Portugal Golden Visa Programme — Residency by Investment
Portugal’s Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), commonly known as the Portugal Golden Visa, remains available to qualifying third-country nationals through specified investment routes. The programme provides Portuguese residence with comparatively limited physical-presence requirements, family reunification and Schengen travel rights. Property acquisition is no longer a qualifying investment route for new Golden Visa applications.
Portugal’s Golden Visa is designed for qualifying third-country nationals undertaking investment activity that meets the requirements of the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI) framework.
The programme has changed significantly since it was introduced. In particular, direct property acquisition is no longer an eligible basis for a new Golden Visa application, and qualifying ARI investment activity cannot be directed, directly or indirectly, towards real-estate investment.
Current routes focus on qualifying job creation, scientific research, cultural or heritage support, specified non-real-estate collective investment structures and qualifying investment in Portuguese companies.
Because the eligibility of an investment should be established before capital is committed, applicants should obtain current advice on the proposed ARI route, supporting documentation and immigration process.
Explore Portugal as a destination →
Key Facts
- Official programme: Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI)
- Available to qualifying third-country nationals
- Property acquisition is no longer an eligible investment route
- Current qualifying routes include job creation, research, cultural support, qualifying non-real-estate investment funds and company investment/job creation
- Qualifying investment thresholds range according to the selected route
- Temporary ARI residence permits are currently valid for two years
- Minimum physical presence: 7 days in the first year and 14 days during each subsequent two-year period
- Qualifying family members can apply through family reunification
- ARI holders can reside and work in Portugal and travel within the Schengen Area subject to the applicable rules
Golden Visa Programme – Key Benefits, Eligibility Requirements & Application Process
Current Portugal Golden Visa Investment Routes
Eligibility & Golden Visa Application Process
Residence, Renewals & Golden Visa Benefits
Permanent Residence & Portuguese Citizenship
Ready to explore your options under the Portugal Golden Visa programme?
Hudson McKenzie advises individuals and families on the legal and immigration aspects of Portugal’s Golden Visa / ARI process.
Our team can assess whether a proposed investment category meets the current ARI immigration requirements, advise on applicant and family eligibility, review supporting documentation, coordinate the residence application and assist with renewals and longer-term residence planning.
Because Portugal’s Golden Visa framework has changed significantly over time, applicants should establish the immigration eligibility of a proposed investment before committing capital or relying on historic programme information.
Contact Hudson McKenzie to discuss your Portugal Golden Visa and residence-by-investment options.
