Portugal Golden Visa 2025: What You Need to Know About the New Rules
Table of Contents
What Changed in 2024?
The biggest update was the elimination of real estate and capital transfer options from the Portugal Golden Visa program. This was done to address Portugal’s housing affordability crisis and redirect foreign investment toward more productive sectors of the economy. In 2025, these changes remain fully in effect.
Current Investment Options (2025 Edition)
Golden Visa applicants in 2025 can now choose from the following qualifying investments:
- Venture Capital or Private Equity Fund Investment
- Minimum investment: €500,000
- Must be in a regulated Portuguese investment fund focusing on innovation, technology, or sustainability sectors.
- Scientific Research Donation
- Minimum contribution: €500,000
- Supports R&D activities, particularly in public or private institutions working in science, health, green energy, or biotechnology.
- Cultural Heritage Donation
- Minimum donation: €250,000 (or €200,000 in low-density areas)
- Supports the preservation of Portuguese national heritage, arts, or cultural projects.
- Business Creation & Job Creation
- Minimum capital: €500,000
- Must create and maintain at least 10 full-time jobs in Portugal.
These options make it possible to gain Portuguese residency without buying property in Portugal.
Who Can Apply for the Portugal Golden Visa?
The Portugal Golden Visa is open to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and allows for family reunification, including:
- Spouse or legal partner
- Dependent children (of any age single and if studying or dependent)
- Dependent parents of the main applicant or spouse
This makes the Golden Visa ideal for families seeking European relocation or a backup residency plan.
Residency Requirements & Citizenship Timeline
- Minimum stay requirement: 7 days per year on average in Portugal
- Portuguese citizenship eligibility: After 5 years of legal residency
- Language requirement: Basic Portuguese (A2 level) for citizenship
This structure makes the Golden Visa one of the most flexible residency-by-investment programs in Europe.
Legal & Tax Benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa
- Eligible for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime
- Significant tax exemptions for 10 years on foreign-sourced income
- No inheritance, wealth, or gift taxes
- Dual citizenship permitted under Portuguese law
These benefits add extra value to your investment and make Portugal a tax-friendly destination for high-net-worth individuals.
Why Portugal Still Stands Out in 2025
Despite the removal of the property investment route, Portugal continues to be a leader among EU Golden Visa programs due to:
- Strong Portuguese passport and EU citizenship after 5 years
- Minimal stay requirement
- Safe and stable living environment
- High-quality public healthcare and international schools
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone
Portugal remains a top choice for remote workers, global entrepreneurs, and expats seeking second residency in Europe.
Final Thoughts
The Portugal Golden Visa is evolving — but remains a top-tier choice in 2025 for investors and families seeking flexibility, EU access, and eventual citizenship. With careful selection of qualifying investments like regulated funds or cultural donations, applicants can enjoy both the financial and lifestyle benefits that come with residency in Portugal.
For professional assistance with your Golden Visa application, investment fund selection, or eligibility assessment, contact our expert advisors today and begin your journey to EU citizenship through investment.
