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Updated: May 3, 2023

Important: 2023 Portugal Golden Visa Updates

2023 has seen a number of updates regarding the Portugal Golden Visa change. We’ve got the information detailed below for your convenience.

 

14 April 2023: Final Proposal Regarding the Ending of the Golden Visa

On 14 April 2023, the Portuguese government revealed the final proposal for the new law relating to the country’s Golden Visa program. This proposal will now be discussed in Parliament on 19 May, later than first expected.

The final proposal states the following:

  1. The new law will have no retroactive effects on Golden Visas that have already been granted.
  2. The seven-day-per-year stay requirement will remain in place.
  3. Those pending Golden Visa applications remain protected.
  4. Renewed visas will be reframed under the D2 Visa but will have the same flexibility as the ARI.
  5. Investor visas remain available for cultural investments
  6. The law will come into effect when published in the official journal.
  7. Considering the various stages of the legislative process and assuming everything moves forward without delay, we expect this approval process to take at least 35 days.

The main takeaway from this news is that the Government overturns any possibility of retroactivity of this law, guaranteeing that all requests submitted before the new law comes into effect will be dealt with in accordance with the rules still in force. It also ensures that application renewals are contained under the law still in effect today and that family reunification requests associated with Golden Visa are duly protected.

The government also proposes allowing investment-based residence permits for those looking to invest in the country’s artistic production and the recovery and maintenance of its cultural heritage. These investments will need to be approved by one of the following authorities:

  • The Portuguese Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade
  • The Development Bank
  • The Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation
  • The National Innovation Agency
  • The Office of Cultural Strategy, Planning, and Assessment
  •  Other authorities deemed appropriate based on the subject of the investment

Due to the nature of the legislative process and the complex issues being addressed, we expect the earliest date at which the assessment of the new law will be completed is the end of June. The Golden Visa will remain open until at least this time.

The following section describes the legislative process as it is expected to unfold:

Step 1 – Discussion in Parliament

The proposed law will be discussed in a general discussion during the Parliament plenary session.

Step 2 – Review by the committee/s

Relevant committees will review the proposed law while also consulting with experts and stakeholders. 

Step 3 – Parliament voting

If necessary, Parliament will propose any amendments as determined through the discussions and reviews outlined above. This will then be debated and voted upon.

Step 4 – Ratification by the President

The President can either formally consent to the proposed law or veto it on political grounds. If the latter occurs, it will be returned to the Parliament for reassessment. Alternatively, it will be sent to the Constitutional Court, where its compliance with the Portuguese Constitution will be assessed.  

Step 5 – Validation by the Constitutional Court

If the proposed law is sent to the Constitutional Court for ruling, the Court will do so based on the legal provisions that have caused doubt within the President and resulted in him returning the proposal for reassessment.

This analysis must be completed within 25 days. Based on the results of this analysis and the Court’s formal announcement, the President can do one of two things:

  • Using a constitutionality veto, return the proposal to Parliament for revision.
  • Enforce the law and send it to be formally published.  

Step 6 – Official publication in the Diario

If the President chooses to enforce the law, it will be published in the Diario. This publication will state the law in the exact terms in which it will enter into force.

Indications are that the future law will come into effect the day following its publication, with no grace period allowing for the revocation of the Golden Visa. While this aspect can be debated and changed, we can reasonably assume that this is the last chance for individuals to apply for the Golden Visa.

 

A Timeline of the Golden Visa Changes

16 February 2023: The Ending of the Golden Visa Announced

The country’s Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced the end of the Portugal Golden Visa program on 16 February 2023 as part of a series of initiatives to make housing more affordable in the country.

 

30 March 2023: Updates Regarding the Announcement of the Portugal Visa Ending

On 30 March 2023, Portugal’s Ministerial Council held a press conference regarding the fate of the country’s Golden Visa Program. At the conference, Prime Minister Antonio Costa announced the Portuguese government’s final stance on the Golden Visa, as well as the Housing Package Policy.

At this point, we are not able to analyze any document regarding this announcement and, as such, can only provide the following summary of the information released at the conference.

 

Authorizations granted

Existing Golden Visas put up for renewal will be assessed based on existing requirements reframed under a standard type of visa rather than under the Golden Visa. As a result, some advantages of the Golden Visa program may no longer be applicable under standard visa types.

For example, the Golden Visa affords a reduced period of stay of seven days per year. As this advantage is not available under other visa types, it may be at stake moving forward. However, any such consequences remain unclear at this point in time. 

 

Authorizations pending approval

Pending applications will no longer be assessed in line with the Golden Visa Program. They will now be assessed according to the standard visa-granting regime, although it is currently unclear which such cases the government will choose to apply this measure to. Eventually, investors will be directed away from the Golden Visa in favor of existing traditional visas.

As to why the Golden Visa program is being brought to an end, the government has stated that it can no longer justify continuing the scheme. As the process of ending the program moves forward, from parliamentary discussions to the bill being approved as law, investors will feel some disruption. We do anticipate that this process will be lengthy and that more details will emerge in the coming days.

It has been announced that the Portugal Golden Visa is ending. Visit our article to learn more.

 

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program

Since 1 January 2022, the Portugal Golden Visa’s new rules have significantly changed the program.

We’ll cover the latest changes in this article. For example, it is no longer possible to invest in residential real estate in the hotspot locations of Portugal, including Lisbon, Porto, and much of the Algarve. We will provide you with everything you need to know about the Golden Visa program in Portugal and the all-important changes to the scheme.

In this article, we’ll run over the following:

  • A history of the Portugal Golden Visa
  • When did the new rules of the Portugal Golden Visa come into effect?
  • What’s changed?
  • Where can I invest with the Portugal Golden Visa?
  • What has not changed?
  • The digitalization of the Portugal Golden Visa
  • Will it impact existing investments?
  • How we can help you
  • FAQs

A History of the Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa program was launched in 2012 and quickly became one of Europe’s most popular residency-by-investment schemes. The program allows non-EU investors and their families to obtain residency permits for themselves and their families in exchange for a qualifying investment, whether it is real estate, a fund investment, a donation to scientific research and development, or other options.

Since 2012, 11,263 investors and 18,479 family members have benefitted from the program, showing that it has been a roaring success. There are many reasons why the program is such a success. Portugal ranks in 6th position in the 2022 Global Peace Index, is regarded as a top country for expats, and has excellent healthcare and education systems. 

Portuguese people are also exceptionally welcoming, going out of their way to make foreigners feel at home in their country. This is without mentioning the superb weather, personal freedoms, and entryway into the EU, where you can have free access to countries in the Schengen area. After five years, it is also possible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, providing you with access to live, work and study in the EU. 

The Portugal Golden Visa program also offers several attractive investment routes that suit any investor profile. This includes buying real estate, investing in venture capital, research, arts, or an existing business.

When did the Portugal Golden Visa’s new rules come into effect?

The Portugal Golden Visa is one of the most popular and successful residency-by-investment programs in the world. However, from 1 January 2022, some significant Portugal Golden Visa changes came into play.

Since kicking off in 2012, thousands of investors have navigated the scheme and relocated to Portugal. As the program’s popularity shows no signs of decreasing, it’s important to understand the Portugal Golden Visa new rules. The program is a five-year residency-by-investment scheme for non-EU nationals. It is part of Portugal’s drive to welcome investors to the country, boosting its economy and attracting foreign investments to drive developments. One of the major attractions of the program for non-EU investors is that it provides an entryway to the European Union (EU), allowing family members the right to live, work, and study in Portugal and enjoy free movement in Europe’s Schengen Area. 

After five years, it is possible to become a permanent resident of Portugal and apply for Portuguese citizenship, provided the qualifying investment is maintained for at least five years. In addition, you must meet all the additional criteria from the immigration office and respect all nationality laws.

These are the changes that came into effect on 1 January 2022.

2021 Minimum Amount Required2022 Minimum Amount
Required
Capital Transfer€1 m€1.5 m
Real Estate€500,000 / €350,000 (urban renovation)Amounts remain the same; there will be geographical restrictions. Residential properties in Lisbon,
Porto, or along the coast won’t qualify
Investment Funds€350,000€500,000
Job Creation€350,000 incorporation amount€500,000 incorporation amount
Science and Research €350,000€500,000

 

What changed? 

The Portugal Golden Visa changes are already in place, coming into force on 1 January 2022. The changes primarily relate to real estate and capital transfer investment options, although many investment pathways have become more expensive. Golden Visa applicants are now blocked from buying residential property in parts of Portugal that are not designated interior areas. This blocks off property in Lisbon, Porto, and many coastal regions, including much of the Algarve, the Silver Coast, and Setúbal.

In terms of capital transfer, the amount required to invest in the Golden Visa scheme increased from €1 m to €1.5 m. 

The Portugal Golden Visa requirements for the investment fund, investment into research, and investments into an existing Portuguese-registered business increased from €350,000 to €500,000.

 

Portugal Golden Visa changes: Real estate changes

The Portuguese government has explained that these changes were implemented to instigate foreign investments in other parts of the country. While Lisbon and Porto’s real estate is thriving, the focus is now on developing the property market in Portugal’s interior areas. If you want to invest in Portugal real estate, take note of these essential changes. 

Real estate investment for the Golden Visa is as follows:

  • Investors cannot invest in residential property in popular urban areas such as Lisbon, Porto, and much of the Algarve, and coastal towns such as Setúbal and the Silver Coast. Investors can only purchase residential real estate in designated interior areas of Portugal worth €500,000 (or €350,000 if investing in a rehabilitation project). If the residential property is situated in a designated low-density area, a 20 percent discount is applied. 
  • Investors can buy commercial real estate anywhere in the country worth at least €500,000 (or €350,000 if investing in a commercial rehabilitation project). If the commercial property is situated in a designated low-density area, then a 20 percent discount will apply.
  • Investors can purchase residential and commercial real estate anywhere in Portugal’s autonomous islands of Madeira and the Azores, which is worth at least €500,000 (or €350,000 if investing in a rehabilitation project). 

 

Portugal Golden Visa changes: Capital transfers changes

  • The capital transfer requirement increased from €1 m to €1.5 m.
  • The minimum investment fund subscription increased from €350,000 to €500,000.
  • Investment in scientific research and development increased from €350,000 to €500,000.
  • Investment into an existing business registered in Portugal increased from €350,000 to €500,000.

 

Where can I invest with the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portuguese government is looking to boost investments in the county’s interior. Therefore, designated interior areas allow you to make a residential real estate investment and qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa. For commercial real estate, there are no location restrictions. 

If the interior area also lies in a low-density area, then a 20 percent discount applies. Low-density areas are defined as territorial units (NUTS III) with fewer than 100 inhabitants per square km or a GDP per capita less than 75 percent of the national average. 

Our article about Low Density & Interior Eligible Areas for the Portugal Golden Visa 2022 provides clear information on the differences between interior and low-density areas, including maps to help you understand where you can invest.

 

 

Portugal Golden Visa changes 2022: Best places to invest in:
Portugal Golden Visa change

Although the Portugal Golden Visa changes in 2022 can be seen to restrict investments into the country, it will likely diversify the investment portfolio. Indeed, there is an abundance of beautiful areas off the beaten track to be uncovered, including promising regions to develop eco-tourism, wellness, innovation, and luxury projects — such as Peneda-Gerês, the Douro Valley, and the Alentejo.

Let’s suppose you want to make the most out of the 20 percent discount that applies to properties categorized as being in both an interior area and a low-density area. In this case, there are some excellent options worth considering. These include Aljezur, Odeceixe, and Sagres, fabulous locations in the Algarve where you can definitely get your sunshine fix.

The beautiful Madeira and Azores islands are also excellent options for investors. Although you will not be able to secure a discount (as they are considered high-density), the islands are considered interior areas. They will make an excellent investment option for prospective investors interested in the Golden Visa program. Indeed, in the coming years, both islands look set to become very popular, as each provides beautiful properties with spectacular waterfront views and nature galore.

 

Portugal’s low-density areas: 280,000 investment option

For an investment of €280,000, investors can purchase property in low-density areas in Portugal, allowing them to have all the benefits of EU residency through the Golden Visa. 

To be eligible for this option and obtain the 20 percent discount, investors must:

  • Invest in a commercial rehabilitation project that is located in a designated low-density area or; 
  • Invest in a residential rehabilitation project situated in a designated low-density area, and that is also classified as an interior.

 

Portugal Golden Visa change Advantages of investing in low-density areas

The €280,000 investment option is attractive for an array of reasons. From its relative affordability to the beauty of the areas, there are several reasons why low-density areas make the perfect investment. Here, we’ll run over some of the critical benefits of this investment route.

  • A low investment threshold, with the opportunity to earn high rental returns on your investment. 
  • Very affordable in comparison to other Portuguese Golden Visa options. 
  • In low-density areas in Portugal, there are bigger and better properties with 2-3 units to rent. 
  • Profitability is around €12,000 annually, which makes a case for owning several units attractive. 
  • The investment amount is relatively low, so applicants have more freedom for other business opportunities and investments. 
  • Away from the crowds, low-density areas have an undiscovered ambiance and provide an excellent quality of life in tune with nature.
  • Cities in the interior of Portugal are becoming popular with students. As the young population grows in these cities, the demand for housing intensifies. 
  • European and local investors buy in these areas. 
  • The annual growth rate is 5 percent.
  • Promising areas to develop eco-tourism, wellness, innovation, and luxury projects. 
  • If you invest in Portugal, you are putting your money in a stable socio-economic and political country that is considered one of the safest in the world.

 

What has not changed?

If you invest in Portugal, the Golden Visa investment options that have not changed are the following:

  • The donation to the arts or the reconstruction of national heritage remained the same, with a required investment of €250,000. 
  • To kickstart a company in Portugal and employ at least ten local employees.

 

Will it impact the existing investment?

If you are currently purchasing a property in an urban area, the Golden Visa changes have not impacted your investment.

 

Will the Portugal Golden Visa changes impact existing investments in Porto and Lisbon?

You won’t be impacted by the Portugal Golden Visa changes if you are in the process of buying a home in a thriving urban area. But, as of 1 January 2022, you can only buy commercial property—not residential—in Lisbon, Porto, or many areas of the Algarve.

 

Portugal Digitalizes Golden Visa Applications

Additionally, the Portuguese government announced that Golden Visa applications will now be submitted digitally. Every document, including the document issuing the Portuguese Individual Tax Number, must be filed digitally. The change will allow a quicker application procedure for Golden Visas.

These are the main steps to get your Golden Visa in Portugal online:

  1. Speak to Goldcrest and decide what type of investment to choose
  2. Gather the necessary documents
  3. Get a NIF and open a bank account
  4. Submit an online application
  5. Finalize the investment
  6. Submit pre-application
  7. Schedule and attend your SEF appointment
  8. Get your Golden Visa 
  9. Become a Portuguese Citizen

 

How can we help you?

Goldcrest is a local buyer’s agent based in Lisbon. We provide up-to-date information on the real estate market, providing strategic advice on the best investment opportunities tailored to your needs. From scouting the best properties to property acquisition, we are here to help you secure the property of your dreams.

You can book a call with us today to discuss your options.

The following articles may also be of interest to you:

If you want to secure a second passport or are interested in residency-by-investment schemes, you can contact our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions.

Global Citizen Solutions is a multidisciplinary firm that provides bespoke residence and solutions in Europe, the United States, and the Caribbean. By matching you with your ideal investment, Golden Visa program, or tax benefit, Global Citizen Solutions helps investors successfully uproot their lives and become global citizens. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Portugal Golden Visa Change for 2022

Is the Portugal Golden Visa ending?

The Prime Minister of Portugal announced on on February 16, 2023, that the Portugal Golden Visa program is ending. 

What are the Portugal Golden Visa changes in 2022?

Golden Visa applicants interested in the Portugal Golden Visa real estate route are blocked from buying property in areas of Portugal that are not designated interior areas. 

The minimum amount for a capital transfer investment is now €1.5 m.

What do the Portugal Golden Visa new rules mean for my investment options?

It has not yet been clarified if there will be an alternative investment program put in place of the Portugal Golden Visa program, more information will be available following the announcement on March 16th. 

Will The Portugal Golden Visa program be canceled?

Yes. The announcement made by the Portuguese Government on February 16, 2023, confirms that the Portugal Golden Visa program is to be canceled. 

Will all types of real estate acquisition be affected by the changes?

It has not yet been clarified if all types of real estate acquisition will be affected by the information presented in the most recent announcement, more information will be available following the upcoming announcement on March 16th.

When are the changes going to take place?

We don’t know when the Portugal Golden Visa program will end yet. There is no official deadline. The law still needs to go through some procedures beforit’s official. It’s possible thadifferent parts of the law may go into effect adifferent times. 

Where can I buy Golden Visa 2022 in Portugal?We don’t know when the Portugal Golden Visa program will end yet. There is no official deadline. The law still needs to go through some procedures before it‘s official. It‘s possible that different parts of the law may go into effect at different times.

If you are looking to obtain a Portugal Golden Visa in Portugal, then Global Citizen Solutions can guide you through the process.

Alongside this, at Goldcrest we will be more than happy to help you in finding a Golden Visa-approved property and will work with you from sourcing through to property acquisition so that you are set up with the property investment of your dreams while qualifying for the Portugal Golden Visa. You can get in touch with us here

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