To encourage investments, Non-EU/EFTA nationals can apply for the golden visa in Portugal. In addition to providing fast-track entry into Portugal, the golden visa has quite a few benefits. To qualify for this visa, a certain amount must be invested by non-EU citizens. In the two years since the golden visa program launched in 2012, more than 4,200 Portuguese golden visas have been issued, injecting more than €2.5 billion into the Portuguese economy.
Golden visas are not required for investors from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, but they must register their stay.
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program [FST]
The main goal for Portugal's golden visa program is to attract foreign investment which will in turn keep the economy buoyed. This visa is also known as the Resident Permit for Investment as it expedites Portuguese residency at a cost.
Holders of the Portuguese golden visa receive a temporary residence permit for one year. The visa is renewed every two years thereafter. Those who have been granted a golden visa in Portugal for five years can apply for permanent residence. After six years of permanent residency, they can then apply for citizenship in Portugal.
By using immigration and border service's (SEF) website, you can apply for the golden visa for Portugal. Keep in mind that it is necessary to pre-register online.
Typically, legal representatives arrange pre-registration appointments for you. If a legal representative does this for you, they will use a different website. Once the visa application is registered, a power of attorney must be signed by the applicant.
● To live and work in Portugal. One must reside in Portugal for a minimum of seven days in the first year and for at least 14 consecutive days in subsequent years.
● Access all Schengen countries without a visa. You are free to travel to Schengen countries for whatever reason you’d like, without going through the visa processes.
● Family reunions can also lead to Portuguese residency for certain family members.
● The Portuguese education system and healthcare are accessible.
● Portugal property investment is free.
● Additionally, Portuguese investors who live in Portugal less than 183 days are exempt from paying tax on worldwide income.
Following documents are needed in addition to the Portuguese golden visa application:
✔ Document of identification such as a passport
✔ Obtaining a Schengen short-stay visa for Portugal (e.g., passport)
✔ A current copy of your health insurance card (issued within three months)
✔ Criminal history certificate from country of origin/residence (issued within the last three months)
✔ Verification that social security and tax obligations are connected
✔ A receipt of the payment to the gold visa fee for Portugal
Moreover, applicants must demonstrate their intention to maintain their investment for at least five years. Evidence of investment is also required from applicants, such as:
✔ Financial investment bank statements
✔ A contract of employment generates job facilities
✔ Investing in real estate: deeds of purchase
Applicants may need to show evidence that they have met the minimum stay requirements to renew a Portuguese golden visa. Evidence of investment type varies from each other.
Golden visas for Portugal typically take several months to process. The SEF contacts the applicant (or their legal representatives) as soon as a Portuguese golden visa has been processed.