Portugal
Spain
Italy
Greece
Grenada Citizenship by Investment
*Processing times vary significantly due to AIMA backlogs — some cases exceed 24 months. Statistics are Movingto estimates; official AIMA figures pending.
Last updated: February 2026 · Source: AIMA, Portuguese Immigration Law. View full statistics →
In October 2025, the Portuguese Parliament approved a significant overhaul of the Nationality Act (Law No. 37/81), proposing an extension of the residency requirement for citizenship from 5 to 10 years.
Following a Constitutional Court ruling in December 2025 (Acórdão n.º 1134/2025 on Decree No. 17/XVII), several provisions were struck down as unconstitutional. However, the Court upheld the 10-year timeline in principle. As of February 2026, the law was vetoed by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on December 19, 2025 (following Constitutional Court ruling Acórdão n.º 1134/2025). The decree has returned to Parliament for further deliberation. The current 5-year citizenship rule remains in effect until any revised legislation is enacted.
Current Status: While the 5-year rule technically remains in force until the revised law is promulgated and published in the Diário da República, all new applicants are strongly advised to plan for a 10-year residency horizon.
How Much Does a Portugal Golden Visa Cost?
The total cost of a Portugal Golden Visa ranges from €265,000 to €550,000+, depending on your chosen investment route. This includes the minimum investment amount plus government fees, legal costs, and administrative expenses. (Verified February 2026)
| Investment Route | Min. Investment | Gov't Fees | Est. Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural Donation | €250,000 | €6,798 | €265,000+ |
| Research & Development | €500,000 | €6,798 | €515,000+ |
| Investment Fund (most popular) | €500,000 | €6,798 | €515,000+ |
| Job Creation (10+ jobs) | Variable | €6,798 | Varies |
Note: Government fees include application fee (€618.60), card issuance (~€6,179.40 for family), and biometrics. Legal fees (€6k–15k) not included. Prices verified February 2026.
Since launching in 2012, Portugal’s Golden Visa program has attracted an estimated 15,600+ main applicants and €7.3 billion in investment 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
Key Takeaways
As of 2026, property purchases no longer qualify. The program now focuses on funds, science, culture, and job creation, promoting sustainable economic growth.
Qualifying routes include €500k venture capital or research funds, €250k cultural heritage donations (reduced to €200k in low-density areas), and €500k job creation projects with 5–10 roles.
Applications are now processed through AIMA, the new national immigration agency. Submissions and renewals take place via the official ARI portal.
The 5-year countdown now starts from the application submission date—not approval—making the path to Portuguese citizenship shorter and clearer.
You only need to spend an average of 7 days per year in Portugal to maintain your residency permit, allowing flexibility for global investors.
All eligible funds must be CMVM-regulated and invest at least 60% of capital within Portugal. Always verify fund registration before investing.
Over 37,000 total beneficiaries since 2012 with a 98.5% approval rate. See full statistics.
What is the Portugal Golden Visa?
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.
Considering the Portugal Golden Visa?
Speak with one of our Golden Visa advisors for a free consultation — and find out if Portugal is the right move for you.
Talk to an ExpertBenefits of the Portugal Golden Visa
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:
Schengen Access
Travel freely across 29 European countries with your residence card.
Minimal Stay
Just 7 days per year in Portugal to maintain your visa status.
Family Inclusion
Include spouse, children, and dependent parents on one application.
Fast Citizenship
Apply for Portuguese citizenship after just 5 years of residency.
Tax Flexibility
No Portuguese tax residency unless you stay 183+ days per year.
Quality of Life
One of the world's safest countries with 300+ days of sunshine.
- 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
29 Schengen Countries (2026): Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
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.
Golden Visa vs D7 vs D8: Which Portugal Visa is Right for You?
Not sure which Portuguese residency route fits your situation? Here's how the Golden Visa compares to the D7 (Passive Income) and D8 (Digital Nomad) visas:
| Feature | Golden Visa | D7 Visa | D8 Digital Nomad |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry requirement | €250k–€500k investment | €920/month passive income | €3,680/month remote income |
| Income source | Any (investment-based) | Passive only (pensions, rentals, dividends) | Remote work for non-PT employer |
| Can work in Portugal? | Yes | Yes (after permit issued) | Remote only |
| Min. stay requirement | 7 days/year | 16 months per 2 years | 16 months per 2 years |
| Initial permit | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Path to citizenship | 5 years* | 5 years | 5 years |
| Processing time | 12–18 months | 3–6 months | 2–4 months |
| Best for | Investors wanting EU access with minimal presence | Retirees, passive income earners relocating | Remote workers, freelancers |
Bottom line: The Golden Visa is ideal if you have capital to invest and want maximum flexibility with minimal physical presence. The D7 Visa is better if you have passive income and plan to actually live in Portugal (see our D7 vs Golden Visa comparison). The D8 suits remote workers with higher incomes.
*Pending legislation may extend Golden Visa citizenship timeline to 10 years.
Portugal Golden Visa vs Other European Programs
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.
| Feature | 🇵🇹 Portugal | 🇬🇷 Greece | 🇮🇹 Italy | 🇭🇺 Hungary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min. Investment | €250k–€500k | €250k–€800k† | €250k–€2M | €250k |
| Real Estate Option | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Min. Stay Requirement | 7 days/year | 0 days | Brief visits | 0 days |
| Path to Citizenship | 5 years* | 7 years | 10 years | 8 years |
| Processing Time | 12–18 months | 2–6 months | 3–6 months | 2–3 months |
| Initial Permit | 2 years | 5 years | 2 years | 10 years |
| Best For | Fast EU citizenship | Property investors | Startup investors | Long-term permit |
*Portugal citizenship may extend to 10 years under pending legislation. †Greece: €800k in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini; €250k–€400k elsewhere. Spain Golden Visa ended April 2025. Last verified: February 2026.
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.
Eligibility: Who is Eligible for a Portugal Golden Visa?
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:
| Family Member | Eligibility | Conditions / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse or legal partner | Eligible | Marriage certificate or proof of registered partnership required |
| Children under 18 | Eligible | No additional conditions |
| Children aged 18–25 | Eligible | Must be unmarried, in full-time education, and financially dependent |
| Dependent parents (of either spouse) | Eligible | Financial dependence must be demonstrated; typically age 65+ |
| Minor siblings under legal guardianship | Eligible | Requires official proof of legal guardianship |
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:
2026 Mandatory Document Checklist
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.
Not Sure If You Qualify?
We’ll help you assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.
Contact MovingtoPortugal 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.
Requirements: Before You Apply for Portugal’s Golden Visa
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:
| Document | Validity Window | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal record certificate | Issued within 90 days | Must be apostilled/legalised and translated if not in Portuguese |
| Tax & Social Security clearance | Issued within 45 days | Shows no outstanding debts in Portugal |
| Translations & legalisations | Latest certified versions | Use certified professionals to avoid rejections |
| ARI application receipt | At time of submission | Proof of payment to AIMA, required to finalise your file |
Timeline varies by case. Citizenship clock starts from application submission date. *Pending law may extend to 10 years.
Step One
How long does the Portugal Golden Visa take? Here's a realistic breakdown based on 2026 processing times:
| Stage | Best Case | Typical | Worst Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIF + Bank Account | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 6 weeks |
| Investment Execution | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 6 weeks |
| Document Preparation | 2 weeks | 4-8 weeks | 12 weeks |
| AIMA Application Review | 3 months | 12-24+ months (AIMA backlog) | 18+ months |
| Biometrics Appointment | 1 day | 1-2 weeks | 4 weeks |
| Card Issuance | 2 weeks | 4-6 weeks | 8 weeks |
| Total to First Card | 4-5 months | 12-18 months | 24+ months |
| Citizenship Eligibility | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years* |
Note: AIMA backlogs are the main variable. *Pending legislation may extend citizenship timeline to 10 years. The 5-year countdown starts from application submission date, not approval.
Costs and Fees Related to the Portugal Golden Visa
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.
| Type | Fee (Per Person) | When It's Paid |
|---|---|---|
| Application Processing Fee | €618.60 | At initial digital submission |
| Initial Residence Permit Issuance | €6,179.40 | After pre-approval (to issue the 2-year card) |
| Renewal Application Fee | €618.60 | During each renewal submission |
| Renewal Residence Card Issuance | €3,090.40 | Every 2–3 years upon card issuance |
Source: AIMA Official Fees Schedule 2026. Fees are indexed annually and subject to minor adjustments.
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
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
Golden Visa and Taxes in Portugal
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.
For a complete breakdown of Portuguese tax obligations, rates, and planning strategies, see our Portugal Tax Guide.
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 Golden Visa Statistics
Portugal's Golden Visa program has evolved significantly since its inception in 2012. Here's a snapshot of the latest statistics:
Total Approvals (2012–2024)
- Main Applicants Approved: 17,700
- Family Members Approved: 24,887
- Total Investment Attracted: €7.3+ billion
Top Nationalities (2023)
- United States: 567 applicants
- China: 306 applicants
- United Kingdom: 234 applicants
- Brazil: 219 applicants
- India: 199 applicants
Investment Route Trends
- Real Estate: Historically dominant (~90% of applications before 2023), now discontinued
- Investment Funds: Now the primary route since the 2023 reform
- Cultural Heritage: Growing rapidly — investments up 165% in 2024 vs 2023
Processing Times & Backlog
- Average Processing Time: 12–18 months (as of February 2026)
- Current Backlog: ~50,000 applications pending; AIMA expects resolution by end of 2026
Source: AIMA Migration and Asylum Report (October 2025). For detailed year-by-year breakdowns, see our Portugal Golden Visa Statistics page.
Need Tax Planning Advice?
Our team can connect you with Portuguese tax specialists who understand Golden Visa investor needs.
Get Expert Tax GuidanceLiving in Portugal as a Golden Visa Holder
Most Golden Visa holders don't relocate full-time, but for those who do, Portugal offers strong fundamentals:
- Cost of living: A couple can live comfortably on €2,000–€2,500/month in Lisbon or Porto; less in smaller cities
- Safety: Consistently ranked top 10 globally (Global Peace Index)
- Healthcare: Public system (SNS) is accessible to residents; private insurance runs €50–€150/month
- Infrastructure: Major cities have reliable public transport; high-speed internet widely available
- Expat integration: 1.5M+ foreign residents; English widely spoken in urban areas
For detailed cost projections, see our Cost of Living Calculator.
After Citizenship: What Happens Next?
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.
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.
2026 Golden Visa Program Updates
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.
Portugal Golden Visa: Status as of February 2026
Current rule (applies today): 5 years of legal residency to citizenship eligibility. The countdown starts from your application submission date, not approval. A2 Portuguese required.
Proposed changes (under review): Legislation passed in October 2025 would extend the citizenship timeline to 7-10 years (7 for CPLP/EU citizens, 10 for others) for most Golden Visa holders and count from permit issuance rather than application. This law is currently under Constitutional Court review.
What's unclear: Whether existing Golden Visa holders will be grandfathered under the 5-year rule, and the final timeline if the Constitutional Court upholds or modifies the law.
Portugal Golden Visa: Quick Facts (2026)
Minimum Investment (2026)
Investment fund: €500,000. Cultural heritage donation: €250,000 (€200,000 in low-density areas). Scientific research: €500,000. Business creation: €500,000 + 5 jobs, or 10 jobs with no capital minimum. Real estate is no longer eligible (removed October 2023).
Stay Requirement
7 days in the first year, then 14 days per subsequent 2-year period. One of the lowest physical presence requirements of any EU residency program.
Processing Time
12–18 months from application to residence card (as of 2026). AIMA processing times vary; some cases take longer due to backlogs.
Government Fees
€6,798 per person (application + card issuance). Renewals: €3,023.20 per person at Year 2 and Year 4. See full cost breakdown.
Citizenship Timeline
Eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship after 5 years of legal residency. Requires A2 Portuguese language proficiency and clean criminal record. Note: Pending legislation may extend this to 7-10 years (7 for CPLP/EU citizens, 10 for others) for Golden Visa holders; check current status before applying.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Compare investment funds, understand the process, and get a personalized assessment from our Golden Visa experts.
Book a Free ConsultationInvestment 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.
Get Your Golden Visa Now: Why Choose Movingto?
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.
Sources
This guide is based on official Portuguese immigration law and government sources:
- Lei 23/2007 — Portuguese Immigration Law
- Lei 56/2023 (Mais Habitação) — 2023 Golden Visa Reform
- AIMA — Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum
- CMVM — Securities Market Commission (fund regulation)
- Lei da Nacionalidade (Lei 37/81) — Nationality Law
- Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Visa Portal
Last verified: February 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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