The Portugal Global Talent Residence Program

The Global Talent Residence Program is designed to attract exceptional talent in science, technology, and innovation. This program aims to promote economic growth, foster innovation, and create job opportunities through a streamlined residence pathway for highly qualified professionals, investors, researchers, and entrepreneurs, with a particular focus on research and development projects and start-up ventures hosted at Portugal's esteemed and established universities. Another popular route to residence in Portugal is the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, which offers investors and their families the opportunity to obtain residence through qualifying investments.

Benefits of the Global Talent Program 

• Visa-free travel in Europe’s Schengen Area
• Fast-tracked residence permit issued for two years, renewable for three years
• Eligibility to apply for citizenship after five years
• Lower capital outlay compared to other residence programs
• Secure grants and other incentives for your own research and development initiative
• Access to Portugal’s research and development initiatives and entrepreneurial start-up ecosystem
• Collaboration opportunities with Portuguese universities, researchers, and business leaders

Requirements for the Global Talent Program

Applicants to the Portugal Global Talent Residence Program must:

• Pay a minimum of EUR 170,000 for a family of four, with an additional EUR 5,000 for each qualifying dependent beyond the initial four family members
• Demonstrate exceptional talent in science, technology, or innovation
• Be a highly qualified professional, investor, researcher, or entrepreneur who is committed to contributing to Portugal's thriving research and development initiatives or dynamic start-up ecosystem

Successful applicants are expected to collaborate with leading Portuguese universities, leveraging cutting-edge resources to develop innovative products and services or to invest in Portugal's growing entrepreneurial landscape.

Procedures for the Global Talent Program

The application process involves an initial assessment of eligibility and document preparation, followed by the submission of residence applications for the main applicant and family.

Unlike standard routes that require approval from a Portuguese consulate, the Global Talent Residence Program allows candidates to apply directly in Portugal. This fast-tracked process reduces waiting times and avoids the high rejection rates often associated with consulate applications.

Once approved, the residence permit is issued for two years and can be renewed for three years. Applicants become eligible to apply for citizenship after five years of residence.