The Portugal Residency by Investment program, also known as the Golden Visa Program, is one of the most successful and sought-after residency options in the European Union. It allows individuals to study, live, and work in Portugal while enjoying visa-free access to the Schengen zone. 

Key features of the program include: 

  • Eligibility for the entire family of the applicant, including spouses, dependent children, and parents.  
  • Low minimum stay requirements: only 7 days during the first year and 14 days during each subsequent 2 years of residence. 

How does the Portuguese Residency by Investment Program work? 

Applicants from the USA can become residents of Portugal by choosing one of the following qualifying investment options: 

  • Private equity fund investment. A minimum investment of € 500 000 is required. This option complies fully with the Golden Visa Program and US regulations. Investments in private equity funds can yield up to an 8% ROI. 
  • Donation to the Arts: A minimum investment of € 250 000 is required. 
  • Donation to Research Activities: A minimum investment of € 500 000 is required.  
  • Company Creation. This option requires creating a company that either employs at least 10 Portuguese citizens or making a € 500 000 investment while hiring at least 5 Portuguese employees. 
  • Requirements for applicants from the USA 

To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements: 

  • Be at least 18 years of age 
  • Have no previous criminal convictions 
  • Be prepared to spend a minimum of 7 days per year in Portugal 
  • Provide proof of the qualifying investment. 

Stages of the process of obtaining a residence permit 

The process for US investors to obtain a Portuguese residence permit involves several key steps. 

  1. Prepare documentation: The first stage is to gather the necessary official documents required for the application. 
  2. Complete the investment: The second step involves transferring the investment funds to a bank account in Portugal. 
  3. Submit application: Once the investment is complete, you must submit your application along with all supporting documents to the relevant immigration authority, which processes Golden Residence Permit applications. This includes providing documentary evidence of the investment. 
  4. Biometrics appointment: Lastly, you will need to arrange a biometrics appointment for yourself and your family in Portugal. 

Extension of the residence permit  

After your application is reviewed, you will be granted a residence permit that is valid for two years. This permit can be extended for an additional two years each time. 

Analysis fee (paid upon submitting the application)   € 773.74 per person  
Approval fee (paid upon receiving the approval decision)  € 3 865.74 per person  
Lawyer renewal fees   € 1 500 main applicant  

€ 750 each family member  

Advantages of a Portuguese residence permit for US citizens 

Currently, Portugal is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Europe. The country boasts one of the largest economies in the EU and offers a favorable business environment, particularly for cryptocurrencies and technology sectors. 

Portugal features stunning landscapes, including beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches and modern urban centers. Residents of Portugal enjoy a luxurious lifestyle that rivals that of major cities in the EU. 

Benefits and privileges for holders of the Portuguese residence permit 

Key advantages of obtaining a Portuguese residence permit by the US citizens include: 

  • Path to citizenship: Holders of a Portuguese residence permit can apply for citizenship after completing 5 years in the program. 
  • Business expansion: Entrepreneurs can grow their businesses across all Schengen countries. 
  • Educational opportunities: Residents can access many prestigious universities in the EU at lower tuition fees. 

Visa-free travel: where can I go? 

US citizens who receive a Portuguese residence permit enjoy visa-free access to countries within the Schengen Area of the EU for up to 90 days within any six-month period. 

Tax benefits for US citizens  

Thanks to the Portuguese tax system and the agreements between the United States and Portugal, US citizens who obtain a residence permit in Portugal can benefit from the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime. This program is specifically designed for individuals who have not been tax residents of Portugal for the 5 years preceding their residence permit acquisition. 

Under the NHR regime, income earned from foreign sources may be exempt from Portuguese tax if it is taxed in another jurisdiction. For instance, if a U.S. citizen earns income in the United States, they may not have to pay Portuguese taxes on that income. 

Income earned in Portugal is taxed at special rates that can be significantly lower than the standard rates. For example, income from professional activities may be taxed at a rate of 20%, compared to the usual rate of 48%. 

Note!
Since 2024, preferential tax treatment has not been available to all categories of new residents. Contact the Astons specialists for more information. 

Portuguese citizenship

US citizens who obtain residency in Portugal through investment can apply for dual citizenship after completing 5 years of residency. Portugal now considers the waiting period during the residency application process when calculating the required legal residency period for citizenship. The five-year timeline begins from the date of application, not from the issuance date of the initial residency permit. 

The benefits of Portuguese citizenship  

The main advantages of Portuguese citizenship for US citizens include: 

  1. The right to study, live, and work in Portugal and anywhere in the EU 
  2. Political stability and a high quality of life 
  3. Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries worldwide, making international travel easier and more accessible 
  4. The allowance for dual citizenship, meaning you can retain your original nationality while enjoying the benefits of Portuguese citizenship. 

How can Astons help

With over 30 years of experience, Astons is a leader in global investment migration. We provide tailored citizenship and residency solutions in Portugal, offering personalized services. Our team of seasoned immigration lawyers is well-versed in immigration laws and committed to protecting our clients’ interests.

Our qualified specialists will provide you with a checklist of necessary documents so you know what to collect and how to submit them to us. We will prepare the documentation along with your application, ensuring that everything is completed accurately and securely.