Portugal Golden Visa Through Investment Funds
Not interested in real estate? You can also obtain the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds! Here’s all you need to know.
Article by Viv Europe - Official Legal and relocation Partner to KipperTree.
November 25, 2022
Moving to Portugal, Visas & Permits
Judging from what this rather small country in the Iberian peninsula has to offer, it doesn’t come as a surprise why it is a hot topic. Among the most popular gateways to this country is the Golden Visa Program. For people who aren’t fond of real estate, here’s how to get the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds.
This program has allowed over 11,262 investors and 18,479 individuals to migrate safely and enjoy the benefits. There are different ways of qualifying for this program. However, getting a Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds is among the most preferred path lately.
So what is the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds? Who can apply for this program? How much do you need to invest? If you need answers to these questions and more, you’re in the right place. This article will bring to the fore everything you need to know about investment funds as a path to getting a Portugal Golden Visa. Stick around to find out more!
What is the Golden Visa?
The Portuguese Golden Visa program grants qualified foreign investors a residence permit and the potential to get citizenship after five years. Back in October 2012, this program was created to encourage foreign investors to consider investing in Portugal.
However, ever since its inception, this program has undergone numerous changes over the years, with the recent and most significant changes happening earlier in 2022.
Different from other types of visas, the application for the Golden Visa is processed through the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF) and is duly regulated by the Foreigners Law, No. 23/2007.
The recent shakeup to the Golden Visa program has received some criticism because it is no longer as inclusive and accommodating as it initially was. Nonetheless, it is worth mentioning that this program is still one of the most beneficial paths to Portugal because of the access and other perks that come with it.
What is the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds?
One of the ways to obtain a Golden Visa is through investment funds. Getting the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds was introduced on August 28, 2017, through the amendment of Law no. 102/2017.
For this qualifying investment option, an investor must transfer capital in investment or venture capital funds that amount to €500,000 or higher. These funds are focused on the capitalization of recognized and registered companies under Portuguese law.
For a long time now, getting the Portuguese Golden Visa through property investment has been popular. However, because of the recent changes that limit real estate investments, many investors are finding it easier to get Portuguese permanent residence through the investment funds option.
Why should I get a Golden Visa for Portugal?
The primary reason for most ex-pats and investors to apply for a Portuguese Golden Visa is to get the coveted Permanent Residence. Obtaining permanent residency in Portugal has many advantages that you should benefit from.
Here are some reasons you should consider getting a Portuguese Golden Visa:
The possibility of acquiring Portuguese citizenship after 5 years
Free movement within the Schengen zone
The chance to extend these benefits to your immediate family
Living and working in Portugal
Access to enter Portugal without necessarily having a visa
It is worth mentioning that the Golden Visa program is a good option for anyone looking for good investment opportunities and also the chance to benefit from the best Portugal has to offer!
Who can apply for the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds?
Before exploring the investment funds option, you must first qualify for the Golden Visa according to Portuguese law. The Golden Visa is for investors outside the EU or EEA (European Economic Area) states.
The other important qualification step is having no criminal record. But that is not all; depending on the management company or the Portuguese investment fund, you may be required to meet other requirements specific to that particular firm.
Some of the requirements might include providing proof and the source of said funds. For some companies, if you have prior experience in the investment of government bonds or shares, it will give you an added advantage as a foreign investor.
To find out all about Applying for the Portugal Golden Visa through investment funds, the process and the costs involved read the full article here