Portugal’s Golden Visa in 2026: no more real estate, still a real result
First, the change that matters. Since October 2023, real estate no longer qualifies for the Golden Visa. The old thresholds — €280,000, €350,000, €400,000, €500,000 per property — and the bank-deposit route were abolished by the Mais Habitação law (Lei 56/2023). Those numbers are still floating around the internet, but you can’t build a plan on them. If an adviser is selling you a “visa for an apartment”, they’re selling something that doesn’t exist.
Now, what does exist. The ARI programme is running, and in 2026 there are five doors in:
- investment and venture-capital funds from €500,000 — non-real-estate, held 5+ years, with at least 60% invested in Portuguese companies;
- scientific research from €500,000;
- arts and heritage support from €250,000 (€200,000 in low-density areas);
- creating at least 10 jobs;
- capitalising a Portuguese company with job creation.
For most of our clients, funds are the practical choice: a clear structure, professional management, and an investment that works while you get on with your life. We help you select a fund, vet it, and complete the transaction.
Why is this still one of the most convenient statuses in Europe? Presence. 7 days in the first year, then 14 days per two-year period. You’re not relocating — you’re buying an option. Your family joins the application, and your Golden Visa years count toward both permanent residence and citizenship.
Now, the timelines. PR comes at 5 years (Portuguese A2 required). Citizenship, since 19 May 2026, is no longer at 5 years: under Lei Orgânica 1/2026 it’s 7 years for nationals of Portuguese-speaking countries and the EU, or 10 years for everyone else. The process runs through AIMA, which replaced SEF in 2023.
Yes, the road got longer. It’s still one of the very few in Europe where an EU passport is achievable while barely living in the country. Book a free consultation — we’ll look at your situation, map the real timeline, and match you with the investment that gets you there.