01. Business Investment Immigration:
Are you considering obtaining a Residence Permit for Investment (ARI), commonly known as the Golden Visa, in Portugal? This simplified guide will help you understand the key aspects of this program, including eligibility, benefits, and the application process.
What is the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa program, initiated on October 8, 2012, allows third-country nationals to obtain a temporary residence permit to conduct business activities in Portugal. This program offers various advantages to its beneficiaries:
Visa Waiver: Residence visa waiver for entering Portugal.
Living and Working: The ability to live and work in Portugal, provided you stay in Portugal for a period of 7 or more days in the first year and 14 or more days in subsequent years.
Schengen Travel: Visa exemption for traveling within the Schengen Area.
Family Reunification: The option for family reunification.
Permanent Residence: Eligibility to apply for permanent residence.
Portuguese Citizenship: The opportunity to apply for Portuguese citizenship through naturalization, fulfilling all other requirements under the Nationality Act.
02. Eligibility:
Who Can Apply?
All third-country citizens conducting an investment activity, either individually or through a company established in Portugal or another EU Member State, and who are stably settled in Portugal, may apply for a Residence Permit for Investment. To qualify, you must meet specific quantitative and time requirements. Here are the investment options:
Capital Transfer: Transfer at least 1.5 million Euros.
Job Creation: Create a minimum of 10 job positions.
Real Estate Purchase: Purchase real estate property valued at 500 thousand Euros or more.
Real Estate Refurbishment: Buy real estate property with construction dating back more than 30 years or located in urban regeneration areas, for refurbishing, totaling 350 thousand Euros or more.
Research Activities: Transfer capital of 500 thousand Euros or more for research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions involved in the national scientific or technological system.
Supporting the Arts: Transfer capital of 250 thousand Euros or more for investing in artistic output, supporting the arts, or refurbishing the national heritage through local and central authorities, public institutions, and more.
Investment Funds: Transfer capital of 500 thousand Euros or more for the acquisition of units of investment funds or venture capital funds dedicated to capitalizing companies under Portuguese legislation.
Commercial Society: Transfer capital of 500 thousand Euros or more for the constitution of a commercial society with headquarters in Portugal, combined with the creation of five permanent working jobs, or for the reinforcement of the share capital of an existing company, with a minimum of five permanent jobs, for at least three years.
Please note that Portuguese, EU, and EEE nationals are not eligible for the ARI / Golden Visa scheme.
03. How to Apply?
The application process involves several steps:
Pre-Registration: Start with mandatory online pre-registration at ARI Portal.
Meeting Requirements: Ensure you meet all requirements, including proof of residency outside the European Schengen Area, no debts to Social Security or Tax Authority, a clean criminal record, age above 18, and having €5,146.8 per person in your bank account.
Select Investment Route: Choose one of the eligible investment routes listed above.
Submit Application: Complete the application process online.
Evaluation and Approval: Your application will be reviewed and approved.
Residence Permit: Upon approval, you will receive a temporary residence permit.
Contact Al Safar for Expert Assistance
Navigating the Golden Visa program can be complex. For expert advice and assistance in obtaining your Residence Permit for Investment in Portugal, contact Al Safar. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you make the most of this opportunity.
Please note that program requirements may change, so it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest regulations.