Two questions come up more than any others about the Portugal Golden Visa: what are the requirements and how much does it cost? The honest answer is that both depend on the route you choose and on the law in force — which has changed several times. Here is a clear overview of what to expect.

The core requirements

Beyond the investment itself, applicants generally need to:

  • Be a non-EU/EEA national.
  • Make and maintain an eligible investment (for example, CMVM-regulated investment funds).
  • Prove the lawful origin of the funds — a point that is often underestimated and causes most delays.
  • Have a clean criminal record and valid documentation.
  • Meet a minimum presence in Portugal (typically only a few days per year).

What it costs

The cost has two parts. First, the investment — a minimum amount set by law that varies by route and may be revised. Second, the associated costs: government and application fees, legal fees and, where relevant, fund subscription costs. Because the figures change, we always confirm the amounts in force for your specific route before you commit.

How you apply

In outline: choose the route after a diagnosis, prepare and legalise the documentation, make the eligible investment, and submit the application to AIMA (which replaced the former SEF). After approval and biometrics, the residence permit is issued, then renewed over the years toward permanent residence and citizenship.

Is it worth it?

That depends on your goal — European access, a plan B, residency or a path to citizenship. The Golden Visa buys optionality more than a single document. A diagnosis of your profile is the honest way to decide.

Legal references

  • Law no. 23/2007, of 4 July, Article 90.º-A (ARI / Golden Visa), added by Law no. 29/2012; amended by Law no. 56/2023 ("Mais Habitação").
  • Funds are regulated by the CMVM; applications are handled by AIMA.
  • Requirements, amounts and fees are set by the law in force and may change; we always confirm the current framework in the official text.

This article is general and informational and does not constitute legal, tax or investment advice.