Why Families Still Choose Portugal in 2025
The Portugal Golden Visa for families remains one of the most family-oriented residency programs in Europe. Following Law 56/2023, real estate is no longer a qualifying option. From 2025 onward, eligibility is limited to fund-based investments, cultural heritage donations, scientific research contributions, and business/job creation.
Despite these reforms, the program continues to attract global families. Parents value Portugal’s safety, high-quality healthcare, international schools, and a clear path to European citizenship. For many, the Portugal Golden Visa is not just about mobility. It is a structured plan that includes children and even parents.
What is the Portugal Golden Visa for Families?
The Portugal Golden Visa allows non-EU citizens to obtain residency through a qualifying investment, most commonly €500,000 in a CMVM-regulated fund. Immediate family members can be included in a single application, extending residency rights to:
- Spouse or legally recognized partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent adult children up to age 26, if enrolled in full-time education and financially dependent
- Dependent parents of the main applicant or spouse, if financially dependent and with proof of support
This makes it one of the few programs in Europe that supports multigenerational planning.
Why is Portugal Attractive for Families in 2025?
Families choose Portugal for a mix of lifestyle and practical reasons:
- Safety: Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world.
- Healthcare: Access to both public and private systems, with hospitals that meet global standards.
- Education: A growing network of international schools in Lisbon, Cascais, Porto, and the Algarve.
- Climate and lifestyle: Mild winters, sunny summers, and a relaxed pace of life.
- EU citizenship path: A Portuguese passport provides opportunities for future generations across Europe.
Who in the Family Can Be Included in the Portugal Golden Visa?
Residency rights extend beyond the main investor. The following can usually be included:
- Children under 18: Automatically eligible.
- Children up to 26: If financially dependent and enrolled in education.
- Parents of either spouse: If financially dependent with supporting evidence.
- Spouse or partner: Recognized under Portuguese law.
This flexibility makes the Portugal Golden Visa a practical structure for family stability.
How Does the Portugal Golden Visa Benefit Children?
Parents often cite education and mobility as key motivators:
- Access to international schools in English, French, or German.
- Entry to Portuguese universities with EU tuition fees.
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, enabling study abroad.
- Eligibility for citizenship after five years of residence, though in practice approvals often come in year six to eight.
What Healthcare Benefits are Available to Families?
Golden Visa holders can use Portugal’s public healthcare system after residency is established. Many families also opt for private health insurance, which is affordable and offers short wait times. Private hospitals in Lisbon, Cascais, and Porto provide care comparable to top facilities worldwide.
How Does the Portugal Golden Visa Help with Multigenerational Planning?
Unlike many residency programs, Portugal allows parents of the main applicant to be included. This is a major advantage for families caring for elderly relatives. It ensures:
- Parents can legally reside in Portugal.
- Access to healthcare and long-term care options.
- Freedom to live near children and grandchildren.
For high-net-worth families, this creates a structure where multiple generations hold EU rights.
What is the Minimum Stay Requirement for Families?
The Portugal Golden Visa’s flexibility is one of its strongest attractions. Families are only required to spend:
- 7 days in the first year
- 14 days in each two-year renewal period
This allows children to remain in schools abroad or parents to continue working internationally while still maintaining residency.
What are the Steps for Families Applying in 2025?
The process is the same for individuals and families:
- Select investment (most often €500,000 in a CMVM-supervised fund).
- Open a Portuguese bank account and obtain a NIF.
- Submit application to AIMA with required documents.
- Attend biometrics appointment in Portugal.
- Receive residence permits for all family members included.
- Renew every two years while maintaining the investment.
- Apply for citizenship after five years of residency (though approvals often take six to eight years).
How Long Does it Take to Receive Residency?
Processing times vary. Families should expect at least 18 to 24 months from application submission to residence card issuance, though timelines can extend further depending on AIMA’s workload.
What are the Costs for Families?
- Investment: €500,000 fund subscription (minimum).
- Government fees: Per applicant, payable at intake and renewals.
- Legal fees: Vary depending on law firm and family size.
- Additional costs: Translations, apostilles, health insurance.
Costs rise with larger families because each dependent has their own residence permit.
What Happens After Five Years?
Families may apply for:
- Permanent residency in Portugal.
- Citizenship, if they meet legal requirements, including an A2 Portuguese language test.
Important note: Parliament is currently considering a bill to extend the naturalization period from five years to ten years (seven for CPLP nationals). As of September 2025, this has not been enacted, but families should plan with this uncertainty in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Portugal Golden Visa still open to families in 2025?
Yes. The program continues through funds, cultural, research, and business options.
Can my children over 18 apply with me?
Yes, if they are enrolled in full-time education and financially dependent.
Can parents be included?
Yes, dependent parents of the main applicant or spouse can be added, if financially dependent with proof of support.
Do children need to live in Portugal full-time?
No. The minimal stay requirement applies to the family as a whole, not individually.
How long until my children can apply for citizenship?
After five years of residency, provided all legal conditions are met, though in practice approvals often come in year six to eight.
Conclusion: A Family Plan for the Next Generation
For families seeking clarity, stability, and access, the Portugal Golden Visa for families remains a strong option in 2025. It provides multigenerational benefits, minimal relocation requirements, and a path to EU citizenship. For parents planning ahead for education, healthcare, and long-term stability, Portugal continues to offer one of the most family-oriented residency programs in the world.
Why Work with Portugal Panorama
At Portugal Panorama, we help families navigate every stage of the Golden Visa — from selecting a compliant fund to structuring applications that include multiple generations. With access to CMVM-supervised funds and a focus on governance, we ensure clarity and support throughout the journey to citizenship.
Learn more at Portugal Panorama or contact us directly to discuss your plans.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Always review the latest AIMA regulations and consult qualified professionals before applying.
Last updated: September 2025
