Blog Layout

Portugal’s Golden Visa Investment Continues to Thrive

6 September 2023

In July, the investment raised through the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI) programme amounted to 57.2 million euros, representing a 30% increase compared to the previous year while showing a 27% decrease from the 79.8 million euros recorded in June.


Notably, for the first time since 2020, China is no longer among the monthly top five countries contributing to the investment.


Instead, in July, the United States secured 16 Portugal’s Golden Visas, closely followed by the Philippines with 13, and the United Kingdom with 10. Brazil and South Africa both obtained nine visas each.


Regarding China, eight ARIs were granted to Chinese citizens in July, placing China as the last country in the monthly top five. From the beginning of the pandemic year, 2020, until July 2023, China's investment totalled an impressive 433.7 million euros.


In July alone, 61 ARI permits were granted based on real estate acquisitions, amounting to a total value of 41 million euros. Out of this sum, 7.8 million euros (equivalent to 22 Golden Visas) were allocated to urban rehabilitation purchases.


On the other hand, 25.1 million euros were transferred as capital investment, resulting in a total of 65 ARIs being allocated.


Overall, between October 2012 and last July, a remarkable 12,497 residence permits were granted, with China leading the pack with 5,374 permits, followed by Brazil (1,238), the USA (729), Turkey (598), and South Africa (559).


A significant development occurred on 6th July when the Government's proposal to discontinue new residence permits for investment in housing was approved. This rule change was one of the measures outlined in the “Mais Habitação” programme. Nevertheless, existing authorisations for ARI renewal will not be affected.


Requests for the granting and renewal of residence permits for investment activities are still valid, including those awaiting prior control procedures in the Municipal Chambers before the law's enforcement date.


Additionally, it is important to note that the limitation does not extend to the granting or renewal of residence permits for family reunification.



Source: LUSA

by Tomás Melo Ribeiro 3 April 2025
Tomás Melo Ribeiro | Lawyer
Portugal has implemented a series of tax benefits to encourage urban rehabilitation.
by Diogo Pedro and Cleuzina Cruz 1 April 2025
To maximise these benefits, property buyers should assess eligibility before purchasing a property, ensuring it meets the criteria for IMT exemption.
The most important requirement is demonstrating an effective connection to the Portuguese community
by Florbela Lopes 31 March 2025
Acquiring Portuguese citizenship through marriage or a civil partnership with a Portuguese national may appear to be a straightforward legal process.
The present overview provides a comprehensive and structured analysis of the D2 Visa.
by Luís Maria Branco and Tomás Melo Ribeiro 28 March 2025
The D2 Visa allows non-EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals to legally start a business, invest, or engage in entrepreneurial activities in Portugal.
AIMA may suspend the 'green lane' if there are security concerns or significant difficulties.
26 March 2025
A “green lane” will be established to streamline the work visa process for foreign nationals being recruited by Portuguese companies.
Here are some insights and practical recommendations to help you through the 2024 tax season.
by António Pratas Nunes 25 March 2025
The income earned in 2024 must be declared between 1 April and 30 June 2025 by submitting the IRS Model 3 declaration.
Outro benefício desse estatuto é o direito a solicitar um Cartão de Cidadão.
by Danielle Avidago 14 March 2025
Na área migratória, a isenção de visto não só para turismo, mas também para atividades culturais, empresariais ou jornalísticas.
Portugal is a growing hotspot for entrepreneurs and businesses aiming to expand into Europe.
by Tomás Melo Ribeiro 6 March 2025
Favourable Corporate Tax Rate: Portugal offers a corporate income tax rate of 20%, which is among the most competitive in the EU.
An injunction helps creditors claim outstanding debts quickly through a legal mechanism.
by Margarida Tempera 27 February 2025
Engaging a lawyer is crucial; your defense's success relies on valid proof, procedural adherence, and meeting deadlines.
Portugal's traditions, charm, and cuisine are so integral that legal citizenship feels only fair.
by Danielle Avidago 26 February 2025
Portuguese citizenship, for some, means reconnecting to their parent or grandparent who spent their entire childhood amazing them with stories of a country.
More posts
Share by: