Portugal

Portugal has been a member of the European Union since 1986 and of the Schengen Area since 1995.

The Portugal Golden Visa Programme has been extremely popular among South African and other non-EU investors.  Since the programme was introduced, property prices have risen significantly, and many investors are exploring other alternatives, to secure residency in Portugal.

The Highly Qualified Activity is a great alternative avenue to secure residency, for entrepreneurially-minded investors. They are required to participate in a formal start-up incubation programme at one of the many Research & Development facilities within the universities in Portugal. The programme offers investors greater flexibility, than the Golden Visa as they can choose their level of involvement and there are no annual residency requirements, without compromising on any of the benefits of EU residency.

Golden Visa Portugal: Residency
(awaiting confirmation of regulatory changes)
Portugal Highly Qualified Activity
Citizenship Possibility of applying for citizenship after 6 years of residency, subject to a Portuguese exam Possibility of applying for citizenship after 6 years of residency, subject to a Portuguese exam
Immigration Rights Live & work in Portugal and travel freely through Schengen countries Live & work in Portugal and travel freely through Schengen countries
Processing Times 6 - 12 Months 3 - 4 Months
Investment Requirements Purchase of property @EUR 350,000-EUR 500,000 for 5 years. Investment of EUR 1million in Portuguese Financial Institution. Business that will create 10 permanent jobs. Participation in a start-up business incubation programme @EUR175,000
Return On Investment Rental on property Possibility of transition from incubation to operational business
Family Children and parents can be included in application Children and parents can be included in application
Residency Requirement 7 days in year 1, and 14 days every year thereafter No ongoing annual residency requirement
Application Process - Initial application
- End of year 1
- End of year 3
- Citizenship
- Initial application
- End of year 1
- End of year 3
- Citizenship
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