How can one get a Portugal Golden Visa?
Investors may obtain the Portugal Golden Visa by applying to the scheme offered by AICEP. The process after the application takes 3 to 6 months. There are several application routes to follow to get a Golden Visa.
- Investing a minimum of 500,000 euros in Portuguese real estate.
- Investing a minimum of 350,000 euros in Portuguese real estate that is older than 30 years or in need of renovation.
- Investing a minimum of 350,000 euros in Portuguese research activities.
- Investing a minimum of 250,000 euros in the designated national heritage projects.
- Investing a minimum of 500,000 euros in investment funds or venture capital.
What is AICEP?
AICEP stands for the Department of Consular Affairs and the Portuguese Trade and Investment Agency. It is responsible for the Portugal Golden Visa Program together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Does Portugal Golden Visa Program grant citizenship?
It does not grant citizenship directly. The Portugal Golden Visa Program is a residency by investment program. It initially grants a resident permit. However, after 5 years of compliance with the regulations, investors may apply for naturalization.
How is Portuguese real estate beneficial for investors?
Portugal, as did all of Europe, suffered from the financial crisis of 2008. It caused the Portuguese real estate market to shrink for a while. At the end of 2013, Portuguese property prices hit their lowest. From that point, the country gradually stabilized its economy and political atmosphere. Currently, Portugal enjoys very stable politics and finances. Already having enjoyed 6-7 years of growth, the real estate market of Portugal is set to grow every year. As the real estate market grows, property owners reap the harvest. Thus, it is beneficial to own property in Portugal and enjoy high returns.
Is it easy to get a Portugal Golden Visa?
Portugal has a fairly straightforward application process. It usually takes around 3 to 6 months. There are two definite requirements for a successful application. First, investors must fulfil the minimum investment requirement for the method chosen. Second, they must reside in Portugal for at least 7 days each year. Compared to alternative Golden Visa programs, these requirements are easy to fulfil.
Is it possible to keep one’s original citizenship and have a Portugal Golden Visa?
Yes, the Portugal Golden Visa Program allows having dual citizenship.
