High Net Worth Immigration Blog

Want a Secure Investment in Portugal Golden Visa? This Is the Option.

Written by Vicky Katsarova | Jun 3, 2024

Want a Secure Investment in Portugal Golden Visa? This Is the Option.

If you've ever dreamed of living in Europe, Portugal might just be the perfect place for you. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and warm climate, Portugal has become a top destination for high-net-worth individuals and expats.

One of the most popular ways to make this dream a reality is through the Portugal Golden Visa program, specifically by investing in the Hospitality Fund. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the Portugal Golden Visa and how investing in the Hospitality Fund can open doors to your new life in Europe.


What is the Portugal Golden Visa?

The Portugal Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU citizens to obtain Portuguese residency in exchange for a qualifying investment. It's a gateway to not only living in Portugal but also traveling freely within the Schengen Area, which includes most of the European countries. The Golden Visa program was launched in 2012 and has since attracted thousands of investors from around the world.

 

5 Benefits of Portugal Golden Visa

Investing in Portugal Golden Visa has a bunch of perks for you and your family. Here are some of the most important ones:

  • Residency for the Whole Family: Your spouse, children, and dependent parents can also qualify for residency under your Golden Visa.
  • Access to Quality Healthcare and Education: Portugal boasts an excellent healthcare system and high-quality education institutions, including international schools.
  • High Quality of Life: Portugal is known for its laid-back lifestyle, friendly people, and affordable cost of living. It's a safe and welcoming country for expats.
  • Travel Freedom: With Portuguese residency, you can travel visa-free within the Schengen Area, making it easy to explore other European countries.
  • Potential for Citizenship: After five years of residency, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship, giving you the right to live and work anywhere in the EU.

Available Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options

When it comes to investing in Portugal’s residency by investment program, there are currently 5 available options:

1.

Incorporation of a business and creation of at least 10 jobs in Portugal and running it for at least 5 years until you become a permanent resident or a citizen.

2.

A €500,000 investment in research activities.

3.

A €250,000 donation to Arts, National Heritage, and Culture.

4.

A €500,000 capital transfer combined with the creation of 5 permanent jobs or maintenance of at least 10 job positions for a minimum period of 3 years.

5.

Investment of €500,000 in a Private Equity Fund.


In this article, we’re going to focus on number 5, namely a specific fund targeted at the hospitality sector — the Hospitality Fund Investment.

Why Choose the Hospitality Fund Investment (HFI)?

Among the various investment routes under the Portugal Golden Visa program, we highly recommend the Hospitality Fund Investment (HFI). The HFI is a collective investment scheme focused on the hospitality industry, such as hotels, resorts, and other tourism-related properties.

​​Advantages of the HFI

  • Security of Investment: At HFI, the security of your investment is our top priority. While the promised returns are important, ensuring your investment's safety is paramount. This makes HFI an ideal choice for those seeking a stable and secure investment route.
  • Permanent Residency: The HFI option leads to permanent residency status in Portugal.
  • Professional Management: The HFI is managed by experienced professionals who understand the market and can make informed decisions to maximize returns while minimizing risks.
  • Fund Management Fees Covered: One of the standout benefits of investing in the HFI is that the fund management fees are covered during the investment period, adding an extra layer of financial efficiency to your investment.
  • Potential for High Returns: Portugal's tourism industry is booming, which can translate to attractive returns on your investment. The percentage return depends on the duration of your investment, providing flexibility based on your investment horizon.

    Here are the returns you can get under the HPI option:
    - Option 1: Projected 2% per year tax-free ROI and guaranteed buyback for the original amount;
    - Option 2: Exit Year 8 (16%+2%=18%), Exit Year 10 (20%+4%=24%), Exit Year 12 (24%+6%=30%)

So, the longer you keep your investment operational, the higher your returns will be.

  • Diversified Investment: Investing in the HFI means your money is spread across multiple projects, reducing the risk compared to investing in a single property.

How Does It Work?

To qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa through the HFI, you need to meet certain criteria. Here's a step-by-step guide to the process:

Step 1: Choose the HFI

The first step is to choose the Hospitality Fund Investment (HFI), which meets the requirements of the Golden Visa program. The fund is approved by the Portuguese authorities and has a clear investment strategy focused on the hospitality sector.

Step 2: Make the Investment

Once you've chosen the HFI, you'll need to make the required investment. As of now, the minimum investment amount for a qualified fund is €500,000. This money will be used to buy shares in the fund, which in turn invests in various hospitality projects.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

After investing, you'll need to submit your Golden Visa application to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF). This involves providing documentation such as proof of investment, biometric data, passport, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Step 4: Get Your Residency Permit

If your application is approved, you'll receive a temporary residency permit, which is valid for two years and can be renewed for another two years. To maintain your residency, you need to spend at least seven days in Portugal during the first year and 14 days in each subsequent two-year period.

Step 5: Apply for Permanent Residency or Citizenship

After five years of maintaining your residency, you can apply for permanent residency or even Portuguese citizenship. This grants you full rights to live, work, and study in Portugal and travel freely within the European Union.

 

Final Thoughts

The Portugal Golden Visa through Hospitality Fund Investment is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to live in Europe, enjoy a high quality of life, and benefit from a robust investment in a thriving industry. By following the steps outlined above and doing thorough research, you can make an informed decision and start your journey to becoming a resident of Portugal.

Whether you're seeking a better lifestyle, planning for your family's future, or looking for a profitable investment, the Portugal Golden Visa offers a pathway to achieve your goals.

For more detailed information about this investment option, contact High Net Worth Immigration.

Schedule a consultation with us.