Debunking the Myths: How You Can Still Apply and Invest in Portugal's Golden Visa Program

Contrary to popular belief, Portugal's Golden Visa program remains active and accessible to investors, despite recent legislative changes. While real estate investments are no longer a qualifying option, the program offers a diverse range of investment avenues, including capital transfer, job creation, research funding, and support for arts and cultural heritage.

Myth 1: The Golden Visa Program is No Longer Available

This is simply not true. While the Portuguese government has discontinued real estate investments as a qualifying option, the Golden Visa program remains open for investors willing to explore other investment avenues. The recent changes, introduced in October 2023 through the "Mais Habitação Law," aim to channel investments into areas that promote economic growth and job creation.

Myth 2: Only Real Estate Investments Qualify

Beyond real estate, investors can choose from options like investing €500,000 in qualifying venture capital/private equity funds, creating at least 10 new jobs, contributing €500,000 to research activities, or donating €250,000 to support artistic and cultural heritage.

Myth 3: The Application Process is Too Complicated

While documentation is required, the process can be streamlined by following a step-by-step approach and seeking guidance from experienced legal and financial advisors. Key steps include choosing an investment, obtaining a Portuguese tax ID, opening a local bank account, and attending a biometrics appointment.

Myth 4: The Investment Threshold is Too High

The minimum investment of €500,000 for most options is competitive compared to other residency-by-investment programs in Europe. Additionally, strategies like investment loan financing or the €250,000 cultural heritage donation can make the threshold more accessible.

Myth 5: The Golden Visa Doesn't Offer Significant Benefits

On the contrary, the program provides valuable benefits, including residency rights, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, a pathway to Portuguese citizenship and an EU passport, and attractive tax incentives under the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime.

By addressing these myths, potential investors can gain a clear understanding of the Golden Visa program's current status and the opportunities it presents. With the right guidance and investment strategy, the benefits of the program can be within reach.