Top 10 key questions about Portugal’s Golden Visa Programme

The growing interest in Golden Visa programmes across Europe has led to many frequently asked questions from potential investors. In this article we highlight the top 10 questions we most frequently receive about the Golden Visa, from application requirements to family inclusion options. Here is everything you need to know:

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1. Is the Portugal Golden Visa Programme still on?

Yes, the Golden Visa Programme is still active. While there were significant changes in 2023, most notably the exclusion of real estate investments, Portugal's Golden Visa remains one of the top-ranked programmes worldwide. ‍

2. What investment options are available for the Portugal Golden Visa Programme?

The focus of the Golden Visa Programme has now shifted to private fund investments, which are prohibited from directly or indirectly investing in real estate. These funds offer a range of options, from venture capital to more traditional choices like private equity and fixed-income funds, giving investors the flexibility to choose according to their interests and risk profiles. ‍

3. How much do I need to invest to obtain the Portugal Golden Visa?

To obtain the Portugal Golden Visa, a minimum investment of €500,000 is required. However, you don't have to place the entire sum in a single fund. You can diversify your investment across different funds, as long as the total investment meets the €500,000 minimum.

4. Is there an age limit for applying to the Portugal Golden Visa Programme?

No, there is no age limit for the principal applicant of a Portugal Golden Visa programme, however the person must be over 18 years old.

5. Can I include my family in the Programme?

Yes, family members, including parents and children, can be included in a single investment. However, the children must be financially dependent, whether they are minors or single dependent adults.

6. Is relocation to Portugal mandatory within the Golden Visa Programme?

There is no need to relocate, you only need to stay a minimum of 7 days per year or 15 days every two years for the duration of the programme. Portugal is the only country with such a low stay requirement.

7. What rights are granted to me by subscribing to the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa allows applicants to apply for citizenship 5 years from the application date with A2 level Portuguese. Furthermore, having the Portugal Golden Visa provides applicants the right to travel without a visa throughout the European Union (26 countries of the Schengen area). Last but not least, it grants the right to live, work and study in Portugal, and after the citizenship is processed, in the whole of Europe.

8. Do I need to change my tax residence?

It’s important to distinguish between tax and civil residence. While you only need to stay in Portugal for 14 days every two years under the Golden Visa programme, staying over six months would trigger the need to change your tax residence. For most investors, the Golden Visa allows residency without altering tax residence.

9. Do I need to travel to apply for a Golden Visa?

You don’t need to travel to start the application process. However, you will need to travel to complete biometric registration and to meet the residency requirements.

10. Do all European countries offer Golden Visa Programmes?

Not all European countries have Golden Visa schemes, and some have recently increased investment thresholds. For instance, Greece and Spain have adjusted the amount of the investment and the benefits offered. It’s important to act promptly, as the European Union has recommended that member countries consider phasing out such programmes.