Golden Visa in Portugal — Residence Permit by Investment in 2026

Portugal’s Golden Visa is a government scheme that grants residence permits in return for investment. This immigration route is regarded as one of the best globally, according to various rankings. For foreign investors, it provides visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone and a fast track to EU citizenship — in just 5 years.

Over 11,000 foreign investors have secured Portugal’s Golden Visa since the scheme launched. The majority are from China, Brazil, Turkey, South Africa, and Russia.

Advantages of Portugal’s residence permit by investment scheme

Residence permit for the whole family. The entire family can join the scheme: the investor, spouse, minor children, and parents over 65 who are financially dependent on the applicant. Children under 26 may also be included if they are unmarried, in full-time higher education, and financially supported by the applicant.

Residence permit without tests. Unlike other residency routes, Portugal’s Golden Visa does not require applicants to sit Portuguese language or history exams.

Permanent residence permit if the investment is maintained. The initial residence permit is valid for 2 years and can be renewed twice for 2 years each. After five years of holding the permit, investors may apply for permanent residence.

Flexible stay requirements. Renewing the residence permit does not require living in Portugal for 183 days per year, unlike other schemes. Instead, investors need only spend 7 days in Portugal during the first year and 14 days every two subsequent years. However, those seeking permanent residence or citizenship must reside in the country for at least 6 months annually.

Permanent residence and citizenship after 5 years. After five years with a residence permit, investors gain permanent residence and can apply for Portuguese citizenship — one of the EU’s fastest naturalisation processes. By comparison, Spain and Italy require 10 years, while Greece takes 7.

Dual citizenship permitted. Portugal allows multiple nationalities, meaning passport holders need not renounce their citizenship.

More affordable than neighbouring countries. Property in Portugal’s cities averages 3,400 euros per square metre, compared to 6,000 euros in France.

Tax benefits. Buyers under 35 are exempt from IMT (property transfer tax) and stamp duty. Additionally, the IFICI regime offers a 20% income tax rate for 10 years to attract experts in science, technology, education, and innovation.

Investment options for Portugal’s Golden Visa

To qualify for the scheme, applicants must choose one investment category:

Investor requirements

To qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa scheme, investors must meet these key requirements:

• Minimum age of 18.
• Clean criminal record from country of residence.
• Stable income to support themselves in Portugal.
• Full compliance with investment conditions in their chosen category.

Specific requirements may vary depending on the selected investment option.

Steps to obtain Portugal’s Golden Visa

The Golden Visa application process involves several essential stages.

Investor Due Diligence

The initial stage consists of conducting due diligence on the prospective investor. This includes verifying their background, checking for any criminal record, and confirming the validity of the documents they provide.

Obtaining a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal)

Before beginning the Golden Visa process, applicants must obtain a NIF, which is an individual taxpayer identification number in Portugal. Without this, it is not possible to make investments or submit official paperwork. A NIF can be acquired by contacting the Portuguese tax office directly or through an authorised representative if the applicant is unable to be present in person.

Opening a Portuguese bank account

Once the NIF has been obtained, the next step is to open a bank account with a Portuguese financial institution. Banks may request documentation relating to the source of funds and proof of residence in Portugal. This account is essential for transferring money into investment vehicles and managing financial affairs in the country. In most cases, the investor must travel to Portugal and visit the bank in person to complete this step.

Making the investment

Following the opening of a bank account, the investor may proceed with their chosen investment. This could involve investing in funds, cultural projects, or launching a business. It is crucial that the investment complies with the requirements of the Golden Visa programme to ensure a smooth visa application process.

Applying for a residence permit

Once the investment has been completed, a candidate may proceed with applying for a residence permit. This requires compiling a full set of necessary documents. The application can be lodged at the Portuguese consulate in the investor’s home country or, if already in Portugal, directly with the AIMA Immigration Agency.

Biometric data

Following submission of the application, an investor is required to provide biometric data. This includes having fingerprints taken and a photograph captured. These details are used for security purposes and to prevent identity fraud. This step is typically carried out in Portugal.

Issuance of a residence card

Approximately two weeks after successfully completing all requirements, paying the applicable administrative fees, and receiving approval for the Golden Visa application, an investor will be issued with a residence card. This card is valid for two years, permits lawful residence in Portugal, and grants visa-free access to Schengen Area countries. It can be renewed upon expiration.

Documents required for a Portuguese investment residence permit

To apply for a Golden Visa, investors must prepare a number of essential documents, including:

• A valid passport or certified copies of passports for all applicants.
• Proof of lawful entry into Portugal and legal residence status.
• A recent passport-sized photograph of the applicant.
• Valid medical insurance coverage.
• A completed application for a criminal record check in Portugal.
• A certificate of no criminal record from the applicant’s country of residence.
• A certificate confirming no outstanding debts to tax authorities or social security institutions.
• Marriage and birth certificates.
• An employment verification letter.
• A student status certificate for children over 18 years of age.
• A taxpayer Identification Number (NIF).

All documents must be translated into Portuguese by a certified specialist and officially authenticated.

Renewal of the Portuguese Golden Visa

The Portuguese Golden Visa may be renewed twice, each time for a period of two years, provided the investor continues to meet the programme’s conditions. To qualify for renewal, investors must demonstrate that the qualifying investment remains in place and confirm that they have spent a minimum of seven days in Portugal during each residency period. Applications for renewal can be submitted up to three months before the current residence card expires.

The renewal process involves submitting updated documentation and undergoing the same due diligence checks as during the initial application. After five years of continuous residency, investors become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Share your circumstances and objectives with us to receive a free consultation from Tranio on all matters concerning the acquisition of a residence permit.

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