Portugal Golden Visa 2026: Complete Guide to Requirements, Costs & Application

How Much Does a Portugal Golden Visa Cost?

Since launching in 2012, Portugal’s Golden Visa program has attracted thousands of global investors by offering residency in exchange for qualifying investments, visa-free access across Europe’s Schengen Area, and the opportunity to apply for Portuguese citizenship after just five years.

Over the years, Portugal’s stability, safety, climate, and cost of living have made it a magnet for entrepreneurs, retirees, and globally mobile families alike.

But like all great programs, the Golden Visa has evolved.

In late 2023, the Portuguese government introduced sweeping reforms to the program, aiming to shift investment away from real estate and towards sectors that support innovation, culture, and job creation.

Here are the three most significant changes you should know by 2026:

• Real estate is out; new Golden Visa applications can no longer qualify through buying property or real estate-linked funds
• AIMA is in, Portugal’s immigration agency transitioned from SEF to a new body: AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo)
• New investment routes include venture capital funds, research and development, cultural heritage donations, and company formation with job creation

The programme remains active, although the landscape has changed significantly.

Want a full breakdown of what’s new? Jump to Golden Visa Programme Updates

Portugal Passport

The Portuguese Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program designed to attract non-EU investors to Portugal. In exchange for making a qualifying investment, like contributing to a fund, launching a business, or supporting scientific or cultural initiatives, you gain the right to live in Portugal.

But here’s what makes it truly stand out:

• You only need to spend 7 days per year in the country to maintain your visa
• After 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship
• It offers full access to the Schengen Area, meaning you can travel across most of Europe visa-free
• And it allows you to include your family members (spouse, children, dependent parents, even siblings under 18 in some cases)

It’s ideal for people who want to keep their current lifestyle and location but add an EU residency and, eventually Portuguese citizenship, option into the mix.

The Portugal Golden Visa is one of the most accessible and trustworthy investment residency routes in the world, whether you're planning for flexibility, a better plan B, or a long-term move.

Why Portugal?

Let’s be honest: you’re not just picking a visa.

You’re picking a country.

So, why is Portugal somewhere else?

Here’s why investors, families, and retirees are choosing it:

• It’s safe – consistently ranked among the top 5 safest countries in the world
• The lifestyle is world-class – over 300 days of sunshine, Mediterranean diet, relaxed pace of life
• It’s affordable – whether it’s healthcare, education, or day-to-day expenses, Portugal is more budget-friendly than most of Western Europe
• It’s family-friendly – international schools, bilingual environments, welcoming locals
• And it’s globally connected – live in Lisbon, surf in Ericeira, fly to London in 2 hours

Oh, and once you become a citizen?

You can live and work anywhere in the EU. That includes Germany, France, the Netherlands, Ireland, or wherever your life takes you.

So yes, the Golden Visa is powerful. But Portugal is the real advantage.

The Portugal Golden Visa gives you EU residency, mobility, citizenship potential, and a chance to build a life or a plan B in one of Europe’s most liveable countries.

Here’s what makes it stand out, right from the start:

• Qualify with a minimum investment of €250,000
• Only 7 days per year required in Portugal to maintain your visa
• Apply for citizenship after just 5 years
• Travel to 191 countries visa-free once you become a citizen
• Include your spouse, children, and dependent parents
• Work, study, invest, or just keep your options open

Now, let’s unpack what that actually means for you:

1. Visa-Free Travel Across the Schengen Area

With your Golden Visa, you’re registered in the Schengen Area’s central system, meaning you can travel freely through 29 European countries, no additional visa needed.

And if you go on to gain Portuguese citizenship, you’ll hold one of the world’s top-ranked passports, with visa-free access to around 190 countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.

2. The Right to Live, Work and Study in Portugal

Want to move? You can. Want to stay where you are? That’s fine too.

With a Portugal Golden Visa, you:

• Get full rights to live, work, and study in Portugal
• Can set up a business, get a job, or enrol your children in school
• Can access public and private healthcare systems
• Have access to international and bilingual schools

And remember: all of this is optional. You don’t need to move to keep your visa active. Just visit 7 days per year, and you’re good.

3. Family Reunification

Your Golden Visa isn’t just for you; it covers your family, too. You can include:

• Your spouse or life partner
• Children under 18, or over 18 if in education and financially dependent
• Dependent parents (and your spouse’s)
• In some cases, even minor siblings if you are their legal guardian

Everyone receives the same rights and protections as you; no extra investment is required.

4. Citizenship in Just 5 Years

After five years of holding your Golden Visa, you can apply for permanent residency or full Portuguese citizenship.

And unlike some countries, Portugal doesn’t require you to live there full-time or even give up your original passport. Dual nationality is allowed.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• No major criminal record
• No unpaid taxes in Portugal
• Basic A2-level Portuguese language certificate

5. No Tax Residency Unless You Want It

Portugal only considers you a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days per year in the country.

Therefore, Portugal does not tax you if you only visit for a week or two each year.

If you do become a tax resident:

• Portugal offers a relatively favourable tax structure
• The old NHR tax regime ended in 2024, but a new incentive called IFICI is emerging, offering potential benefits for professionals and investors
• You’ll want to get advice from a local tax expert to structure your income properly

6. Live Where Others Holiday

Portugal isn’t just a smart strategic choice. It’s a genuinely lovely place to live in or even just visit.

• Ranked one of the safest countries in the world
• Mediterranean climate: 300+ days of sunshine per year
• Excellent public infrastructure, clean air, low pollution
• Affordable cost of living compared to most of Western Europe
• Access to both local charm and international lifestyle in cities like Lisbon and Porto

Couples can live comfortably on €2,000–€2,500/month in urban areas and less in smaller towns or interior regions.

Want a full breakdown on how much it will cost you to live in Portugal? Jump to our Portuguese Cost of Living Calculator.

7. Long-Term Flexibility Without Pressure

The Portugal Golden Visa is designed for flexibility. You're not tied to a specific timeline, lifestyle, or future plan. It adapts to your needs, whether that’s a safety net, a path to European citizenship, or a foundation for future relocation.

You can:

• Invest now, move later
• Keep your business and life abroad, while holding an EU residency
• Shift your plan over time, without starting from scratch

There’s no pressure to relocate, and no penalty if you don’t. You have the liberty to make your decision, bolstered by the assurance of establishing an EU presence when you're prepared.

Considering your options? Here's how Portugal's Golden Visa compares to other active European residency-by-investment programs in 2026. Note: Spain's Golden Visa ended in April 2025 and is no longer accepting applications.

Why Choose Portugal Over Other Golden Visas?

Fastest path to EU citizenship: At 5 years (pending law change to 10), Portugal offers the shortest route to an EU passport among major active Golden Visa programs. Greece requires 7 years, Hungary 8 years, and Italy requires 10 years of residency.

No real estate lock-in: Unlike Greece where you must hold property, Portugal's fund-based investment is more liquid and diversified. After citizenship, you can exit the investment entirely.

Investment flexibility: Portugal's €250k cultural donation is the lowest entry point, while the €500k fund route offers potential returns. Greece's €800k Athens requirement makes Portugal more affordable for prime locations.

The trade-off: Portugal's processing is slower (12-18 months vs 2-6 months for Greece) and requires 7 days/year presence. If you want zero stay requirements and faster processing, Greece or Hungary may suit better.

For a full breakdown of all programs, see our Complete Guide to Golden Visa Countries.

Although the Portugal Golden Visa is designed to be easily accessible, it does not come without any requirements.

Whether you’re investing in a fund, supporting a cultural project, or launching a business, you’ll need to meet a basic set of eligibility criteria and provide the right documentation.

Here’s what you need to know before you apply.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible to apply for a Portugal Golden Visa if you meet the following criteria:

Who Can You Include in Your Application?

One of the biggest benefits of the Golden Visa is family reunification. You can include:

Everyone included gets the same residency rights as you, including access to education, healthcare, and the Schengen Area.

What Documents Do You Need?

You’ll need to prepare and submit the following:

💡 All documents from outside Portugal must be:

• Officially translated into Portuguese (where applicable)
• Legalised or apostilled, depending on the country of origin

Timing & Application Notes

• Criminal background checks must be dated no more than 90 days before submission
• Documents often take time to gather and legalise; start early
• A Portuguese law firm or legal representative is highly recommended to assist with the process

Once you’ve met these requirements and submitted your application, it will go through review by AIMA (formerly SEF), Portugal’s new immigration authority.

🕓 Application timelines can vary — we’ll cover that later.

Portugal Golden Visa for UK Citizens

Since Brexit, thousands of British nationals have turned to the Golden Visa as their ticket back into the EU. UK citizens can still apply for Portugal's program and enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Area.

With over 50,000 Brits already living in Portugal, drawn by the weather, lifestyle, and long-term benefits, it remains one of the top relocation destinations for UK investors.

Portugal Golden Visa for US Citizens

American citizens are eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa, and interest has surged recently. Many US applicants prefer the investment fund route for its simplicity and hands-off structure.

With the rising cost of living in major US cities, Portugal offers an appealing alternative: lower expenses, high quality of life, and access to the EU. As of 2024, over 10,000 Americans now live in Portugal, a number that’s only growing.

Did you know? Some U.S. investors are even using retirement funds — like IRAs or 401(k)s — to finance their Portugal Golden Visa investment, especially through certain eligible investment funds. This type of investment can be a strategic way to diversify internationally while leveraging existing retirement savings.

So, you’re eligible, great. But eligibility alone won’t get your application approved.

The Portugal Golden Visa has clear legal and procedural requirements, and missing even one small step can lead to delays or rejection.

Here’s everything you need to prepare, prove, and provide in 2026.

Submit the Right Documents

To apply for the Golden Visa, you’ll need to submit a full set of legal, financial, and identity documents, not just for yourself, but for any family members you're including.

You can revisit our Golden Visa Document Checklist for the full breakdown.

If any of your documents are issued outside Portugal, you’ll need to:

• Translate them into Portuguese using a certified translator or notary
• Legalise or apostille them (depending on your country of origin)

Quick tip: If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an apostille is enough. Otherwise, full diplomatic/legal authentication is required.

Open a Portuguese Bank Account

Before you can invest, you’ll need to open a bank account in Portugal, this is where your funds will be transferred from.

• What you’ll need to open one:
• Valid passport
• Portuguese NIF number (tax ID)
• Proof of address
• Proof of income or source of funds

Most law firms or advisors can open your account remotely with a power of attorney, meaning no flight is necessary.

Get a Portuguese NIF (Tax ID)

A NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal) is essential for anything finance-related in Portugal, from opening your bank account to investing in a fund.

You can get one:

• In person at a Finanças office in Portugal
• Or remotely via a legal representative

It’s fast, simple, and required to move forward.

Mind the Document Timelines

Timing is everything. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Submit Your Application via AIMA

Once your documents are ready, your legal team will submit your application through the ARI Portal, Portugal’s official digital platform for residency by investment.

Here’s how the process flows:

• Step 1: Upload all documents
• Step 2: Pay the ARI application fee
• Step 3: Wait for confirmation and pre-approval

Note: In 2026, AIMA has replaced SEF and is now the official authority handling all Golden Visa applications.

Biometrics Appointment

Once your application is pre-approved, you’ll be invited to attend a biometrics appointment in Portugal. You’ll provide fingerprints and a photo for your residency card.

This is one of the few moments in the process where your physical presence is required.

Maintain Your Investment

As a condition of your visa, you must:

• Keep your investment active for at least 5 years
• Stay in Portugal 7 days per year on average

If you withdraw your investment early, your residency status may be revoked.

Portugal Golden Visa Investment

As of 2026, real estate is out, and smart, forward-looking investments are in. If you’re planning to apply, here are the four main routes you can choose from, each with its own logic, impact, and level of involvement.

Let’s break it down:

1. Venture Capital & Private Equity Funds

Min. Investment: €500,000

If you want a hands-off, finance-first approach, this is the route most investors are taking in 2026.

• You invest in a Portuguese-based fund, usually focused on startups, tech, green energy, or innovation.
• We professionally manage your money and distribute it across multiple ventures, not real estate.
• Funds must be CMVM-regulated and meet Golden Visa criteria (e.g., at least 60% invested in Portugal).

Best for: People who want minimal involvement, diversification, and potential returns.

2. Donation to Arts or Cultural Heritage

Minimum Contribution: €250,000 (€200,000 in low-density areas)

This is the lowest-cost path to the Golden Visa, and the most philanthropic.

You donate to projects supporting Portuguese cultural preservation: museums, historical restoration, public art, or national heritage efforts. These initiatives are pre-approved by the government, and while your contribution is non-recoverable, it comes with the same visa privileges.

Best for: Applicants who want the most affordable route and are comfortable with zero return in favour of making a cultural impact.

3. Scientific Research

Minimum Investment: €500,000 (reduced to €400,000 in low-density areas)

If you prefer your investment to support progress over profit, this route lets you back public or private institutions involved in cutting-edge R&D.

Eligible research areas include medicine, renewable energy, technology, and climate science. While capital is usually not recoverable, some programs may offer partnership or honorary involvement.

Best for: Those who want to support big ideas and lasting innovation while qualifying for Portuguese residency.

4. Business and Job Creation

Two Tracks:

1. Invest €500,000 and create 5 permanent jobs
2. Or create 10 full-time jobs with no capital requirement

This is the most active path, ideal for entrepreneurs or existing business owners looking to establish operations in Portugal.

The company must be Portuguese-based, legally registered, and maintain the jobs for a minimum of 3 years. While it requires more engagement, it allows you to directly build value in the local economy.

Best for: Entrepreneurs or operational investors who are ready to be hands-on and create employment.

Applying for the Portugal Golden Visa might sound complex, but with the right guidance, the process is surprisingly manageable.

Whether you’re investing through a fund or setting up a business, the application follows a clear structure.

This is a concise summary of the entire process:

Step One: Get a Portuguese Tax Number (NIF)

Start by obtaining a Portuguese NIF (tax identification number). This information is essential for any legal or financial activity in Portugal, including opening a bank account and making your investment. You can apply in person or have a lawyer request it for you remotely using a power of attorney.

Step Two: Open a Portuguese Bank Account

Once you have an NIF, you’ll need to open a Portuguese bank account. You will use this account to transfer the funds for your qualifying investment. Most applicants, with the help of their legal team, can complete this process without physically visiting Portugal.

Step Three: Make the Qualifying Investment

With your account open, you’ll now make your Golden Visa investment. The investment could involve subscribing to a qualifying fund, supporting a cultural initiative, or launching a business. Once the transaction is complete, you’ll receive official proof, a required part of your visa application file.

Step Four: Prepare Your Documents

Next, gather all supporting documents, including ID, criminal record certificates, investment confirmation, tax forms, and more. Documents issued outside Portugal must be translated and legalised. A lawyer can help ensure everything is formatted correctly before submission to avoid delays or rejections.

Step Five: Submit the Application

Once your documents are ready, your legal team will submit your full application via the AIMA ARI Portal. The process includes uploading files, paying the application fee, and initiating formal review. AIMA is now the agency responsible for processing Golden Visa applications.

Step Six: Wait for Pre-Approval

After submission, your application enters the review phase. If everything is in order, AIMA will issue a pre-approval notice. The procedure typically takes 6 to 12 months depending on volume and processing speed. Once approved, you’ll be invited to schedule your biometrics appointment in Portugal.

Step Seven: Attend Biometrics Appointment

You must travel to Portugal for your biometric appointment. Here, you’ll submit fingerprints, have your photo taken, and confirm your identity in person. This step is mandatory for all applicants and dependants. It’s the final step before your residence card is issued.

Step Eight: Receive Your Residence Permit

After biometrics, you’ll receive your initial residence permit, the official Golden Visa card. In 2026, most cards will have three-year validity under the updated rules. You’ll now be a legal resident of Portugal with full access to healthcare, education, and travel across the Schengen Zone.

Step Nine: Stay Compliant During Residency

To maintain your Golden Visa, you must meet two key conditions: keep your investment active and spend at least 7 days in Portugal per year. You’ll also need to renew your residence card once, depending on the duration of your permit. Legal support is highly recommended for renewals.

Step Ten: Apply for Citizenship or PR

After 5 years of compliant residency, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship or permanent residency. Citizenship requires basic Portuguese language skills (A2 level), a clean criminal record, and proof of legal residence. Once approved, you’ll gain access to all the rights of an EU citizen, including a powerful passport.

While the Golden Visa process is fairly straightforward, the operational landscape has transformed in 2026. With the transition to AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum), the focus has shifted toward digital-first processing and clearing the historic backlog.

The path to permanent residency & citizenship

The legal requirement for citizenship remains five years. The Portuguese Parliament approved amendments on October 28, 2025, extending citizenship requirements from 5 to 10 years. As of February 2026, the law still awaits Presidential review. The President can promulgate it, veto it, or refer it to the Constitutional Court; no final decision has been made yet.

• Year 1: Complete your investment and submit the digital application via the AIMA ARI Portal. Crucially, the "citizenship clock" now counts from the date of your application submission, provided the permit is eventually granted—a major protection for investors against administrative delays.
• Years 2–4: Maintain your investment and fulfil the 14-day stay requirement (split across each two-year period).
• Year 5: Apply for Permanent Residency (PR) or Citizenship. You may liquidate your investment once PR or Citizenship is secured.

Realities of 2026 Processing (AIMA)

Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro confirmed in 2026 budget hearings that AIMA has resolved the vast majority of the inherited SEF backlog and expects full stabilisation by the end of this year.

• Initial Analysis: 9–15 months (varies by office).
• Biometrics: Accelerated scheduling is now standard, with appointments often assigned within 3–6 months of pre-approval.
• Renewals: As of February 16, 2026, all ARI renewals must be handled exclusively via the new Digital Renewals Portal, eliminating the need for manual filings.

Applying for the Portugal Golden Visa involves more than just the investment itself. There are a range of additional costs you should budget for, from legal and government fees to insurance, translations, and document handling.

While these numbers can vary slightly depending on your lawyer and family size, here’s a realistic overview of what you can expect in 2026.

Government Fees

The government's fees are the most standardised and transparent part of the process. Each applicant (main and dependents) must pay them at both the application stage and during renewals.

Legal Fees

Legal fees can vary significantly based on your provider and the complexity of your case. Most applicants work with a licensed immigration lawyer or law firm to handle the application, investment compliance, renewals, and family documents.

Expect to pay:

• €5,000–€8,000 for the initial application
• €1,000–€2,500 for each renewal
• Some firms may offer fixed packages for individuals or families

Rent Backlog: As of early 2026, approximately 50,000 applicanti

Additional Costs to Budget For

Beyond government and legal costs, there are a few extra services and admin fees you'll want to plan for:

• Health Insurance (required): €400–€600 per person, per year
• Translation & Legalisation of Documents: €1,000–€2,000 total
• Bank Declaration Fee: Around €200
• Criminal Record Processing (home country): €50–€100 depending on location
• Courier & Notary Services: Often bundled into your legal fee, but can add €100–€300

Tax Residency: When Do You Owe Taxes in Portugal?

Holding a Golden Visa does not automatically make you a tax resident in Portugal. You become a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in Portugal within a 12-month period or establish a habitual residence there.

Tax Implications for Non-Tax Residents

If you are not a tax resident:

• Portuguese-sourced income: Subject to taxation.
  
• Foreign-sourced income: Generally not taxed in Portugal.
  
• Investment income from Portuguese funds: Typically not taxed for non-residents.

Portugal has double taxation treaties with many countries, which can help prevent being taxed twice on the same income.

Tax Implications for Tax Residents

If you become a tax resident:

• Worldwide income: Subject to Portuguese taxation.
• Income from Portuguese sources: Taxed at progressive rates ranging from 14.5% to 48%.
• Capital gains: Taxed at 28% on 50% of the gain for residents, with potential reinvestment relief in certain cases.

IFICI (NHR 2.0): New Tax Incentive Scheme

The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime ended in 2023. It has been replaced by the Tax Incentive Scheme for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI), also known as NHR 2.0. Under IFICI:

Eligible employment and self-employment income: The income is subject to a flat tax rate of 20% for a period of up to 10 years.

Other income types: Subject to standard tax rates.

U.S. Tax Considerations

U.S. citizens and residents must report worldwide income to the IRS, regardless of residency status in Portugal. Income from Portuguese Golden Visa investments may be subject to U.S. taxation, and specific reporting requirements apply, especially for investments classified as Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs).

Portugal’s Golden Visa program has evolved significantly since its inception in 2012. Here's a snapshot of the latest Golden Visa statistics and trends:

Total Approvals Since 2012

• Main Applicants Approved: 17,700
• Family Members Approved: 25,000
• Total Investment Attracted: €7.5 billion

Top Nationalities

• United States: 625 applicants
• United Kingdom: 389 applicants
• Canada: 271 applicants
• India: 214 applicants
• Brazil: 198 applicants

Investment Route Trends

• Real Estate Investments: Historically dominant, accounting for approximately 90% of applications before 2023.
• Investment funds have been gaining popularity, particularly since the removal of the real estate investment option in 2023.
• Cultural Heritage Donations: Notable growth, with investments increasing by 165% in 2024 compared to 2023.

Processing Times & Backlog

• Average Processing Time: 12 to 18 months.
• Current Backlog: As of early 2026, approximately 50,000 applications are pending

The Golden Visa isn’t just about paperwork and policy. It’s about where you get to spend your time and how. Whether you visit for a few weeks a year or decide to stay longer, Portugal delivers a lifestyle that’s easy to settle into and difficult to walk away from.

Slower Days, Richer Life

Portugal maintains a rhythm and doesn't rush. Your morning espresso might take five minutes to drink, but the view will tempt you to sit for thirty.

From small-town bakeries to oceanfront promenades, daily life invites you to slow down and soak it in.

Better Everyday Living

Here’s what daily life often looks like for Golden Visa holders:

• Shopping at local markets with fresh bread, olives, and €2 wine
• Short, scenic walks to cafés, parks, or the ocean
• A mix of modern supermarkets and traditional family-run shops
• Efficient public transport in cities, with relaxed drives in the countryside
• Dinner at 9PM, because no one’s in a rush

Real Community, No Bubble Required

Portugal doesn’t just attract tourists; it welcomes people. Whether you’re a remote worker, a retiree, or a young family, it’s easy to connect.

English is widely spoken, and expats often blend in rather than wall themselves off. It feels human, not curated.

So, you’ve hit the 5-year mark, passed your A2 Portuguese test, and been approved for citizenship or permanent residency. Now what?

In short: freedom.

Once you become a Portuguese citizen, you gain full rights within the European Union.

That means you can live, work, and study not just in Portugal but anywhere across all EU member states, from Berlin to Barcelona and Paris to Prague. You’ll also receive a Portuguese passport, consistently ranked among the world’s most powerful, with visa-free access to 190+ countries.

Better yet, you’re no longer required to maintain your investment. You can sell the fund, withdraw capital, or exit any structure tied to your Golden Visa, no strings attached.

And if you opt for permanent residency instead of citizenship, you can still enjoy life in Portugal long-term, without renewing your residence card every few years.

It’s not just a visa — it’s a launchpad.

Everything that changed under Portugal’s new immigration law

The "Mais Habitação" Law and What It Means

On 6 October 2023, Portugal officially passed the Mais Habitação Law, a sweeping housing reform bill that included major updates to the Golden Visa.

The government made it clear: it wants to redirect foreign capital away from housing and into innovation, culture, and employment.

Here’s what that means for you:

Investment Routes No Longer Accepted (As of 2026)

The following Golden Visa investment options have been discontinued:

• Real Estate Purchases: buying residential or commercial property in Portugal no longer qualifies
• Real Estate-Linked Funds: even investment funds that indirectly involve property are now excluded
• Capital Transfers: the route involving a €1.5 million deposit in a Portuguese bank account has also been removed

These changes apply only to new applicants starting in October 2023.

Investment Options That Still Qualify in 2026

You can still apply for a Golden Visa through the following active routes:

Fund Investment

‍A minimum of €500,000 into a qualifying Portuguese investment fund (e.g. venture capital or private equity), not linked to real estate

Job Creation / Company Formation:

• Start a Portuguese business that creates at least 10 new full-time jobs.
• Or invest €500,000 into an existing business that creates 5 new jobs for 3 years

Scientific Research:

Invest €400,000 to €500,000 into public or private research institutions.

Cultural Heritage or Arts:

Donate €200,000 to €250,000 (or more) depending on the project's location to support national cultural preservation, artistic production, or museum restoration

These are currently the only accepted routes for new Golden Visa applications in 2026.

Administrative Transition: SEF → AIMA

Another major shift is the replacement of SEF (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras) with AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo).

All Golden Visa applications are now processed through AIMA. This includes:

• Submitting your pre-application
• Scheduling biometrics
• Following up on status updates

AIMA has promised faster turnaround times and streamlined processing, but 2026 has still seen significant backlogs (more on that in the Timeline section).

Residency Card Validity Extended

Under the updated framework:

• Your first residency card is now valid for 2 years (previously just 1)
• Subsequent renewals are for 3 years, then 2 years
• This reduces the total number of renewals needed over the 5-year path to citizenship

The intention is to make the process simpler and less bureaucratic for long-term applicants.

NHR Tax Programme: Phased Out

Portugal’s once-popular Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime ended for new applicants from 1 January 2024.

Golden Visa holders who became tax residents before the cutoff can still benefit, but newcomers in 2026 will need to plan under standard Portuguese tax rules or await the proposed "IFICI" successor program (aimed at high-value professionals).

Existing Golden Visa Holders: No Need to Worry

If you already hold a Golden Visa or applied before the law came into effect, your rights are protected.

That includes:

• Ongoing renewals
• Family reunification
• Eventual permanent residency or citizenship

The new restrictions on real estate or fund types do not affect you. The law is not retroactive.

At Movingto, we make the Portugal Golden Visa process simple, strategic, and personal. We manage the entire process in-house, guaranteeing complete transparency from NIF registration to investment matching and application submission.

You’ll work with legal and immigration experts who understand Portugal’s residency system inside out and who tailor every move to your unique goals.

No vague advice. No hidden fees. Our platform, which boasts thousands of successful clients, prioritises clarity, privacy, and control.

We’re here to guide you from interest to approval with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of the most flexible long-term residence pathways in Europe, even after years of regulatory change.

While real estate routes are no longer available, the program continues to attract investors who value mobility, legal certainty, and a clear route to permanent residence or citizenship without the need to relocate immediately.

What makes the Golden Visa stand out in 2026 is not speed or simplicity, but structure.

The five-year timeline is predictable, physical presence requirements remain minimal, and successful applicants can maintain their global lifestyle while building a legal foothold in the EU. For many families, this balance is the core appeal.

That said, the program is no longer “set and forget.” Investment options are more limited, compliance is stricter, and timelines depend heavily on administrative capacity.

Choosing the right investment route, understanding how renewals work, and planning ahead for citizenship requirements — particularly language and documentation — now matter more than ever.

For applicants who approach the process with clear expectations and proper planning, the Portugal Golden Visa can still serve as a reliable bridge to long-term European residence. The key is treating it as a legal and financial strategy, not just an immigration shortcut.

If you’re considering the Golden Visa in 2026, careful preparation at the start can make the difference between a smooth five-year journey and unnecessary delays later on.