Portugal Golden Visa: Investment Options & EU Residency

The Portugal Golden Visa program draws investors from around the world with a strong route to EU residency and a potential path to citizenship.

Even after key changes in October 2023, this program holds value for high-net-worth individuals looking for family security, global mobility, and stable investment options. With personal properties no longer qualifying as an investment, the focus has shifted to investment funds.

This guide covers the updates and explains why the Portugal Golden Visa remains a smart choice for international families seeking a reliable backup plan.

Discover how to gain EU residency and a path to citizenship with the Portugal Golden Visa. VIDA Capital offers tailored advice for investing in Portugal’s growing hospitality sector.

Is the Portugal Golden Visa Still Available in 2025? Key Updates Explained

The Portugal Golden Visa is active in 2025, standing as one of Europe’s top residency-by-investment options. Changes made in October 2023 reshaped the program, particularly by removing certain investment categories.

A major update eliminated personal properties as a qualifying option. Acquiring such assets no longer meets Golden Visa criteria. This marks a significant shift from past rules.

These updates came through the Mais Habitação bill, balancing housing concerns while keeping the program appealing to global investors. The law officially removed specific investment pathways.

In October 2025, Portugal’s Parliament also extended citizenship timelines. Investors now need 10 years of residency before applying for citizenship, up from previous rules. Nationals of Portuguese-language countries (CPLP) and EU citizens have a shorter seven-year requirement. This applies to all new Golden Visa applicants, except those who filed for citizenship before the law’s publication.

Despite these shifts, the program keeps its core strengths: a low residency requirement of just 14 days every two years, family inclusion, and a path to EU citizenship without needing to relocate. The move to fund-based investments appeals to those seeking managed, asset-focused opportunities.

What Are the Investment Options for the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa program provides specific investment routes to support Portugal’s economic goals while offering residency benefits. Knowing these options helps align your financial plans with program requirements.

Qualifying Investment Funds

Investment funds are now a primary choice, requiring at least €500,000 in approved funds. These funds must meet strict regulatory guidelines.

Funds must be overseen by the Portuguese Securities Market Authority (CMVM) to ensure compliance. They cover various sectors as allowed by regulations.

These funds attract investors due to professional management and a focus on stability. Many prioritize tangible assets, fitting the goals of those cautious about risk.

Multiple qualifying funds exist across different industries. This range lets you choose options that suit your preferences and Golden Visa needs.

Why Choose Asset-Backed Funds for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Asset-backed funds have become a top pick for Golden Visa investors who value stability alongside residency goals, especially in uncertain economic times. These funds offer distinct benefits over riskier alternatives.

Unlike purely financial investments, asset-backed funds are tied to physical assets. This connection provides a layer of security, as the fund’s value is linked to something tangible, helping shield against market swings.

The VIDA Fund focuses on Portugal’s booming hospitality sector. It acquires undervalued properties in this industry and transforms them, following a “Giving Hotels a Second Life” strategy to turn struggling assets into high-performing operations.

Portugal’s hospitality sector shows strong growth. In 2024, the country saw 31 million visitors and €27 billion in tourism revenue. Tourism has bounced back faster than in many European nations. This points to solid potential for related investments.

Future events like co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup, expected to bring over €800 million in economic benefits, add to the outlook. The World Travel & Tourism Council projects that by 2035, tourism will account for 22.6% of Portugal’s GDP, supporting long-term value in this sector.

The VIDA Fund meets strict standards, regulated by the CMVM and audited bi-annually by Deloitte. This ensures transparency and accountability for investors.

The fund’s team also brings deep experience, having managed over €4 billion in assets and completed more than 100 private equity deals. Their expertise drives the strategy of revitalizing hospitality assets.

Learn about stable, asset-backed options for your Portugal Golden Visa. Reach out to VIDA Capital for a custom consultation.

What Are the Key Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa offers more than just an investment. It provides lasting advantages for you and your family, from mobility to security and access to opportunities.

Visa-Free Travel in the Schengen Area

Golden Visa holders can travel without visas across the Schengen Area, covering over 26 European countries. This freedom supports business trips, family visits, and personal travel, offering a safeguard against global uncertainties.

Residency Rights in Portugal

The program grants legal residency in Portugal, allowing you to live, work, and study there. It also provides access to public healthcare and education systems, plus easier business and banking options in the country.

Family Coverage

You can include your spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents or in-laws in one application. Children must be full-time students and unmarried during the residency period. Parents need to be over 65 or financially reliant on you. This extends benefits across generations.

Low Residency Commitment

Unlike stricter programs, the Golden Visa requires only 14 days in Portugal every two years. This suits those wanting a backup plan without relocating full-time. The time commitment remains minimal.

Pathway to EU Citizenship

After 10 years under the October 2025 rules, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship. This unlocks full EU rights, including living, working, and studying in any EU country, plus access to social services and a strong passport for global travel.

How Does the Portugal Golden Visa Application Work?

Applying for the Portugal Golden Visa involves careful steps over 12 to 18 months. Having a lawyer to guide you through every phase is vital for success.

Step 0: Pre-Application Setup

Before applying, work with a trusted law firm experienced in Golden Visa cases to ensure compliance. VIDA Capital can connect you with proven legal experts.

Get a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF) remotely via your lawyer. Open a local bank account the same way to handle investment transfers.

Choose and complete your investment first. For funds like the VIDA Fund, this means subscribing, transferring €500,000, and securing confirmation documents.

Step 1: Submitting Your Application

Your lawyer submits the application online through AIMA for you and your family. After approval, you’ll be notified to schedule in-person biometrics for fingerprints and photos.

Step 2: Receiving Your Residency Card (2-Year Validity)

The initial residency card, valid for two years, confirms your status in Portugal and enables Schengen travel. It supports banking and other activities across Europe.

Step 3: First Renewal (After 2 Years)

For the first renewal, prove you’ve maintained your investment and stayed 14 days in the prior two years. Provide updated criminal checks and renew biometrics. As approval often takes a year, most need only one renewal in the five-year period.

Step 4: Second Renewal (After 4 Years)

If timing requires it, repeat the renewal process with the same criteria. Many applicants won’t need this step due to initial processing delays.

Step 5: Permanent Residency (After 5 Years)

After five years, apply for permanent residency. This removes renewal obligations while keeping residency rights in Portugal.

Step 6: Citizenship (After 10 Years)

Under the 2025 framework, citizenship requires 10 years of residency. It grants full EU rights, covering work, study, and social benefits across member states.

Simplify the Portugal Golden Visa process with expert support. Team up with VIDA Capital for guidance from investment to residency.

What Are the Costs of the Portugal Golden Visa?

Understanding the full costs beyond the investment amount is key to planning. These fees secure long-term residency and citizenship for your family.

Government Charges

Fees apply per person at each stage. The initial application costs €618.60 per individual. Card issuance is €6,179.40 per family member at biometrics.

Renewals cost €3,023.20 per person every two years. With standard timelines, most need just one renewal in five years. Citizenship applications are €250 per person after 10 years.

Legal Expenses

Legal support is essential, with costs typically between €16,000 and €20,000 based on case details. This covers application prep, document checks, and ongoing help. VIDA Capital can suggest skilled lawyers for the process.

Fund Subscription Costs

Investment funds charge fees for administration. The VIDA Fund applies a 1% fee on the investment amount, standard for managed funds. This includes due diligence and investor support.

How Does Portugal’s Golden Visa Compare to Other European Programs?

Portugal’s Golden Visa stands out among European residency programs for its citizenship access and flexibility. While other countries have adjusted or ended similar offerings, Portugal remains distinct.

Comparison: Portugal, Greece, and Spain Programs

Portugal requires only 14 days every two years, while offering citizenship access without relocation. Greece starts at €400,000, or €800,000 in popular areas, with no minimum stay, but citizenship requires relocation. Spain’s program status is uncertain for 2025, limiting its relevance as an option.

Common Questions About the Portugal Golden Visa

What Does the Portugal Golden Visa Offer?

This program allows non-EU investors to gain Portuguese residency and a potential path to citizenship via qualifying investments. It requires at least €500,000 in approved funds. Holders get renewable residency permits in Portugal with a 14-day biennial stay rule. After 10 years, citizenship offers full EU rights across member states.

How Long Is the Application Process?

The process usually takes 12 to 18 months from investment to residency card. This covers preparation, submission, review by AIMA, biometrics, and card delivery. Timelines vary by case and volume, but legal support speeds things up.

Do I Have to Move to Portugal?

No, relocation isn’t required. With just 14 days needed every two years, it’s a flexible backup plan. You can keep your main home and business elsewhere while holding EU residency.

Are Personal Properties Eligible?

No, personal properties don’t qualify following the 2023 changes. Eligible investments now focus on funds with a minimum of €500,000 or other approved options.

How Does the Golden Visa Differ from the D7 Visa?

The Golden Visa suits investors with a €500,000 commitment and minimal stay needs. The D7 Visa targets retirees or remote workers with passive income, requiring full-time residency in Portugal as their primary home.

Is the VIDA Fund a Safe Choice?

Yes, the VIDA Fund follows strict oversight by the CMVM and gets bi-annual audits from Deloitte. Its focus on tangible hospitality assets adds a layer of value protection.

How Does VIDA Capital Assist?

As an advisory firm, VIDA Capital guides you through the Golden Visa journey. They help with investment choices, link you to experienced lawyers, and support investment in the VIDA Fund with ongoing communication.

What Follows Investment in the VIDA Fund?

After investing, VIDA Capital provides updates on fund performance and asset progress. They work with your legal team to handle documentation for applications and renewals throughout the residency period.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Future with the Portugal Golden Visa and VIDA Capital

The Portugal Golden Visa remains a strong option for investors wanting mobility, family security, and stable investments amid global uncertainty. Its low stay requirements, family benefits, and citizenship path offer lasting value.

The focus on investment funds like the VIDA Fund aligns with the goals of cautious investors. Targeting Portugal’s hospitality sector, the fund transforms assets for sustainable growth. Note that past returns of the VIDA Fund do not guarantee future results.

VIDA Capital, as an advisory firm, simplifies the process with personalized support. With the VIDA Fund’s oversight by CMVM and audits by Deloitte, investors gain confidence in management and transparency.

For those planning globally, this program offers more than financial diversity. It’s a safeguard against instability and a doorway to European opportunities for your family.

Portugal’s safety, ranked 7th worldwide, alongside its tourism growth and location, makes it a solid base for wealth and security.

Ready to start your path to EU residency and citizenship? Book a consultation with VIDA Capital to explore secure investments for the Portugal Golden Visa.