How to apply for a Golden Visa in Portugal

The official information and application for the Portuguese Golden Visa are usually processed through the Portuguese Immigration and Border Services Agency (Servi ç o de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras, abbreviated as SEF). However, the official website of SEF (www.sef.pt) may not provide English services, and the specific online application process may vary.

Applying for a Golden Visa in Portugal is an investment immigration program that allows non EU citizens to obtain residency by making qualified investments in Portugal. The following are the basic steps for applying for a Golden Visa:

Choose investment options:
According to the Portuguese Golden Visa Program, you can choose one of the following investment options:

Purchase real estate worth at least 500000 euros.

Purchase real estate worth at least 350000 euros located in urban revitalization areas or buildings over 30 years old for renovation.

Transfer at least 1 million euros to a Portuguese bank.

Invest at least 350000 euros in Portuguese companies or investment funds.

Create at least 10 job opportunities.

Prepare documents:
You need to prepare a series of documents, including but not limited to:

Valid passport.

Certificate of no criminal record.

Health insurance certificate.

Investment proof (such as property purchase contract, bank transfer certificate, etc.).

Tax Identification Number (NIF).

Portuguese bank account.

Submit application:
You need to submit a golden visa application at the Portuguese Immigration and Border Services Agency (SEF). You can submit your application by making an appointment at the SEF office in Portugal, or in some cases, at the Portuguese embassy or consulate abroad.

Waiting for approval:
After submitting the application, you need to wait for SEF’s approval. The approval process may take several months.

Obtaining a visa:
Once your application is approved, you will receive a temporary residence permit valid for one year. Afterwards, you can renew your residence permit for a period of two years, and you will need to stay in Portugal for at least 7 days after each renewal.

Applying for permanent residency or nationality:
After holding a golden visa for five years, you can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, provided that you meet all the requirements, including basic knowledge of Portuguese and social connections with Portugal.