The Portugal Golden Visa is one of Europe’s most attractive residency-by-investment programs, offering investors and their families a fast track to residency in the country. The program’s flexibility, coupled with Portugal’s favorable lifestyle, makes it a highly sought-after option for individuals worldwide.

Contrary to recent reports, Portugal's Golden Visa program is still ongoing. We asked five of our clients why they chose this path, and their top reasons included the availability of EU healthcare and educational opportunities, Portugal's stable political climate, the ideal environment for retirement, Portugal’s proximity to the U.S., and the ability to establish a second home in a beautiful, well-connected European country.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll outline the Golden Visa application process, required documentation, and essential timelines, helping you confidently navigate your journey toward residency in Portugal.

Step 1: Select Your Investment Route

The first step in applying for the Golden Visa is to choose the investment route that aligns with your financial goals and interests. As of 2024, applicants must choose from any of the following qualifying investment routes listed below:

Investment Funds: Invest in a Portuguese venture capital or private equity fund, with a minimum investment of €500,000. Contact ORM for recommendations on funds that meet Golden Visa requirements and your personal objectives.

Capital Transfer: Deposit €1.5 million into a Portuguese financial institution, or invest in government bonds or company shares.

Job Creation: Set up a business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for Portuguese citizens. You will need to maintain these positions for at least five years.

Scientific Research: Contribute to a government-approved scientific research or technology project in collaboration with universities or research centers.

Cultural Preservation: Invest in projects that preserve or enhance Portugal’s cultural heritage, including the restoration of historic sites or support for the arts.

Partnering with ORM can significantly enhance your investment experience. We can guide you in selecting suitable funds and ensuring that your investment aligns with both your financial objectives and the Golden Visa requirements. For more information, visit our rcurated list of funds.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documentation

Once your investment route is chosen, you will need to gather the required documentation for your application. The standard documents include:

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Portugal.
Proof of Investment: Documentation proving that you’ve made the required investment (e.g., bank statements, contracts, or investment fund agreements).
Criminal Record Certificate: A clean criminal record from your country of residence and any country where you have lived for more than a year.
Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF): You will need to apply for a NIF, which is used for tax purposes in Portugal.
Proof of Health Insurance: You must provide proof of health insurance coverage valid in Portugal.
Completed Application Form: You must complete the online Golden Visa application form on the AIMA website.

Step 3: Submit Your Golden Visa Application

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, our dedicated team will assist you in the seamless submission of the Golden Visa application and necessary documents online through the AIMA portal. The online process includes uploading your documentation, filling in personal details, and paying the application fees. Throughout the process, our team will collaborate with you as the Immigration Officer validates your Golden Visa application.

Initial Application Fee: €581 for the main applicant, plus €581 for each additional family member.
Additional Fees: Upon approval, there is an additional fee of €6,045.20 per applicant for the issuance of the Golden Visa.

Step 4: Attend the Biometrics Appointment

Once your application is pre-approved, AIMA will schedule a biometrics appointment, which you must attend in person at an AIMA office in Portugal. This first in-person visit to Portugal includes taking your fingerprints and photographs, and AIMA will verify your documents and investment during this appointment.

At this stage, AIMA will also verify your documents and investment. After the biometrics appointment, you will typically receive your Golden Visa residency card within a few weeks.

Step 5: Obtain Your Golden Visa Residency Permit

Once AIMA completes its review and your biometrics are processed, you will be issued your Golden Visa residency permit. This card is valid for two years, and during that period, you are required to:

Reside in Portugal for 14 days in the first year then at least 14 days every two years (not continuously, just a minimum of 7 days per year).
Maintain your qualifying investment for a minimum of five years.

Step 6: Renew Your Residency Permit

Your Golden Visa must be renewed every two years. The renewal process is straightforward but requires proof that you have maintained your investment and met the minimum stay requirements.

Renewal Fees: Expect to pay a renewal fee of approximately €3,022.66 per applicant.

Step 7: Apply for Permanent Residency or Citizenship

After five years, you can choose to apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. To apply for citizenship, you will need to:

Once you obtain citizenship, you are entitled to all the rights and privileges of a Portuguese citizen, including visa-free travel within the European Union.

The Portugal Golden Visa remains one of the best residency-by-investment programs in Europe. By following these steps and carefully selecting the right investment route for your needs, you can successfully navigate the application process and enjoy the many benefits of Portuguese residency.

Partnering with ORM ensures you have expert guidance throughout the Golden Visa process. Whether you're exploring investment options or need help with documentation, ORM can provide tailored support to make your Golden Visa journey smooth and successful. Contact us today to get started on securing your residency in Portugal.