Lisbon, Portugal — The Portuguese government has officially rolled out a fully digitised platform
for its renowned Golden Visa programme, streamlining one of Europe’s most sought-after
residency-by-investment pathways. The update promises unprecedented efficiency,
transparency, and convenience for global investors and their families.

Key Highlights of the Digital Transformation

1. Fully Online Application Submission
Applicants can now complete the entire submission process remotely. All required
documentation — from proof of investment to identification records — can be uploaded directly
through the secure government portal. Supported languages now include English, French, and
Spanish, removing a significant linguistic barrier for international investors.

2. Automated Biometric Appointment Scheduling
Once the application is submitted, the system automatically generates biometric appointment
dates within 30 to 90 days. This replaces the previous manual scheduling process, which could
involve unpredictable wait times and extensive back-and-forth communication.

3. Real-Time Application Tracking
A personalized dashboard now enables applicants to monitor every stage of their application,
from initial submission to final approval. Status updates are posted in real time, reducing
uncertainty and giving applicants a clear roadmap of the remaining steps.

4. Significant Reduction in Bureaucratic Delays
By eliminating the need for physical paperwork submission and in-person visits (except for
biometrics), the system cuts down processing bottlenecks. This not only accelerates approval
times but also provides a more predictable residency timeline for planning relocations.

What This Means for Investors and Families

For investors seeking a smoother entry into Portugal, the digital overhaul means:

Faster Decisions — Reduced processing delays allow for quicker investment activation and
earlier relocation planning.

Greater Predictability — Automated scheduling and clear timelines allow families to plan moves,
school enrollments, and property acquisitions with confidence.

More Accessibility — Non-Portuguese speakers benefit from multi-language support, avoiding
costly translation delays.

Remote Convenience — From any location in the world, applications can be prepared and
submitted without the need for immediate travel to Portugal.

Practical Tips for New Applicants

If you are considering applying under the new system:

Prepare Documentation Early — Investment proof, police clearances, and identity documents
should be collected and scanned in advance in high-quality formats.

Ensure Legal Compliance — Work with an experienced immigration lawyer or licensed
consultancy to verify eligibility, avoid omissions, and prevent rejections due to incomplete filings.

Monitor Deadlines — Even with automation, timelines for biometric appointments are fixed, so
plan international travel accordingly.

Explore Investment Options — The Golden Visa no longer includes certain real estate
categories in major cities, so applicants should consider eligible routes such as cultural heritage
donations, business creation, or investment funds.

Portugal’s Golden Visa programme remains one of the fastest routes to European residency,
and this technological leap forward ensures it stays competitive in a post-pandemic, globally
mobile world. Whether you’re investing in Lisbon’s dynamic startup scene, restoring historic
properties in the Algarve, or contributing to cultural preservation, the new digital process makes
your journey more seamless than ever.