Portugal's passport beats the UK and US in latest global mobility report

Portugal's passport has once again been recognised as one of the most powerful in the world, according to a newly published global ranking.

The list, put together by PassportIndex, placed Portugal in joint third position for global mobility, ahead of the likes of the US, UK, Canada and Japan.

The ranking is calculated using a mobility score, which measures how many destinations a passport holder can access visa-free, via a visa on arrival, through an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), or via a fast-track e-visa.

The data shows that Portugal passport holders can enter 119 destinations with no prior arrangement required. A further 28 destinations only require a visa on arrival, while 13 need just a quick online ETA. Another 27 destinations require an online application with supporting documents, and only 11 require a full consulate visa application.

Portugal also outperforms passports from Australia, Monaco, Hong Kong and Brazil, according to the ranking.

Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways, said: "Portugal's passport has ranked among the most powerful in the world for a little while now, but it's always important to see it laid out like this.

"Many don't realise how many doors a Portuguese passport can open, especially for families and entrepreneurs looking to expand their horizons."

For non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals attracted by this level of mobility, Portugal's Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme may be worth exploring.

Successful applicants may be granted a renewable residency permit, subject to approval by the relevant authorities.

Once eligible applicants have completed the relevant qualifying residency period, they can apply for permanent residency or citizenship, subject to meeting all legal requirements, including language and integration criteria. Timelines depend on nationality and on the legislation in force at the time, so prospective applicants should seek qualified advice on their own circumstances.

Qualifying routes for a Golden Visa currently include a subscription of at least €500,000 into a regulated investment fund; a capital investment of at least €500,000 through the creation or reinforcement of an existing Portuguese company, alongside job creation requirements; or a donation from €250,000 (reducing to €200,000 in limited, designated low-density areas) toward cultural, artistic or heritage projects.

Physical presence requirements are modest: holders are generally required to spend, on average, around seven days per year in Portugal, with no requirement for full-time relocation. Residency also provides Schengen travel of up to 90 days in any 180-day period under current rules.

Eligible family members, including spouses, dependent children and, in many cases, dependent parents, may be included under a single investment, though inclusion is assessed individually.

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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.