Portugal | Residency by Investment

Portugal Residency by Investment Programme

Portugal Residency by Investment Programme

The Portugal Residency by Investment Programme, widely known as the Portugal Golden Visa, offers eligible non-EU investors and their families the opportunity to obtain Portuguese residency through a qualifying investment. Recognised as one of Europe's most sought-after residency programmes, it provides access to the Schengen Area, a pathway to Portuguese citizenship, and the flexibility of minimal physical presence requirements.

The programme requires a qualifying investment starting from €500,000 in a private equity fund, with residency typically granted for one year. Residence permits are initially valid for two years with the right to renew, while applicants are only required to spend one day every two years in Portugal under the programme overview.

Schengen
Visa-Free Regional Travel
€250,000
Minimum Qualifying Route

"A flexible European residency route with minimal physical presence requirements and a pathway to citizenship."

— Portugal Golden Visa

Key Benefits of Portugal Residency

Portuguese residency offers EU residence rights, Schengen mobility, family inclusion, business opportunities, and a potential pathway to citizenship.

public

Residency in a European Union Country

Successful applicants receive Portuguese residency with the right to live, work, and study in Portugal.

flight_takeoff

Visa-Free Schengen Travel

Residence permit holders may travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any six months without requiring additional Schengen visas.

schedule

Low Minimum Stay Requirement

The programme offers one of Europe's lowest physical presence requirements, requiring only limited time in Portugal to maintain residency status.

family_restroom

Residency for the Whole Family

Applicants may include their spouse, dependent children, and parents under the same application, allowing the entire family to benefit from Portuguese residency.

workspace_premium

Pathway to Portuguese Citizenship

Eligible residents may apply for Portuguese citizenship after completing the required legal residency period, subject to meeting all applicable legal requirements.

business_center

Business & Investment Opportunities

Portuguese residency provides investors with the opportunity to establish and expand businesses throughout Portugal and the wider Schengen region.

school

Access to Quality Education

Residents benefit from access to Portugal's education system, including many prestigious universities with competitive European tuition fees.

Who Can Apply?

check_circle

Minimum Age

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.

check_circle

Clean Criminal Record

Applicants must have no previous criminal convictions.

check_circle

Qualifying Investment

Applicants must complete a qualifying investment.

check_circle

Proof of Investment

Applicants must provide proof of the qualifying investment.

check_circle

Stay & Legal Requirements

Applicants must comply with the programme's minimum stay requirements and all legal obligations.

Investment Options & Costs

Portugal offers several government-approved investment routes under the Golden Visa Programme.

trending_up
Option 01

Private Equity Fund Investment

€500,000

Invest from €500,000 in a qualifying private equity fund under the Portugal Golden Visa Programme.

Available to non-EU investors
Compliant with Portuguese Golden Visa rules
Compliant with US, EU, and UK regulations
Six-year holding period
Redemption possible after the lock-up period
Potential returns of up to 8% ROI
palette
Option 02

Donation to the Arts

€250,000

Make a qualifying contribution starting from €250,000 to support approved cultural and artistic initiatives.

Approved cultural contribution
science
Option 03

Donation to Research Activities

€500,000

Contribute €500,000 towards approved scientific or research projects in Portugal.

Approved scientific or research activity
domain_add
Option 04

Company Creation

€500,000

Invest €500,000 and create at least five jobs through an approved business investment.

Minimum five jobs
info

Important: Government charges, legal fees, due diligence costs, fund administration charges, and professional advisory fees may apply separately depending on the selected investment route.

Your Residency Journey

SEG provides complete support throughout every stage of your Portugal residency by investment application.

Typically 1 Year
Residency Grant Timeline
1

Initial Consultation

SEG evaluates your objectives, financial profile, and family circumstances before recommending the most suitable residency option.

2

Document Preparation

Our specialists provide a comprehensive checklist and assist with preparing, reviewing, and organising all supporting documents to ensure your application meets programme requirements.

3

Complete Your Investment

Once your investment route has been selected, the qualifying investment is completed in accordance with Portuguese regulations.

4

Submit Your Residency Application

Your completed application and supporting documentation are submitted to the competent Portuguese immigration authority together with evidence of the qualifying investment.

5

Biometrics Appointment

Applicants and eligible family members attend a biometrics appointment in Portugal to provide fingerprints and photographs as part of the residency application process.

6

Receive Your Residence Permit

Following approval, residence permit cards are issued, allowing applicants and their families to enjoy the benefits of Portuguese residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Portugal Residency by Investment Programme? expand_more
It is a government-approved programme that enables eligible non-EU nationals to obtain Portuguese residency through a qualifying investment.
What is the minimum investment? expand_more
Qualifying investment options begin from €250,000, while the primary private equity fund route starts from €500,000.
How long does the application process take? expand_more
Portuguese residency is typically granted within one year.
Can I include my family? expand_more
Yes. Eligible applicants may include their spouse, dependent children, and parents in the same application.
Do I need to live in Portugal? expand_more
The programme has a low minimum stay requirement, with the overview stating one day every two years, while the benefits section outlines 7 days during the first year and 14 days during each subsequent two-year period.
Can I apply for Portuguese citizenship? expand_more
Yes. Eligible applicants may apply for Portuguese citizenship after completing the required legal residency period, subject to Portuguese nationality laws.
Can I travel within the Schengen Area? expand_more
Yes. Portuguese residence permit holders may travel visa-free within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any six months.

Ready to Begin Your Portugal Residency Journey?

Connect with our specialised team for a confidential assessment and expert support throughout your Portugal residency by investment application.

Contact an Authorised Advisor