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The Portuguese Golden Visa programme has become increasingly popular among Americans seeking European residency and dual citizenship. This residency-by-investment programme allows U.S. citizens the opportunity to invest a minimum required amount into specific areas of the country’s economy to receive Portuguese Residency and, with that, to live, work and study in Portugal. Another advantage of the Golden Visa is the possibility to travel visa-free throughout the Schengen Area, and after 5 years of holding the investment, apply for Portuguese citizenship. In this article, we discuss how the Portugal Golden Visa serves as a pathway for Americans to achieve dual citizenship and explore the numerous benefits that come with it.
Portugal Golden Visa for U.S. Citizens as a Way to Obtain Dual Citizenship
Portugal's Golden Visa programme was created in 2012 to boost the country's economy. Since then, it has attracted many Americans, offering a pathway not only to European residency but also to potential dual citizenship. Due to the excellent conditions the programme offers, such as eligibility through real estate purchase, the Golden Visa has brought over €7 billion in investments to Portugal over the years.
Since the beginning of the Golden Visa in Portugal, the U.S. has consistently ranked among the top 5 nations in the number of applications. According to data released by the former Portuguese Immigrant Agency, SEF, between October 2012 and September 2023, the Chinese led as the top nationality applying for the Portuguese Golden Visa, with 5,407 applications, followed by Brazilians with 1,256 applications. The U.S. is the third nation in terms of residency granted through the Golden Visa programme, with 781 applications.
In October 2023, , creating uncertainty about the programme's future. From 2024, the Golden Visa Investment Funds option has emerged as one of the best investments for those seeking Portuguese residency and citizenship.
