Portugal Golden Visa 2025 – Investment Residency by Funds or Cultural Donation
The Portugal Golden Visa remains available in 2025 – but only through specific routes. Real estate investments are no longer eligible. Today, the main options are qualifying investment funds and certified cultural donation, both leading to a residence permit with a path to Portuguese citizenship.
Is the Portugal Golden Visa Still Available in 2025?
Yes. The Portugal Golden Visa is still available in 2025. Only the real estate routes were abolished. Investment in qualifying funds and certified cultural projects remains fully valid under the current law, allowing investors and their families to obtain Portuguese residency and, after five years, apply for citizenship.
Investment Routes
Updated Golden Visa Investment Options
Important: Real estate investments (residential or commercial) are no longer eligible for the Golden Visa and should not be used as a basis for new applications.
Qualifying Investment Funds – €500,000
Minimum €500,000 in units of investment funds or venture capital funds regulated and supervised in Portugal, with a clear link to the Portuguese economy.
Cultural Donation (Low-Density Areas) – €200,000
Minimum €200,000 donation to a certified cultural project located in a low-density region, as defined in Portuguese law.
Cultural Donation (Standard Areas) – €250,000
Minimum €250,000 donation to a certified cultural project, not necessarily in a low-density region.
Benefits
Main Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa
Family Residency
Residence permit in Portugal for you and your family, including spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.
Minimal Stay Requirement
Only seven days per year on average required in Portugal to maintain your residency status.
Schengen Mobility
Free movement throughout the Schengen Area for travel, business, and leisure.
Healthcare & Education
Access to Portuguese healthcare and education systems once you become a resident.
Path to Citizenship
Eligibility to apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship after five years of legal residence (subject to legal requirements, including language test).
EU Passport Potential
Portuguese citizenship grants an EU passport with visa-free access to 180+ countries worldwide.
Requirements
Basic Eligibility Requirements
We conduct a thorough eligibility assessment during your initial consultation to identify any potential issues before you commit to an investment.
Clean Criminal Record
No serious criminal offences in Portugal or in your country of residence.
Lawful Origin of Funds
Ability to demonstrate the legal source of your investment capital.
Investment Commitment
Ability to maintain the qualifying investment for the required period (minimum 5 years).
Health Insurance
Valid health insurance coverage in Portugal (where applicable).
No Schengen Restrictions
No entry bans or alerts in the Schengen Information System.
Our Process
Step-by-Step Golden Visa Process
Step 1 – Legal and Tax Assessment
We analyse your profile, source of funds, family structure and preferred route (funds or cultural donation), including high-level tax implications.
Step 2 – Selecting and Executing the Investment
We coordinate with regulated fund managers or certified cultural entities, review documentation, and assist with NIF (tax number) and bank account where needed.
Step 3 – Preparing and Submitting the Application
We prepare all required documents, translate and legalise where necessary, and submit the application through the official online system.
Step 4 – Biometrics and Residence Card Issuance
We accompany you through the biometrics appointment in Portugal and follow up until the residence cards are issued for you and your family.
Step 5 – Renewals and Path to Citizenship
We assist with renewals, compliance with minimum stay, and later with your Portuguese citizenship application if you qualify.
Why Choose Us
How Our Law Firm Helps Golden Visa Investors
Working with a Portuguese law firm—not agents or intermediaries—ensures independent legal advice and full accountability.
Independent Legal Advice
We provide objective guidance on funds and cultural donations. We do not sell investment products or receive commissions from fund managers.
Full Legal Representation
We represent you directly before Portuguese consulates and AIMA (immigration authority)—no middlemen or third-party agents.
Tax Strategy Coordination
We coordinate with tax advisors to align your immigration plan with your overall tax strategy, both in Portugal and your home country.
Transparent Fee Structure
Clear, written fee structure with no hidden commissions. You know exactly what you're paying for before we begin.
Common Questions
Portugal Golden Visa FAQs (2025)
Is the Portugal Golden Visa ending?
No. The Portugal Golden Visa is not ending. Only the real estate routes were abolished in 2023. Investment funds and cultural donations remain valid pathways under current law.
Can US and UK citizens still apply for the Golden Visa?
Yes. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, and most other countries outside the EU remain eligible to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa through qualifying investments.
Can I include my spouse and children in the same application?
Yes. The Golden Visa allows family reunification, including your spouse, dependent children (generally under 26 and financially dependent), and dependent parents of either spouse.
Do I need to live full-time in Portugal?
No. The Golden Visa has minimal stay requirements—only an average of 7 days per year in Portugal. You do not need to relocate full-time.
Can I choose between funds and cultural donation later in the process?
You must select your investment route before submitting your application. We help you evaluate both options during the initial consultation so you can make an informed decision.
How long does a Golden Visa application usually take?
Processing times vary but typically range from 6 to 18 months, depending on AIMA workload and the completeness of your application. We work to minimise delays by ensuring thorough documentation.
Will the Golden Visa automatically give me citizenship after five years?
No. After five years of legal residence, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship, but it is not automatic. You must meet requirements including a basic Portuguese language test (A2 level) and clean criminal record.
What happens if my Golden Visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you have the right to appeal or reapply. We analyse the refusal reasons and advise on the best course of action, whether that's an administrative appeal or a corrected resubmission.
Ready to Start Your Golden Visa Application?
Contact us today for a free initial consultation. Our immigration lawyers will assess your eligibility, explain both investment routes, and provide a clear roadmap to Portuguese residency.