Exploring alternatives to the Golden Visa programme



With the imminent closure of some of the most popular areas of the Golden Visa programme, particularly those related to property investment, the search for alternatives to this programme is becoming increasingly urgent.



One of the main advantages and one of the main reasons for the success of the Golden Visa for Portugal programme is the relatively comfortable length of stay requirement in Portugal. You only need to stay in Portuguese territory for 14 consecutive or non-consecutive days per two-year stay.



In addition, the path from resident to citizen is very favourable compared to other countries. To apply for citizenship, you only need to be in possession of a residence card for 5 years.



The alternative visas, namely D2 (for entrepreneurs), D7 (for passive income) and D8 (for digital nomads), also only require five years of residence to apply for Portuguese citizenship and the period for obtaining a residence card is likely to be shorter than for the Golden Visa.