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Portugal’s Golden Visa programme has long been one of the most attractive residency-by-investment schemes in Europe.
Beyond offering investors a secure foothold in the EU, one of its greatest advantages is the ability to include family members. This makes the Golden Visa not just a financial investment, but one in your family’s future.
So how can your dependents—spouses, children, and even parents— be included?
Our guide will provide answers to frequently asked questions and outline the process of transitioning from temporary residency to permanent residency or even Portuguese citizenship.
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Who can you include in a Golden Visa application?
1. Spouse or legal partner
Your legally married spouse or recognised partner is eligible to be included under your Golden Visa application. Portugal also recognises de facto unions - long-term, cohabiting couples - if properly documented.
2. Children
- Under 18: All children under the age of 18 are automatically eligible.
- 18–26 years old: Adult children can also be included if they are financially dependent and enrolled in full-time education.
- Special circumstances: Dependent children with disabilities may qualify regardless of age.
3. Parents
- Your parents: If they are financially dependent on you, they can be added to your application.
- Spouse’s parents: Similarly, parents of your spouse or partner can qualify if financially dependent.
Step-by-step: adding dependents to your Golden Visa
1. Prepare documentation
Collect proof of family relationships (marriage certificates, birth certificates, dependency evidence, education enrolment documents, etc.).
2. Submit dependents with main application
It is usually most efficient to include dependents during the initial Golden Visa application process.
3. Pay additional application fees
Each dependent requires their own government processing fee, biometric submission, and residency card.
4. Biometric appointment
Dependents, like main applicants, must attend biometric appointments in Portugal.
5. Residency approval and cards
Once approved, dependents receive their own residency permits, linked to the main applicant’s Golden Visa status.
Transitioning to permanent residency or citizenship
After five years, Golden Visa holders (and all included dependents) can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship. This opens the door to EU rights, including free movement, access to healthcare, and educational benefits.
The key requirement is maintaining the investment and meeting the minimum stay requirements. For families, this means a relatively low time commitment compared to other EU residency programmes, making Portugal’s Golden Visa one of the most family-friendly pathways available.
The Portugal Golden Visa is more than just an investment opportunity—it’s a family pathway to security, stability, and long-term European residency. By allowing you to include spouses, children, and even parents, the programme ensures that your whole family can benefit together.
If you’re considering the Golden Visa as part of your family’s global residency and citizenship strategy, the time to act is now. With evolving regulations, early planning ensures you lock in the benefits for future generations.
Speak with one of our advisors today to explore which investment route and family structure best fit your goals.
FAQs: Golden Visa for families
1. How long does it take to process family applications?
Typically, 6–12 months, depending on the backlog and documentation.
2. Do family members have to meet the 7-day residency requirement?
Yes, every family member included must spend at least seven days per year in Portugal.
3. Can children over 18 apply later if not included initially?
Yes, they can apply later as dependents, provided they meet dependency requirements.
4. What happens if a child gets married during the Golden Visa period?
Married children no longer qualify as dependents under your Golden Visa.
5. Can dependents apply for citizenship?
Yes. After five years of residency (with renewals), dependents can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship, just like the main applicant.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways website and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.
