Portugal has now taken the final legislative step confirming the ongoing strength of its Golden Visa program.
On 16 October 2025, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa formally ratified the latest amendments to the country’s Law on Foreigners (Lei de Entrada e Saída de Estrangeiros), following parliamentary approval last month.
This presidential endorsement closes the reform process and provides much-needed clarity for investors. The message is clear: Portugal’s Golden Visa remains secure, stable, and fully supported within the country’s evolving immigration framework.
A Clear Win for Golden Visa Investors
In the final version of the law, Golden Visa holders are explicitly excluded from the new restrictions on family reunification.
This means investors can continue to bring spouses, dependent children, and—in many cases—dependent parents to Portugal without being subject to the new two-year waiting period that now applies to other residence categories.
This deliberate exemption reflects the Government’s recognition of the program’s value. It confirms that the Golden Visa remains a trusted, long-term route for international families seeking residency through investment—reinforcing Portugal’s reputation as one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for global investors.
Broader Immigration Changes (Unaffecting Golden Visa Holders)
While the Golden Visa itself remains unchanged, several other categories under Portugal’s immigration law have been updated:
- Work Search Visa – now limited to high-level professionals. The official list of eligible roles will be published soon.
- CPLP Visa – citizens from Portuguese-speaking countries must now apply from their country of residence; in-country applications are no longer permitted.
- Family Reunification (General) – introduction of a two-year waiting period before applications can be made (not applicable to Golden Visa holders).
Additional procedural updates include:
- Urgent Lawsuits – restricted to cases involving direct rights violations.
- Processing Times – residence applications may now take up to nine months to be assessed.
- Renewals – applicants must demonstrate integration into Portuguese society, with further clarification expected on what evidence will be required.
What Happens Next
The law will take effect once officially published in the Diário da República (expected imminently).
Further implementing regulations will follow, outlining practical details for renewals and procedural matters.
At JS Privé, we continue to monitor every development to ensure our clients’ investments and residency strategies remain fully aligned with current legislation.
The Message is Simple: Confidence and Continuity
This reform confirms what discerning investors have long understood: Portugal’s Golden Visa is one of Europe’s most reliable and well-regulated residency programs.
At a time when many countries are scaling back or suspending similar initiatives, Portugal continues to lead with consistency, transparency, and respect for investor rights.
For families and investors seeking a secure European base, Portugal—and the Golden Visa—remain a trusted foundation for the future.
