About Portugal
Portugal, nestled in southwestern Europe, entices visitors with its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. The country boasts a diverse array of landscapes, from pristine beaches and rugged cliffs to rolling hills and verdant vineyards. Its rich biodiversity is highlighted by numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the enchanting city of Porto, the picturesque Douro Valley wine region, and the historic center of Sintra. Portugal's vibrant culture is underscored by a flourishing contemporary art scene, renowned culinary traditions, and a lively nightlife.
The Portuguese economy thrives on its diverse sectors, encompassing tourism, textiles, wine, and renewable energy. Portugal holds membership in various international organizations, including the United Nations, the European Union, and the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries. The Portuguese Golden Visa program offers numerous advantages, including visa-free or visa-on-arrival access throughout the Schengen Area of Europe and the opportunity to establish residency in a politically stable and prosperous nation.
Key facts about Portugal:
- Capital: Lisbon
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Current population: 10.3 million
Portugal Residence By Investment
The Portugal Golden Visa, introduced in 2012 and actively endorsed by the Portuguese Government, has enticed numerous eligible foreign investors owing to its appealing and adaptable advantages, including minimal stay obligations and the potential for citizenship through naturalization.
To be eligible for the Portuguese Golden Residence Permit Programme, applicants must make a qualifying investment of at least EUR 200,000 in a donation to a foundation or institute dedicated to artistic preservation. These investments must be upheld for a minimum of five years from the date the residence permit is granted, and the permit holder must spend a minimum of seven days per year in Portugal during the initial five-year period.
Benefits of Portugal Residence By Investment
Holders of the Golden Visa for Portugal are granted visa-free travel privileges within the Schengen area of Europe.
Portugal offers an attractive taxation system, making it appealing for investors and residents.
Portugal imposes no restrictions on dual citizenship, allowing individuals to hold citizenship of Portugal along with another country simultaneously.
Golden Visa holders and their families are granted the right to work, study, and reside in Portugal.
There is the possibility of applying for Portuguese citizenship after holding the Golden Visa for five years, subject to meeting the necessary requirements outlined by Portuguese citizenship laws.
Golden Visa holders and their families have access to Portugal's primary healthcare and education systems, ensuring comprehensive support for their well-being and educational needs.
Programme Requirements
Personal Requirements
Be at least 18 years old.
Possess valid medical health insurance.
Successfully pass due diligence checks.
Investment Options
Capital Transfer
- Invest EUR 500,000 in investment or venture capital funds committed to companies incorporated under Portuguese law, with at least 60% of the portfolio in national companies.
- Invest EUR 500,000 in research activities of public or private entities within Portugal's scientific and technological system.
- Invest EUR 250,000 in support of artistic production or preservation of national cultural heritage. This can be reduced to EUR 200,000 if invested in low population density areas.
- Invest EUR 200,000 in a low population density area.
Business Investment
- Create a minimum of ten new jobs.
- Invest EUR 500,000 in the incorporation or increase of share capital of a Portuguese company, generating or maintaining at least five permanent jobs for three years.
Application Process
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1 - Assessment & Onboarding
- Appointment with The Elite Passport’s client advisors.
- Conduct The Elite Passport’s due diligence check.
- Onboard the client and settle retainer fees.
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2 - Application Submission
- Travel to Portugal.
- Fulfill investment requirements, commence the legal process, and open a bank account.
- Book a biometrics appointment in Portugal.
- Prepare documents and submit the application for the Portuguese Golden Residence Permit.
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3 - Document & Application Processing
- Process the application.
- Receive approval for the application.
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4 - Approval & Passport Handover
- Obtain the Golden Residence Permit.
- Our team continues to provide support until the permit is officially stamped.
Legal Basis
The amendment to Act n. 23/2007 of July 4, as outlined in Order n. 1661-A/2013 Act n. 29/2012 of August 9, established the legal framework governing the entry, residence, and departure of foreigners from Portugal. Furthermore, this amendment introduced a new special legal resident status for individuals engaging in investment activities within the country.
Under this amendment, shorter residency requirements of only seven days per year for five years are permitted. After fulfilling these residency requirements, the applicant and their family become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Costs of Portugal Residency
The investment options that led to the acquisition of Portugal’s permanent residency were revised through Act 63/2015 and Regulatory Decree 15-A/2015 in July 2015. The investment options now include the following:
Property Purchase
Acquisition of one or multiple properties with no restrictions placed over the location
- Non-Residential Property: EUR 500,000
- Property in low-density areas: EUR 400,000
Acquisition of one or multiple properties older than 30 years or located in areas of urban regeneration (with location restriction)
- Non-Residential Renovation Property: EUR 350,000
- Renovation property in low-density areas: EUR 280,000
Additional Fees
Apart from purchasing real estate, additional purchase fees to be paid by the applicant include:
Property Transfer Tax (IMT)
- 6-8% (depending on the purchase price)
- 6.5% for non-habitational purposes
Annual Property Tax (IMI):
Additional Municipal Property Tax (AIMI)
- 0.4 – 0.7% on the tax value of the property
Stamp Duty
Submission Fee
On-going costs during period of the EU Permanent Residency (SEF Authorities): ARI Permanent Residency card (Per Family Member)
- New: EUR 5,390
- Renewal (12-36 months): EUR 2,696
- Renewal (36-60 months): EUR 2,696
ARI Permanent Residency (60-84 months)
- Permanent residency: EUR 7,455
Other Costs
In addition to The Elite Passport’s professional fees, the only other costs that will incur are those for official application forms, certification of citizenship and passport, courier & other disbursements. We provide a full-itemized quotation with no hidden costs upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does the portugal visa program work?
The Portugal Golden Visa program is a straightforward way for non-EU citizens to obtain a Portugal residency with reduced permanence requirements at an average of 7 days per year. An investor can get a residence visa for himself and his dependents by completing a qualifying investment, starting at €200,000.
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Is there an option of receiving the golden visa by opening a company in portugal?
The applicant may also start a business in Portugal and employ a minimum ten people. If the company is in a low-density population area, the number is reduced to a minimum of eight jobs.
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How long does it take to get citizenship by investment in portugal?
Portugal does not have a Citizenship by Investment program. However, after five years of holding the Golden Visa residency, an investor can apply for citizenship via naturalisation. In addition to being a resident for five years, applicants for citizenship need to demonstrate basic knowledge of the Portuguese language.
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What are the language requirements to acquire portugal citizenship?
To gain Portugal citizenship, the applicant must pass an A2 level basic language examination (CIPLE). For children under the age of ten, the exam may be modified. Children between the ages of ten and eighteen will be excluded from the exam if they attend a Portuguese school or have a declaration of proficiency.
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How long does the st. Kitts & nevis application take?
St. Kitts & Nevis application takes approximately 4-6 months to process. The government also offers a fast-track option for an additional USD 25,000.00. This fast-track process allows investors’ applications to be approved within 2 months.
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Can I apply for the citizenship by investment program to the government directly?
The Government of St. Kitts & Nevis does not accept direct applications. You can only apply through a government-approved agency such as The Elite Passport. Please contact us and book a private and complimentary Appointment in one of our global offices worldwide. Contact us today at info@passportlegacy.com or click the link here to leave us your contact details and one of our highly-experienced client advisors will get in touch with you.
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Is the application form available online?
No. The application form for citizenship by investment can only be obtained through and submitted to the Citizenship by Investment Unit by an authorised person or representative.
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