What is a Golden Visa?
How it works?
Portugal launched the program in October 2012 to attract international investment into the country, as it was much in need after the 2008 economic crisis. Since then, the program has raised over €6 billion. The Golden Visa Program in Portugal provides the opportunity to become a permanent resident or citizen in only five years.
Portugal is one of the top destinations for international investors due to its Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, friendly people and delicious organic cuisine. It offers a very high quality of life at a very affordable cost. The Golden Visa program gives US citizens the opportunity to live, work and study in the country.
Golden Visa Benefits
Portugal has a balmy climate. In Lisbon and all along the Tagus Valley, you can expect hot summers and mild winters.
Portugal offers some of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe, without sacrificing the quality of life. Nearly everything is very affordable, from food to education, to healthcare, and leisure and social activities.
Portugal was voted the best travel destination in Europe. The combination of comfort and economic stability makes Portugal attractive for investment and relocation.
You can qualify for residency by investing €280,000, one of the lowest investment thresholds in Europe.
You don’t have to live in Portugal to keep your residence permit. Staying in the country for fourteen days every two years will suffice.
You are eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship in five years. This is one of the quickest in Europe.
Once you become a Portuguese citizen, you get visa-free access to 188 countries.
Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. The Portuguese people are friendly and welcoming.
Portugal enjoys world class healthcare. Private healthcare is available for $60 per month on average. It is possible to hire staff from €750 per month.
Public transport in Portugal is affordable and efficient. The Portuguese high speed rail network connects all of the major cities in Portugal.
Steps to getting a Golden Visa
Steps to getting a Golden Visa
Step 1 : Choose an investment
- The official Portugal Visa Application Form. This is downloadable from the Portuguese visa portal.
- Valid passport.
- Two passport-size pictures, which are in line with Portugal visa photo requirements.
- Proof of having obtained health insurance valid in Portugal.
- Proof of having no previous criminal records. You need a certificate from any country in which you have lived longer than one year. The certificate has to be issued by the relevant authorities within the previous three months and translated into Portuguese.
- Sworn Statement that you will maintain your investment for a minimum period of five years.
- Payment receipt from the ARI portal.