Portugal
Portugal stands out as one of Europe's most historically significant nations, boasting a rich legacy of global exploration and trade. As a resident of Portugal, you can enjoy visa-free travel to all 27 countries in Schengen Area.
This program allows you and your family to live, study and work in a safe environment with excellent healthcare and educational facilities. Furthermore this residency can be changed to citizenship in only 5 years with only a 1 week stay per year needed during this time. This means there is no need to become tax resident. This makes Portugal Europes number 1 Golden Visa program.
The Portuguese Golden Visa Programme offers a pathway to Portuguese and European Union citizenship after five years of residency, requiring you to show basic proficiency in the Portuguese language and genuine ties to the country.
Portugal is family-friendly, and the Golden Visa Programme includes dependants, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a European home.
To qualify, applicants must spend at least seven days in Portugal during the first year and a minimum of 14 days in each subsequent two-year period.
Requirements
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Transfer EUR 500,000 in capital to acquire participation units in investment funds (non-real estate collective investment entities) or venture capital funds
Create at least 10 job positions
Make a capital transfer of EUR 500,000 to incorporate a commercial company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs
Transfer EUR 500,000 in capital for research activities carried out by public or private scientific institutions that are part of the national scientific and technological system
**** Please note, the entry amounts can be significantly reduced using various investment methods. The lowest entry point is 168,000 EUR. There are also options where interest is paid upfront (101,000 EUR) meaning that the investment amount is only 399,000 EUR, with a guaranteed exit in year 6 (on qualification of the passport) of 500,000 EUR.
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Qualifying Dependents
As the primary applicant, you need to be debt-free in Portugal, secure investment capital from outside the country, and verify the legality of your income. You may include your spouse as a dependent, who must also be over 18, possess medical insurance, have a clean health record, and not have a criminal history.
Additionally, you can include dependent of any age, as well as dependent parents aged over 55. Parents over 65 are automatically considered dependents and can be included as well.
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Taxation
Portugal imposes personal taxation on non-residents for income sourced from Portuguese employment and pensions at a favorable rate of 25%. Interest, rental income, dividends, and capital gains are taxed at 28%.
Current residents can opt for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which may offer greater advantages. Income from sources related to employment, pensions, and business activities may qualify for tax exemptions. However, income from Portuguese sources is taxed at a flat rate of 20%, with potential surcharges.
The NHR regime will no longer be available for new residents after 2023, as the Portuguese Parliament is considering a new Incentivized Tax Status (ITS) to replace it.
Portugal does not impose a wealth tax, and there are no taxes on gifts or inheritances between parents, children, and grandchildren.
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Process Overview
The Portugal Golden Visa is a temporary residence permit that lasts for two years from the date it is issued. You can renew it for additional two-year periods as long as you the required criteria.
After five years, you may apply for a permanent residence permit or Portuguese citizenship, if you qualify.
Benefits
Visa-free travel access to the European Schengen Area
Right to live, work, and study in Portugal
Residency within 18-24 months
Low physical presence requirement (seven days in the first year and no less than 14 days in each subsequent two year period)
Attractive taxation system
Investment options from as little as EUR 168,000
High quality of life, fantastic local cuisine and wines, rich culture, mild climate, and a high level of security
Citizenship possible after five years of legal residence
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Summary
Portugal still remains the number 1 Golden Visa Programme for people looking to obtain an EU passport.​
With the benefit of allowing a Golden Visa holder to change to a passport in as little as 5 years, this remains an excellent option for those looking for citizenship in the EU.
Options start at 168,000 EUR for people looking for a low entry point.
Other options allow an investment amount of 399,000 EUR with interest being paid upfront to make the 500k EUR entry amount, with a guaranteed exit of 500k EUR on qualification of the passport. Furthermore, there are also options than can assist with a loan bringing this down to only a 325,000 EUR entry point.
Portugal is the best route for people looking to gain an EU passport with minimum requirements, ultimately giving access to all of the Schengen countries, effectively giving you 27 passports in 1!