Portuguese citizenship by investment

Portuguese citizenship can be obtained through several avenues, including Portuguese citizenship by investment. The Portuguese government offers a program known as the Golden Visa, which allows foreign investors to get residency and, eventually, citizenship in Portugal.

Portugal Golden Visa Program

The Portugal Golden Visa Program is an immigration initiative that permits non-EU nationals to gain Portuguese residency and, eventually, citizenship through investment. The initiative, which began in 2012, provides a road to residency through specified investments in Portugal, such as real estate, employment development, or cash transfer. Participants can acquire a residence visa granting them the right to live, work, study in Portugal, and travel within the Schengen Area if they complete the investment requirements and meet specific conditions.

Investment Options

To be eligible for the Golden Visa, you must fulfill one of the investment requirements. The investment options are as follows:

  • Real Estate Investment: The most popular option is investing in real estate. You can qualify for the Golden Visa by purchasing property in Portugal with a minimum value of €500,000 (or €350,000 for properties located in urban regeneration areas or properties over 30 years old requiring renovation).
  • Capital Transfer: Another option is to transfer a minimum of €1 million into a Portuguese bank account or invest at least €350,000 in research activities carried out by accredited institutions.
  • Job Creation: Creating a minimum of 10 jobs in Portugal is also an eligible investment option.
  • Investment Funds: Investing a minimum of €350,000 in venture capital funds or private equity funds that contribute to the capitalization of Portuguese companies is another qualifying option.

Residency Requirements

Once you make the qualifying investment, you will obtain a residence permit to live and work in Portugal. The initial residency permit is valid for one year and can be renewed for two subsequent two-year periods. After five years of continuous residency, you can apply for permanent residency, and after six years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

To become a Portuguese citizen, you need to fulfill the requirements set by the Portuguese Nationality Act. These requirements include demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language, having ties to the Portuguese community, and passing a citizenship test. Additionally, you must have maintained your residency in Portugal for the required number of years.

How to get citizenship by investment in Portugal

Here is an overview of the typical required documentation:

  1. Proof of Investment. For real estate investment, you will need to submit the purchase agreement, property deeds, and evidence of payment. If you opt for capital transfer or investment funds, you will need to provide relevant bank statements or investment certificates.
  2. Valid Passport.
  3. Proof of Residence.
  4. Criminal Record Certificate. Obtain a criminal record certificate from your home country or any other country where you have resided for more than one year over the past five years.
  5. Medical Insurance. You must have valid medical insurance coverage in Portugal.
  6. Portuguese Tax and Social Security Compliance. Provide evidence of compliance with Portuguese tax and social security obligations.
  7. Declaration of Absence of Debts. Declare that you have no outstanding debts to public institutions.

Application Process

  1. Preparing the Application. Gather all the required documents and ensure they meet the specified criteria.
  2. Submission. Submit your application and supporting documents to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) or the relevant office handling the Golden Visa Program.
  3. Application Review. The authorities will review your application and conduct any necessary background checks.
  4. Residence Permit. If your application is approved, you will be issued a residence permit that allows you to live and work in Portugal.
  5. Renewal. Renew your residence permit annually for the first five years and then every two years afterward, according to the program requirements.
  6. Permanent Residency and Citizenship. After five years of continuous residency in Portugal, you can apply for permanent residency. After six years, you become eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

 

 

FAQ

Can I retain my current citizenship when obtaining Portuguese citizenship by investment?

Yes, Portugal allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your current citizenship while obtaining Portuguese citizenship through investment. It’s important to check the regulations of your home country to ensure they permit dual citizenship as well.

Can I include my family members in the citizenship application?

Yes, the Golden Visa Program allows you to include your family members, such as your spouse or partner, children, and dependent parents, in your application for residency and citizenship. Each family member will need to meet the requirements and provide the necessary documentation.

How long does it take to obtain Portuguese citizenship through investment?

Initially, you will receive a residence permit, which is valid for one year. After that, you can renew it for two subsequent two-year periods. Once you have held the residency permit for five years, you can apply for permanent residency. Citizenship applications can be made after six years of continuous residency in Portugal.

Do I need to live in Portugal during the investment period?

The Golden Visa Program requires you to maintain a minimum period of residency in Portugal. However, the program does not mandate continuous physical presence in the country. You must fulfill the residency requirements and spend a minimum amount of time in Portugal each year. After obtaining citizenship, there are no specific residency obligations.

Is knowledge of the Portuguese language required for citizenship by investment?

Yes, proficiency in the Portuguese language is generally required to obtain Portuguese citizenship through investment.

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