PORTUGAL / INVESTMENT RESIDENCE
Portugal Golden Visa.
A clearer perspective.
Portugal’s ARI, often called the Golden Visa, is a route to residence for eligible investors. It is not a passport purchase or an approval guarantee.
Who might explore this route?
Someone seeking a Portuguese residence option who can commit qualifying capital, understand investment risk and meet ongoing programme requirements. Whether it fits your circumstances needs an individual assessment.
What can qualify?
AIMA lists several options. These include €500,000 in eligible non-real-estate funds, €500,000 in scientific research, €250,000 in qualifying cultural support, and employment or business routes with specific conditions. A new property purchase is not a qualifying ARI route.
The fund route has additional rules, including minimum maturity and Portuguese investment requirements. Eligibility under immigration rules does not establish that a fund is a suitable or safe investment.
What should you budget for?
Alongside qualifying capital, allow for government application and renewal fees, professional advice, fund or transaction charges, family applications, insurance, translations and travel. Request a current, itemised estimate for your household before committing.
View the complete cost checklist →What does maintaining residence involve?
AIMA’s published minimum presence is seven days in the first year and fourteen days in subsequent two-year periods. Renewals also require continued compliance, documentation and fees. Confirm the requirements that apply to your permit and investment before committing.
For Canadians and Americans
Your citizenship, residence history, family circumstances and source of funds all matter. Obtain separate cross-border tax and investment advice, including advice on home-country reporting, before selecting an investment. This section does not recommend funds or tax strategies.
Does this lead automatically to citizenship?
No. Citizenship has separate requirements. Portugal changed its nationality rules in May 2026; older five-year citizenship claims should not guide a new decision. Have a qualified professional assess current rules, transitional provisions and your circumstances.
YOUR NEXT STEP
A conversation before a commitment.
Tell us where you would like to go and what matters to you. Start with SHALALA and explore the next step.
SHALALA provides programme information and introductions and may receive a referral fee. Personal immigration, investment and tax advice is provided by appropriately qualified professionals. Eligibility and outcomes depend on your circumstances; approval is not guaranteed.