The Portugal Golden Visa (officially the Residence Permit for Investment, ARI) gives non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals residency in return for a qualifying investment, with very low minimum-stay requirements. It remains active in 2026 — but its best-known route has closed.
The big change: no more real estate
Since October 2023, property purchases no longer qualify for the Golden Visa, and the old capital-transfer option was removed at the same time. Buying a home in Portugal is still completely open to foreigners — it just doesn't lead to a Golden Visa.
Routes that still qualify
- Investment funds — a subscription (commonly €500,000) in qualifying, CMVM-regulated funds not linked to real estate.
- Job creation — creating a set number of full-time jobs in Portugal.
- Cultural & scientific contributions — donations to approved projects, from lower thresholds in some cases.
Benefits and the 2026 citizenship change
The visa grants the right to live in Portugal, visa-free Schengen travel, and family reunification, with only a few days' presence required each year. Following a 2026 reform, the residence period before applying for citizenship rose to 7 years for EU/CPLP nationals and 10 years for others. Permanent residency remains available after 5 years.
Considering other routes? Many movers use the D7 (passive income) or D8 (digital nomad) visas instead. This page is general information, not legal advice — confirm the current rules with a licensed immigration lawyer. See also NHR & tax and buying as a foreigner.