PORTUGAL
Citizenship By Investment
The Citizenship By Investment
Portugal Citizenship by Investment program, also known as the Golden Visa program, offers a pathway for foreign investors to obtain Portuguese citizenship and European Union (EU) residency. It grants individuals and their families the opportunity to live, work, and study in Portugal and enjoy the benefits of EU citizenship.
How it works
Citizenship By Investment Application Essentials
01
Benefits
- Portuguese and EU citizenship for the applicant and their eligible family members.
- Free movement within the Schengen area.
- Access to high-quality healthcare and education systems in Portugal.
- Opportunity to work, study, or start a business in Portugal or any other EU country.
- Option to travel visa-free to many countries worldwide.
02
Requirements
- Make a qualifying investment in Portugal, such as real estate, capital transfer, job creation, or research activities.
- Maintain the investment for a specific period.
- Demonstrate a clean criminal record.
- Have valid health insurance coverage.
- Show proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members.
03
Cost
The cost of the Portugal Citizenship by Investment program varies depending on the chosen investment option. As of 2021, the minimum investment requirements range from €280,000 to €1.4 million, excluding associated fees and taxes.
04
Process
- Select a qualifying investment option.
- Prepare the necessary documentation, including proof of funds and a clean criminal record.
- Submit the application to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
- Attend a biometric appointment and provide any additional information requested.
- Await the processing of the application and follow up with any additional requirements or interviews.
05
How to apply
- Engage the services of an authorized immigration advisor or lawyer.
- Gather the required documents, including investment-related paperwork and personal records.
- Complete the application forms accurately and thoroughly.
- Pay the applicable fees and submit the application to the SEF.
- Follow any additional instructions provided by the SEF during the application process.
FAQs
Can I include my family members in the Portugal Citizenship by Investment application?
- Yes, the program allows for the inclusion of family members, including spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.
Is there a residency requirement before obtaining Portuguese citizenship?
- Yes, applicants are required to maintain a minimum period of residency in Portugal before becoming eligible for citizenship.
Can I invest in real estate to qualify for the Portugal Citizenship by Investment program?
- Yes, investment in real estate is one of the qualifying options for the program. The minimum investment threshold varies based on the location.
Are there any language requirements for the Portugal Citizenship by Investment program?
- No, there are no specific language requirements for the program. However, basic knowledge of Portuguese can be beneficial for integration purposes.
Can I sell the qualifying investment after obtaining Portuguese citizenship?
- Yes, the investment can be sold after a certain period, but the timing may depend on the specific terms and conditions of the investment option chosen.
Is the Portugal Citizenship by Investment program subject to annual quotas?
- No, currently, there are no annual quotas or limitations on the number of applications accepted for the program.
Can I include grandchildren or other extended family members in the application?
- The program only allows for the inclusion of direct family members, such as spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.
Can I live and work in any other EU country with Portuguese citizenship obtained through the program?
- The program only allows for the inclusion of direct family members, such as spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents.
Are there any tax implications for participants in the Portugal Citizenship by Investment program?
- It is advisable to consult with a tax advisor to understand the tax implications of the investment and citizenship status in Portugal.
Can I apply for Portuguese citizenship immediately after obtaining the Golden Visa?
- No, applicants must maintain their Golden Visa and fulfill the residency requirements before becoming eligible for Portuguese citizenship.