There are a number of countries in Europe now offering golden investor visas that result in residency and potential citizenship of the EU. These programs allow individuals with high net-worth to live, work, study, and receive healthcare in their new country of residence. In recent years, private clients have become increasingly interested in the possibility of relocating to a suitable country or establishing multiple residences as part of their international planning.
Portugal
The Portuguese government passed a law in October 2012 to launch the residency by investment program, also known as a golden visa program. It is one of the most successful immigration programs in Europe.
The Golden Residence Permit Program in Portugal grants the right to live, work and study in the country, with visa-free access within the Schengen zone.
Country Overview
capital
Lisbon
AREA
922,12 Km2
population
525,285
Language
Portuguese
Min. investment
EUR250,000
VISA-FREE
29 EU Countries
Timeframe
12 Months
Legal Basis
- In accordance with Portuguese Nationality Law 37/81 of the 3rd October 2006, amended by Decree Law No. 322-A/2001 of 14th December, article 6, the Government grants the Portuguese nationality through naturalization to foreigners who fulfill the requirement to be legally resident in Portuguese territory for at least 5 years.
Advantages
- EU residency gives you the right to live, work and study in Portugal
- Visa-free travel within Schengen zone
- EU permanent residency after completing 5th year
- Possibility of obtaining Portuguese passport after 6 years
- Minimum stay required is 7 days during the 1st year & 14 days during each subsequent 2 years of residence
- Beneficial tax regime for non-habitual residents (NHR)
- Possibility to rent the property
Main applicant
- 18+ years of age
- Good health
- No criminal record
- Successfully pass due diligence checks
Eligibility
DEPENDENTS
- Spouse of the main applicant
- Children below 18 years
- Adult children above 18 years in full time education and financially dependent on main applicant.
- Parents of main applicant qualify as long as they prove financial dependency.
Cost
Real Estate Investment through one of the Government approved real estate asset classes: freehold property with title deed; hotel shares; fractional ownership or land.
Investment must be held for 5 years, and can be rented out.
Acquisition of Property
EUR 500,000 – Acquisition of Property anywhere in Portugal.
EUR 350,000 – Acquisition of Property – More than 30 years old subject to approved renovation works anywhere in Portugal.
EUR 280,000 – Acquisition of Property – More than 30 years old subject to approved renovation works & in a designated low-density population area.
Initial Investor Residency Permit
EUR 5,150
29 EU
COUNTRIES
- Austria
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco*
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- San Marino*
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City*