New Updates to Portugal's Golden Visa Programme

The Portugal Golden Visa programme has been officially approved in its final draft. It will soon be implemented, although the exact start date has not yet been announced. The programme has undergone restructuring, with five investment options now available. However, it is important to note that real estate investments will no longer be eligible under the revised scheme.

Last week, the Portuguese Parliament approved amendments to the Golden Visa programme as part of a housing package. Contrary to initial proposals, the program will continue to exist. The new legislation will only impose restrictions on real estate investment categories.

As a result, it will no longer be possible to apply for a Golden Visa based on capital transfers to Portugal or any form of real estate investment, whether direct or indirect, through eligible channels.

The remaining options for eligible Golden Visa investments are as follows:

• Capital transfers of at least €500,000.00 for the acquisition of non-real estate collective investment assets under Portuguese law. These assets must have a minimum maturity of five years, and at least 60% of the investment must be dedicated to commercial companies domiciled in Portugal.

• Creation of 10 or more jobs.

• Capital transfer of €500,000.00 or more for the establishment of a Portuguese company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs. Alternatively, investment in an existing company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs or the maintenance of ten jobs for a minimum duration of three years.

• Transfer of capital equal to or greater than €500,000.00 for investment in research activities carried out by public or private scientific research institutions engaged 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. This can include the restoration or renovation of national heritage through local and central authorities, public institutions, or eligible private organisations.

Please note that in low-density areas, the minimum investment amount is reduced by 20% for all types of investments.

The Golden Visa programme remains active and continues to be the only program that offers shorter minimum stay requirements and a path to Portuguese citizenship after a period of 5 years.

If you need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us.