Portugal

Access EU residency via real estate, funds, or business—with citizenship eligibility after five years

EU Residency in Months

Citizenship in 5 Years

Schengen Travel Freedom

Overview

Portugal stands out as one of Europe’s most welcoming and globally connected nations. Ranked consistently in the top tier of the Global Peace Index, it offers a stable, secure, and high-quality environment for families and investors alike. With a population of 10.2 million and widespread English proficiency, Portugal combines traditional charm with modern infrastructure.
The country boasts a thriving tourism sector, a competitive manufacturing base, and leadership in sustainable industries like cork production. As an EU member state using the Euro, Portugal provides seamless access to European markets. Its investor-friendly legislation makes it easier than ever for non-EU nationals to secure residency through structured and transparent migration programs.

Why Portugal?

Becoming a Portuguese permanent resident or citizen unlocks more than just access to Europe — it’s a gateway to global mobility, lifestyle freedom, and long-term security. Enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, world-class healthcare and education, a favorable tax environment, and the right to live, work, or study anywhere in the EU. Whether you're planning for relocation, retirement, or investment diversification, Portugal offers one of the most attractive pathways to European residency and citizenship

Discover how Portugal can fit into your global strategy.

Golden Visa Program

Portugal’s premier residency-by-investment option for non-EU nationals.

Qualifying Investments

€500,000 in regulated investment funds
€250,000+ in cultural or heritage support
€250,000+ in cultural or heritage support

Highlights

10-year renewable residency, citizenship eligible after 5 years
Minimal stay (7 days/year)
Includes family and allows full Schengen travel

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D2 Visa – Entrepreneur & Business Visa

Ideal for individuals establishing or investing in a Portuguese business.

Eligibility:

Launch a new venture or invest in an existing Portuguese company
Demonstrate economic value and a viable business plan

Advantages

No fixed investment threshold
Family reunification included
Pathway to permanent residency and citizenship

Highly Qualified Activity (HQA) Visa

A residency route for investors funding scientific or technological R&D

Structure:

Partner with a Portuguese research institution
Launch a business that supports innovation

Benefits

Fast-track residency (3 years)
Citizenship after 5 years
Tailored for tech-forward investors and professionals

Startup Visa

For innovative founders aiming to scale in Portugal’s startup ecosystem.

Requirements:

Approval from a certified incubator
High-growth, tech-enabled business concept

Perks

Full family inclusion
Access to EU startup incentives and funding networks

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Portugal - Investment

Portugal’s Golden Visa is one of Europe’s most flexible residency programs. It offers visa-free Schengen access, minimal stay requirements, and a clear path to EU citizenship—making it ideal for global investors and families

Key Benefits

Minimal physical presence requirement—only 14 days in the first 2 years and 21 days in the following 3 years.

Visa-free access to the Schengen Area, allowing seamless travel across Europe

Diverse investment options, including real estate, business creation, and capital transfers, with income-generating potential

Family inclusion, allowing spouses and dependents, including civil and same-gender partners, to be added under the same application.

Path to citizenship after 5 years, with the ability to retain existing citizenship(s).

Access to world-class education and healthcare, with international schools and top medical facilities.

Requirements

To qualify for the Portugal Golden Residence Permit, applicants must make a qualifying investment in one of the following categories:

Capital Investment:

€500,000 investment in an approved venture capital or investment fund that supports Portuguese businesses.

€500,000 contribution to scientific or technological research conducted by public or private institutions within Portugal (€400,000 if located in a low population density area).

€250,000 investment in arts, cultural projects, or heritage restoration (€200,000 in low-density areas).

Business and Job Creation:

Creation of at least 10 new jobs in Portugal (8 jobs in low-density areas).

€500,000 investment in a new or existing business, creating at least five permanent jobs for a minimum of three years.

Application Process

Consultation

Consult with Harper Greene advisors and Portugal team to assess eligibility and select an investment option for the Portugal Golden Visa.

Due Diligence

Complete due diligence to verify eligibility with program requirements.

Document Preparation & Submission

Commence the application process which includes preparation and submission of:

. Legal, personal, and immigration documents

. Open bank account

. Obtain taxpayer number and provide proof of investment in a qualifying project.

Biometrics

Attend a biometric appointment in Portugal, along with any accompanying family members. Pay applicable government fees for residence card.

Approval & Residence Card Issuance:

Receive approval and obtain a two-year residence permit, renewable for an additional 3 year term (subject to further extensions).

Extend Permit

Meet minimum stay requirements and maintain the investment to qualify for renewal.

Apply for Permanent Residency & Citizenship

Meet minimum stay requirements and maintain the investment to qualify for renewal.

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Minimum Stay Requirements

The minimum stay requirement for Portugal’s Golden Visa is 7 days per year on average, specifically:

14 days during the first 2-year residence period (can be consecutive or non-consecutive)

14 days for each subsequent 3-year renewal period

This low physical presence requirement makes it one of the most flexible residency-by-investment programs in Europe.

Flexible residency. Real returns. European access.

Portugal’s Golden Visa

Portugal’s Golden Visa combines strategic investment with EU residency benefits—without the need to relocate full-time. Investors can access Schengen travel, include family members, and earn potential returns through options like regulated funds or business investment.

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250-500 Euros + cost

Visa-free access - 27 Schengen countries

Full family residency

No relocation

Potential Return on Investment

Minimal stay

EU Citizenship

Pathways to Portugal

Investment

Enterpreneurship

Portugal - Business

The Portugal D2 Visa is designed for non-EU entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent service providers looking to establish or relocate a business to Portugal. With minimal investment requirements and a clear path to residency and citizenship, it’s an ideal solution for globally minded professionals seeking EU access and long-term opportunity.

Key Benefits

Ideal for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and independent professionals seeking EU residency

No major upfront capital investment required—based on viable business plan

Visa-free access to the Schengen Area

Family reunification included (spouse, children, and dependent parents)

Access to public healthcare, education, and social security in Portugal

Eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after 5 years

Remote income or local business activity both accepted

Requirements for Applicants

Capital Investment:

Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national

Submit a detailed and viable business plan for a business to be established or relocated to Portugal).

Demonstrate sufficient means to support themselves (typically €8,460/year for the main applicant + 50% for spouse + 30% per child).

Show intention to reside in Portugal, with accommodation arranged.

Provide proof of entrepreneurial activity or professional services (e.g. contracts, portfolio, prior experience).

Application Process

Initial Consultation

Speak with Harper Greene advisors to confirm eligibility and outline your business goals

Business Plan & Preparation

Create a compliant business plan and gather necessary personal and financial documents

Visa Submission

Apply at your local Portuguese consulate with required documentation and business plan

Travel & Residence Permit

Upon visa approval, travel to Portugal and apply for your residence permit (SEF appointment)

Receive Residence Permit

Initial permit valid for 2 years, renewable for 3-year terms

Path to Citizenship

After 5 years, eligible to apply for permanent residency or citizenship, subject to meeting legal and residency requirements

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Minimum Stay Requirements

To maintain residency status under the D2 visa, applicants must:

Spend at least 183 days per year in Portugal, or

Spend less than 183 days but prove that Portugal is their main place of residence (e.g., tax residency, center of life)

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Exemptions to Minimum Stay Requirements

While the standard requirement is 183 days of physical presence per year, Portugal allows for certain exemptions if applicants can prove that Portugal remains their main residence. This is especially relevant for entrepreneurs who travel frequently or operate internationally.

You may qualify for an exemption if you can demonstrate that Portugal is your center of life, through factors such as:

Tax residency (filing taxes in Portugal as your primary jurisdiction).

Residential ties (e.g., property ownership or long-term lease).

Social and economic integration (e.g., family living in Portugal, use of local services, children enrolled in school).

These exemptions allow flexibility for globally mobile individuals while maintaining compliance with residency obligations.

Start your business, secure EU residency, and unlock long-term opportunity.

Portugal D2 Visa Program

Portugal offers EU residency with visa-free access to the Schengen Area, a clear path to citizenship after five years, and inclusion of family members. With flexible stay requirements and no major upfront investment, the D2 Visa is an accessible, strategic option for entrepreneurs and remote professionals seeking global mobility.

250-500 Euros + cost

Visa-free access - 27 Schengen countries

Full family residency

No relocation

Potential Return on Investment

Minimal stay

EU Citizenship

Pathways to Portugal

Investment

Enterpreneurship

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the visa and billing.

Who is eligible to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa?

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who make a qualifying investment in Portugal and meet the legal requirements may apply.
2. What are the current qualifying investment options?
€500,000 in a regulated investment fund
€500,000 into a company creating 5+ jobs
€250,000 in support of arts, culture, or heritage (reduced to €200,000 in low-density areas)

What are the current qualifying investment options?

€500,000 in a regulated investment fund
€500,000 into a company creating 5+ jobs
€250,000 in support of arts, culture, or heritage (reduced to €200,000 in low-density areas)

What are the minimum stay requirements?

Golden Visa holders must spend:
14 days in Portugal during the first 2-year period
21 days over the following 3-year period

Can I include family members in my application?

Yes. The program allows inclusion of a spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents under the same application.

Does the Golden Visa lead to citizenship?

Yes. After 5 years of legal residency, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided you meet basic requirements, such as language proficiency and ties to Portugal.

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get in touch

Trusted expertise

Our Track Record

With over 25 years of collective experience, Harper Greene is a trusted advisory firm specializing in global citizenship and residency solutions. We offer bespoke investment strategies to businesses, families, and high net-worth individuals - seamlessly integrating immigration solutions with corporate structuring, legal, tax, and other regulatory considerations.

Our multidisciplinary approach ensures clients receive comprehensive, compliant, and future-ready advice.

Offices worldwide

Years of experience

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Clients advised

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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about the visa and billing.

Who is eligible to apply for the Portugal Golden Visa?

What are the current qualifying investment options?

€500,000 in a regulated investment fund
€500,000 into a company creating 5+ jobs
€250,000 in support of arts, culture, or heritage (reduced to €200,000 in low-density areas)

What are the minimum stay requirements?

Golden Visa holders must spend:
14 days in Portugal during the first 2-year period
21 days over the following 3-year period

Can I include family members in my application?

Yes. The program allows inclusion of a spouse, dependent children, and dependent parents under the same application.

Does the Golden Visa lead to citizenship?

Yes. After 5 years of legal residency, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided you meet basic requirements, such as language proficiency and ties to Portugal.

Still have questions?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get in touch

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