europe’s Schengen Area
- The right to live, work, and study in Portugal
- Eligibility to apply for citizenship after 5 years
- Low physical presence requirement:
- 14 days during the first 2 years
- 21 days over the following 3 years
- Access to high-quality education institutions
- Access to international-standard healthcare
- High quality of life with:
- Strong safety standards
- Mild climate
- Rich cultural environment
- Dual citizenship allowed
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be non-EU nationals
- Demonstrate a legitimate source of funds
- Maintain the qualifying investment
- Provide a clean criminal record
- Submit all required documentation
Application Process
The process includes:
- Obtaining a Portuguese tax number
- Opening a local bank account
- Selecting and completing the investment
- Submitting the application with supporting documents
- Attending biometrics in Portugal
Upon approval:
- Initial residency permit: 2 years
- Renewal: 3 additional years
After 5 years, applicants may:
- Apply for permanent residency
- Apply for citizenship
Residency Requirements
To maintain residency status, applicants must:
- Spend at least 14 days in Portugal during the first 2 years
- Spend at least 21 days during the following 3 years
Pathway to Citizenship
After 5 years of residency, applicants may apply for Portuguese citizenship, subject to:
- Basic Portuguese language proficiency (A2 level)
- Clean criminal record
- Valid residency history
Portuguese citizenship provides:
- The right to live, work, and study across the EU
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180+ destinations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ'S)
What is the Portugal Residency by Investment Program?
A structured program allowing investors and their families to obtain residency through qualifying investments.
What is the minimum investment required?
Starting from 250,000 EUR, depending on the selected pathway.
Can family members be included?
Yes. The main applicant may include:
- Spouse
- Dependent children
- Dependent parents
What are the residency requirements?
- 14 days in the first 2 years
- 21 days in the following 3 years
Is citizenship possible?
Yes. Applicants may apply after 5 years of residency.
Start Your Application
Portugal offers one of the most flexible and efficient pathways to European residency and citizenship.
Speak with McKinsey today to assess your eligibility and structure your investment with confidence.