Portugal Golden Visa 

EU Residency by Investment for US & International Investors

Portugal’s Golden Visa is one of Europe’s most established residency-by-investment programmes. It offers a clear route to EU residency, a path to citizenship, and investment-based eligibility in a stable, internationally respected jurisdiction.

For US and global investors, the programme combines mobility, security, and long-term optionality, with low physical presence requirements and family inclusion.

Why Investors Choose Portugal 

Portugal consistently ranks among Europe’s most desirable countries to live, invest, and relocate to. Key advantages include: 

• Political and social stability
• High quality of life and personal safety 
• Excellent healthcare and education
• Strong international connectivity
• A pragmatic and welcoming framework for foreign residents
• These fundamentals have made Portugal a preferred destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and families seeking a credible EU “Plan B.” 
  
  

Family-Inclusive EU Residency

The Portugal Golden Visa allows a single investment to cover the main applicant and immediate family members, including: 

• Spouse 
• Dependent children 
• Dependent parents 

Time spent under the Golden Visa counts toward permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship. 

As of October 2025, the minimum period for citizenship eligibility is: 

• 7 years for citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries and EU Member States 
• 10 years for all other nationalities 
  
  

Investment-Led Residency (No Real Estate) 

Following regulatory updates, direct real estate investment no longer qualifies for the Portugal Golden Visa. 

Eligible routes now focus on regulated investment vehicles, offering a more structured and institutional approach to residency by investment. 

At Acquest, we guide clients through these options and explain how they align with both residency goals and investment considerations. 

Key Benefits at a Glance 

• EU Residency & Schengen Access 
• Low Minimum Stay Requirements 
• Family Inclusion Under One Application 
• Clear Path to Permanent Residency & Citizenship 
• Investment-Based Qualification 
• Crypto-Friendly Environment 
• Access to High-Quality Education at EU Tuition Levels 
  
  

Core Programme Requirements 

The Portugal Golden Visa has clear and transparent eligibility criteria: 

• Due Diligence 
  Background and source-of-funds verification for all applicants; criminal records required for applicants aged 16+ 
• Health Insurance 
  Valid coverage applicable in Portugal 
• Minimum Investment Amounts 
  Qualifying investments typically range between €250,000 and €500,000, depending on the route selected 
• Investment Holding Period 
  The qualifying investment must be maintained for a minimum of five years, subject to the structure of the investment vehicle 
• Physical Presence 
  Limited stay requirements make the programme suitable for globally mobile individuals 
• Residence Permit Validity 
  Initial permits are issued for two years and renewable, leading to permanent residency or citizenship once requirements are met