The Portuguese government has announced plans to enhance incentives for investors under Portugal Golden Visa program, reinforcing its commitment to attracting international capital despite the recent tightening of immigration policies across Europe.
In an interview with Bloomberg this week, Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro confirmed that the government is not only maintaining the Golden Visa program but is actively working to make it more attractive.
“There’s no plan to end it. It’s not on the table,” said Amaro. He noted that AIMA is working to clear a backlog of nearly 45,000 Golden Visa applications currently awaiting review. “We expect that by the end of the year this process will be largely taken care of,” he added.
Amaro said the measures being discussed aim to bolster foreign investment and attract global talent to Portugal’s economy.
Referring to Portugal Golden Visa program and tax, Amaro stated that the government is exploring ways to organize them in “a more effective and economically efficient way,” while ensuring that any changes are “economically and socially fair.”
While declining to provide specifics, he said the goal is to enhance Portugal’s image as an “investment destination.”
The Portugal Golden Visa program, among the most popular in Europe, offers non-Europeans a fast-track to residency through options including a minimum €500,000 investment in eligible funds. New Portuguese residents may also be eligible for a 20% flat tax on local income and a ten-year exemption on most foreign income.
Demand for Portugal’s Golden Visa has been on the rise, partly due to its flexibility—participants are only required to spend about one week per year in the country. Approvals rose 72% last year, reaching a record 4,987, according to the country’s immigration agency, AIMA. Since the program’s launch in 2012, Americans have consistently ranked among the top three recipients, alongside Chinese and Brazilian nationals.
About the Program
The Portugal Golden Visa Program—formally known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI)—was launched in October 2012 to attract foreign direct investment.
Since its launch, the program has drawn widespread global interest, particularly from investors in China, Brazil, the United States, Turkey, and South Africa. Portugal continues to be a highly appealing destination for individuals seeking the right to live, work, and study in Europe.
The program provides various investment pathways, such as subscribing to investment funds, starting or expanding a business, or making qualifying donations. Eligible applicants can secure residency permits not only for themselves but also for their spouses, dependent children, and parents. Once a qualifying investment is made and the application submitted, approvals are typically granted within a few months.
Golden Visa holders may apply for Portuguese citizenship after maintaining residency for five years.