Introduction
Portugal and Italy offer Golden Visa programs granting European residency through investment, with access to the Schengen Area, family inclusion, and potential citizenship paths.
Portugal provides lower investment thresholds and a faster citizenship route, while Italy offers flexible residency rules and tax advantages for high-net-worth individuals. See our comparison of the best Golden Visa programs for more options.
Quick Comparison
Flexible Stay Requirements
Investment Options
Choose an investment pathway based on your budget and goals. For Portugal-specific options, check our comprehensive fund list.
| Investment Type |
Portugal |
Italy |
| Investment Funds |
€500K |
N/A |
| Business/Company |
€500K (10 jobs, or 5 in low-density) |
€500K (Italian company) |
| Startups |
N/A |
€250K (innovative startups) |
| Government Bonds |
N/A |
€2M |
| Philanthropy |
€250K (cultural projects) |
€250K–€1M (public interest) |
Tax Benefits
Portugal: The IFICI program offers a 20% flat tax for tax residents (183+ days/year) in specific research or tech roles. Standard income tax (13–48%) applies otherwise. No wealth tax, but a 10% inheritance tax may apply to Portuguese assets. Foreign income may be exempt via tax treaties.
Limitations: Tax benefits are narrow, excluding most passive income.
Italy: A €100K/year flat tax covers foreign income for tax residents. Italian income is taxed at 23–43%. Wealth taxes (0.2% financial assets, 0.76% real estate) may apply abroad but can be offset by treaties.
Limitations: The flat tax suits high foreign income; wealth taxes add complexity.
Comparison: Portugal benefits active professionals in niche fields; Italy favors wealthy individuals with global income.
Application Process
Portugal: Invest (€250K–€500K), submit documents to AIMA, attend biometrics, and receive a residency card. Processing takes 12–15 months. Requires 7 days/year stay and proof of sufficient funds. For legal assistance, consider hiring a specialized Golden Visa lawyer.
Italy: Invest (€250K–€2M), obtain Nulla Osta, apply via consulate, and get a residency card. Processing takes 6–12 months. No minimum stay required.
Comparison: Italy is faster with no stay requirement; Portugal offers lower entry costs.
Family Benefits
Portugal: Includes spouse, dependent children (under 18, or under 26 if students), and parents (any age). Government fees are €5K–€7K per dependent. All gain EU residency rights.
Italy: Covers spouse, dependent children, and parents (over 65 or dependent). Fees are €5K–€10K per dependent; optional €25K flat tax per family member. All gain EU residency.
Comparison: Portugal is more inclusive for parents; Italy offers tax options for dependents. For up-to-date statistics on family applications, see our Portugal Golden Visa statistics page.
Citizenship Path
Portugal: Apply after 5–6 years with 7 days/year stay and A2 Portuguese proficiency. Dual citizenship allowed, subject to home country laws.
Italy: Apply after 10 years of residency, no minimum stay for visa. Requires B1 Italian proficiency. Dual citizenship allowed with EU countries, restricted for some non-EU.
Comparison: Portugal is faster and more flexible; Italy suits long-term residents.
.svg)
