Golden Visa Programme Portugal - Changes In The Investment Criteria Coming In The New Year

Published date06 December 2021
Subject MatterImmigration, Work Visas, Investment Immigration
Law FirmGiambrone & Partners
AuthorDiana Maria Ribeiro

Portugal is a popular destination for British citizens aiming to retire or relocate to Europe. The Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) Portugal's Immigration and Borders Service latest report suggests that there are 46,238 British migrants living in Portugal. https://www.sef.pt/en/Pages/homepage.aspx

Portugal's Golden Visa offers one of the most accommodating investment visas across Europe with an exceptional tax structure available. Whilst Portugal's Golden Visa will always be an excellent choice for any investor there are changes that will come about in January 2022 as the Portuguese government attempts to revive areas with low-density populations and drive investment into wider areas.

In order to be able to apply for a Golden Visa, there is a requirement for one of the three types of investment, two of which will alter in January 2022 and an increased level of investment will be in place. In order to take advantage of the existing requirements, an application must be commenced and the full minimum investment paid before 1 January 2022.

Investment in Real Estate

The required value of the investment in heritage property remains the same, a minimum of '350,000 for a property that was built at least 30 years ago on the understanding that it will be refurbished. '500,000 will become the standard minimum investment, however, if the property is in a low-density area the investment lowers to '400,000. It will no longer be possible to buy in high-density areas such as the Algarve, or in and around Lisbon (including Sintra) and Oporto.

There are many other highly attractive unspoiled areas such as Madeira, the Douro valley and Peneda-Geres. In directing investment property purchases to these areas they will thrive and will offer an extremely good return on investment in the years to come.

Capital Investment

The alternative investment routes will increase as follows:

  • Capital transfer increases from '1 million to '1.5 million
  • Capital transfer for investment in research projects will increase from '350,000 to '500,000
  • Capital transfer by means of venture capital funds, units of investment funds, or capitalisation of companies will increase from '350,000 to '500,000
  • Capital transfer an existing commercial entity headquartered in Portugal...

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