The Portugal Golden Visa offers a straightforward path to residency and citizenship in Europe for investors and their families.

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program is one of the most popular residency-by-investment options in the world. It attracts investors, entrepreneurs, and families who want a secure gateway to Europe. Many choose it as a safe and reliable path to their dreamland. The Portugal Golden Visa program is designed for non-EU citizens to gain residency in Portugal through investment.

In 2025, the program will continue to offer exceptional benefits. It includes visa-free access to 27 EU countries and a clear five-year path to citizenship, and flexible investment routes. Recent updates have shifted the focus away from real estate to investment funds. Now, the emphasis on investment funds, job creation, and cultural contributions is making the opportunities more strategic than ever.

It is no surprise that Portugal has become a preferred choice for investors from the UAE and GCC. At Meer Group, we specialize in delivering seamless, end-to-end Golden Visa solutions. We ensure our clients meet all requirements. We also help them maximize the benefits of this life-changing program.

1. Portugal Golden Visa Program Is Europe’s Smart Move for Investors

Portugal has earned its place as one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for investors seeking residency. In 2025, the country remains politically stable with a strong economy. It offers an exceptional quality of life along with access to world-class healthcare, education, and business opportunities. Portugal is a member of the European Union. Residents can travel, work, and live in 27 EU countries. Beyond offering a warm climate and rich culture, Portugal is also known for its safety, friendly communities, and attractive tax policies.

The Portugal Golden Visa Program is the country’s flagship residency-by-investment initiative. This government-backed scheme is designed to attract foreign capital and talent. Since its launch in 2012, the program has helped thousands secure long-term residency. It also opens the door to eventual Portuguese citizenship. At Meer Group, we have helped many clients from the UAE, GCC, and other regions get residency in Portugal. We do this through custom investment plans, smooth application processing, and partnerships with top legal and financial firms.

By choosing Meer Group, investors get a trusted partner. We help them navigate the changing Golden Visa process and make the most of Portugal’s residency program.

2. What is the Portugal Golden Visa Program?

At Meer Group, we understand the needs of high-caliber global investors. They want the benefits of European residency. But they seek the benefits without the burden of relocation. That’s why we offer tailored solutions through the Portugal Golden Visa Program. It is one of the world’s leading residency-by-investment options. The process is straightforward, but the first step is understanding the requirements. This is where our expertise helps you move forward with confidence.

The Portugal Golden Visa Program is designed to welcome high-caliber global investors. This Program was started in 2012 as a government-backed initiative to attract foreign capital and talent. Through Meer Group, qualifying investors and their families can secure residency in Portugal. They also gain visa-free access across the Schengen Zone. After five years, our clients are eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship if they meet the residency and legal requirements.

Originally, the program gained traction for its real estate investment option, which allowed applicants to qualify by purchasing property. In 2023, major policy changes removed real estate as an eligible option. The focus shifted to investment funds, job-creating business ventures, and contributions to cultural or scientific projects. These changes align with Portugal’s long-term economic strategy, ensuring investments support sustainable growth and innovation. At Meer Group, we guide clients through the updated paths. We ensure their investment is eligible and aligned with Portugal’s sustainable growth strategy. 

Main Eligible Investment Paths include:

• Investment Funds: Minimum €500,000 in approved Portuguese funds.
• Job Creation: Establishing a business that creates at least 10 jobs.
• Scientific or Technological Research: Funding innovation projects.‍
• Cultural Heritage Contributions: Supporting preservation in low-density regions.

This program appeals to high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders across the UAE, the GCC, and around the world. With our support, investors gain flexibility. They only need to spend seven days per year in Portugal. At the same time, they enjoy the benefits of European mobility, security, and lifestyle.

For many, the Golden Visa Program in Portugal isn’t just about relocation. It’s a strategic lifestyle investment that combines wealth security, mobility, and future citizenship for generations to come. At Meer Group, we design investments that meet all requirements and match our clients’ long-term financial goals. This ensures their residency journey is both compliant and strategically beneficial.

Eligibility Criteria (Guided by Meer Group)

• Nationality: Available to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, making it especially popular among UAE and GCC investors.
• Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Clean Record: A clean criminal background in both the applicant’s country of residence and Portugal is required.
• Investment Capability: Proof of the required minimum investment in eligible routes.

Minimum Investment Amounts (2025 Updated)

• Portugal Golden Visa Investment Funds: Minimum €500,000 in government-approved Portuguese funds.
• Job Creation: Establish a business that generates at least 10 full-time local jobs.
• Cultural Heritage Donation: Minimum €250,000 donation toward preserving Portugal’s cultural heritage, with reduced thresholds for low-density regions.
• Scientific Research: €500,000 contribution to an approved research or innovation project.

Stay Requirement

Meer Group ensures unmatched flexibility for clients. Investors only need to spend seven days per year in Portugal to maintain residency.

Processing Timeline & Documentation

The Portugal Golden Visa application usually takes 6–9 months from submission to approval. The time depends on the investment type and the completeness of the documents. 

A typical checklist includes:

• Valid passport and copies
• Proof of qualifying investment
• Criminal record certificates from all countries of residence
• Portuguese tax number (NIF)
• Health insurance coverage
• Proof of compliance with residency requirements

At Meer Group, we handle the entire process from start to finish, from investment structuring to document submission. We ensure our clients experience a smooth and compliant journey to securing their Portuguese residency.

Options that are ruled out

As of October 2023, real estate investments and capital transfers are no longer eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa. Previously, investors could qualify by purchasing property or transferring funds, but these options have now been removed. At Meer Group, we guide you toward the updated investment paths. These options remain available under the Portugal Golden Visa. They also align with Portugal’s current regulations.

3. The Smartest Portugal Golden Visa Routes 2025

Meer Group understands the challenges of choosing the right path. Because it is key to maximizing your benefits under the Portugal Golden Visa Program. We have years of experience advising global investors, especially from the UAE and GCC. This expertise helps us guide you through the process with confidence. We help you choose the option that fits your financial goals. We also make sure it supports your lifestyle and long-term residency plans. Here are the most viable routes for 2025, with a focus on what suits UAE investors best.

i. Investment Funds: The Leading Choice

The Portugal Golden Visa Investment Funds route has surged in popularity after real estate was removed in 2023. Through Meer Group, investors can make a minimum investment of €500,000 in regulated Portuguese funds. These funds are carefully selected for their performance. They are also chosen for their compliance with regulations. These funds offer diversification across sectors, including technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and infrastructure. It’s ideal for UAE investors seeking passive returns and professional fund management without the complexities of property ownership.

For UAE investors, this is often the preferred route. It delivers passive returns and professional fund management. At the same time, it avoids the complexities of property ownership.  At Meer Group, we match you with the best-performing, government-approved funds that meet your objectives.

ii. Job Creation

Launching or expanding a business that creates at least 10 local jobs is another pathway. This option suits entrepreneurs who want to establish a physical presence in Portugal and actively contribute to the economy.

Meer Group helps design job-creating ventures that comply with Golden Visa requirements. We focus on projects that are profitable in the long run. Your investment adds value to Portugal’s economy while building your business presence in Europe.

iii. Scientific Research Contribution

A €500,000 investment in approved research projects, especially in technology and sustainability, supports Portugal’s innovation ecosystem. Investors passionate about global impact find this route both fulfilling and strategic.

At Meer Group, we guide clients in selecting projects that are government-approved and socially impactful. We focus on options that align with future economic growth. This way, your Golden Visa becomes a legacy investment.

iv. Cultural Heritage Donation

Investors can make a minimum contribution of €250,000, or €200,000 in low-density regions. This helps preserve Portugal’s historic and cultural landmarks. This route is cost-effective and socially impactful, with the added benefit of reduced thresholds in less populated areas.

Meer Group ensures that contributions go to meaningful cultural initiatives that qualify under the program. We make sure these projects also align with our clients’ values of social responsibility and global citizenship.

4. Best Option for UAE Investors 

For most UAE investors in the Portugal Golden Visa, investing in funds is the preferred choice. It offers a good mix of flexibility, potential returns, and minimal administrative effort. This makes it the top choice for business leaders and frequent travelers.

At Meer Group, we analyze each investor’s goals, risk appetite, and mobility needs. We recommend the route that meets the program’s requirements and also supports long-term wealth strategies.

5. Portugal Golden Visa Benefits in 2025 

The Portugal Golden Visa benefits 2025 make it one of the most sought-after residency programs worldwide. Beyond securing European residency, investors gain unmatched advantages that combine mobility, lifestyle, and financial strategy.

I. Visa-Free Travel Across the Schengen Area

Golden Visa holders can travel freely across 27 European countries without needing additional visas. This is a valuable benefit for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and frequent travelers.

ii. Pathway to Citizenship in 5 Years

Portugal’s program offers a clear route to citizenship through investment. After five years of compliant residency, applicants and their families can apply for Portuguese citizenship. This gives them EU passports and the right to live, work, and study across Europe.

citizenship, gaining EU passports, and the rights to live, work, and study across Europe.

iii. Tax Advantages

Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime offers significant tax benefits for foreign investors. These include exemptions on certain foreign-sourced income, pensions, and dividends, making it a strategic tool for wealth preservation.

iv. Family Inclusion

Golden Visa benefits also cover immediate family members, including spouses, dependent children, and parents. This ensures a secure future for your loved ones.

v. High Living Standards

Portugal offers exceptional healthcare, education, infrastructure, and safety. Its high quality of life makes it not just a residency option but a lifestyle upgrade.

At Meer Group, we help clients access these benefits efficiently. We structure investments and residency applications so investors can enjoy Europe’s freedom without administrative stress.

6. The D2 Visa Portugal Explained: Entrepreneurial Residency Made Simple

The D2 Visa Portugal is another residency option for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start or move a business to Portugal. Unlike the Golden Visa, which focuses on financial investments, the D2 Visa emphasizes active business involvement.

The D2 Visa Portugal is another residency option for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start or move a business to Portugal. Unlike the Golden Visa, which focuses on financial investments, the D2 Visa emphasizes active business involvement.

Eligibility & Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• A viable business plan with economic impact
• Sufficient capital to establish the business
• Proof of professional experience relevant to the venture

Benefits Compared to the Golden Visa

• Enables entrepreneurs to live and work in Portugal while directly managing their business
• Pathway to permanent residency and eventual citizenship by investment in Portugal
• Ideal for investors willing to be hands-on rather than passive

Both the Golden Visa and D2 Visa offer EU residency and the possibility of future citizenship. The D2 Visa is ideal for business founders and innovators. This visa is a perfect opportunity for individuals planning to run a business in Portugal’s growing market.

At Meer Group, we help clients choose the right visa. We ensure all legal and business requirements are met efficiently, making the path to European residency smooth and compliant.

7. Golden Visa vs D2 Visa: Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding between the Portugal Golden Visa and the D2 Visa, investors should think about the cost. They should also consider flexibility and their long-term goals.

‍Cost Comparison

The Golden Visa usually requires a minimum €500,000 investment in approved funds or projects. The D2 Visa generally has a lower upfront cost but requires active business management.

Flexibility

Golden Visa holders benefit from just seven days of stay per year, ideal for investors with global commitments. In contrast, the D2 Visa often requires a more consistent physical presence in Portugal to maintain eligibility.

Best Fit

• Golden Visa: Suited for passive investors, high-net-worth individuals, and UAE clients seeking maximum flexibility.
• D2 Visa: Perfect for entrepreneurs and innovators willing to run a business in Portugal.

At Meer Group, we assess each client’s goals, risk appetite, and lifestyle preferences. We recommend the best visa strategy. Whether it’s the Golden Visa or the D2 Visa, we guide you carefully. We make sure your journey to Portugal is strategic and fully compliant.

8. Why Meer Group Is Your Trusted Partner for Portugal Residency

When it comes to navigating the Portugal Golden Visa Program, few agencies match the expertise of Meer Group. We have years of experience in investment migration. Over the years, we have assisted numerous high-net-worth individuals and families from the UAE, GCC, and beyond. Our clients trust us to help them secure their European residency.

Our end-to-end service ensures a seamless journey. We provide personalized consultation and help plan the right investment route. We also handle all documentation and coordinate with Portugal’s legal and financial partners. This holistic approach saves clients time, reduces stress, and maximizes the efficiency of their Portugal Golden Visa Application.

Meer Group focuses on UAE investors, allowing us to offer strategies tailored to regional business practices, financial regulations, and lifestyle preferences. Many of our clients have obtained residency in just a few months. They have also structured their investments to maximize returns and improve future citizenship prospects.

Choosing Meer Group means working with a team dedicated to making European residency simple, transparent, and rewarding. Take the first step toward a secure European future. Apply for Portugal residency and contact Meer Group today.

9. Secure Your European Future

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program remains one of the most strategic and flexible residency-by-investment options in 2025. It offers EU mobility and a clear path to citizenship. Investors and their families also enjoy an exceptional quality of life.

For UAE and GCC investors, the program is appealing due to its low stay requirements and solid legal framework. It also focuses on investment funds, cultural heritage, and innovation projects. The D2 Visa is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to participate directly in Portugal’s growing economy.

By choosing Meer Group, investors get a trusted partner who ensures compliance and smooth processing. We help you maximize the benefits of the program. Take the first step toward European residency today. Apply for the Portugal Golden Visa and secure your family’s future with Meer Group.