Investing in investment funds has become one of the most solid, modern, and secure pathways to obtaining the Portuguese Golden Visa. This route has gained considerable popularity, especially after real estate was removed from the eligible investment categories in 2023. Today, it stands as a strategic alternative for investors looking to support the country’s economic development while maintaining liquidity and portfolio diversification.
With a minimum investment of €500,000, eligible applicants must allocate this amount into venture capital or private equity funds regulated by Portugal’s Securities Market Commission (CMVM). These funds must have a minimum maturity of five years and are required to invest at least 60% of their capital in companies headquartered in Portugal.
The sectors supported are diverse—ranging from technology, renewable energy, and tourism to agribusiness, healthcare, and infrastructure. This breadth allows investors to align their personal values and strategic interests with the focus of the fund, whether it prioritizes social impact, innovation, or traditional economic growth.
Advantages:
Portfolio Diversification: Through these funds, investors can mitigate risk by spreading their capital across various assets, companies, or sectors, which is particularly beneficial during periods of global economic uncertainty.
Professional Management: All eligible funds are managed by experienced teams with proven track records in compliance and profitability, ensuring peace of mind and greater predictability in returns.
Tax Efficiency: Non-resident investors may benefit from favorable tax exemptions on dividends and capital gains, depending on double taxation treaties and Portugal’s domestic tax legislation.
Residence Flexibility: The program requires only seven days of stay per year in Portugal, making it an ideal choice for investors who wish to retain their primary residence elsewhere without compromising their eligibility.
Pathway to Citizenship: After maintaining the investment for five consecutive years, investors may apply for permanent residency or even Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet additional legal requirements, such as basic language proficiency and a clean criminal record.
Lower Bureaucracy: Compared to other Golden Visa routes, such as starting a business or employing staff, the fund investment option offers a more streamlined and less operationally demanding process.
This investment route is especially recommended for individuals seeking legal security, financial returns, tax advantages, and the opportunity to contribute to the Portuguese economy through professionally managed, growth-oriented financial instruments. The Golden Visa via investment funds offers a balanced path to European citizenship that merges wealth strategy with long-term international mobility.