How long does it take to obtain the Golden Visa after investment?

The Portugal Golden Visa process used to be relatively fast, but that has changed since the immigration authority AIMA replaced SEF in 2023.

While the investment step can be completed in a matter of weeks, the full residence approval now takes much longer.

In 2025, most applicants wait between 12 and 24 months from the time of submission until they receive their first residence card.

This extended timeline is the result of high demand, administrative restructuring, and a backlog that built up during the transition from SEF to AIMA.

Step 1: Completing the Investment

The first part of the process is relatively quick.

Once you choose your qualifying route (such as a €500,000 fund subscription, €500,000 research investment, or €250,000 cultural donation) you can typically complete the transfer and documentation within 4 to 8 weeks.

Applicants must open a Portuguese bank account, obtain a Portuguese tax number (NIF), and provide proof of funds’ legal origin before the investment is finalized.

Once the capital is transferred, your lawyer submits the pre-approval application to AIMA.

Step 2: Online Pre-Approval (Initial Review)

After the application is submitted with all supporting documents, it enters AIMA’s online pre-approval queue.

This stage involves verification of identity, background checks, and validation of the investment documentation.

Due to the current backlog, this step takes the longest.

As of late 2025, the average waiting time for pre-approval ranges from 9 to 15 months, depending on the type of investment and the completeness of your file.

AIMA has announced that it is working to clear the backlog by mid-2025 through additional staffing and digital processing tools.

Although some progress has been made, processing times still vary widely between applicants.

Step 3: Biometrics Appointment

Once your pre-approval is granted, AIMA will schedule an in-person biometrics appointment at one of its regional offices in Portugal.

During this visit, you will provide fingerprints, photos, and original documents.

Currently, the wait time for a biometrics slot ranges between 3 and 6 months after pre-approval, though this can be shorter for family members applying together.

Missing documents or incomplete submissions can push this step back further.

Step 4: Final Approval and Residence Card Issuance

After the biometrics appointment, AIMA conducts a final verification before issuing your residence card.

This step generally takes another 2 to 3 months, as cards are printed and delivered through the Portuguese Immigration and Borders printing facility.

Once approved, you will receive a residence permit valid for two years, renewable every two years, provided you maintain the qualifying investment and meet the minimum stay requirement of 14 days every two years.

Family Applications and Delays

Family members - spouse, children, and dependent parents—can apply at the same time or after the main applicant’s pre-approval. Combined applications tend to take slightly longer to process because additional documentation, such as marriage or birth certificates, must be apostilled and translated.

If any family document expires during review, AIMA may request updated versions, which can reset timelines by several weeks.

How to Shorten the Timeline

While investors cannot control AIMA’s workload, they can take practical steps to reduce delays:

• Submit a complete file with notarized translations and apostilles before the first upload.

• Use a lawyer experienced in AIMA filings to track updates and correct errors quickly.

• Stay responsive to AIMA’s email notices and upload any requested documents immediately.

• Ensure your fund or donation institution provides official confirmation letters in Portuguese.

Conclusion

The Portugal Golden Visa process now takes around 12 to 24 months from the initial investment to receiving the residence card.

This longer timeline reflects administrative reforms, not additional legal hurdles.

Although the wait can be frustrating, the program remains one of the most flexible and stable in Europe.

With complete documentation and reliable legal guidance, investors can navigate the process smoothly and enjoy the long-term benefits of Portuguese residency once approval is granted.