GOLDEN VISAS IN PORTUGAL
your gateway to european and portuguese residency and citizenship
YOUR GOLDEN VISA IS JUST A CLICK AWAY
Submit your details for a Consultation and receive personalized legal assistance.
GOLDEN VISAS IN PORTUGAL
your gateway to european and portuguese residency and citizenship
At RME Legal, we take a 360º approach to secure your Golden Visa, handling every step of the process — from the initial application to the successful issuance — to ensure a efficient and hassle-free experience.
With extensive expertise in tax and immigration law, we provide trusted legal guidance to investors looking to obtain residency in Portugal through the Golden Visa program.
WHY PORTUGAL?
Quick Path to Citizenship
as after five years you can apply for Portuguese citizenship and keep your main nationality.
High Quality of Living
with excellent healthcare, remarkable English education and over 3000 hours of sunshine a year.
Travel Freely With the Golden Visa
across 27 European countries, all without extra visas.
Low Residency Requirements
since you only need to spend 14 days in Portugal per each 2 years, making it ideal for those with a busy lifestyle.
Family reunification with one eligible investment only
since the applicant and eligible family members can apply for a residency permit to Portugal, without a limit on the number applicants.
Access to Tax Benefits
including exemptions on foreign income and reduced rates, which makes it a marvelous choice for investors.
Rise of Real Estate Investment Property
making Portugal a solid place to start investing.
Safety and Securance
as Portugal ranked 7th globally in the Global Peace Index 2024.
Your Golden Visa Journey: Step-by-step
Follow these simple steps to apply for the Portuguese Golden Visa
Step 1
Select an investment route;
Step 2
Appoint a tax representative and obtain a taxpayer identification number (NIF);
Step 3
Open a Portuguese bank account (can often be done remotely);
Step 4
Transfer the required funds from abroad following our specific instructions on the procedure (can be done in multiple transfers from any non-Portuguese territory);
Step 5
Make the investment using the Portuguese bank account (except
for particular cases);
Step 6
Once the documentation is ready, submit the application and all relevant documents on the AIMA (Immigration Authorities) online platform;
Step 7
Pay the initial government application fee;
Step 8
Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment, along with all dependents (including infants);
Step 9
Once the application is approved, pay the final government permit issuance fee (processing may take up to 90 days); and collect the residence cards.
WHY HAVING RME LEGAL AS YOUR PARTNER FOR GOLDEN VISA?
HOW CAN WE ASSIST YOU?
Full Bureaucratic & legal Assistance for Golden Visa
We provide complete support for obtaining a Golden Visa, with services that cover all steps.
Obtain a Tax Number (NIF)
Obtaining a tax number (NIF) in Portugal and providing a local tax representative;
Application Advice
Advice on the formalities and practicalities involved in applying for the special-purpose residence permit;
Assistance with Investment
Assistance with formalising the investment;
Liaise with Consulates
If necessary, liaising with the Portuguese Consulate regarding the special-purpose Schengen Visa;
Documentation Assistance
Obtaining the necessary Portuguese documents to support the residence permit application;
Submit Applications
Preparing and submitting the residence permit’ applications;
Family Reunification
We guide you through the family reunification process, ensuring your loved ones join you.
Interview Assistance
Assistance with scheduling interviews at AIMA and accompany clients during the interview;
Portuguese Authorities Assistance
Assistance with dealing with any questions that may be raised by the Portuguese authorities.
OPTIONS AFTER FIVE YEARS
At the end of five years, Golden Visa holders have three options:
- Continue renewing the Golden Visa every two years, provided the investment is maintained;
- Apply for permanent residency, which requires passing a basic Portuguese language test/course;
- Apply for Portuguese citizenship, also requiring a basic Portuguese language test/course.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT US?
"What stood out the most was their honesty and commitment. They provided a clear breakdown of my options, explained the legal complexities in simple terms, and ensured I felt supported every step of the way. They were never just ‘processing my case’—they were genuinely invested in my success."
"My experience with this law firm exceeded all expectations. They not only processed my Golden Visa but also advised me on future citizenship eligibility and how to plan my long-term stay in Portugal. Their deep understanding of Portuguese immigration law gave me full confidence throughout the journey."
"I had complex residency questions, and their legal team provided clear, well-structured answers that helped me make informed decisions. They not only handled my Golden Visa application but also advised me on my long-term residency options."
FAQS | GOLDEN VISA IN PORTUGAL
What is the Golden Visa Program?
The Golden Visa program is unique and irreplaceable, considering it is the only type of residency permit in Portugal allowing short minimum stay requirements. This means Golden Visa holders are not required to live in Portugal – although they can – and therefore they may legally hold a residence title without becoming tax residents in Portugal.
What are the Portugal Golden Visa requirements?
To obtain your Portuguese Golden Visa, you have to make a qualifying investment and keep it for five years. There are minimum stay requirements of just seven days per year. Applicants must apply for a NIF number, open a Portuguese bank account (except in specific cases) and provide the following documentation:
- Portugal Golden Visa application form;
- Copy of a valid passport or travel documents;
- Declaration from your bank in Portugal confirming the transfer of funds from abroad;
- Proof of health insurance in Portugal (only required if the investor resides in Portugal)
- A background check or a police clearance letter from your country of origin;
- A declaration of honor compromissing to maintain the investment for five years;
- Documents showing a good standing with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority;
- Document showing non-enrollment or a good standing with the Social Security;
- Documents proving the family links and eligibility of the family members;
- A receipt showing that you already paid the application processing fee.
How to apply and keep your Golden Visa?
- Collect the necessary documentation, duly legalized;
- Invest in an eligible activity;
- Submit your application;
- Attend a biometrics appointment;
- Comply with the minimum stay requirements;
- Keep your investment and comply with the renewal
requirements.
What types of investments qualify for the Golden Visa?
Funds:
- Capital transfers of at least € 500,000.00, for the acquisition of units of non-real estate collective investment undertakings, incorporated under Portuguese legislation, the maturity of which, at the time of the investment, is at least five years and at least 60% of the investment is made in commercial companies domiciled in Portugal.
Job creation:
- Creation of 10 or more jobs*;
- Capital transfer of € 500,000.00, or more, for the incorporation of a Portuguese company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs; or investment in an existing company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs or maintenance of ten jobs; for a minimum period of three years.
Investment in specific activities:
- Transfer of capital equal to or greater than € 500,000.00 for investment in research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions involved in the national scientific or technological system*;
- Capital transfer equal to or greater than € 250,000.00 for investment in artistic production or support for the arts, for the reconstruction or renovation of national heritage, through local and central authorities, public institutions, or eligible private organisations*.
The minimum investment amount is reduced by 20%, for investments in low-density areas.
What is the minimum investment required for the Golden Visa?
The minimum investment for Portugal’s Golden Visa is €250,000, applicable to specific cultural projects. Other options include €500,000 in investment funds or Job Creation.
What are the benefits of Golden Visa Portugal compared to other countries?
Portugal’s Golden Visa offers the shortest path to citizenship (five years) with minimal stay requirements (7 days per year).
Do I have to speak Portuguese to obtain my Golden Visa?
No, Portuguese language proficiency is not required for the Golden Visa. However, basic knowledge is necessary when applying for citizenship or
permanent residency after five years.
Why is RME Legal the best fit for you?
- We are a Portugal-based law firm with a team of qualified lawyers registered with the Portuguese Bar Association.
- We operate independently, focusing exclusively on assisting you and your family with the Golden Visa residency process.
- No intermediaries—work directly with a qualified legal professional throughout the entire process.
- A client-focused law firm with in-depth expertise in the Golden Visa application and a commitment to prompt, personalized support.
- Transparent and efficient service, with clear communication, no hidden fees, and a streamlined process to save you time and effort.
- Proven track record of successfully securing Golden Visas for clients worldwide.
- Deep expertise in Portuguese immigration law, ensuring compliance and maximizing your chances of approval.
- Long-term legal support, from obtaining your residency to planning for citizenship.
How can RME Legal help me with my Golden Visa application?
RME Legal has wide experience in assisting clients with the Golden Visa process, offering guidance on investment options, legal requirements, and application procedures to ensure a smooth experience.
Can my family members be included in my Golden Visa application?
Yes, immediate family members, including spouses, dependent children and parents, can be included in the application, granting them the same residency rights.
How long do I need to leave in Portugal to obtain my Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa requires an average stay of seven days per year in Portugal.
Can I work in Portugal with my Golden Visa?
Yes, the Golden Visa grants the right to live and work in Portugal.
Can I apply for Portuguese citizenship with a Golden Visa?
After five years of legal residency under the Golden Visa, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided other criteria are met.
Can I extend my Golden Visa
Yes, the Golden Visa is renewable, provided the investment is maintained and other eligibility conditions are met.
What happens if my Golden Visa request is rejected?
If your application is rejected, it’s advisable to consult with legal experts, such as RME Legal, to understand the reasons and explore possible remedies or alternative options.
YOUR GOLDEN VISA IS JUST A CLICK AWAY
Submit your details for a Consultation and receive personalized legal assistance.
Contact Us
Talk to us for legal and tax questions regarding the applicability, benefits, and eligibility for gold visas.