The Golden Visa, also known as the Residence Permit through Investment Program, is an initiative by the Portuguese government that grants residency authorization to non-EU citizens who make a significant investment in the country.
The Golden Visa program is open to citizens of any country that is not a member of the European Union or the European Economic Area.
The Golden Visa offers a range of benefits, including:
The Golden Visa is initially granted for a period of two years. After this period, it can be renewed for successive two-year periods until permanent residency is obtained.
There are some fees associated with the Golden Visa application process, including:
Yes, you can apply for family reunification to bring your family to Portugal. This includes your spouse, dependent children up to the age of 24 (or older if they are in full-time education), and dependent parents.
On October 24, 2023, the Golden Visa program underwent some changes aimed at making it more selective and directing it towards investments that contribute to the development of the Portuguese economy.
The most crucial change, which came into effect in October 2023, is the elimination of all direct and indirect real estate investment options. It is no longer possible to qualify for the Golden Visa by purchasing property.
However, the program continues with a focus on other types of investment. The main available options are:
Investment Funds: A contribution of at least €500,000 to qualifying Portuguese investment funds or venture capital funds. This has become the most popular route.
Cultural Heritage Donation: A donation of at least €250,000 to support the arts or the reconstruction/refurbishment of national heritage.
Scientific and Technological Research: An investment of at least €500,000 in research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions.
Job Creation:
Creating a minimum of 10 full-time jobs.
Investing at least €500,000 in the share capital of a Portuguese-based company, combined with the creation of a minimum of 5 permanent jobs for at least three years.
In summary, while the Golden Visa program is active, its focus has shifted entirely away from the property market and towards investment in funds, cultural projects, research, and business development.
Disclaimer: Immigration laws are complex and subject to change. It is highly recommended to consult with a specialized immigration lawyer for personalized advice.
Note: The information provided in this summary is general in nature and may be subject to change. We recommend consulting an immigration professional for up-to-date and personalized information.
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We hope this information was useful.
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