The Portuguese Golden Visa programme is one of the most attractive in Europe, offering a strategic gateway to the EU with minimal time investment and significant potential returns.
Due to the significant changes taking place in Europe, many countries are reducing or completely phasing out their programmes for granting residence permits and citizenship in exchange for investment. Spain recently announced the termination of its Golden Visa programme, and the European Commission continues to strongly oppose initiatives to grant citizenship in exchange for investment in Malta.
Portugal remains one of the few, and perhaps the strongest, options for international investors seeking a clear and reliable path to European citizenship. Offering relatively low residency requirements, a transparent legal framework and the possibility of obtaining an EU passport in just five years, Portugal continues to attract investors from around the world.
The investment fund route: advantages over real estate
While real estate has traditionally been the most common way to obtain a ‘golden visa’ in Portugal, changes in legislation have shifted the focus towards investment funds. This option requires an investment of at least €500,000 in qualified Portuguese funds, offering a more complex and potentially more profitable approach.
Compared to buying real estate, investment funds have a number of advantages: the process is faster, with lower taxes and fees, allows for diversification across different sectors, and is hassle-free.
Investment funds provide professional portfolio management and potentially higher returns compared to direct real estate investments, making them particularly attractive to foreign investors.
The Golden Visa is no longer just about securing the right to reside, it is about positioning yourself and your family for any changes that the future may bring. “Working with reputable fund managers who understand both investment and lifestyle considerations is becoming increasingly important in this changing landscape,” emphasises Hakan Kodal, Chairman of the Board of Directors of OptylonKrea.
How can one invest in real estate through a fund that is not related to real estate?
Under the new rules, direct investment in real estate is no longer permitted, and funds that invest directly or indirectly in real estate are also not eligible. The key difference lies in what the funds invest in, as every business is to some extent related to real estate.
Are these funds regulated?
Eligible funds are regulated by the Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM) to ensure compliance and protect investors. Each fund has a manager who is responsible for ensuring that the fund complies with all necessary requirements.
Furthermore, by working with OptylonKrea, a pioneer and market leader in Golden Visa through fund investments since 2018, you don’t just get an investment advisor, you connect with a team that understands your needs and guides you through all the paperwork.
The minimum initial investment in a Golden Visa fund in Portugal is €500,000. This level allows investors to participate in the programme by investing in qualified investment funds, which may include venture capital funds or private equity funds focused on various sectors.
How long does it take to obtain EU citizenship?
The typical time frame for obtaining citizenship through the Golden Visa programme is approximately six years, provided that all residency requirements are met. This will allow you to become a permanent resident or citizen of Portugal, but you are not required to live in the country.
