Portugal Golden Visa Program

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What is the Portugal Golden Visa Program?

The Portugal Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI) program, commonly known as the Portugal Golden Visa program, was introduced by the government in 2012 as a part of Portugal’s immigration and is one of the preferred five-year residency by investment programs for non-EU citizens.

Permanent Residency by Investment

Foreign investors can obtain the Golden Visa through the purchase of a real estate property starting at EUR 280,000, provided that they stay in or visit anywhere in Portugal on average seven days a year over five years to maintain their Golden Visa status. The Portugal Golden Visa can eventually lead to a Portuguese passport (EU passport) after 5 years, which currently ranks 5th in the world on the Passport Ranking Index and provides visa-free access to 187 countries. This makes it one of the most desirable passports in the world with a very high mobility score.

Can I still apply for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Yes, Step Global and our team of Portuguese lawyers will be accepting applications until further notice, provided that the client has funds ready to make their property investment so that the application may be submitted in a timely manner.

What are the Key Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa Program?

There are many reasons why people want to invest in the Portugal Golden Visa program. The diverse culture, pleasant Mediterranean climate, beautiful architecture, low–cost of living, delicious food, and friendly people are what draw people to this quickly growing economy. It is also an ideal location for those looking for a holiday home. The Portugal Golden Visa allows investors to secure Portugal residency within a short time frame, providing visa-free travel across the EU and Schengen Zone, access to high-quality schooling at relatively lower fees, and an abundance of social security and healthcare benefits. The Portugal Golden Visa Program is also a direct route to an EU passport which allows the holder to live and work in any EU country, and travel visa–free to over 180 countries worldwide.

Portugal is an oasis for expats seeking sunshine, warmth, and a mild climate
Portugal's favorable tax policy makes the country a very desirable destination for expats, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and many others
Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, especially for expats
Portugal is currently a top destination worldwide for retirees
One of the most exciting European cities with stunning architecture, new bars and restaurants, and excellent food and wines
Portugal offers families the benefit of an excellent education system and endless opportunities for graduates to work in any EU country
Public hospitals in Portugal offer free medical care, for both citizens and residents of the country
Portuguese Golden visa program offers immediate visa access to the Schengen space - a borderless zone comprised of 26 European countries
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Investment & Requirements for the Potugal Golden Visa

Portugal Golden Visa Program

Real Estate Investment Options:

Step Global proudly boasts one of the GCC region’s most extensive portfolios, featuring properties officially endorsed for the Portugal Golden Visa. Explore our diverse range of options, including those suitable for individuals seeking Portugal Visa from Dubai.

EUR 280,000 in a government designated low density area. The property must be older than 30 years, and the developer must be undertaking to fully refurnish and renovate the property so it is as good as new for use.

EUR 350,000 in a government designated urban area. The property must be older than 30 years and the developer must be undertaking to fully renovate and refurbish the property so it is as good as new for use.

EUR 400,000 in a government designated low density area if the construction is brand new or is less than 30 years old (not a refurbishment project).

EUR 500,000 in a government designated urban area if the construction is brand new or if the property is less than 30 years old (not a refurbishment project).

 

Find out more

Important Announcement about the Portugal Golden Visa Program

Portugal Golden Visa Program Announcement

Since the Portugal government announced on February 16, 2023, their intention to close the attractive Golden Visa Program which leads to a resident permit and the EU passport eventually, we have been closely following the evolutions around the proposed amendments.

On Friday, April 14, 2023, a draft of the new legislation was sent to the Portuguese Parliament for further discussion and voting. This document provides information on many aspects that concern those who have already invested in property, and those who are considering applying under the program.

  • The new law will  not retroactively apply to existing Golden Visa holders and to those who are applying now before the new law comes into effect.
  • All applications submitted before the bill is officially signed into law will be accepted and processed as usual. Therefore, for now, the Golden Visa Program continues without any change as such in the terms for applicants up until any NEW laws come into effect.
  • The new law will go into effect on the date it is published in the official journal.
  • Minimum stay requirements in Portugal of 7 days in the first year of residency and 14 days in the subsequent periods of two years of residency (renewals) will remain the same; which is great news for buyers who live far away.
  • Once the new law is officially signed and published no new Portugal Golden Visa applications will be accepted as of that date.
  • It is estimated through the legislative process of Portugal that the new law will become official between mid to end of June 2023.

Procedures and Time Frame of the Portugal Golden Visa Program

The Portugal Golden Visa program, a type of investment visa with numerous options, involves several steps. Investors typically need to make a qualifying investment, such as a real estate purchase, capital transfer, or job creation. After the investment, applicants submit their Golden Visa application to the Portuguese authorities. The processing time varies, but it generally takes a few months for approval. Once approved, investors receive a residence permit, granting them the benefits of living and working in Portugal. The exact procedures and timeframes can depend on individual circumstances and the specific investment route chosen.

How to Apply for the Golden Visa in Portugal

To apply for Portuguese citizenship and residency by investment through the Golden Visa program, investors need to follow specific steps. First, they must make a qualifying investment, such as real estate acquisition, capital transfer, or job creation. With the investment completed, applicants submit their Golden Visa application to the relevant Portuguese authorities, providing the necessary documents and proof of investment. The processing time varies, but approval generally takes a few months. Once approved, investors receive a residence permit, allowing them to live and work in Portugal. After meeting residency requirements, applicants can apply for Portuguese citizenship and residence.

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Portugal Golden Visa FAQs

The Portugal Golden Visa investment processing time may vary. Under normal circumstances and if the application complies with the requirements, it takes between 8 to 10 months from the time your application is submitted until you receive the permanent resident card.
Tax liability in Portugal depends on your residency status, which is defined by how much time you spend in the country each year. Investors will only be taxed on their worldwide income if they are residents of Portugal for over 183 days in any year. If you are a foreign resident, you can take advantage of Portugal’s Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax scheme, under which you can benefit from either tax exemptions or a flat 20 percent tax rate on your foreign-sourced income for ten years. It’s advisable to speak with one of our lawyers to get more information.

Yes, Portuguese Golden Visa holders can apply for citizenship or permanent residency after 5 years of holding their Golden Visa.

The validity period of your Portugal Golden Visa is initially 1 year. You can then renew it for two-year periods, provided that you have maintained your investment. After five years, you become eligible for permanent residence or citizenship.

Portugal Golden Visa holders had access to the public-funded healthcare system after the meeting. The citizenship and residency requirements of the country. Those who contribute to the Social Security Fund can receive free medical care. Public education in Portugal is free except for universities, for which you have to pay a relatively small fee.

Yes, Portugal allows dual citizenship, which allows citizens to hold two nationalities simultaneously. However, if the applicant’s home country does not allow it, the applicant may have to renounce their citizenship.

Renew the Portugal Golden Visa. To maintain the investment and residency, you must apply for a residence permit renewal.

No, you do not have to take a Portugal Golden Visa language test to obtain the visa for permanent residency and citizenship.

Yes, family members, including spouses and any children under the age of 18 can be included in the Portugal Golden Visa application for citizenship by investment.

Step Global is an immigration consultancy and advisory firm based in Dubai specializing in facilitating the US Eb-5 investement program and the Canada start up Visa, which grant permanent residency in the United States and Canada, respectively.

Below is the documentation for Portugal’s permanent residence:

  1. A valid passport and copies.
  2. Proof of legal residence in Portugal.
  3. Criminal record clearance from both Portugal and your home country.
  4. Health insurance coverage.
  5. Proof of sufficient financial means.
  6. Documentation to demonstrate ties to Portugal (employment, family, etc.).
  7. Application forms, photographs, and any specific documents based on your circumstances.

The Portugal Golden Visa is one of the most popular residency-based investment programs. To qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa program, investors typically need to meet certain requirements, including making a qualifying investment in Portugal for a minimum period of 5 years. Common investment options include real estate acquisition, capital transfer, job creation, or cultural contributions. The specific requirements and investment amounts may vary, so it’s crucial to check the latest information from official sources or consult with immigration professionals and consultants like us who are familiar with current regulations.

The Portugal Golden Citizenship by Investment Visa Program offers several investment options, including real estate acquisition, capital transfer, job creation, and cultural contributions. Investors can choose to invest in real estate, fund various projects, or make capital transfers to qualify for the Golden Visa program. However, the specific requirements and investment amounts may vary, so it’s important to check the latest information from official sources or consult with professionals and immigration consultants familiar with the program’s current regulations.

Benefits of Portugal Golden Visa:

Residency: Grants the right to live, work, and study in Portugal and obtain permanent residency.

Travel: Allows visa-free travel to Portugal or travel through Europe within the Schengen Area.

Path to Citizenship: Eligibility for Portuguese citizenship after a certain period.

Education and Healthcare: Access to Portugal’s education and healthcare systems.

Real Estate Options: There are various investment options, including real estate.

 

Drawbacks:

Investment Requirement: Requires a substantial financial commitment.

Renewal Requirements: Must maintain the investment and meet renewal criteria.

Processing Times: Processing times can vary, and delays may occur.

Changing Regulations: Regulations may evolve, affecting program conditions.

Limited to Schengen: Visa-free travel is limited to Schengen Area countries.

It’s essential to consider the current Portuguese residency program details and consult with professionals for the latest information and personalized advice.

Contact us

As the window of opportunity to take advantage of this once in a lifetime EU Residency and Passport program is short, we encourage you to contact us today.

 

With a number of eligible properties available, and over 13 years in the investment immigration industry, Step Global is a leading advisory firm which has assisted clients across the GCC, India, and Africa, fulfil their immigration goals.