A New Era in Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal has long been a prominent European country with its Golden Visa program, which grants residency through investment. With a comprehensive reform in 2024, the country removed real estate investments from its list of viable investment options and transitioned to a system based on capital, employment, and cultural contributions. New legislation, effective in 2025, has also restructured the requirements for citizenship. According to the new legislation, effective October 2025, the citizenship application period is set at seven years for citizens of Portuguese-speaking countries and European Union member states, and 10 years for citizens of other countries. The period of residence spent by investors under the Golden Visa during this period is included in the residence requirement for citizenship.

Yağız Yiğit, Director of Astons Turkey, comments on the change: “For many years, the Portuguese Golden Visa program has been one of the most preferred residence routes for investors in Europe. The new regulation, extending the citizenship period from 5 to 10 years, requires investors to plan their plans longer-term. Astons will continue to guide investors through this process with the most appropriate funds and investment models within the current legal framework. However, it's important to emphasize that citizenship requirements are evaluated entirely separately from the Golden Visa program; holding a Golden Visa or obtaining a residence permit does not automatically grant citizenship.”

Capital-focused model and long-term approach

Portugal's Golden Visa program has shifted its focus from real estate investments to capital funds, job creation, and cultural projects that directly contribute to the country's economy. Investors can choose from options such as investments of at least €500,000 in private equity or venture capital funds, research contributions of €400,000–€500,000, or cultural support of €200,000–€250,000. The program not only grants investors residency but also the opportunity to live, work, study, and establish a business in Portugal. Golden Visa holders also benefit from free movement throughout the EU through an ETIAS exemption.

Certified and safe investment consultancy with Astons

The process of obtaining residency or citizenship through investment requires not only choosing the right country and program but also ensuring legal security at every step. Astons supports investors in Türkiye, as it does globally, with its officially licensed and certified consulting team. From property selection and application preparation to fund transfers and citizenship approval, it offers transparent, documented, and fully compliant services at every step. This comprehensive approach allows investors to securely access not only European programs like Portugal but also government-approved Golden Visa and citizenship programs in more than 15 countries worldwide.