Portugal Residency by Investment Program
The Portugal Residency by Investment Program, commonly referred to as the Golden Visa Program, offers non-EU nationals an efficient pathway to obtain residency in Portugal through qualifying investments. Established in 2012, this program has gained significant popularity due to its attractive benefits, straightforward process, and the potential for eventual citizenship.
Investment Options
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Real Estate Investment:
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Minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate. Reduced to €350,000 if the property is over 30 years old or located in a designated urban regeneration area.
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Commercial Property Investment: Minimum investment of €500,000 in commercial real estate.
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Capital Transfer:
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Minimum transfer of €1.5 million into a Portuguese bank account or approved investment options.
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Business Investment:
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Creation of a minimum of 10 permanent jobs.
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Investment of €500,000 in an existing Portuguese business, creating or preserving a minimum of 5 permanent jobs for three years.
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Research and Development:
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Investment of €500,000 in scientific or technological research in Portugal.
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Cultural Heritage Support:
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Minimum investment of €250,000 in the preservation of cultural heritage or the arts.
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Benefits of Portugal Residency
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Visa-Free Schengen Travel: Residency permit holders enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, facilitating easy movement across 26 European countries.
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Pathway to Citizenship: After five years of residency, investors may apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet the residency and language requirements.
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High Quality of Life: Portugal offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare, education, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an attractive place for families.
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Tax Benefits: Portugal has favorable tax policies, including the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime, which provides significant tax benefits for foreign residents.
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No Residency Requirement: Investors are only required to spend an average of seven days per year in Portugal to maintain their residency status.
Application Process
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Engage Authorized Legal Advisor: Applicants must engage a licensed legal advisor or immigration consultancy to assist with the preparation and submission of the application to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
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Due Diligence: A comprehensive background check is conducted to ensure applicants meet the program's integrity and financial requirements.
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Investment: Upon approval, applicants must complete the chosen investment option and submit the necessary documentation to the SEF.
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Residency Permit: Once the investment is confirmed and residency conditions are met, applicants receive their Portuguese residency permit.