Portugal Golden Visa for Bangladeshi Nationals

The Portugal Golden Visa is a highly sought-after residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU nationals, including Bangladeshi citizens, to obtain a temporary residence permit in Portugal through qualifying investments. The Golden Visa is ideal for investors who wish to reside in Portugal, travel freely across the Schengen Area, and eventually gain Portuguese permanent residency or citizenship. The program offers multiple investment options and is known for its flexibility and straightforward requirements.

Key Features of the Portugal Golden Visa

1. Eligibility Criteria:

   • The applicant must make a qualifying investment in Portugal and maintain it for at least five years.
   • They must not have a criminal record and be in good health.
   • They are required to spend at least seven days per year in Portugal during the first year and at least 14 days in every subsequent two-year period to maintain the visa.
   • The visa can be renewed every two years.

2. Investment Options: To qualify for the Golden Visa, Bangladeshi nationals must choose from one of the following investment options:

   • Real Estate Investment:

     • Invest a minimum of €500,000 in real estate property in Portugal.
     • Invest €400,000 in real estate located in low-density population areas.
     • Invest €350,000 in real estate that is at least 30 years old or in an urban regeneration area, requiring renovation.
     • Invest €280,000 in real estate located in low-density areas, with the same conditions as above.

   • Capital Transfer:

     • Transfer a minimum of €1.5 million to a Portuguese bank account or approved investment.

   • Business Investment:

     • Create at least 10 new full-time jobs for Portuguese citizens or residents through a company incorporated in Portugal.
     • Invest €500,000 in a company or establish a Portuguese company, creating five permanent jobs for three years.

   • Investment in Research and Development:

     • Invest €500,000 in scientific research or technology development through a qualified research institution in Portugal.

   • Investment in Arts and Cultural Heritage:

     • Contribute €250,000 towards the preservation of national heritage, arts, or culture.

   • Venture Capital and Fund Investment:

     • Invest €500,000 in a qualifying venture capital fund aimed at supporting the Portuguese economy.

3. Documents Required:

   • Valid Passport: A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
   • Proof of Investment: Documentation proving the investment (e.g., real estate deed, capital transfer proof, or business incorporation documents).
   • Portuguese Tax Number (NIF): Obtain a NIF number from the Portuguese tax office.
   • Bank Account in Portugal: Open a bank account in Portugal to facilitate the investment process.
   • Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance covering all medical costs in Portugal.
   • Criminal Record Certificate: A police clearance certificate from Bangladesh (and any other country where the applicant has resided for more than a year).
   • Proof of Residence in Portugal: Documents such as a rental agreement, purchase deed, or letter from a host.
   • Application Form and Photographs: Properly filled visa application form and passport-size photographs.

4. Application Process:

   • Step 1: Obtain Portuguese NIF and Open Bank Account: Applicants must first obtain a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF) and open a bank account in Portugal.
   • Step 2: Make the Investment: Choose an investment option and complete the required transaction (e.g., purchase property, transfer funds, or make a business investment).
   • Step 3: Submit Application: Submit the completed Golden Visa application along with supporting documents to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF).
   • Step 4: Attend Biometrics Appointment: Upon preliminary approval, the applicant must attend a biometrics appointment in Portugal to provide fingerprints and photographs.
   • Step 5: Receive Golden Visa Approval: After successful completion of the application process, the applicant receives a residence permit card (the Golden Visa) valid for two years.
   • Step 6: Renew the Visa: The Golden Visa can be renewed every two years, provided that the investment is maintained and the applicant meets the minimum stay requirements.

5. Family Reunification:

   • The Golden Visa allows for family reunification, enabling the primary applicant’s spouse, dependent children, and parents to also obtain residence permits.
   • Family members have the same residency rights and can live, work, and study in Portugal.

6. Benefits of the Golden Visa:

   • Residency Rights: The Golden Visa holder and their family members can reside and work in Portugal.
   • Free Movement in the Schengen Area: Visa holders can travel freely across the Schengen Zone, which includes 26 European countries.
   • Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: After five years, the applicant can apply for permanent residency. After six years, they may apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided they meet the language and residency requirements.
   • No Tax Residency Obligation: Golden Visa holders do not automatically become tax residents unless they spend more than 183 days in Portugal annually.
   • High Quality of Life: Portugal offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare and education, a low crime rate, and a welcoming environment.

7. Challenges and Considerations:

   • The initial investment can be substantial, especially for real estate and capital transfers.
   • There are additional costs such as property taxes, legal fees, and visa application fees.
   • Changes to the Golden Visa regulations may alter the eligible investment areas, particularly for real estate investments, which are currently restricted in Lisbon and Porto.

8. Taxation:

   • Portugal offers the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, providing beneficial tax rates on foreign income for up to 10 years, making it a highly attractive destination for investors and retirees.

Conclusion

The Portugal Golden Visa is a powerful and flexible program for Bangladeshi investors looking to obtain residency and eventually citizenship in a European country. It provides a range of investment options, from real estate to business ventures, and offers family reunification, Schengen Area travel, and the opportunity to live in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries. With proper planning and the right investment choice, the Golden Visa can be a gateway to building a prosperous future in Portugal. If you need more details about specific investment routes or have questions on the application process, feel free to ask!