While some tweaks are being considered to bring Portugal’s citizenship process more in line with other EU nations, the fundamental structure of the Golden Visa remains unchanged.

In fact, there are plans to further reduce the time it takes to secure the Golden Visa residency cards from AIMA, the Portuguese immigration office.

The only element under review is the timeframe for applying for EU citizenship and a second passport.

Portugal’s parliament is expected to finalise any proposed changes next week before forwarding them to President Luís Montenegro for approval, or potentially to the Constitutional Court for review.

Should there be no legal obstacles, the adjustments could come into force as early as late November or early December. Currently, the qualifying period for citizenship stands at five years, and discussions are centred around whether this should be extended.

Crucially, none of these discussions affect existing Golden Visa holders in terms of benefits, renewals, or residency rights.

The clock for permanent residency eligibility still begins the moment an application is filed — following a €500,000 investment in one or more eligible alternative investment funds — rather than when the residency card is received.

Families and investors can continue renewing their Golden Visa residency cards every two years, maintaining the ability to live, work, and travel freely across the 29 EU Schengen countries.

Portugal’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to the integrity and longevity of the Golden Visa, underscoring its role as a vital channel for attracting foreign investment.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client; Portugal's Golden Visa benefits remain unchanged amid proposals to change citizenship requirements

The Portugal Golden Visa is now close to delivering €9 billion in inward investment, strengthening the country’s economic resilience and growth prospects.

Political support for the programme remains broad, with parties across the spectrum — from the left to the centrist government and the right-leaning Chega party — acknowledging its importance to Portugal’s economy.

According to Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, confidence in the programme remains incredibly strong. “Portugal is safeguarding the Golden Visa’s long-term future,” he said.

“Applicants can choose to continue to renew their Golden Visa residency cards every two years ad infinitum as before, and the programme continues to offer the same exceptional advantages that have made it such an international success.

“We’ve found that 99% of our international families and investors are looking for a Plan B from their home country as their main motivation with their Golden Visa applications, and in the past week alone, we’ve received over 100 new enquiries from the US, Canada, the UK, Turkey, South Africa, Malaysia, South Korea, Hong Kong, China, Brazil, amongst others.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client; Portugal's high quality of life continues to attract Golden Visa investors

“This clearly shows that interest in Portugal’s Golden Visa remains as strong as ever.”

The key advantages that have driven the programme’s popularity remain fully intact — including freedom of movement across the 29 EU Schengen countries, minimal residency requirements of just seven days per year, no tax on Golden Visa investment upside, and the ability to include spouses, qualifying offspring, and dependent parents within a single €500,000 investment.

For investors from countries such as Malaysia, China, and the United States, the Golden Visa often serves as a secure “Plan B” — offering flexibility and peace of mind without requiring relocation.

As such, the proposed adjustments to Portugal’s citizenship rules are expected to have minimal effect on overall demand.

Portugal’s unique combination of lifestyle appeal, economic stability, and investor-friendly policy continues to position it as one of the most desirable destinations for global investors.

By refining rather than overhauling the system, the government is sending a clear signal that the Golden Visa will remain a stable and attractive pathway to European residency.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client; Golden Visa holders gain freedom of movement across the 29 EU Schengen region countries

Paul Sheedy, special advisor to the Portugal Future Fund — an alternative investment fund eligible for Portugal’s Golden Visa — added:

“Portugal has always struck the right balance between welcoming international investment and ensuring long-term stability. The Golden Visa remains not only viable but stronger than ever.

“We have seen really high demand in the key sectors that are driving Portugal’s economic growth, such as tourism and hospitality, renewable energy, media and international events, healthcare, and technology.

“Recent A+ international economic ratings from Fitch and S&P reflect the country’s continued economic growth and prosperity. Additionally, private equity funds in Europe have been outperforming international public markets in recent times.

“Add on to that a low cost of living and high quality of life, it’s no wonder so many are choosing Portugal’s Golden Visa.”

To find out more about investing in Portugal’s Golden Visa, arrange a no-obligation discovery call with Portugal Pathways today