The changes to the Portugal Golden Visa program announced earlier will finally become effective from 1st January 22.

Two significant changes for investors are:

1) Investment Funds Category: The amount for this category has increased from €350,000 to €500,000

2) Real Estate Category: While the investment amount remains unchanged at €500,000 (€350,000 or €280,000 in case of old properties being rehabilitated), Investment in residential properties in popular cities like Lisbon, Porto and other coastal/developed areas will not qualify.

3) Deposit Category: Investment amount increased from €1 million to €1.5 million.

The Portugal Golden Visa was the most popular and sought after immigration program, attracting investors from countries like the US and UK apart from other countries like China, Brazil, India etc.

Having approved its 10,000th Golden Visa in September 2021, it surpassed an aggregate investment raise of €6 billion on 21st October.

Despite the above changes, we expect the program to maintain its top position in 2022 as there will be emerging real estate investment opportunities in new locations and segments, particularly in the proximity of Lisbon. Porto and Algarve.

We will keep you updated on the same.

Acquest Advisors is an Investment Immigration Advisory specialising in Citizenship and Permanent Residency through Investment Immigration programs run by governments esp. America, Canada & Europe.