Portugal Golden Visa for South Africans: All You Need to Know in 2024

Since the inception of Portugal’s Golden Visa in 2012, it has been a compelling opportunity for South Africans seeking new horizons.

In addition to granting South Africans the opportunity to live legally in one of the safest countries globally, Portugal has weather that is similar to South Africa.

Portugal, known for its comfortable yet peaceful lifestyle, has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. South Africa, particularly in cities like Cape Town, experiences a similar Mediterranean-like climate, while other areas may have more varied weather, including semi-arid and subtropical zones.

South Africans absolutely love good weather, and coupled with a high quality of life, reliable public transport, and numerous government services, Portugal is a sought-after destination for South Africans seeking to relocate.

And as a bonus, Portugal’s Golden Visa comes with a low minimum stay requirement, providing flexibility for investors who don’t want to live in the country full-time.

In this guide, we will explore Portugal’s Golden Visa for South Africans in detail, providing a comprehensive understanding of this program, including:

• The key benefits of the Golden Visa for South Africans
• The Golden Visa requirements and eligibility criteria
• The benefits of living in Portugal

Portugal Golden Visa for South Africans: An Overview

What is the Portugal Golden Visa Program?

The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program introduced by the Portuguese government in 2012 to attract foreign investment and boost the growth of the Portuguese economy.

Also regarded as the Residence Permit Program, the Portuguese Golden Visa scheme allows non-EU citizens to obtain a residence permit in Portugal by making a significant investment in the country.

As of October 2023, real estate investment and certain types of capital transfers no longer qualify for Portigal’s Golden Visa program, However, the program still has several attractive investment options, and South African expatriates can invest in a venture capital fund, scientific research, and more.

The Golden Visa grants qualifying investors and their family members the right to live, work, and study in Portugal.

Benefits of the Golden Visa for South Africans

• Family reunification: An attractive benefit of the Golden Visa is that your dependent family can be included in the application. Just like you, they can also enjoy a second residence in Portugal and the same opportunities in the country.
• Attractive investment options: The Golden Visa program encompasses several investment types. These include donations, job creation, and research activities. Investors can choose the option that best suits their financial goals and preferences, including affordable investments starting from €250,000. Please note that the real estate investment route is no longer available for the program.
• Visa-free access to the Schengen Area: Golden Visa holders can freely enter and move within the Schengen Area’s 27 countries without needing an additional visa.
• Pathway to permanent residence permit and Portuguese citizenship:  After five years of being a legal resident in Portugal as a Golden Visa holder, you may become eligible to apply for permanent residence status and become a Portuguese citizen, whereby you can get a Portuguese passport.
• Low physical presence requirement: The Golden Visa program typically has a low minimum stay requirement in Portugal (14 days every two years), making it accessible to investors who do not want to live in the country full-time.
• Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime: Golden Visa holders who live in Portugal can apply for Portugal’s NHR tax incentives. When becoming a non-habitual resident, they’ll pay little to no tax for ten years.

Why is the South African demand for Golden Visas so high?

South Africa’s high demand for the Golden Visa program can be attributed to compelling factors.

Firstly, many South Africans are drawn to the Golden Visa program due to its attractive investment opportunities. Portugal’s economy has demonstrated resilience and growth in recent years, making it an appealing destination for investors.

Portugal also has a long history of political stability, which is highly valued by investors seeking a secure environment for their assets and families. The country’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful and democratic society contributes to the program’s popularity.

Portugal’s quality of life is a significant attraction. South African nationals appreciate the country’s pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The Golden Visa grants residency and allows family members to join, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a high quality of life in Europe.

Portugal’s Golden Visa scheme also offers South African investors a path to Portuguese citizenship after five years of compliance with the program’s criteria. This long-term prospect is attractive to South Africans who may wish to establish deeper roots in the country.

Best Investment Options for South Africans

Before the application for the Portuguese residence permit can be filed, a minimum investment of €250,000 must be made, and there are several options available.

• Fund Subscription: Make a contribution to a qualified investment fund worth at least €500,000
• Investment or donation in the arts or reconstruction of national heritage with a donation of at least €250,000
• Scientific Research: Science or Technology research contribution of at least €500,000
• Creation of ten jobs: Creation and maintenance of ten jobs during the required period
• Share capital and job creation: Incorporation of a company or reinforcement of a company’s share capital, in either case with an investment of €500,000, combined with the creation of five or maintaining ten jobs (5 of them permanent)

Investments no longer available

• Real estate investment: Acquire a real estate property worth more than €500,000 in Portugal.
• Real estate purchase: Buy real estate property, with construction dating back more than 30 years or located in urban regeneration areas, for refurbishing for a total value equal to or above €350,000.
• Capital transfer: Make a capital transfer of a value equal to or above €1.5 million.

How to Get the Golden Visa for South Africans

Portugal Golden Visa requirements for South African citizens

To be eligible for the Portuguese Golden Visa program, the main applicant must:

• Be either non-EU, non-Swiss, or non-EEA nationals
• Be able to prove the source of their investment funds (there’s a minimum investment amount of €250,000)
• Have a criminal record proving the absence of conviction in a crime punishable in Portugal for one year or more
• Spend a minimum of 14 days in Portugal for each two-year period (this is called the stay requirement). Note that while there are no strict stay requirements, you must maintain your investments in Portugal and meet the program’s renewal criteria to keep your residency status valid.

Golden Visa documents

Here’s a list of the Golden Visa Portugal required documents:

• Portuguese Golden Visa application form
• Copy of a valid passport and travel documents
• Deed or contract of the purchased property or signed Promissory Contract with proof of the deposit payment
• Declaration from your bank in Portugal confirming the transfer of funds
• Proof of health insurance in Portugal (only required if the investor resides in Portugal)
• A certified copy of the clear criminal record or a police clearance letter from your country of origin
• A completed form authorizing AIMA to get an extract of your Portuguese criminal records
• Declaration from you confirming compliance with the investment requirements
• Documents showing a good standing with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority and Social Security system. These can be issued 45 days before your online application.
• A receipt showing that you already paid the application processing fee

Note that the certificates of criminal records or police clearance letters must have been issued no more than 90 days before submitting your application. For all other certificates, it is 180 days.

Golden Visa application process for South African citizens

To apply for the Golden Visa, you must follow the steps below:

1. Gathering the necessary documents
2. Decide on which investment you will move forward with
3. Acquiring a Portugal taxpayer identification number (NIF)
4. Opening a Portuguese bank account and transferring funds to it. To help you with this process, here’s a guide on how to open a bank account in Portugal.
5. Completing your fund investment
6. With your qualifying investment made and your paperwork ready, you will submit your pre-application online to AIMA (the immigration authorities).
7. After analyzing your pre-application, AIMA will provide you with a set of available dates for the biometrics appointment.

After your biometrics, it takes around six months for your investment visa to be approved by AIMA.

You’ll then be granted a temporary residency permit, which is valid for a period of two years. This Portuguese residence permit must be renewed every two years. At the end of the fifth year, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Cost of Portugal Golden Visa for South African Applicants

The investment is the primary cost of the Golden Visa, and apart from that, there are also several application and processing fees.

All Government fees listed above are payable per person, whether a main applicant or a family member. The amounts indicated above will be discounted if the acts are done online.

Using a loan or mortgage to pay for Portugal Golden Visa

A common question is if you can use a loan or a mortgage to secure your Golden Visa investment in Portugal. You cannot take out a loan or mortgage from a Portuguese financial institution to pay for your investment. However, you can take out a loan from a bank outside of Portugal. 

Portuguese Citizenship through the Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa allows South African nationals to apply for Portuguese citizenship. However, you must hold your investment in Portugal for at least five years before you’re eligible to apply for citizenship and a Portuguese passport.

Also, to obtain Portuguese citizenship, you will need to pass a basic test in Portuguese language and culture. With citizenship under your belt, you can enjoy the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union and travel visa-free to 174 destinations.

It’s important to note that South African nationals can hold dual citizenship if they meet the eligibility requirements for both. So, you can have Portuguese citizenship without having to relinquish your South African passport.

Benefits of Living in Portugal

Exceptional living standards

Living in Portugal as a South African can be a rewarding experience, especially due to the country’s safety and low crime rate. According to the World Population Review, in 2022, Portugal ranked 3rd among the safest countries in the world.

As of the latest Global Peace Index in 2023, Portugal ranked as the seventh safest country in the world, after Iceland, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, and Singapore.

Portugal also has low crime rates and political stability. This sense of security contributes significantly to the overall well-being of residents and expatriates from all over the world.

Warm weather

Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The pleasant weather is a significant contributor to the overall quality of life, allowing for outdoor activities year-round.

High-quality education system

Portugal has an exceptional education system, offering free education for its citizens. Legal residents, including Golden Visa holders, can enroll their children in Portuguese schools.

Portugal also has an array of reputable international private schools, as well as prestigious universities. In fact, the Portuguese universities have excellent track records. The well-known Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, for instance, is in the QS ranking of the world’s top 50 universities under 50 years old. Six more universities are in the QS rankings 2023 of Top Global Universities.

Affordable cost of living

While Portugal offers a high quality of life, it is often more affordable than many other Western European countries. Healthcare, utilities, and everyday expenses are generally reasonable, making it an attractive destination for retirees and expatriates.

Public transportation in Portugal is also affordable and efficient, making it easy to get around the cities. You’ll also find that several activities within the country, such as visiting beaches, going on hikes, and exploring public monuments and buildings, are free.

Attractive tax system

Golden Visa holders living in Portugal can benefit from the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax system if they become tax residents in the country. This program has a multitude of benefits over a ten year period, including tax exemption on nearly all foreign source income.

Important Note: The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime is no longer available for new applicants in 2024. However, the NHR will be replaced by a new tax regime. Read more here: Is The Portugal NHR Program Ending?

Best Cities in Portugal for South Africans

Portugal offers a variety of cities and regions that can be appealing to South Africans looking to live in the country. The choice of the best city or region depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and priorities.

Here are some cities and regions in Portugal that expatriates, including South Africans often favor:

• Lisbon: Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, culture, and stunning architecture. It offers a wide range of amenities, including excellent healthcare facilities, international schools, and a thriving arts and dining scene.
• Porto: Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto, is famous for its picturesque riverside views, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a city known for its friendly locals and thriving wine culture. Porto offers a slightly more relaxed pace of life compared to Lisbon.
• Algarve: The Algarve region in southern Portugal is a popular choice for retirees and expats. It boasts a Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and a range of golf courses. Cities like Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira are well-liked for their lifestyle options and amenities.
• Coimbra: Coimbra is home to one of Portugal’s oldest universities, giving the city a youthful and academic atmosphere. It offers a mix of historic charm and modern living. The cost of living in Coimbra is often lower than in Lisbon or Porto.
• Sintra: Sintra is a picturesque town nestled in the hills just outside of Lisbon. It’s known for its romantic architecture, lush gardens, and a cooler climate due to its elevated location. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more tranquil setting yet want easy access to Lisbon.
• Madeira: The Portuguese Island of Madeira, located in the Atlantic Ocean, offers a subtropical climate, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle. The capital, Funchal, is a popular destination for retirees.
• Azores: The Azores archipelago is another Portuguese territory in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s known for its natural beauty, including volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor recreational activities. São Miguel, the largest island, is where most expatriates settle.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I live in Portugal with a South African passport?

South African nationals who wish to live in Portugal must obtain the appropriate visa or residence permit based on the specific reason for their stay.

Who qualifies for the Golden Visa in Portugal?

To qualify for the Portuguese Golden Visa, you must first be either a non-EU, non-Swiss, or non-EEA national. You must also make a minimum investment of €250,000. Investment options include donations, investment funds, and job creation.

It is important to note that in 2024, it’s not possible to qualify for Portugal’s Golden Visa program through a capital transfer or a real estate investment.

What is the disadvantage of the Portugal Golden Visa?

One potential downside of the Portugal Golden Visa program, when compared to other Portuguese residency visas, is the associated costs. Aside from the primary investment, there are additional application and processing fees, which can make this visa less accessible for some prospective Golden Visa applicants.

Can South Africans retire in Portugal?

Yes, South Africans, like citizens of many countries, can retire in Portugal. A great option for individuals seeking to retire in Portugal is the Golden Visa, which allows applicants to obtain residency by making a qualifying investment in the country. Another great option for retirees seeking to live in Portugal is the D7 Visa. Also known as the Retirement Visa, the D7 Visa allows foreigners to apply for residency in Portugal, if they have a reasonable passive income.

How long does one have to live in Portugal to get citizenship?

To be able to apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship, you need to have a valid residence permit in Portugal for five years. Please note that acquiring citizenship requires passing a basic Portuguese language test.

How much does Golden Visa Portugal cost?

Apart from the main investment, which is typically  €250,000 to €500,000, there’s also the application and processing fees, which are €581.76 and €5,812.11, respectively.

How long does it take to get a Portugal Golden Visa for South African citizens?

The Golden Visa processing time usually takes between three to six months.

What's the difference between the Golden Visa and the Portugal D7 Visa?

The Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program where investors make a significant financial commitment, while the Portugal D7 Visa is a residency visa based on passive income or retirement without the requirement of investment. It’s suitable for those with consistent income streams, like retirees or freelancers.

 

What are the benefits of Portugal Golden Visa for South African families?

Portugal’s Golden Visa program has significant advantages for South African families seeking residency in Europe. Through this scheme, families can obtain residency permits, granting them access to Portugal’s education and healthcare systems. Additionally, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area facilitates easier exploration of Europe. The program also opens up investment opportunities in Portugal, potentially leading to long-term financial gains. Moreover, Portugal’s appealing quality of life, safety, and favorable climate make it an attractive destination for families looking to relocate.

Is there a Portugal Golden Visa real estate investment for South Africans?

As of October 2023, the real estate investment no longer qualifies for the Golden Visa. However, there are still other attractive investment routes available such as investing in venture capital funds, scientific research, and cultural donations.

What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa is a five-year residence by-investment program available to South Africans and other non-EU citizens. The scheme is part of Portugal’s welcoming immigration policy for South African investors.