Blog Article
Portugal Immigration Law Changes: Impact on Golden Visa & EU Citizenship
Portugal now counts residency time from the application date, not card issuance — a game-changer for Golden Visa investors. This new law accelerates the citizenship timeline and reinforces Portugal’s appeal as a secure, efficient destination for global investors. Discover how Vida Fund helps you benefit.
Main Insights
Faster path to Portuguese citizenship: The 5-year residency countdown now starts at the time of application submission, not card issuance.
Delays no longer hurt your citizenship timeline: Long processing times (sometimes up to 24 months) won’t impact eligibility.
Vida Fund is a regulated, secure investment option: Focused on hospitality, it aligns perfectly with Golden Visa requirements and delivers strong return potential.
Portugal remains one of the most attractive Golden Visa programs – Now with an even more efficient citizenship path and continued tax advantages.
New Residency Calculation System: Faster Track to Citizenship
Previously, the 5-year residency period for citizenship applications started only after receiving the initial residence card. Now, it begins upon successfully submitting your residency application, including Golden Visa applications.
This change is particularly advantageous for those experiencing processing delays, which can be quite lengthy.
What This Means for You: Potential Benefits
Faster Citizenship Timeline:
The new system allows you to potentially shave months off your journey towards Portuguese citizenship – with a timeline of 5 years.
Reduced Impact of Delays:
Processing delays in receiving your residence card will not significantly affect your eligibility for citizenship. This can be a major relief for applicants facing lengthy waiting periods (up to 24 months in recent times).
VIDA Fund: Strategic Golden Visa Investment for This New Era
VIDA Fund is a Portuguese-regulated investment fund focused on luxury hospitality assets that qualify for the Golden Visa.
Hospitality Focus
We invest in high-end hotels and branded residences, tapping into Portugal’s booming tourism and real estate sectors.
High-Yield Strategy
Our model transforms underperforming assets into premium operations — maximizing returns for investors.
Regulated & Secure
As a CMVM-regulated fund, Vida Fund ensures transparency, investor protection, and eligibility for Golden Visa residency.
Have questions or ready to take the first step? Let's Chat.
Send a message directly to your personal consultant, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the Golden Visa process.
Plan Smart: Secure Your Future in Portugal
- Talk to a licensed immigration expert for personalized legal advice.
- Stay informed on updates to the Golden Visa program.
- Start your journey with a partner that aligns investment and lifestyle goals.
Portugal’s Golden Visa: Now Even More Attractive
With the residency rule change, Portugal remains one of Europe’s most investor-friendly immigration options. Combine that with 14-day stay requirements, EU mobility, and 0% tax for non-residents, and the program is more powerful than ever.
VIDA Fund gives you the strategic entry point into this opportunity — blending high-performance investment with a clear path to European citizenship.
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Have questions?
Send a message directly to your personal consultant, we’re here to guide you through the entire process.

Alternatively you can also Whatsapp Maggie here.
Or send an email: ir@vida-cap.com