Portugal Golden Visa remains available in 2026, but the program has changed significantly from its original structure. Real estate purchases and simple capital transfers no longer qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa, officially known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI).
Instead, the program now focuses on investment that contributes to Portugal’s economy, scientific development, culture and employment.
Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options in 2026
Applicants can currently qualify through one of the following routes:
- Investment funds: €500,000
Invest at least €500,000 in units of qualifying non-real-estate collective investment funds established under Portuguese law. The fund must have a maturity of at least five years, with at least 60% of its investments made in Portuguese companies. - Scientific research: €500,000
Transfer at least €500,000 to public or private scientific research institutions integrated into Portugal’s national scientific and technological system. - Arts and cultural heritage: €250,000
Invest or contribute at least €250,000 toward artistic production or the recovery and maintenance of Portugal’s national cultural heritage. - Business investment and job creation: €500,000
Invest at least €500,000 in establishing or capitalizing a Portuguese company while creating at least five permanent jobs. Investment in an existing company may also qualify where the required employment conditions are met. - Creation of 10 jobs
Applicants may qualify by creating at least 10 jobs in Portugal, without a prescribed minimum capital investment.
For certain qualifying investments made in designated low-density areas, the applicable minimum investment may be reduced by 20%. Importantly, however, qualifying Golden Visa investments cannot be directly or indirectly intended for real estate investment.
Is the Portugal Golden Visa Still Available in 2026?
Yes. Despite the major reforms introduced in 2023, Portugal did not abolish the Golden Visa. Instead, it redirected the program away from property and passive capital transfers toward funds, business creation, research, culture and employment.
For international investors, the Golden Visa therefore remains a route to Portuguese residency in 2026, although selecting a compliant investment has become considerably more important under the revised framework.
