Residence opportunities for investors in Portugal

Portugal's new Golden Residence Permit Program allows investors to obtain a residence permit, which can eventually lead to Portuguese citizenship.

New legal provisions open up the possibility of applying for a residence permit for pursuing investment activities to those who have entered the country regularly (v.g. holders of valid Schengen Visas, or beneficiaries of Visa exemption), by transferring capital, creating jobs or acquiring real estate, with advantageous periods of stay in Portugal.

The holders of Golden Residence Permit for Investment Activity have the right to family regrouping, and may gain access to a permanent residence permit, as well as to Portuguese citizenship in accordance to the current legal provisions.

Who may apply? 

Third State citizens involved in an investment activity, either individually or through a company conducting, at least, one of the following operations in national territory for a minimum period of five years: 

I) Capital transfer with a value equal to or above 1 million Euros; 

II) Creation of, at least, 10 job positions; 

III) Acquisition of real estate with a value equal to or above 500 thousand Euros. It covers shareholders of companies already set up in Portugal, or in another EU State, with a stable residence in Portugal and with tax obligations fulfilled. 

Where do I apply? 

Online at:

•  www.sef.pt 

Provided all legal requirements are fulfilled, SEF will notify the applicant to grant a Golden Residence Permit. 

Or 

• At the Portuguese Diplomatic or Consular Posts.  

Or 

• At Regional Directorate and Regional Delegation of the Immigration and Borders Service [SEF] in Portugal.