Portugal / Investment Resident Permit (ARI)
REQUIREMENTS & RIGHTS
In 2026, the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), colloquially known as the Portugal Golden Visa, remains one of the most prestigious and flexible residency-by-investment programs in the world.
Since the legislative reforms of 2023, the program has pivoted away from the property market to focus on investments that drive innovation and cultural growth. Today, it offers non-EEA citizens and their families a secure legal framework to obtain a European residence permit without the need for full-time relocation, requiring only an average of seven days of physical presence per year.
Beyond the immediate benefits of living, working, and studying in Portugal and enjoying visa-free travel within the 29 countries of the Schengen Area, the program is a direct gateway to EU citizenship after five years, provided a basic knowledge of the Portuguese language is demonstrated.
During and after the ARI process family reunification, permanent residency or naturalization is a possibility.
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We can help you achieve this goal through our specialized services and consultancy.
PATHS TO ARITOTAL
In 2026, the ARI (Golden Visa) program offers several distinct investment paths. Following the 2023 legislative shift, all routes involving direct or indirect real estate have been eliminated, leaving a "New Golden Visa" landscape focused on productive capital and social impact.
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Below are the currently eligible paths, their required amounts, and the specific conditions for each:
Investment Fund Subscription (The Market Standard)
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Amount: €500,000
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Conditions:
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Units must be held for a minimum of 5 years.
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At least 60% of the fund’s capital must be invested in commercial companies headquartered in Portugal.
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The fund cannot invest directly or indirectly in real estate.
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The fund must be registered and regulated by the CMVM (Portuguese Securities Market Commission)
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Support to Artistic Production / Cultural Heritage
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Amount: €250,000 (Reduced to €200,000 in designated low-density areas).
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Conditions:
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This is typically a non-refundable donation to public or private non-profit entities.
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The project must be pre-approved by the Portuguese Ministry of Culture (GEPAC).
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Funds must be applied to the recovery, maintenance, or promotion of Portuguese arts and national heritage.
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Scientific Research Activity
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Amount: €500,000 (Reduced to €400,000 in low-density areas).
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Conditions:
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The investment must fund research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions.
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The institution must be part of the national scientific and technological system.
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Job Creation & Business Investment
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There are two distinct sub-paths for entrepreneurs:
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Option A (The 10-Job Route):
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Amount: No minimum capital required.
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Conditions: Create at least 10 full-time permanent jobs for Portuguese residents. In low-density areas, this requirement is reduced to 8 jobs.
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Option B (Capital + 5 Jobs):
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Amount: €500,000
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Conditions: Incorporate a new company (or increase the capital of an existing one) and create at least 5 permanent jobs for a minimum period of three years.
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​​​​​​* Detailed service sheet. Available soon!​
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ARI Program
Investment Ticket and Costs
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