Portugal Golden Visa & Residency Programme | Worldwide Visas & Passport Services Ltd

Programme Overview

Portugal Golden Visa & Residency

Portugal has long been one of the most popular destinations for investment migration in Europe. Its residency-by-investment programme offers a compelling combination of a favourable tax environment, Schengen area access, and one of the continent's most attainable citizenship timelines.

The programme has evolved over the years, shifting focus away from direct real estate purchases toward qualified investment funds and other economic activities. Applicants benefit from minimal physical presence requirements under the Golden Visa route, while the D7 visa offers a complementary pathway for those with passive or remote income.

Worldwide Visas & Passport Services Ltd advises clients on both pathways, conducting thorough eligibility assessments before recommending the route most appropriate to each individual's circumstances and objectives.

Programme at a Glance

Programme Golden Visa (ARI) / D7 Passive Income Visa

Minimum investment From €500,000 (qualified funds)

Residency requirement Avg. 7 days/year (Golden Visa)

Time to citizenship 5 years with qualifying presence

Schengen travel Yes — all 27 Schengen countries

Family inclusion Spouse, dependants, parents

Response within 24 hours

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Free Eligibility Assessment

Why Choose This Programme

Key Benefits

Minimal Physical Presence

Golden Visa holders are required to spend an average of only seven days per year in Portugal, making it ideal for globally mobile applicants.

Schengen Area Access

Residency permits allow visa-free travel and extended stays across all 27 Schengen area countries for the permit holder and eligible family members.

Path to EU Citizenship

After five years of qualifying residency, applicants may apply for Portuguese citizenship — one of the most accessible EU citizenship timelines available.

Family Inclusion

Your spouse, dependent children, dependent parents, and in-law parents can all be included in a single application at no additional investment threshold.

Stable Legal Framework

Portugal's investment migration programme is well-established, transparent, and regulated. The legal framework provides applicants with a clear and reliable process.

Quality of Life

Portugal consistently ranks among Europe's top destinations for quality of life, safety, climate, healthcare, and education standards.

How to Qualify

Investment Routes & Options

Important: Investment thresholds, qualifying routes, and programme conditions are subject to change by the relevant government authority without notice. Figures shown are approximate guidance only. Please contact us to verify the most current requirements before making any decisions.

Qualifying Investment Funds

€500,000+

Investment in approved Portuguese venture capital or private equity funds. Funds must be capitalised for a minimum of five years. This is the primary route available since the 2023 programme reform.

✓ Potentially refundable

Scientific or Technological Research

€500,000+

Capital contribution to approved research and development activities conducted by public or private entities registered with the relevant Portuguese authorities.

D7 Passive Income Visa

Income-based

No capital investment required. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient recurring passive income (pensions, rental, dividends, or remote work) to support themselves in Portugal. Requires physical presence.

Minimum income approx. €820/month (subject to revision)

Before You Apply

Eligibility Considerations

Must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national (Golden Visa); D7 is open to most nationalities

Clean criminal record from country of residence and country of nationality

Qualifying investment must be sourced from funds outside Portugal

Funds must derive from a demonstrably legitimate and lawful source

Valid health insurance covering Portugal is required

No significant outstanding tax or social security obligations in Portugal

Principal applicant must be 18 years of age or older

Our Advisory Pathway

Application Process

1

Free Initial Consultation

We discuss your goals, nationality, and financial profile to determine whether the Golden Visa or D7 route is more appropriate for your situation.

2

Eligibility Assessment

We review your documentation in detail and identify the qualifying route, investment structure, and any additional requirements specific to your nationality.

3

Document Preparation

We provide a full document checklist covering identity, financial, and source-of-funds requirements, and guide you through obtaining apostilles and translations.

4

Application Submission & Follow-up

We assist with SEF/AIMA portal registration, review your submission package, and keep you informed of progress throughout processing.

Preparation

Typical Required Documents

Document requirements vary by programme and individual circumstances. This list is indicative — we provide a tailored checklist after your initial consultation.

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

Criminal record certificate (apostilled)

Proof of qualifying investment (fund subscription agreement)

Source of funds declaration and supporting bank statements

Proof of health insurance coverage in Portugal

NIF (Portuguese tax identification number)

Portuguese bank account details

Marriage certificate (if including spouse)

Birth certificates for dependent children (apostilled)

Proof of relationship for dependent parents

Common Questions

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