Portugal Golden Visa is recognized as one of the most popular residency by-investment programs in Europe and globally. Initiated in October 2012, the program has successfully drawn more than 10,000 applicants aiming to secure their Golden Visas since its launch.
The Portugal Golden visa program is a residence permit that allows individuals to attain permanent residency or citizenship within a more 5 years by investing in the country. This program was established with the primary goal of drawing foreign investment into Portugal, which was particularly necessary in the aftermath of the 2008 economic downturn. The initiative has been remarkably successful, generating over €7.5 billion in investment since its inception.
Why Choose Portugal?
Portugal is renowned for its extensive coastline, favorable climate, welcoming populace, and exquisite cuisine. Additionally, it offers a high standard of living at a relatively low cost, making it an appealing choice for international investors looking to secure residency while enjoying the benefits of residing, working, and studying in Portugal.
Country’s Highlight:
Portugal is ranked as the seventh friendliest country globally.
Its standardized life is well-known worldwide and considered the seventh safest country in the world.
The living cost is very affordable.
Attractive tax benefits that attract expats to Portugal.
Best destination to retire.
Benefits of a Golden Visa
A minimum investment of €250,000 allows you to obtain residency, representing the most accessible investment criteria in Europe.
After a waiting period of just 5 years and a residency of 35 days within the country, you can become eligible for permanent residency, dual citizenship, and a second passport in Portugal.
This allows for visa-free travel to 26 countries within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days every 180 days, as well as access to over 130 countries globally.
The tax benefits associated with the Portugal Golden Visa are particularly advantageous, especially the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax status, which offers significant tax incentives for both personal and business finances.
The program also features a broad definition of dependents, granting family members the opportunity to live, work, travel, study, and obtain permanent residency or citizenship in Portugal.
Eligiblity Criteria for Portugal Golden Visa?
Any individual who is not a national of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland is eligible to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa.
You must be a minimum of 18 years of age and possess a clear criminal record from their country of origin.
To be eligible for the Golden Visa in Portugal, it is mandatory to make a qualifying investment. The investment options encompass venture capital funds, the establishment of a company along with employer obligations, and charitable donations.
Portugal Golden visa Requirements
Portugal requires that holders of the Golden Visa spend a minimum average of seven days annually within the country.
It is essential to maintain the investment for the duration that you and your dependents possess Golden Visa residency status.
To submit an application for the Golden Visa Program, the following documents are necessary:
A passport copy or another legal travel document
Evidence of the qualifying investment made by you
A proof of fund subscription from the fund manager is required
A declaration from a Portuguese financial institution verifying the transfer of funds,
A criminal record from the current country of residence,
A completed form allowing SEF permission to access criminal records in Portugal
Documentation demonstrating good relations with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority and the Social Security system,
Visa must be issued within 45 days of the application submission.
Proof of payment for the ARI application.
Any original documents not in Portuguese must be translated into Portuguese and certified, typically by a notary.
Must make an investment from a bank account in Portugal.
Portugal Investment Options
Real Estate Investment
Over 90% of investors seeking a Golden Visa opt for real estate due to the promising potential of Portugal's property market. The most prevalent investment choice within the Golden Visa framework, ranging from €280K to €500K EUR, involves acquiring real estate in Portugal, which can serve as a vacation residence, a primary residence, or a rental property.
Capital Investment
Capital investment may involve straightforward actions such as transferring funds to a Portuguese bank account or investing in an established Portuguese enterprise, government bonds, or qualifying private equity and venture capital funds that aim to provide financial support to companies meeting specific criteria.
Job Creation
Establishing full-time employment opportunities in Portugal presents an exceptional prospect for entrepreneurs and startups. This option is a cost-effective alternative to other Golden Visa investment avenues and offers a new avenue in a burgeoning economy, backed by substantial government support.
Donation
A non-refundable charitable donation aimed at preserving national heritage, supporting artistic endeavors, or contributing to a public or private research and development institution that is part of Portugal's national scientific or technological framework also qualifies individuals for Golden Visa residency.
The Application Process of Portugal Golden Visa
Choose an Investment
It is essential to review the list of investment options and determine which investment you will pursue. Options include €500,000 in qualified investment funds, €1.5 million in capital transfers, and €250,000 in cultural heritage.
Gather all the Essential Document
It is essential for you to collect all required documents for your personal use such as passport, investment proof, NIF, health record, and Portuguese bank account.
Submit the Application
After you completed your investment and gathered all your documents, you may submit your pre-application online to AIMA/SEF.
Attend Biometrics
Following the evaluation of your pre-application, AIMA will provide you with a selection of available dates for scheduling a biometrics appointment.
Approval
You and your dependents will obtain your Golden Visa residence cards. Your legal representative or professional advisor will retrieve the cards and forward them to you.
Renew the Visa
Each card remains valid for a duration of 2 years, you will need to renew your Golden Visa card to obtain a new one.
Apply for Permanent Residency
After 5 years since you submitted your application to AIMA, you become eligible to apply for citizenship in Portugal.
Why Choose Go-Global Immigration Services
Go-Global Immigration Services (GGIMS) knows every detail of the immigration procedure. Our expert team is here to assist you every step of the way with in-depth knowledge of Golden Visa. From the initial stage to the last step, we ensure you receive the best services from our team.
Our professional team is here for you to ensure that you receive the best accurate and personalized guidance that aligns with your specific needs.
Our commitment to transparency guarantees that you are kept informed throughout the entire process, eliminating any unexpected costs or surprises.
With a proven track record of successful applications, we leverage our extensive network and insider knowledge to streamline your journey, thereby saving you time and reducing stress.
Our foremost aim is to deliver exceptional service and support, enabling you to navigate the Portugal Golden visa process with confidence.
