Portugal Golden Visa 2025: Complete Guide for American Investors
Everything you need to know about Portugal's Golden Visa program in 2025, including new investment options, timeline, costs, and the path to Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal Immigration & Citizenship Lawyers
Expert legal guidance on Golden Visa, D7, D8, D2 visas, and Portuguese citizenship by descent. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your new life in Portugal.
15+
Years of Experience
2,500+
Successful Cases
50+
Countries Represented
98%
Client Satisfaction
Trusted by International Legal Associations
Proud members of leading professional organizations
American Bar Association
Association of European Attorneys
American Immigration Lawyers Association
Setting the standard for excellence in Portuguese immigration law
What We Do
Our Core Immigration & Citizenship Services
Comprehensive legal solutions for international clients seeking residency, investment opportunities, and citizenship in Portugal
Golden Visa
Obtain Portuguese residency through qualifying fund investments (€500K) or cultural heritage contributions (€250K). Includes family, minimal stay requirements, and a path to EU citizenship.
Learn more
Most Popular
D7 Passive Income Visa
Ideal for retirees, pensioners, and individuals with stable passive income (rental, dividends, pensions). Live in Portugal without active employment.
Learn more
D8 Digital Nomad Visa
Designed for remote workers and freelancers earning from clients outside Portugal. Work legally while enjoying Portuguese lifestyle and EU access.
Learn more
D2 Entrepreneur Visa & Citizenship
For business founders, investors, and those eligible for citizenship by descent (children/grandchildren of Portuguese nationals).
Learn more
Who We Help
International Clients We Serve
From initial consultation to final approval, we provide personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique circumstances and goals.
Investors & Entrepreneurs
High-net-worth individuals seeking Golden Visa through fund investments, business owners looking to establish in Portugal, and entrepreneurs launching startups.
Remote Workers & Digital Nomads
Freelancers, contractors, and employees of foreign companies wanting to live and work legally from Portugal with the D8 visa.
Retirees & Families
Pensioners with passive income seeking the D7 visa, families relocating to Portugal, and descendants of Portuguese citizens claiming citizenship by heritage.
Our Process
How We Work With You
Free Initial Consultation
We assess your eligibility, discuss your goals, and recommend the best visa or citizenship pathway for your situation.
Document Preparation
Our team prepares, reviews, and authenticates all required documentation to meet Portuguese legal requirements.
Application & Representation
We submit your application to Portuguese authorities and act as your legal representative throughout the entire process.
Approval & Ongoing Support
We monitor your case, respond to authority requests, and support you through renewals and citizenship applications.
Why Choose Us
Why Work With a Portuguese Law Firm?
Working with a local Portuguese law firm provides distinct advantages over foreign intermediaries or agencies.
Direct Representation
We represent you directly before Portuguese immigration authorities (AIMA), consulates, and civil registries—no middlemen.
Local Legal Expertise
Deep knowledge of Portuguese immigration law, bureaucracy, and real-time updates on policy changes that affect your case.
Bilingual Communication
Fluent in English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication with you and accurate submissions to Portuguese authorities.
End-to-End Accountability
A single point of contact from consultation through approval, renewals, and eventual citizenship—no handoffs or confusion.
Client Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
" Working with Defesa Legal made our Golden Visa process incredibly smooth. Their team was professional, responsive, and handled every detail with care. We highly recommend them. "
Robert & Sarah Mitchell
Golden Visa Clients, United States
" As a digital nomad, the D8 visa process seemed daunting. Defesa Legal made it straightforward and stress-free. Their English communication was excellent and they were always available to answer questions. "
James Chen
D8 Digital Nomad Visa, Canada
" I contacted several law firms about my Portuguese citizenship application. Defesa Legal stood out for their expertise and personal attention. They successfully helped me obtain citizenship through my Portuguese grandmother. "
Emma Thompson
Citizenship Client, United Kingdom
Latest Legal Updates & Insights
View all posts »Stay informed about Portuguese immigration law changes, visa updates, and practical guidance for relocating to Portugal.
2024 Update to the Nationality Regulation: Aligning Rules with Recent Legislative Changes
The April 2024 update to Portugal's Nationality Regulation aligned administrative procedures with Law 1/2024, clarifying documentation requirements and residence time counting.
Counting Residence Time Fairly: Law 1/2024 and Portuguese Citizenship
Law 1/2024 clarifies that residence time for Portuguese citizenship now counts from the date of initial residence permit application submission, not just from card issuance, addressing administrative delays.
Portugal's 2024 Minimum Wage Increase: Implications for Visa and Residence Applicants
Decree-Law 18/2024 raised Portugal's minimum wage to EUR 820 per month, proportionally increasing income thresholds for visa categories like D7, digital nomad and family reunification.
Talk to a Portugal Immigration Lawyer
Ready to start your Portugal journey? Contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced legal team will assess your eligibility and guide you through every step.