It’s no secret many high-net worth foreign nationals looking for EU residency prefer Portugal's Golden Visa. The same goes for New Zealanders looking for a foothold in Europe, and with good reasons. No Kiwi investor can resist Portugal’s strategic location, affordable living costs, and year-round sun.
Why should New Zealand Citizens obtain a Portuguese Golden Visa?
Portuguese residency through the Golden Visa programme offers Kiwis a bagful of benefits. We’ll only touch on the big ones here.
- Wallet-friendly living
From housing to groceries, you’ll stretch your hard-earned dollars in Portugal. Groceries cost almost half compared to NZ, with eating at a restaurant setting you back 44.44% less in Portugal. Even average rent is lower by a third.
- Work, study, and live in Portugal
Your spouse, children, and even dependent parents can join you under the Golden Visa scheme. That means you can work and study in Portugal, taking advantage of the country’s world-class education system.
- Visa-free travel within Europe
Enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, travelling to more EU countries than you’d with your New Zealand passport.
- Path to EU citizenship
After five years, you may be eligible for Portuguese citizenship, granting you an EU passport.
- Flexible residency requirements
Maintain your visa with just seven days of annual presence in Portugal, on average.
How to obtain a Portugal Golden Visa as a Kiwi
The Portugal Golden Visa is available to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals. These include New Zealanders who are:
At least 18 years old
Have a clean criminal record
The first step towards getting the golden visa is to make a qualifying investment.
Investment options for Kiwis applying for Portuguese Golden Visa
Portugal's golden visa programme has undergone a raft of changes in the past few years, with the removal of real estate and capital transfer options. Even so, Kiwis still have several investment avenues:
Commit a minimum of €500,000 (about NZ$900K) to approved Portuguese investment funds.
Invest at least €250,000 (NZ$450K) toward supporting arts and restoring cultural heritage
Contribute €500,000 (NZ$900K) or more to research activities conducted by public or private scientific research institutions.
Invest €500,000 (NZ$900K) or more in an existing Portuguese business, creating or maintaining at least five permanent jobs.
Establish a company in Portugal, creating a minimum of ten jobs.
Portugal offers a secure environment for your investment, backed by EU economic stability.
Can Kiwis Get Portuguese Citizenship Through the Golden Visa Programme?
Yes, New Zealand citizens can obtain Portuguese citizenship after five years on the Golden Visa programme. Both countries allow dual citizenship, so you won't need to relinquish your Kiwi passport.
How we can help
The Portugal Golden Visa process can be complex. Experts at International Wealth Ventures can help you every step of the way.