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.
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.
To be eligible for the Golden Visa, you must fulfill one of the investment requirements. The investment options are as follows:
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.
Here is an overview of the typical required documentation:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, proficiency in the Portuguese language is generally required to obtain Portuguese citizenship through investment.