Golden Visa in Portugal
Your pathway to European residency
Welcome to your gateway to European residency through the Golden Visa in Portugal! We are here to simplify the process and guide you step by step to achieving this exclusive privilege.
What is the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa, as it is commonly known, is a Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), aimed at foreign nationals who wish to invest and obtain residency in Portugal. Obtaining the Golden Visa provides a range of benefits, both for the investor and their family members, up to the point of acquiring Portuguese citizenship.
Why choose Portugal?
Portugal is one of the most attractive destinations due to its welcoming climate, stable economy, lifestyle, and safety. The Golden Visa offers the opportunity to become part of this vibrant community, whether for business or leisure.
How can we help?
We offer comprehensive support throughout the entire Golden Visa process. We are here to provide dedicated legal guidance, ensuring you understand every step of the process and are fully informed to make confident decisions.
Why choose Mendes & Silva?
Legal Expertise: With our legal knowledge and experience in the field, we have a proven track record of success in Golden Visa processes.
Personalised Support: We offer tailored support, customised to your unique needs and circumstances.
Proven Results: We have successfully assisted numerous clients in obtaining their Golden Visa and building a secure future in Portugal.
Join us on your journey towards European residency. Contact us to start your Golden Visa journey in Portugal.
What is the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa in Portugal is a residency programme designed for foreign investors who wish to establish themselves in Europe, through Portugal. This programme allows third-country nationals who make an investment in Portugal, from the various options available, to obtain a temporary residence permit. This permit allows investors and their families to live, work, and study in Portugal without the need for a visa, granting them access to all the benefits of being a resident in Portugal.
Advantages and Benefits:
Residence in Portugal: The Golden Visa offers investors and their families the right to reside in Portugal and enjoy the European lifestyle.
Family Reunification: The investor's family members benefit from family reunification. Through a single investment, these family members can also obtain a Portuguese residence permit.
Short Stay Requirement: You will only need to stay in Portugal for a minimum period of 7 days in the first year and 14 days in the following years to fulfil the time obligations of this programme, allowing you the flexibility of not having to reside permanently in Portugal.
Access to the Schengen Area: With the Golden Visa, holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area without the need for a visa, providing greater freedom of movement across European countries.
Possibility of Obtaining Permanent Residence: The investor also has the possibility to apply for Permanent Residence, provided the necessary requirements are met.
Possibility of Obtaining a Portuguese Passport: After five years of submitting the application, and provided the necessary requirements are met, Golden Visa holders have the option to apply for Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation, thus obtaining a European passport and opening the doors to a complete European life.
At Mendes & Silva, we understand the complexities of the Golden Visa process and are here to guide you every step of the way. We are committed to making the process simple and efficient for you and your family. Contact us to start your Golden Visa process in Portugal and take the first step towards your European residency.
Requirements and Process
Basic Requirements:
Minimum Investment: The minimum required amount will depend on the type of investment selected.
Acceptable Types of Investment: Currently, the following investments are eligible:
Creation of at least 10 jobs;
Transfer of at least 500,000 euros for scientific research activities;
Transfer of at least 250,000 euros to support artistic production or the preservation of national cultural heritage;
Transfer of at least 500,000 euros into investment funds or venture capital funds;
Transfer of at least 500,000 euros to establish a commercial company, combined with the creation of five jobs, or to reinforce the share capital of an existing company, with the creation or maintenance of at least five jobs for a minimum period of three years.
Maintenance of Investment: Investors must maintain the investment for a minimum period of 5 years.
Step by Step:
Initial Consultation: Schedule a consultation to receive personalised guidance. We will assess the best investment option for you based on the necessary requirements and current legislation.
Documentation Preparation: We will assist in preparing all the necessary documents, ensuring they comply with the latest requirements.
Application Submission: We will handle the preparation and submission of your application to the Portuguese Immigration Office - AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum), ensuring all documentation is correct and up to date according to the requirements of this entity.
Process Monitoring: We will closely monitor the progress of your application, ensuring that all stages are completed effectively.
Approval and Issuance of the Golden Visa: After the final approval of your application, our office will facilitate the issuance of your Golden Visa, allowing you and your family to enjoy the benefits of residency in Portugal.
We are committed to providing accurate and up-to-date legal guidance on the Golden Visa, ensuring you are well informed about every step of this process. Contact us to start your journey towards the Golden Visa in Portugal and your new chapter in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Has the Golden Visa in Portugal ended?
No, the Golden Visa programme in Portugal has been in existence since 2012 and still continues. However, as the programme has undergone several changes, particularly regarding the types of acceptable investments, this question is understandable. It is important to clarify that the Golden Visa programme is still available, although, since October 2023, the purchase of real estate and investment in real estate funds are no longer considered eligible investment options, except for applications that were already submitted before these changes.
What is the typical processing time for a Golden Visa application in Portugal?
The processing time can vary depending on the workload of the Portuguese immigration authorities. However, with our assistance, we ensure that all documents are correct and optimised to speed up the process. Typically, applications are processed within a few months, but the exact time can vary. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information on this matter and to learn about the legal options available to ensure your process is handled efficiently.
What are the costs involved in the process?
The costs involved in the Golden Visa process include administrative fees payable to the Portuguese government, which are subject to annual changes, legal advisory fees, and potential costs associated with the chosen investment. We provide a transparent and detailed estimate after the initial consultation so that you are fully informed about the costs involved.
What are the investment requirements?
The requirements and minimum investment amount vary depending on the type of investment chosen. We stay up-to-date with the latest legal changes and can guide you on eligible investments that meet the Golden Visa criteria.
Can I purchase a property and obtain the Golden Visa?
No. In October 2023, the Golden Visa programme underwent several changes, and the purchase of real estate and investment in real estate funds are no longer considered eligible investment options. However, these changes do not affect applications that were submitted before that date.
What rights are granted by the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa offers residency in Portugal for investors and their families. This means that you and your family can live, study, and work in Portugal. Additionally, the Golden Visa grants access to the Schengen area, allowing visa-free travel within various European countries, including: Austria, Germany, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Do I need to live permanently in Portugal to keep my Golden Visa active?
No, you do not need to live permanently in Portugal to keep your Golden Visa active. However, there are minimum stay requirements that need to be met. We are here to guide you through these requirements and ensure that you comply with the current law.
What happens if an unforeseen event occurs during my investment and I need to withdraw from the Golden Visa process?
If an unforeseen event occurs during your investment, it is crucial to contact us immediately. We can guide you on the appropriate procedures to handle unexpected situations and help you understand the legal implications. Our experience will ensure that you make informed decisions at any stage of the process.
Can I include family members, such as children or parents?
Yes, you can include family members in your Golden Visa application. Eligible family members include your spouse, civil domestic partnership, children under 18 years old, and adult children who are single, studying, and financially dependent up to the age of 25. Additionally, stepchildren, parents, and in-laws can also be included. There is no limit to the number of family members who can be reunited, as long as the necessary conditions are met. We are here to assist you in the process of including your loved ones.
Do I need to renew my Golden Visa?
Yes. Since it is a temporary residence permit, usually valid for a period of 2 years, the Golden Visa must be renewed. To do so, you must maintain the investment made and meet the required minimum stay period in Portugal. This renewal is not automatic and must be requested in advance. Our team can clarify all your questions regarding the days you need to stay in Portugal and how to prove your stay in the country in order to renew your Golden Visa.
At Mendes & Silva, we understand that the Golden Visa involves complex issues, and we are here to answer all your questions. Contact us for a personalised consultation to start your Golden Visa process in Portugal with confidence and peace of mind.
How can we Help?
Specialised Consultancy: We offer specialised consultancy to guide you throughout the entire Golden Visa process, from choosing the investment to obtaining your residence permit. We will assess your needs and help you find the best option for you.
Document Preparation: We assist in the meticulous preparation of all necessary documents for your Golden Visa application. We ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and ready for submission to the relevant authorities.
Legal Representation: We provide solid and effective legal representation in handling all matters related to your Golden Visa. We stand by your side at every stage of the process, ensuring your compliance and protecting your interests.
We are here to simplify the Golden Visa process and make your path to residency in Portugal as smooth as possible. Contact us today for an initial consultation and discover how we can turn your dream of living in Portugal into a reality.