Portugal’s Golden Visa Surges Toward €9 Billion in Investment

Long considered the world’s leading residency-by-investment scheme, Portugal’s Golden Visa is set for a bright and stable future — even as minor adjustments to citizenship timelines are discussed to align with broader European Union standards.

The key features of Portugal’s Golden Visa remain unchanged. Authorities are even working to accelerate the processing time for residency cards issued by AIMA, the Portuguese immigration office. The only aspect currently under review concerns the duration before applicants can seek EU citizenship — a move aimed at bringing Portugal in line with other EU nations.

Next week, Portugal’s parliament will finalise the proposed amendments on citizenship eligibility through the Golden Visa and D Visa routes. Once approved by President Luís Montenegro, or reviewed by the constitutional court if necessary, the legislation could come into effect as early as late November or early December.

At present, applicants can apply for citizenship after five years of residency. The final decision will determine whether this period is extended. However, officials have confirmed that there will be no changes to the benefits, renewal process, or residency rights of Golden Visa holders.

Importantly, the five-year residency countdown still begins when an application is submitted following the €500,000 investment into one or more qualifying funds — not from the date the residency card is issued.

Investors can continue to renew their Golden Visa residency cards every two years, maintaining the same freedoms as before — including visa-free travel and residency access across 29 Schengen countries. The Portuguese government has repeatedly expressed its commitment to preserving the programme’s stability and long-term appeal.

Cross-party support has also reinforced the Golden Visa’s role in Portugal’s economic growth. From the left and centrist government to the right-leaning Chega party, all have recognised its contribution to almost €9 billion in foreign investment, driving national development and prosperity.

According to Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, confidence in the programme remains high. “Portugal is safeguarding the Golden Visa’s long-term future,” he said.

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“Applicants can choose to continue to renew their Golden Visa residency cards every two years ad infinitum as before, and the programme continues to offer the same exceptional advantages that have made it such an international success.

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“We’ve found that 99% of our international families and investors are looking for a Plan B from their home country as their main motivation with their Golden Visa applications, and in the past week alone, we’ve received over 100 new enquiries from the US, Canada, the UK, Turkey, South Africa, Malaysia, South Korea, Hong Kong, China, Brazil, amongst others.

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“This clearly shows that interest in Portugal’s Golden Visa remains as strong as ever.”

The programme continues to stand out for its advantages — freedom of movement across the Schengen Area, minimal residency requirements of just seven days a year, no tax on investment gains, and the ability to include family members under one €500,000 investment. For many from countries like Malaysia, China, and the United States, it offers a reliable “Plan B” without the need to relocate full-time.

Portugal’s combination of economic stability, high living standards, and investor-friendly policies continues to make it one of Europe’s most attractive destinations. Rather than overhaul the system, the government’s fine-tuning efforts underscore its dedication to ensuring the Golden Visa remains a secure and enduring route to European residency.

Paul Sheedy, special advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, said: “Portugal has always struck the right balance between welcoming international investment and ensuring long-term stability. The Golden Visa remains not only viable but stronger than ever.

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“We have seen really high demand in the key sectors that are driving Portugal’s economic growth, such as tourism and hospitality, renewable energy, media and international events, healthcare, and technology.

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“Recent A+ international economic ratings from Fitch and S&P reflect the country’s continued economic growth and prosperity. Additionally, private equity funds in Europe have been outperforming international public markets in recent times.

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“Add on to that a low cost of living and high quality of life, it’s no wonder so many are choosing Portugal’s Golden Visa.”

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Contact Portugal Future Fund to invest in Portugal's Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme

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About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Future Fund website and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Portugal Future Fund operates under CMVM regulations but is not directly endorsed by the CMVM or any governmental entity.

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