The Portugal Golden Visa program, launched in 2012, was designed to attract global capital through residency-by-investment. For over a decade, it provided an accessible path to European Union residency and eventual Portuguese citizenship. Initially favored for its real estate track, the program experienced a pivotal shift in 2023—real estate was officially removed as an eligible route.
This change reflects Portugal's strategic pivot toward ethical and sustainable investment. The new Golden Visa model prioritizes innovation, green energy, health tech, and other growth-focused sectors, reinforcing Portugal’s image as a forward-thinking gateway to Europe.
What Makes the Golden Visa Portugal Unique
Unlike many EU residency programs, Portugal’s Golden Visa boasts minimal physical presence requirements—just 7 days per year. There’s no requirement to relocate, pass language exams at the beginning, or become a tax resident. With visa-free access to the 27 Schengen countries, this model appeals to globally mobile families, investors, and business professionals seeking freedom without upheaval.
Why Choose the Fund Investment Path
Following the 2023 reforms, regulated investment funds became the only eligible financial pathway under the Portugal Golden Visa. Approved by the CMVM, these funds offer high levels of transparency, legal compliance, and professional management.
This approach is ideal for investors who prefer sophisticated financial instruments over the complexities and liabilities of managing physical assets.
Unlike property purchases, fund investments eliminate issues such as asset management, local taxation complexities, market volatility, and bureaucratic processes. Instead, funds offer transparent structures, exit strategies, sector diversification, and institutional-grade governance.
Key Benefits of Portugal’s Golden Visa Fund Path
- Minimal Physical Residency Requirements: Only 7 days annually in Portugal to maintain your Golden Visa.
- Access to EU Without Relocation: No tax residency required. Live anywhere in the world while holding EU residency.
- Full Family Inclusion: Include spouses, dependent children, and even parents in one application.
Exploring Portugal’s Leading Fund: Explorer Investments
Explorer Investments is Portugal’s most trusted private equity firm, managing over €1.8 billion in assets. It’s the only major fund in Portugal allowing Golden Visa investors to co-invest alongside institutional players.
With transparent performance reports, risk-controlled strategies, and a 3x MOIC target, Explorer delivers high-growth potential backed by professional governance. Their investor relations team — André Bandeira & Maria Campos Silva — offers full onboarding including legal, KYC, AML, and documentation.
Understanding Investor Psychology
Today’s investors prioritize strategic diversification, capital protection, and EU residency. They demand compliance, defined exits, and clarity in documentation. Funds like Explorer meet these expectations while simplifying onboarding and legal processes.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Golden Visa Through a Fund
- Book a Consultation with Explorer.
- Complete KYC, AML, and Legal Compliance.
- Invest a minimum of €500,000 and hold for 5 years.
- Renew annually by staying just 7 days per year in Portugal.
Legal Compliance and Fund Structure
Golden Visa eligible funds must be CMVM-regulated, avoid real estate, allocate 60% to Portuguese companies, and hold a 5-year maturity. Tax advantages include 0% on fund returns for non-residents and 10% flat for residents.
Comparing Portugal to Other EU Golden Visa Programs
While other EU programs are suspended or under reform, Portugal continues offering transparent, fund-based residency with minimal requirements and strong investor protections.
Risks and Considerations
- Only invest in CMVM-regulated funds
- Understand tax residency rules
- Follow fund terms strictly
- Submit applications on time
Explorer eliminates these risks by offering legal onboarding and full compliance management.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Portugal Golden Visa? Residency-by-investment program through regulated funds.
- Minimum investment amount? €500,000 in CMVM-approved funds.
- Do I need to live in Portugal? No. Just 7 days/year required.
- How long does it take? 3–6 months depending on processing.
- Can I include my family? Yes. Spouse, kids, parents.
- When can I apply for citizenship? After 5 years of holding the visa.
- Will I be taxed in Portugal? Only if you become a tax resident.
Conclusion: The Smartest EU Investment Pathway
The Golden Visa Portugal is a strategic gateway to EU citizenship. With institutional-grade funds like Explorer, you access transparency, governance, and capital preservation — all with minimal disruption to your lifestyle. Take action now to safeguard your freedom and family’s future.
