Why You Need to Look At The Portugal Golden Visa Now!

Portugal

Spain's Golden Visa program was once considered the easiest in Europe. By investing at least €500,000 in property, investors could gain a residency permit, enjoy visa-free travel in the Schengen area, and have a clear path to citizenship.

While advantageous for investors, locals disagreed. Since 2014, Spain has experienced rising housing prices due to foreign real estate investors seeking a Golden Visa.

Consequently, Spain made the controversial decision to end the scheme. The program will officially conclude on April 3rd, 2025, leading to a significant rush among investors.

As the deadline nears, processing times are expected to increase, and many late applicants might miss the opportunity. Thus, many are considering other options.

Portugal Moves Ahead, Digitally and Strategically

With Spain closing its program, Portugal is progressing rapidly. Despite a substantial backlog of 50,000 applicants, the Portuguese government has taken steps to expedite the process. The AIMA has now implemented a fully digital Golden Visa application process.

By eliminating paper applications, biometric scheduling has become faster (automatically set within 30 to 90 days), and investors can submit documents in English, Spanish, or French, streamlining the residency process.

Why Choose Portugal Over Spain? It’s More Than Just Timing

1. Low Application Costs

Spain’s soon-to-end Golden Visa program required a minimum €500,000 real estate investment.

In contrast, Portugal offers more affordable options, particularly through cultural contributions or fund investments.

The minimum capital needed for the Portuguese Golden Visa is currently €168,000. Holborn Assets provides various donation and investment options to meet different investor needs.

These lower thresholds make Portugal a cost-effective EU residency option, attracting many investors.

2. Popular with U.S. Citizens

Whether due to political uncertainty, a desire for global mobility, or the appeal of a European retirement, the Portuguese Golden Visa is popular among Americans.

In 2023 alone, over 560 US citizens applied for the program, surpassing Chinese and British applicants, highlighting its appeal in the West.

This may be due to the country’s high English proficiency, excellent healthcare, and favorable tax incentives.

3. Strong Path to Citizenship

Beyond temporary residency, Portugal’s Golden Visa program provides a clear and straightforward path to EU citizenship.

After just five years (with a minimum stay requirement of 7 days per year), applicants can apply for permanent residency or full citizenship.

In comparison, Spain’s Golden Visa Program, before it ended, required a much longer path to citizenship, totaling 10 years.

Urgency & Opportunity: A ‘Golden’ Moment to Act

Portugal’s Golden Visa program remains open for applications, but its future is uncertain.

On March 11, 2025, Portugal’s government collapsed for the third time in three years, raising questions about the program’s future.

From now (March) until July 2025, the country will be in a “caretaker” phase, making policy changes unlikely.

However, the long-term future is uncertain. The program’s fate depends on the elected party.

If the Democratic Alliance (AD) gains control, they might reinstate the popular real estate Golden Visa investment. Conversely, if the Socialist Party (PS) regains control, further restrictions could occur, similar to changes made to the NHR tax regime.

Therefore, those interested in investing in Europe should act swiftly. Even if accepted before July, Portugal is known for its grandfathering clauses, protecting them under current terms.