Portugal Golden Visa for Families: A Strategic Move for American Households

Oct 20, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Jan 16

For many Americans, the Golden Visa isn’t just about personal mobility — it’s about creating opportunities for the entire family. Whether it’s giving your children access to world-class education, ensuring your parents have high-quality healthcare, or building a family legacy in Europe, Portugal’s Golden Visa offers a family-inclusive approach unlike many other investment programs.

Who You Can Include on the Golden Visa Application

Many Americans seek a secure Plan B. They want to offer their families the option to relocate on a whim if necessary. The Portugal Golden Visa grants you residency through investment, without the need to move. This flexibility allows you to relocate whenever you choose, avoiding the time crunch of a visa application like almost all other immigration routes.

One great thing about the Golden Visa is you can include family members on the same application. This makes the process more simplified and streamlined. Here's who you can include:

Spouse or legal partner
Dependent children under 18
Dependent children 18–25 (if full-time students and unmarried)
Dependent parents (generally over 65 or financially dependent)
Siblings under 18 (if under legal guardianship)

This structure allows for multi-generational planning. It's common among U.S. applicants looking for education, tax, and relocation flexibility.

Considering the Portugal Golden Visa? Our trusted tax and immigration experts are here to help.

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Why Families Choose Portugal

There is no surprise why American families are flocking to the shores of Portugal. Here are some benefits for Americans in Portugal:

Education

EU tuition rates are often significantly lower than in the U.S. Dependents can study across all of Europe. This opens doors to quality education at a fraction of the cost.

Healthcare

Portugal offers universal coverage. The country has top-tier private healthcare at a fraction of U.S. costs. This ensures your family receives the care they need without breaking the bank.

Safety and Lifestyle

Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. With a warm climate and excellent infrastructure, it’s an ideal place for families to thrive.

Tax Flexibility

Families can maintain U.S. residence while holding Portuguese residency status. This allows for strategic planning, especially with options like NHR 2.0.

Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options 2026

With the real estate route now removed, investments have shifted toward more regulated options:

€500,000 in regulated investment funds
€500,000 in research or company incorporation with job creation
€250,000 in cultural heritage preservation

The GV program is now more sustainable and less speculative. This aligns with Portugal’s long-term economic strategy. Check out our recent blog post for an in-depth explanation of Portugal's Golden Visa Investment Options 2025.

Practical Tips for American Families

Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the Golden Visa process:

Collect Family Documents Early: Gather birth and marriage certificates, and apostilles. This will save you time later.
Ensure Valid Student Status: Make sure dependent children over 18 have valid student status documentation. This is crucial for their inclusion.
Plan for Future Steps: Consider future steps, like citizenship applications after five years. Planning ahead can ease the transition.