Portugal's Golden Visa is the No.1 residency-by-investment program in Europe for Americans

For internationally minded Americans, Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment program offers flexibility, freedom of movement across 29 European Schengen region countries, and a clear path to a second passport and potential dual citizenship after the qualifying period.

The Golden Visa program grants residency through a €500,000 investment in one or more eligible regulated Portuguese alternative investment funds that are approved by the CMVM and applicable to US investors.

Unlike most residency-by-investment schemes, Portugal’s Golden Visa requires just seven days per year of physical presence.

For U.S. families, it provides easy access to Portugal and the ability to travel visa-free across Europe — while including spouses, qualifying offspring, and even grandparents over 65 in a single application.

It’s an excellent “Plan B” for those seeking long-term safety and security, choice, and unlimited European access with a single €500k investment for the whole family— offering a route to a Portuguese passport, ranked the 4th most powerful in the world by the Global Passport Power and Appeal Index 2025.

Click here to learn more and book a no-obligation discovery call about Portugal’s Golden Visa program with our experts.

The Golden Visa-eligible funds often invest in high-growth sectors like technology, renewable energy, healthcare, tourism and hospitality, as well as media and international events— aligning investors’ goals with Portugal’s economic future - arrange a call to find out more.

In the last two quarters, the Euro’s stronger performance and expanding EU private-equity market have made these funds increasingly appealing to U.S. investors seeking diversification outside the dollar zone.

With global trade tensions intensifying, mid-term elections approaching, and ongoing debates around tariffs and fiscal policy, many Americans are rethinking how to protect their global mobility and assets.

As the U.S. navigates shifting international relationships and domestic uncertainty, a second passport offers the kind of flexibility and resilience that many now view as essential.

The Portuguese Golden Visa’s structure appeals to US investors accustomed to regulated, transparent frameworks. Residency requires a single qualifying investment but no relocation, allowing applicants to maintain their lives in the US, should they so wish, while having complete freedom of movement in Europe via Portugal, which is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world.

After maintaining the investment for the qualifying period and fulfilling the minimum 7-day stay requirements, Golden Visa holders can apply for Portuguese citizenship, granting an EU second passport.

Portugal’s reputation for political stability, safety, and economic strength continues to attract international investors. Recent A+ international economic ratings from Fitch and S&P reflect the country’s continued economic growth and prosperity. Portugal has also been cited as the 2nd best place to raise and educate children, according to UNICEF.

Beyond economics, Portugal offers an enviable quality of life — a Mediterranean diet and climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year, free access to the 3rd best healthcare system in the world, top international schools, and a low cost of living compared to the rest of Europe.

Additionally, over 70% of people in Portugal speak English, and a very low bar is required in terms of Portuguese language skills and a cultural test.

Portugal is often referred to as the 'new California' due to its record for clean air, clean energy, as well as its outdoor blue life culture and lifestyle.

From Lisbon and Porto's vibrant tech and cultural scene to the Algarve’s relaxed coastal lifestyle or the unspoiled beauty of the Silver Coast and the Alentejo region, Portugal blends sophistication with simplicity. It’s an environment where business owners, entrepreneurs, and families can thrive, while enjoying the security of a European base.

For Americans seeking to combine their U.S. citizenship with European access, Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of the world’s most compelling residency-by-investment options.

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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, as well as managing the Portugal Golden Visa Investment Fund Index, which offers unique insight into the top 30 alternative investment funds approved for Portugal's Golden Visa, along with full support with location scouting, cross-border tax considerations, private healthcare, and future real estate considerations.

About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life and investment in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events with like-minded people.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites 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. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.

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