Portugal is renowned for its outstanding reputation and is regarded as one of the most globalized and peaceful countries globally. It offers a high quality of life and ranks exceptionally high on the Human Development Index. As one of the oldest nations in Europe, Portugal is characterized by its rich history, vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, breathtaking beaches, and picturesque countryside.
What is a Portugal Investment Visa?
Portugal provides a residence permit known as the 'Golden Visa' to non-EU citizens who commit to investing in the country for five years. Holders of the Golden Residence Permit enjoy the benefit of free movement across all 26 Schengen countries, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days within six months from their date of entry. This provision is particularly advantageous for foreign nationals, who typically face tight EU immigration laws and visa requirements when traveling within Europe.
The Golden Visa initiative is designed to attract affluent foreign investors and their families, contributing to the revitalization of the Portuguese economy. It presents an excellent opportunity for non-EU investors to acquire luxury vacations in prestigious resorts, engage in financial investments, or establish business operations in Portugal.
Benefits of Portugal Investment Visa
The advantages of a Portugal Investment Visa are as follows:
A variety of investment opportunities
Comprehensive family residency
Residency requirements are highly flexible, with minimized stay obligations
Eligibility for Permanent Residency after 5 years
Citizenship is attainable after 6 years, with an allowance for dual citizenship
Visa-free travel within the EU Schengen area, along with the right to reside, work, and study in Portugal
Favorable taxation framework.
Requirements for the Portugal Investment Visa
The set of criteria for the Portugal Investment Visa is mentioned below:
Individuals holding a valid Schengen visa or a Portuguese visa are eligible to apply. Applications for residency must be submitted within 90 days of arrival in Portugal.
Shareholders of companies established in Portugal or another EU member state, who maintain stable residency in Portugal and have met their tax obligations, are also eligible.
Furthermore, applicants must not have a criminal record.
Must not be under an entry ban in their country of origin, and must not be flagged in the Schengen Information System.
Additionally, applicants should not be subject to non-admission alerts in the SEF’s Information Integrated System.
Portugal Investment Options
There are eight available investment options:
(I) Capital Investment Options
A financial investment or capital transfer exceeding €1 million to be allocated to any business or company prior to the application submission, along with the creation of a minimum of 10 permanent jobs
An investment of €1 million in government securities and bonds
A transfer of funds exceeding €350,000 designated for research activities
A transfer of funds more than €350,000 for the acquisition of investment fund units or for venture capital funds
A transfer of funds over €250,000 for artistic or cultural initiatives
A transfer of funds exceeding €500,000 for the capitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises.
(II) Real Estate Investment
Acquisition of property valued above €350,000 for properties that are over 30 years old or situated in urban renewal areas.
Purchase of any type of real estate above €500,000, which must be completed before the application submission.
The most economical, expedient, and appealing option for obtaining a residence permit in Portugal is the last one. Co-ownership is permitted, with each co-owner required to invest €500,000.
Properties must have been acquired after October 2012 and should be free of any liens or mortgages.
These properties can be rented out freely for commercial, agricultural, and tourism purposes.
The investment must be maintained in Portugal for a minimum of 5 years following the issuance of the residence permit. The Golden Residence Permit is initially granted for 1 year and can be renewed for two additional periods of 2 years each, contingent upon the fulfillment of all requirements and the maintenance of minimum stay periods.
The Application Process for the Portugal Investment Visa
Upon receiving the residence permit, the client is required to submit biometric data and updated original documents during each renewal process. Typically, the initial permit is granted for one year. Subsequently, the permit may be renewed for two additional terms of two years each.
The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program mandates that the primary applicant make two visits to Portugal throughout the application process:
To select the qualifying investment, initiate the legal proceedings, and establish a bank account.
To submit biometric data and original documents.
Once the residence permit is obtained, the client must continue to provide biometric data and updated original documents at each renewal.
Conclusion
Go-Global Immigration Services (GGIMS) is dedicated to assisting individuals in obtaining additional residency and citizenship through qualifying investments, which may include property acquisition, fund subscriptions, or other investment options.
Our team of experts provides clients with a personalized and transparent experience in their pursuit of a Portugal Golden Visa via investment funds.
Reach out to us to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members who can address all your inquiries.