Global Mobility with the Golden Visa
We connect investors with international mobility opportunities in Portugal and Europe, structuring compatible investments and planning for a secure, free future.
Legal European Residency
Structured pathways to obtain and maintain legal residency in Portugal and Europe.
Long-Term Stability
Residency solutions designed for continuity, renewals and future citizenship options.
Family & Mobility
Residency strategies that consider family inclusion, lifestyle and freedom of movement.
Confidential Mobility Assessment
Request a Confidential Mobility Assessment – learn if the Golden Visa is the right path for your goals.
Golden Visa Pathways
Structured legal pathways to obtain Portuguese residency through approved qualifying routes.
Leveraging Your Assets for Global Mobility
Using your assets to support a Portuguese Golden Visa requires precise legal coordination. We eliminate uncertainty by ensuring that all documentation meets the strict standards of the Portuguese authorities — keeping your application secure and on track.
Documentary Mastery
We organize and prepare the full chain‑of‑custody documentation needed to prove the lawful origin and structure of your capital. We align your documents with Portuguese requirements and manage the entire timeline — from obtaining a tax number and opening a bank account to the AIMA submission and biometric appointment.
JOB CREATION
Strategic Focus
Full operational control and active management. A residency route designed for entrepreneurs who wish to establish a long-term business presence in Portugal.
Requirements
Creation and maintenance of at least 10 permanent jobs in a Portuguese company.
No minimum capital investment is required.
Applicable to applicants establishing or expanding a business with a sustained employment commitment.
INVESTMENT FUNDS
Strategic Focus
A passive and highly regulated residency pathway. Particularly suitable for conservative profiles and retired applicants seeking legal certainty and long-term stability.
This route allows the lawful use of U.S. retirement assets, including IRA and 401(k) structures, within a fully compliant Portuguese regulatory framework.
Requirements
Investment of €500,000 or more in qualifying Portuguese collective investment vehicles (excluding real estate funds).
The funds must:
– Have a minimum maturity of 5 years at the time of investment
– Allocate at least 60% of capital to Portuguese-based commercial companies
BUSINESS + JOBS
Strategic Focus
A flexible residency pathway combining capital allocation with direct contribution to the Portuguese business sector.
Requirements
Capital transfer of €500,000 or more to either:
a) establish a Portuguese company and create 5 permanent jobs; or
b) increase the share capital of an existing company and create 5 new jobs, or maintain 10 jobs (at least 5 permanent) for a minimum period of 3 years.
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH INVESTMENT
Strategic Focus
A residency pathway aligned with innovation, research and social impact, supporting Portugal’s scientific and technological ecosystem.
Requirements
Capital transfer of €500,000 or more applied to research activities conducted by certified public or private institutions integrated into Portugal’s national science and technology system.
CULTURAL OR ARTISTIC SUPPORT
Strategic Focus
A reduced minimum investment route with a philanthropic focus, suitable for applicants interested in cultural preservation and heritage.
Requirements
Capital transfer of €250,000 or more directed towards:
– Artistic production
– Cultural heritage preservation
– Maintenance or restoration initiatives
Funds must support approved public-interest institutions, including governmental entities, public foundations, intermunicipal bodies and recognised cultural associations.
Your Life Options in Portugal
Practical, realistic ways to build a life in Portugal through international mobility.
Living in Portugal
Choose where and how to live, with access to housing, infrastructure and services that support a stable and comfortable lifestyle.
Professional & Personal Freedom
Enjoy mobility that allows you to balance professional activity, personal projects and quality of life.
Long-Term Life Planning
A legal framework that includes your family and ensures long‑term stability in Europe, including citizenship eligibility after five years.
What You Gain with the Portugal Golden Visa
Practical, realistic ways to build a life in Portugal through international mobility.
Why Choose Portugal
Reasons to choose Portugal include stability, quality of life, European mobility and a clear legal structure.
Stability & Quality of Life
Portugal provides a stable society, excellent healthcare services and a pleasant climate, offering a balanced and secure lifestyle.
EU Mobility & Long-Term Path
Your authorization allows Schengen access and offers a clear path to permanent residency and citizenship.
Clear Residency Framework
Predictable rules and expert guidance make the process transparent and secure.
Leveraging Your Assets for Global Mobility
Using your assets to support a Portuguese Golden Visa requires precise legal coordination. We eliminate uncertainty by ensuring that all documentation meets the strict standards of the Portuguese authorities — keeping your application secure and on track.
Documentary Mastery
We organize and prepare all documents needed to prove the lawful origin and structure of your capital.
Documentation Coordination
We align your documents with Portuguese requirements to ensure consistency, compliance and a smooth submission.
Integrated Application
We manage the entire procedural timeline with precision and continuity, from obtaining a tax number and opening a bank account to the AIMA submission.
UNLOCKING THE POWER OF YOUR ASSETS FOR GLOBAL MOBILITY
Leveraging Your Assets for Global Mobility
Using your assets to support a Portuguese Golden Visa requires precise legal coordination and documentary compliance. We ensure every step aligns with AIMA’s regulatory standards — from the origin of funds to final approval — so you can pursue mobility with confidence.
How GWS Helps You
A complete legal framework supporting your transition to Portugal
Legal Eligibility Review
- Profile check
- Requirement match
- Legal overview
- Residency fit
Documentation & Compliance
- Compliance plan
- Required forms
- Verified proofs
- Document alignment
- Legal accuracy
Application Support
- File preparation
- Submission steps
- Consular review
- Procedural updates
- Issue resolution
- Full monitoring
Approval Guidance
- Residence card
- Enrollment steps
“I highly recommend GWS. Their expertise in Portuguese immigration law, and attentive guidance made every step of the process smooth and stress free. Their professionalism and dedication truly set them apart.”
Jeff Koby
“GWS has been incredible to work with. The team is genuinely helpful, warm, and super responsive, and they supported me with everything from securing my residence card to helping me set up my home internet. They even guided me on where in town to buy what I needed for my apartment, which made such a difference in settling in. I know I can reach out to them about anything and they always respond quickly and warmly with practical advice and information. I honestly could not have made the move from the US to Portugal without them.”
Cori Hertz
a better life⚬
a better life⚬
a better life⚬
a better life⚬
a better life⚬
awaits you⚬
awaits you⚬
awaits you⚬
awaits you⚬
awaits you⚬
Frequently asked questions
Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions on the Golden Visa Strategy
1. What is the Portugal Golden Visa program (ARI)?
The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU citizens to obtain Portuguese residency through eligible investment categories, including real estate, capital transfer, job creation, scientific research and cultural initiatives.
2. Does GWS provide financial or investment advice?
No. GWS does not provide financial, investment or U.S. legal advisory services.
Applicants independently select their preferred investment route, and GWS supports the Portugal-side documentation, compliance alignment and application preparation required by AIMA
3. What documents do I need for the Golden Visa?
Requirements vary by investment category, but applicants typically need:
- Passport
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of qualifying investment
- Portuguese tax number (NIF)
- Proof of health coverage
Once your U.S. records are finalized, GWS structures, organizes and prepares all Portugal-side documentation to meet AIMA requirements.
4. How long does the Golden Visa process take?
Timelines depend on documentation readiness and government processing.
Most applicants complete initial stages within a few months and typically receive approval between 6–12 months after submission.
10. Can I work or run a business in Portugal with a Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders have full freedom to:
- work,
- open a business,
- or operate a commercial activity in Portugal.
9. Can I use investment capital from outside Portugal?
Yes. Capital held abroad may be used. Once your documentation is complete, GWS ensures your Portugal-side submission aligns with AIMA’s regulatory requirements
8. What is AIMA?
AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) is the Portuguese authority responsible for:
- reviewing Golden Visa documentation
- validating eligibility
- issuing residency permits
7. Does the Golden Visa lead to citizenship?
Yes. After 5 years of residency, applicants may apply for:
- Permanent residency, or
- Portuguese citizenship
subject to legal requirements, including a basic Portuguese language exam.
Note: The eligibility requirements for Portuguese citizenship (via this investment route) are currently under review by the Constitutional Court. All requirements are subject to immediate amendment. (Status: 12/04/2025).
6. Can my family be included?
Yes. The Golden Visa allows family reunification, including:
- spouse or partner
- dependent children
- dependent parents
- minors under legal guardianship
5. Do I need to live in Portugal full-time? Do I need to move to Portugal to maintain the Golden Visa?
No. You do not need to relocate full-time. To keep your Golden Visa valid, you must:
- stay in Portugal at least 7 days in the first year, and
- at least 14 days in each of the following two-year periods.
These days can be split across multiple trips.
12. How much does the Portugal Golden Visa cost overall?
Total costs vary depending on the investment category selected and the number of family members included. Applicants typically consider:
- the qualifying investment amount defined by law,
- application and government processing fees,
- Document certification, translations, and consular costs
- Renewal fees during the 5-year residency period
Once your preferred investment route is chosen, GWS outlines the Portugal-side documentation and submission costs so you have a clear and predictable overview before proceeding.
11. Does the Golden Visa allow travel in Europe?
Yes. Golden Visa holders may travel freely in the Schengen Area.
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Eligibility Form
Confidential · No obligation · Private consultation for qualified investors
Portuguese Golden Visa Advisory
Strategic residency solutions for U.S. investors and families.
VUNE0093, Compass Building – Al Hulaila
Al Hulaila Industrial Zone – FZ
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates