The Golden Visa, also known as Residence Permit for Investment Activity (RPI) was created by the Portuguese government in 2012. The purpose of the Golden Visa is to attract foreign investors interested in investing in Portugal. The Golden Visa allows investors and their families to live in Portugal, move around the Schengen area, without the need for a visa and, eventually, acquire Portuguese nationality.
There are several options for investors who wish to apply for a Golden Visa, such as Real Estate Investments in the amount of € 500,000 or more; Capital investments in an amount equal to or greater than € 1,000,000; creation of at least 10 jobs in Portugal, among other possibilities.
Who is able to apply for a Golden Visa?
Investors from any part of the world can apply for a Golden Visa as long as they meet the necessary requirements for the granting of the Visa and that they have no restrictions within the Shenguen area and that they also have no criminal record.
The overwhelming majority of investors prefer the option of investing in real estate. The investment can be made in residential, commercial property, among others. It is even possible to accumulate different types of properties, for example, commercial and residential property, as long as the sum of the two investments results in a total of at least 500,000 euros.
Minimum period of stay in Portugal
One of the advantages of the Golden Visa is that the investor is not "obliged" to move from his country to maintain the Residence Permit in Portugal. The investor only needs to stay in Portugal for a minimum mandatory period of not less than 7 (seven) days, in the first year, and not less than 14 (fourteen) days, in subsequent years. This is an excellent option for those who wish to invest and enjoy the benefits of "residing" in Portugal, without having to leave their country.
Can I take the Famliy?
Yes, this is another benefit of the Golden Visa. Investors and their respective families can benefit from family reunification. The regrouping applies to the family nucleus, which, in general, consists of the spouse, minor children and parents. After family reunification, dependents of the Golden Visa holder will be able to study, work and undertake in Portugal.
Is it possible to "acquire" Portuguese nationality through the Golden Visa?
Yes. This is a great choice for those who wish to obtain Portuguese nationality, since, after 5 (five years) of investment in Portugal, and following the requirements of the Nationality Law, it is possible to request the acquisition of Portuguese nationality by naturalization.
See, below, the cumulative map that shows the amounts invested and the approved Golden Visa numbers, since the creation of Visa Golden, in 2012 until 2020.
It is important to note that each case is different, so it is important to consult a qualified immigration lawyer so that he/she can assist you in this procedure. Proper preparation can make all the difference in order approval.
I am Ingls Aguiar, Brazil & Portugal immigration lawyer and Legal Consultant in New York. With offices located in New York and Lisbon. For additional information, contact us by email contact@aguiarlawfirm.org, by phone + 1 (212) 541-2405 or through our website http://https://www.aguiarlawfirm.org/
Disclaimer: "The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as providing legal advice on any matter, nor should it be viewed as establishing an attorney-client relationship of any kind."