How I Pursued EU Citizenship Through Portugal’s Golden Visa Program
Approximately six years ago, the idea of obtaining an EU passport was just a dream for me. Fast forward to today, and I am well on my way to becoming an EU citizen through Portugal. The process of acquiring Portuguese citizenship is currently in progress, and while paperwork can be time-consuming, I am hopeful to hold my Portuguese passport within the next year or two.
My journey towards EU citizenship began during the COVID-19 pandemic when I found myself yearning to travel to Europe. Research led me to explore the option of obtaining an EU passport through dual citizenship. Since birthright citizenship was not available to me – despite my Irish heritage – I discovered the Golden Visa programs offered by various European countries.
At the time, Portugal’s Golden Visa program seemed to be the most viable option for me. The program allowed me to invest as little as €280,000 in real estate or real estate projects, spend specific amounts of time in Portugal each year for five years, and eventually secure Portuguese residency with a pathway to citizenship.
While I could have navigated the process independently, I opted to collaborate with a company called Mercan, investing €350,000 in the Renaissance Hotel Porto as one of 180 investors. The developer, RA Group, promised an annual return of 3% based on my investment. Additionally, I incurred legal fees amounting to approximately €20,000.
Working with a company like Mercan is not obligatory, but the process involves a substantial amount of bureaucracy. Choosing to go solo would require extensive research and paperwork.
After six months of the initial investment, I obtained Portuguese residency in 2021. Subsequently, I fulfilled the required time obligations to qualify for citizenship, spending one week per year in Portugal to maintain my residency status.
Portugal’s Golden Visa program: A Personal Account
Portugal’s Golden Visa program has undergone significant changes in recent years. While I submitted my citizenship paperwork in 2025 and it was accepted, the processing time may be lengthy due to backlogs and program modifications. Before receiving citizenship, I must pass a Portuguese language exam.
Mercan has played a vital role throughout my journey, assisting with obtaining my Portuguese tax number, establishing a bank account, preparing investment documents, completing SEF/AIMA filings, and conducting biometrics. As part of my investment agreement with Mercan, they will repurchase my original share once my citizenship is approved. Furthermore, I will not be liable for Portuguese taxes on my U.S. income as I already fulfill U.S. tax obligations.
Extending Opportunities to My Family
My pursuit of EU citizenship is not solely for tax benefits or financial gains. It is driven by a desire to provide my family with the flexibility and opportunities that come with living and working in the EU. Through my application, my children, parents, spouse (if applicable), and my spouse’s parents are eligible for the program. Additionally, a Portuguese passport holds high global rankings in terms of power and accessibility.
Both my children are currently undergoing the residency and citizenship process. My older son, Dean, has completed most requirements for residency, having recently completed his biometrics appointment. My younger son, Cooper, has had his application approved and is progressing towards citizenship.
Evolution of Portugal’s Golden Visa Program
Portugal’s Golden Visa program, like many others in the EU, has undergone substantial changes. While I applied for citizenship before the implementation of new regulations, future applicants, including my children, will need to fulfill ten years of residency requirements.
Adapting to Changing Investment Requirements
Securing citizenship through Portugal’s Golden Visa program has become more complex. The minimum capital investment now stands at €500,000 in a Portuguese company, coupled with specific employment criteria, to gain residency. Alternatively, individuals can contribute €250,000 to eligible cultural institutions or heritage projects.
Consulting with tax professionals, lawyers, or financial advisors is advisable to understand how EU and U.S. tax laws apply to individual circumstances.
Seizing Opportunities for EU Residency
While Portugal’s residency rules have become more intricate, alternative paths to EU residency, such as Greece’s Golden Visa program, exist. It is crucial not to delay pursuing such opportunities, as program availability can change unexpectedly. Spain, for instance, terminated its Golden Visa program in 2025.
For individuals aspiring for EU residency, prompt action is essential. Although requirements may evolve, applicants who have already submitted their applications typically fall under the previous guidelines.
Considering the dynamic nature of these programs, seeking advice from professionals in taxation, law, and finance is strongly recommended to navigate the complexities effectively.
