If you’re seeking EU residency, global mobility, and the possibility of European citizenship without having to relocate full-time, the Portugal Golden Visa may be the solution you’ve been searching for. But as of 2025, there have been major updates to this once-straightforward program that could affect your eligibility and investment strategy.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from recent legislative changes to eligibility criteria and new investment options—so you can make an informed decision about whether Portugal is still the right move for your global residency plan.
What Is the Portugal Golden Visa?
Launched in 2012, the Portugal Golden Visa was created to attract foreign capital following the 2008 financial crisis. Since then, the program has raised over €7.5 billion, allowing non-EU nationals to gain EU residency with a clear path to Portuguese citizenship after just five years.
The visa requires applicants to spend only seven days per year in Portugal to maintain residency—making it one of the most flexible golden visa programs in the world. It also grants visa-free access to 29 Schengen countries and, eventually, visa-free travel to 191 countries with a Portuguese passport.
Portugal Golden Visa Benefits at a Glance
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Maintain residency with only 7 days/year in Portugal
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Path to citizenship after 5 years
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No requirement to become a tax resident (unless you stay 183+ days/year)
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Visa-free travel within the Schengen zone
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Access to high-quality healthcare, education, and EU benefits
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Option to include family members under the same application
Major Changes to the Portugal Golden Visa Program in 2025
If you’re considering applying, it’s critical to understand the Portugal Golden Visa changes introduced in recent years. As of mid-2025, real estate purchases and capital transfers are no longer eligible investment routes. This has eliminated some of the most popular pathways applicants previously used to qualify.
Why the change? Rising housing prices and concerns over local displacement led the Portuguese government to pivot toward options that support job creation and fund cultural or scientific projects.
Updated Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options
Although real estate is no longer a qualifying investment, there are still several ways to obtain the Portugal Golden Visa:
1. Invest €500,000 in a Qualified Investment Fund
Applicants can invest in a government-approved fund, which may include sectors such as renewable energy, tech, or healthcare. You can choose between low, medium, or high-risk funds depending on your comfort level.
2. Create 10+ Full-Time Jobs in Portugal
Entrepreneurs may qualify by launching a business that employs at least 10 Portuguese citizens full-time.
3. Invest €500,000 in a Portuguese Business
Another option is to invest €500,000 in an existing or new Portuguese company and create at least five permanent jobs.
4. Donate €250,000–€500,000 to Cultural or Scientific Institutions
This includes contributions to artistic production, preservation of cultural heritage, or support for public research projects.
Portugal Golden Visa Application Process
The application process is relatively straightforward but includes specific documentation and legal requirements:
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Valid passport
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Clean criminal record
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Proof of qualifying investment
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Legalized and translated documentation
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Background checks in both home country and Portugal
Applications typically take 6+ months to process. The good news is that the five-year countdown to citizenship starts on the date of your application, not your approval—an important detail that helps offset government delays.
Language & Residency Requirements for Citizenship
To become a Portuguese citizen, you must:
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Maintain your visa for 5 years
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Pass a Portuguese language test at A2 level
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Not owe any taxes to the Portuguese government
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Have no criminal convictions
After five years, you’ll be eligible to apply for full citizenship—and unlock visa-free access to nearly 200 countries with a Portuguese passport.
Is the Portugal Golden Visa Still Worth It?
While the Portugal Golden Visa is no longer as flexible as it once was—especially with the removal of real estate investments—it remains one of the most attractive EU residency-by-investment options for high-net-worth individuals. Its low physical presence requirement, family inclusion, and direct pathway to EU citizenship continue to make it appealing.
That said, it’s not the best fit for everyone. If you’re seeking a more straightforward residency path or you don’t have €500,000 to invest, countries like Mexico, Panama, or Colombia might offer simpler and more affordable alternatives.
Get Expert Help with Your Residency Strategy
At Entrepreneur Expat, we help individuals like you create freedom-focused lifestyles through strategic relocation and second residency planning. If you’re serious about applying for the Portugal Golden Visa or exploring other options, we invite you to:
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Download our free Moving Abroad Checklist
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Watch our full breakdown on YouTube
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Book a one-on-one consult at entrepreneurexpat.com/consult
Let us help you navigate the process, compare countries, and make a decision that aligns with your lifestyle, goals, and financial situation.
Final Thoughts
The Portugal Golden Visa has changed—but it’s still a powerful vehicle for global freedom if you meet the new requirements. Don’t wait. As immigration laws continue to tighten worldwide, the best time to start your journey is now.
Let us know in the comments:
Are you still considering Portugal, or are you exploring alternatives like Mexico or Southeast Asia?