Portugal Golden Visa through Real Estate: The Essentials
Editor's Note: According to the announcement in 2023, the Portuguese Golden Visa program is subject to go through significant changes or get terminated. You can read all about the most up-to-date status here at our article on Portugal Golden Visa Ending.
Portugal’s Golden Visa program is a popular option for non-EU citizens looking to live, work, and invest in Europe. And the best part? You can obtain a Golden Visa by investing in Portuguese real estate.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll show you how to make a qualifying investment for a Golden Visa. From finding the perfect properties that qualify for the program to navigating the legal requirements, we’ve got you covered.
So, get ready to learn all about the exciting opportunity that awaits you in Portugal!
Current Rules to the Golden Visa in Portugal in a Nutshell
Some changes (or potentially a complete termination) is coming for the Golden Visa program in Portugal. However, as of now, the real estate acquisition rules are as follows:
- Buying a residential property has been restricted to certain areas. A residential property does not cut it in Lisbon, Porto, or the coastal regions. It needs to be in rural areas.
- You can go nuts on non-residential real estate, anywhere in Portugal, though.
The limitations on where properties can be purchased may be more difficult to comprehend. This is why before you delve into the realm of Portugal Golden Visa, you’d better learn what low-density and high-density mean. Becoming familiar with interior and non-interior regions will be helpful too.
Depending on the “Density” of the regions they are investing in, the minimum amount of money you’ll be investing to apply for a Portugal Golden Visa differs. “Low-density” refers to a region with fewer than 100 people per square kilometer or a GDP per capita that is less than 75% of the national average.
Interior/non-interior areas define the type of property that qualifies for Golden Visa. You can invest in either residential or non-residential property in “interior areas.” Non-residential properties, such as commercial properties, offices, or hotels, are the only non-residential properties available in “non-interior.”
Real Estate Investments That Qualify for a Golden Visa in Portugal
Real estate investment is still an option for Portugal Golden Visa investors, as we’ve explained. You can qualify in one of the below methods:
Residential Real Estate
If you’re looking to buy residential real estate in Portugal to qualify for Portugal Golden Visa, you can still do so. However, your options are limited to the “interior locations” of the country.
If the property is a part of an urban rehabilitation project, the investment amount will drop to €350,000. Another 20% discount is available too if the property is in a designated low-density area.
Commercial Real Estate
If you’re looking for commercial real estate to qualify for a Golden Visa in Portugal, your options aren’t limited to certain places. You can buy commercial real estate for €500,000 anywhere in the country and qualify for Golden Visa.
If this commercial property is a part of an urban rehabilitation project, the investment amount falls to €350,000. A 20% discount is available too if the property is in a designated low-density area.
Commercial and Residential Real Estate
Are you looking for both commercial and residential real estate? Then look no further than Madeira Island or the Azores, where you can qualify for a Portugal Golden Visa both through commercial and residential real estate acquisition.
The investment amount is €500,000. If the property you’re interested in is a part of a rehabilitation project, the amount drops to €350,000. As these locations aren’t listed as low-density areas, no further discount is available.
Property Acquisition in Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve
Lisbon, Porto, and the majority of the Algarve region are classified as “non-interior.”
As a result, investing in residential real estate in these areas will not qualify you for a Portugal Golden Visa. You can, however, invest in commercial real estate in these renowned destinations and still obtain a Portugal Golden Visa. Offices, hotels, and licensed Airbnb units are popular commercial property sectors that have attracted international investors even before the changes were introduced.
Popular Cities Where You Can Buy Residential Real Estate
Despite the elimination of the “most famous” areas from the Portugal Golden Visa qualifying areas, there are several spots where you can find your dream home. A good example is Aljezur, a little coastal city in the Algarve. It’s a great spot to get away from the crowds but you can easily reach Faro, the region’s capital. A house in the Douro Valley, a popular spot in Northern Portugal, will also qualify you for a Golden Visa.
Key Takeaways
- You can still invest in real estate in Portugal to qualify for a Golden Visa.
- Although residential homes in Lisbon, Porto, and other popular coastal cities are no longer eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa, there are plenty of hidden areas where you might find a great home.
- Low-density or interior locations aren't necessarily less desirable than other parts of the country because they offer tremendous development potential.
- If you're looking for commercial property, there's no limit to where you can look.
- If you're looking for a residential property, you might be able to locate something suitable near Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve.
- You might get discounts if the property is in a low-density area or needs renovation.
- The Madeira Islands and the Azores still qualify for Portugal Golden Visa, both through commercial and residential real estate.
What Else You Need To Know
There you have it. As we’ve highlighted getting a Golden Visa in Portugal through real estate acquisition is still possible. Portugal’s real estate scene is promising and the possibilities are endless.
Have you ever thought of getting a Golden Visa in Portugal through real estate acquisition? Have you ever looked at options? Feel free to share your experience in our growing forum.
Make sure to read our guide on Portugal Real Estate if you’re interested in making a property investment in the country.