You can spend just 7 days in Portugal each year, and in five years, you will obtain EU citizenship. Yes, this is possible with the Portugal Golden Visa program!
The residency-by-investment program allows non-EU nationals to live, work and study in Portugal. The most favorable aspect of the visa program is that you only need to be physically present in Portugal for 7 days per year, meaning there is very minimal physical presence to maintain residency. This creates a great opportunity for investors seeking EU citizenship without moving their families to Portugal.
Pathway to Portugal Citizenship in 5 Years
Once you have kept your Golden Visa for five years, you can apply for Portugal citizenship in 5 years. To do so, you need to demonstrate basic proficiency in the Portuguese language (A2 level) and no criminal record. Importantly, recent legal updates have streamlined the timeline, counting the five years from your initial residency application submission date.
EU Citizenship by Investment: A Smart Move
Although Portugal doesn’t offer direct EU citizenship by investment, the Golden Visa is a reliable pathway. Investing in an approved Portuguese fund or business allows you to gain residency status and apply for citizenship after five years. This process gives you access to the benefits of EU citizenship, including the ability to move to any EU member state freely.
How to Become a Portuguese citizen
To become a Portuguese citizen, you have to be familiar with some Portugal citizenship requirements. Follow the steps below:
Step 1: Maintain Residency
You must hold a valid residency permit for five years. The stay requirement is at least 7 days per year on average.
Step 2: Language Proficiency
You must have A2 level proficiency in Portuguese.
Step 3: Police Clearance
You must provide a police clearance certificate from your country of origin.
Step 4: Application
You can formally apply for citizenship through the Portuguese Migration Service. The application includes all required, acceptable documents that align with the estate official’s requirements.
7 Days a Year: The Height of Convenience
Few programs offer the same blend of convenience and long-term benefits. With the Portugal Golden Visa’s 7-day-per-year requirement, you can keep your lifestyle intact while steadily progressing toward full EU citizenship.
This flexibility—paired with real opportunity—sets the Portugal Golden Visa apart.
Final Thoughts
If you meet the above conditions and maintain your residency properly, your path to Portuguese—and eventually EU—citizenship is clear.
Need expert guidance to make the process even smoother? Consider Abhinav Immigration Services. We have years of experience helping individuals and families navigate the Golden Visa program. We make the navigation process smoother for you, make you aware of all the requirements, and ensure that you efficiently reach your goals.
Let us help you stay compliant, informed, and confident throughout your journey.
