Applying for Portuguese citizenship via residency through investment Benefits & process

Portugal has remained a popular location for holidaymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs looking to set up businesses. Foreign nationals may choose to reside in Portugal and often immerse themselves in Portuguese society and economy. After a strong sense of community and involvement, many may choose to apply for Portuguese citizenship to further strengthen their connection. One pathway to Portuguese citizenship is open to foreign nationals who have invested in the economy and resided in the country for five years.

This guide will explore the process of obtaining Portuguese citizenship by investment through the Golden Visa program, and the importance of seeking advice from cross-border immigration lawyers (Advogados).

Click on the links below to each section:

What is the Golden Visa programme in Portugal?

Discover Portugal's golden visa for foreign nationals and how to apply.

What are the requirements for Portuguese citizenship by investment?

Browse the eligibility criteria for investors looking to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

How much do I need to invest to apply for Portuguese citizenship?

Discover the different ways a foreign national can invest in the Portuguese economy.

What is the application process for Portuguese citizenship by investment?

A step-by-step guide to applying for Portuguese citizenship through investment.

Factors to consider before applying for a Golden Visa or citizenship in Portugal

What should foreign nationals consider before applying for Portuguese citizenship by investment?

Frequently asked questions

Read the most common queries on applying for Portuguese citizenship.

What is the Golden Visa programme in Portugal?

The Portuguese Golden Visa programme is an immigration initiative allowing non-EU investors to obtain a residency permit by qualifying for the country. The Golden Visa offers numerous advantages, including free travel across the Schengen area, potential tax benefits, and access to Portugal’s favourable business environment. Additionally, investors and their families can enjoy the country’s high quality of life, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage.

After five years of permanent residency, Golden Visa applicants may choose to apply for Portuguese citizenship through naturalisation. Although no investment programmes guarantee citizenship, the Golden Visa is a step in the right direction for foreign nationals who want to become Portuguese citizens.

Recent immigration law changes now consider the first residency application date to be part of the five-year residency requirement for citizenship eligibility. This simplifies and potentially shortens the waiting time for investors.

What are the steps to apply for a Portugal Golden Visa?

To obtain a Golden Visa, applicants must first select an eligible investment option. Following this, they must:

Gather the necessary documentation
Obtain a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF)
Open a bank account in Portugal
Finalise the investment

Once these steps are completed and the investment confirmed, the applicant submits their Golden Visa application, which, upon approval, grants a renewable residence permit.

From 2023, the Mais Habitação law altered investment options. Applicants can no longer invest in real estate or related funds to obtain a Golden Visa in Portugal.

To ensure you are aware of any changes to international investment programs, consider instructing qualified immigration lawyers (Advogados) to advise you on your best option.

Request a callback with Giambrone & Partners for more information.

What are the requirements for Portuguese citizenship by investment?

To qualify for Portuguese citizenship through investment, applicants must maintain their investment for a minimum of five years while holding a Golden Visa. Golden Visa applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal record and possess the investment funds from outside of Portugal.

Once the five-year period has passed, investors can apply for citizenship under the naturalisation process, provided they have maintained their investment and met the residency and language requirements. The citizenship application includes background checks and assessing the applicant’s integration into Portuguese society.

Read more about the requirements for the Portuguese citizenship application with our guide here.

How much do I need to invest to apply for Portuguese citizenship?

To apply for the Golden Visa programme, applicants must make a qualifying investment in a particular category. Although the new law has removed real estate investments as an option, there are still various opportunities to choose from:

Set up a company in Portugal that creates at least ten new jobs.
Transfer a minimum of €250,000 towards the preservation of national heritage or into cultural and artistic activities.
Invest at least €280,000 in purchasing and renovating properties over 30 years old, typically in low-density areas.
Make a minimum investment of €500,000 in newer commercial or residential real estate, investment funds, venture capital funds, or contribute to financing scientific research projects.
Invest at least €500,000 in a local business to generate a minimum of five new jobs.
Transfer at least €1,500,000 in capital to Portugal.

Each investment option has specific legal and financial requirements, making it essential to seek professional guidance before committing to an investment.

Applying for Portuguese citizenship by investment: The process

The first step in the application process is gathering the necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of investment, criminal record certificates, health insurance, and evidence of Portuguese language proficiency. Additional documents may be required depending on the investment route chosen.

Once the necessary preparations are in place, the applicant must complete the chosen investment, ensuring compliance with Portuguese law. This may involve transferring funds or investing in a business.

After the investment is made, the applicant submits their Golden Visa application to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). If approved, the applicant receives a residence permit, which must be renewed periodically over the five-year period.

After five years of residency under the Golden Visa, the investor can apply for Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation. Read our full guide on the Portuguese citizenship application process, including steps and benefits, here.

Factors to consider before applying for a Golden Visa or citizenship in Portugal

Before applying for a Golden Visa, investors should carefully consider the process's legal, financial, and administrative aspects. Engaging a cross-border citizenship lawyer is highly recommended to navigate the complexities of investment immigration laws, ensure compliance with requirements, and avoid potential pitfalls. Legal professionals can also assist in structuring investments to maximise benefits and ensure a smooth application process.

Additionally, investors should consider Portugal’s tax implications, lifestyle factors, and long-term commitments before proceeding. While the Golden Visa programme is relatively flexible, understanding the full scope of responsibilities and benefits is essential to making an informed decision.

For more information, read our guide on the factors to consider before applying for Portuguese citizenship here.

The Portuguese immigration system involves intricate requirements, documentation, and compliance measures that can be challenging without professional legal guidance. Engaging a reputable law firm ensures that applicants receive comprehensive legal support, avoiding costly errors or delays that could jeopardise their application.

With extensive experience in immigration and nationality law, Giambrone & Partners offers tailored legal strategies, ensuring clients meet investment thresholds, residency requirements, and eligibility criteria. Our multilingual team provides clear and proactive assistance, managing due diligence, legal filings, and real estate transactions to streamline the process.

Request a callback with Giambrone & Partners' cross-border immigration lawyers here.

Frequently asked questions

Can my family obtain Portuguese citizenship through my investment?

The Golden Visa Programme permits investors to include family members, such as spouses and children, in their application. After living in Portugal for five years of permanent residency, they can also apply to become a Portuguese citizen.