GOLDEN VISAS IN PORTUGAL

The Golden Visa program is unique and irreplaceable, considering it is the only type of residency permit in Portugal allowing short minimum stay requirements. This means Golden Visa holders are not required to live in Portugal – although they can – and therefore they may legally hold a residence title without becoming tax residents in Portugal.

To obtain your Portuguese Golden Visa, you have to make a qualifying investment and keep it for five years. There are minimum stay requirements of just seven days per year.

Applicants must apply for a NIF number, open a Portuguese bank account (except for specific cases) and provide the following documentation:

– Portugal Golden Visa application form;
– Copy of a valid passport or travel documents;
– Declaration from your bank in Portugal confirming the transfer of funds from abroad;
– Proof of health insurance in Portugal (only required if the investor resides in Portugal)
– A background check or a police clearance letter from your country of origin;
– A declaration of honor compromissing to maintain the investment for five years;
– Documents showing a good standing with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority;
– Document showing non-enrollment or a good standing with the Social Security;
– Documents proving the family links and eligibility of the family members;
– A receipt showing that you already paid the application processing fee.

1 -– Collect the necessary documentation, duly legalized;

2 – Invest in an eligible activity;

3 – Submit your application;

4 – Attend a biometrics appointment;

5 – Comply with the minimum stay requirements;

6 – Keep your investment and comply with the renewal requirements.

Funds:

• Capital transfers of at least € 500,000.00, for the acquisition of units of non-real estate collective investment undertakings, incorporated under Portuguese legislation, the maturity of which, at the time of the investment, is at least five years and at least 60% of the investment is made in commercial companies domiciled in Portugal.

Job creation:

• Creation of 10 or more jobs*;
• Capital transfer of € 500,000.00, or more, for the incorporation of a Portuguese company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs; or investment in an existing company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs or maintenance of ten jobs; for a minimum period of three years.

Investment in specific activities:

• Transfer of capital equal to or greater than € 500,000.00 for investment in research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions involved in the national scientific or technological system*;
• Capital transfer equal to or greater than € 250,000.00 for investment in artistic production or support for the arts, for the reconstruction or renovation of national heritage, through local and central authorities, public institutions, or eligible private organisations*.

The minimum investment amount is reduced by 20%, for investments in low-density areas.

The minimum investment for Portugal’s Golden Visa is €250,000, applicable to specific cultural projects. Other options include €500,000 in investment funds or Job Creation.

Portugal’s Golden Visa offers the shortest path to citizenship (five years) with minimal stay requirements (7 days per year).

No, Portuguese language proficiency is not required for the Golden Visa. However, basic knowledge is necessary when applying for citizenship or permanent residency after five years.

1. We are a Portugal-based law firm with a team of qualified lawyers registered with the Portuguese Bar Association.
2. We operate independently, focusing exclusively on assisting you and your family with the Golden Visa residency process.
3. No intermediaries—work directly with a qualified legal professional throughout the entire process.
4. A client-focused law firm with in-depth expertise in the Golden Visa application and a commitment to prompt, personalized support.
5. Transparent and efficient service, with clear communication, no hidden fees, and a streamlined process to save you time and effort.
6. Proven track record of successfully securing Golden Visas for clients worldwide.
7. Deep expertise in Portuguese immigration law, ensuring compliance and maximizing your chances of approval.
8. Long-term legal support, from obtaining your residency to planning for citizenship.

RME Legal has wide experience in assisting clients with the Golden Visa process, offering guidance on investment options, legal requirements, and application procedures to ensure a smooth experience.

Yes, immediate family members, including spouses, dependent children and parents, can be included in the application, granting them the same residency rights.

The Golden Visa requires an average stay of seven days per year in Portugal.

Yes, the Golden Visa grants the right to live and work in Portugal.

After five years of legal residency under the Golden Visa, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided other criteria are met.

Yes, the Golden Visa is renewable, provided the investment is maintained and other eligibility conditions are met.

If your application is rejected, it’s advisable to consult with legal experts, such as RME Legal, to understand the reasons and explore possible remedies or alternative options.