However, it is not the only pathway available.

Over the past few years, another route has begun attracting attention among entrepreneurs, executives and internationally mobile professionals. Known as the HQA visa - Highly Qualified Activity - the programme has developed more quietly than the Golden Visa but is increasingly appearing in conversations with individuals exploring Portugal as a long-term base.

For the right profile, it can represent a credible alternative. The more interesting question for many applicants is how it compares with the Golden Visa in practice, particularly when it comes to investment levels, residency flexibility and the pathway toward Portuguese citizenship. Our approved partner.


A Different Kind of Residency Programme

The HQA visa was designed with a different objective from traditional investor residency schemes. Rather than focusing purely on capital investment, it aims to attract individuals who can contribute to Portugal’s research, technology and innovation sectors.

In practical terms, applicants typically collaborate with Portuguese universities, research institutions or innovation programmes while developing a project or business initiative connected to the country. The structure is intended to combine international expertise with Portugal’s academic and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The investment threshold is also different. While the Golden Visa generally requires a €500,000 investment through regulated funds, the HQA route often begins from around €170,000, depending on the structure of the programme and the project involved.

For many applicants, that difference is what first brings the route into consideration.

Who the Programme Is Designed For

The HQA visa tends to attract individuals already operating in areas such as technology, entrepreneurship, innovation or research-driven industries. Founders developing new ventures, professionals working in specialised sectors, and executives seeking a European base are typical profiles.

Because the programme is tied to knowledge-based initiatives, it is usually structured through partnerships with Portuguese academic institutions, incubators or research organisations. These collaborations form part of a broader national objective: bringing international expertise and new ideas into the Portuguese economy.

It is a different model from the traditional investment visa, but one that aligns closely with Portugal’s wider ambition to position itself as a hub for innovation and technology.

A Residency Path That Can Lead to Citizenship

Although the HQA visa operates differently from the Golden Visa, the long-term outcome can be similar. Successful applicants obtain legal residency in Portugal and, after five years of residence, may be eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship provided the usual legal requirements are met.

For internationally mobile professionals, this combination of residency rights, European mobility and long-term optionality is often the key attraction.

Anyone assessing whether the HQA visa or the Golden Visa is the better fit for their situation can request a direct consultation here: Book a Meeting

Learn More in the Upcoming Webinar

For those considering Portugal in 2026, understanding how the different residency routes work in practice has become increasingly important. There will be a live webinar with one of our approved partners on Thursday 12th March at 5pm Portugal time, providing a detailed overview of the current residency landscape and what prospective applicants should be aware of.

· How the HQA and Golden Visa compare

· AIMA’s improving processing timelines and what that means for applicants

· Family inclusion rules and planning opportunities

· Key tax considerations, including developments around NHR 2.0

The session will also include live Q&A, allowing attendees to raise questions directly.

To register for the webinar click here: Register here