Comparing Residency by Investment Countries
Similar Citizenship by Investment Programs
Taxes: What Are the Portuguese Golden Visa Tax Implications
Investors should know that Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime provides major tax benefits for up to ten years. Foreign income like pensions, dividends, and royalties might be tax-free. However, income from high-value activities within Portugal is taxed at a flat rate of 20%. This means you can enjoy tax breaks on foreign income while paying a 20% tax on certain local earnings.
The Updated Portugal Golden Visa Program in 2025
As of May 2025, the Updated Portugal Golden Visa Program in 2025 reflects major reforms that shifted the focus away from real estate investments toward contributions that support Portugal’s innovation, cultural preservation, and job creation. Real estate and real estate fund investments are no longer eligible pathways . Investors can now qualify by investing in venture capital funds, scientific research, or cultural projects—with minimum thresholds ranging from €250,000 to €500,000. A key highlight is the newly introduced “Social Golden Visa,” allowing contributions to affordable housing and migrant integration.
With faster digital processing and growing interest from U.S., UK, and Indian nationals, the revamped program continues to attract global investors seeking EU residency through meaningful, forward-looking investments. Despite past discussions about phasing it out, the program remains active and is not scheduled to end in 2025.
Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
| Recent Changes | Property investment option ended in October 2023. New investment routes include funds, scientific research, and cultural heritage donations. |
| Eligibility | Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. Requirements include a Portuguese NIF, a clean criminal record, and a qualifying investment. Must spend at least 7 days/year in Portugal. |
| Investment Routes | – Research and Development: Minimum €500,000 – Investment Funds: Minimum €500,000 – Cultural Heritage Donation: €250,000 (or €200,000 in low-density areas) |
| Processing Time | 12-18 months |
| Family Inclusion | Includes spouse, dependent children under 18 or full-time students, and dependent parents 66 years and above |
| Residency Requirements | Stay in Portugal for at least 7 days per year for 5 years. No requirement to live full-time in Portugal. |
| Residency Rights | Right to live, work, and study in Portugal. Visa-free access across the Schengen Area |
| Path to Citizenship | Available after five years of residency, with proof of ties to Portugal, language proficiency, and a clean criminal record. |
| Taxation | Non-habitual resident (NHR) status may offer tax benefits on foreign income. Income within Portugal is taxed at a flat rate of 20% for high-value-added activities. |
Portugal golden visa requirements
Capital Transfer Options
Applicants may qualify by choosing one of the following investment routes:
- A minimum investment of €500,000 in units of investment or venture capital funds that focus on capitalizing Portuguese companies. These funds must have a maturity of at least five years and must allocate at least 60% of their capital to companies headquartered in Portugal. (Investments related to real estate are excluded.)
- An investment of €500,000 in research and development conducted by public or private institutions that are part of Portugal’s national scientific and technological framework.
- A reduced investment of €400,000 for research if directed toward institutions located in low-density population areas.
- A €250,000 contribution to cultural or artistic initiatives, including the preservation or restoration of Portugal’s national heritage.
- A reduced €200,000 cultural investment is made in a low-density population area.
Business Investment Options
Applicants may also choose one of the following business-related pathways:
- Create at least 10 new full-time jobs in Portugal.
- Create 8 full-time jobs if the business is established in a low-density population area.
- Invest €500,000 in a Portuguese-registered company, either by forming a new business or increasing capital in an existing one. This investment must result in the creation of five permanent jobs (or maintaining at least ten jobs) for a minimum of three years.
Note: A low population density area is defined as a region with fewer than 100 residents per square kilometer or a GDP per capita that is less than 75% of the national average.
How to Apply: Step-by-step procedure
- 1. Initial Consultation
The first step is a complimentary consultation with us, where we explain all the different options available.
- 2. Preliminary Check
Migrate World performs a preliminary security check, before officially making any agreement as a guarantee that the applicant’s record is clean from any case that the government might reject his/her application.
- 3. Agreement and Fees
Fees include legal, due diligence, government, and application processing fees.
- 4. Collect Documents and Information
We will help obtain/translate and authenticate all necessary documents. A file is then prepared and submitted for the opening of the local bank account and fund subscription.
- 5. Obtain Portuguese Tax Number
Migrate World will assist you in obtaining a Portuguese non-resident tax number for all family members over the age of 18.
- 6. Open a Local Bank Account
Migrate World will assist you in opening a local bank account, and there is no requirement to travel to Portugal to do so.
- 7. Portugal Trip
The applicant visits Portugal to view properties (optional) and/or to sign legal documents. (if required).
- 8. Transfer of Investment
The applicant fulfills his investment purposes (transfers investment funds).
- 9. Collect Documents and Information (Golden Visa Application)
We will help obtain/translate and authenticate all necessary documents: A file is then prepared and submitted online to SEF (Portuguese Immigration and Border Services).
- 10. Collection of Biometric Data
Once the Golden Visa application has been submitted online and analyzed by SEF, we will be notified by SEF to schedule a date for the applicant to come to Portugal for the collection of biometric data.
- 11. Issuance of Golden Visa Residence Card
This process will take a few weeks. The Golden Visa Residence Card will be valid for one year.
- 12. Renewal of Residency
After receiving the Golden Visa Residence Card, the first renewal will be at the end of the first year. The second renewal will take place at the end of the third year, and the third renewal will take place at the end of the fifth year. Separate legal and processing fees apply.
- 13. Application for Citizenship
The applicant and his dependents can apply for citizenship after five years of residency. A basic Portuguese language exam is required at the time of citizenship application.
Application Options: Online or Through Migrate World
You can handle the Portugal Golden Visa application on your own through the official online portal. Alternatively, if you prefer expert guidance, we at Migrate World are more than happy to assist you throughout the process.
Application Timeline
The processing time for the Portugal Golden Visa application is typically between 12 to 18 months. This timeline covers all stages from initial submission to final approval.
Application Fee
For Portugal’s Golden Visa, legal application fees typically range from €5,000 to €8,000 for individual applicants. Dependents under 18 can be added to the application at no extra charge. However, there are additional fees of €500 to €2,000 for dependents aged 18 and older. Children under 18 are included at no additional cost.
Portugal Golden Visa Price
When considering the Portugal Golden Visa, keep in mind that there are several government fees involved, including application fees, permit issuance fees, and renewal fees.
Other Costs associated with Portugal’s Golden Residency Visa
In addition to the main investment requirement, applicants should budget for several additional costs, including government application fees, legal and advisory service charges, translation and document certification expenses, and biometric collection fees. These supplementary costs can vary depending on family size and the chosen investment route, so careful financial planning is essential to ensure a smooth and compliant application process.
Tips for a Successful Portugal Golden Visa Application
- Consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or investment advisor to ensure you choose the most suitable and compliant investment path.
- Prepare all documentation in advance, including financial statements, criminal records, and proof of funds, to avoid delays in processing.
- Verify that the investment vehicle (fund, business, or project) is officially approved and meets the current Golden Visa legal requirements.
- Stay updated on regulatory changes, especially regarding fund composition, job creation rules, and eligible geographic zones.
- Maintain accurate records of your physical presence in Portugal to ensure eligibility for residency renewal and future citizenship.
Validity and Renewal for Portugal Residency
The Portugal Golden Visa can be renewed every two years. To do so, you need to keep your investment and show proof of your required stay in Portugal, plus any other documents SEF asks for.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Many Dependents Can Be Included in a Single Application?
- Spouse: The applicant's legal spouse or life partner.
- Children: Dependent children under 18, or any age if they are full-time students and dependent.
- Parents: Dependent parents of the applicant or their spouse
2. How to avoid mistakes when applying for Portugal residency by investment program?
Partnering with Migrate World for your Portugal residency application ensures expert guidance and precision. Our experienced team handles the complex process, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors. We provide personalized support and up-to-date insights to help you make informed decisions.
3.Does Portugal provide a Golden Visa?
Yes, Portugal offers a Golden Visa program. The Portugal Golden Visa in a residency-by-investment program that allows non-European Union citizens and their families to obtain a residence permit by investing in Portugal.
4. If I have a Golden Visa, do I need to reside in Portugal or can I live in other countries?
With a Golden Visa, you are not required to live full-time in Portugal. You only need to spend a minimum of seven days per year in the country and can reside elsewhere if you prefer.
5. How long does it take to get a Golden Visa for Portugal?
The processing time for the Portugal Golden Visa application is typically between 12 to 18 months
6. Can family members be included in the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program application?
Yes, the main applicant can include their spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents under one application.
7. What are the steps for renewing a Portugal Golden Visa?
You must maintain your investment, meet the minimum stay requirement, and submit biometric and updated documents every 2 years.
8. How much do you need to invest in Portugal to get residency?
The minimum investment starts at €250,000 for cultural projects and goes up to €500,000 for funds or business creation.
9. Who can be qualified investors for the Portugal Golden Visa?
Any non-EU/EEA/Swiss national with clean criminal records and legal investment funds is eligible to apply.
10. Who Is Considered a Resident in Portugal for Tax Purposes?
Anyone who stays in Portugal for over 183 days a year or has a permanent home there is deemed a tax resident.
Related Articles
Discover Portugal
Updated: September 4, 2025, 08:03 AM |||Portugal is a little nation on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula, bordered to the north and east …
Spotlight On: Lisbon, Portugal
Updated: September 4, 2025, 08:03 AM |||Portugal is considered the 3rd most peaceful country in the world—perhaps because it is a country so old that …
Portugal
Updated: September 4, 2025, 08:03 AM |||In 1139, the Kingdom of Portugal was officially declared, and the country remained a monarchy until 1910. Today, Portugal …