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Portugal to Accelerate Processing of Golden Visa Applications Amid Backlogs
Lisbon, 2025 – Portugal is set to speed up the processing of Golden Visa applications as authorities seek to reduce long waiting times that have left thousands of investors in limbo. Currently, between 45,000 and 50,000 applications are awaiting review, leading to legal action from frustrated applicants.
According to Schengen News, Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) has announced plans to fully digitize the application system, replacing the paper-based process with a new online platform.
Delays and Legal Actions
Due to excessive processing times, many applicants have resorted to legal action to speed up their cases. Immigration lawyer Bettino Zanini of Lisbon-based FiO Legal revealed that half of his clients have sued the Portuguese government over delays.
“If successful, these lawsuits can force AIMA to issue a decision on a golden visa application in about three months instead of three years,” Zanini told Bloomberg.
Additionally, investors have faced years-long waits for mandatory biometric appointments, where fingerprints and personal data are collected.
New Automatic Biometric Scheduling and Documentation Updates
As part of the reform, AIMA will automatically schedule biometric appointments within 30 to 90 days after applicants complete their online submissions.
Moreover, the agency will accept untranslated documents in English, French, and Spanish, simplifying the process for international investors.
Golden Visa Demand Remains High
Despite Portugal removing real estate investments from the Golden Visa Program in 2023 to tackle the housing crisis, investor interest remains strong. Key investment options now include:
- Financial investments in Portuguese businesses and funds.
- Cultural and scientific contributions.
- Job creation in Portugal.
Key trends for 2025 include:
- Rising demand from North America and the UK.
- Stronger interest from Asian investors.
- Increased focus on alternative investment options.
Golden Visa Program Has Generated €7.2 Billion for Portugal
Since its introduction in 2012, Portugal’s Golden Visa Program has attracted over €7 billion ($7.2 billion) in investments, making it one of the most successful residency-by-investment schemes in Europe.
By accelerating visa processing, Portugal aims to eliminate backlogs and maintain its status as a top destination for wealthy investors.