Several Portugal Golden Visa properties are eligible for the Golden Visa Program, as real estate investments are one of the options to choose from to get Portugal residency via the Golden Visa Program. Since there have been some changes in the program in recent years, it is essential to ensure that you have current and accurate information regarding Portugal Golden Visa properties. In this article, we discuss new regulations regarding the Golden Visa Program, highlight the most appealing regions, and discuss how to find the best property in Portugal.
What properties qualify for Golden Visa Portugal?
Let’s take a look at the qualified Portugal Golden Visa properties:
Residential properties
Investors can buy residential properties in designated interior areas by making a minimum investment of €500,000 ($545,000). Alternatively, if the homes for sale in Portugal are part of an urban rehabilitation project, a reduced investment of €350,000 ($381,500) is possible. Furthermore, if the property is in a designated “low-density” area, investors can benefit from a 20% reduction in the minimum investment threshold for Portugal Golden Visa properties.
Commercial properties
Investors can acquire commercial Golden Visa properties in Portugal provided the investment value is at least €500,000 ($545,000). Similarly to residential properties, a reduced investment of €350,000 ($381,500) is applicable if it is part of an urban rehabilitation project. In addition, should the property be found in a designated “low-density” area, investors can avail themselves of a 20% reduction.
Residential and commercial
Investing in commercial or residential real estate in the Madeira Islands or the Azores qualifies for the Portugal Golden Visa. The Portugal Golden Visa investment properties amount required is €500,000 ($545,000). If the property is part of a rehabilitation project, the minimum investment drops to €350,000 ($381,500). However, no discount is available as they are not low-density areas.
What has changed?
In 2022, the government restricted purchasing residential property in specific regions of Portugal to obtain the Golden Visa. The updated regulations now specify that only residential real estate in mainland Portugal’s interior areas and properties in the Azores and Madeira are eligible as Golden Visa properties in Portugal. As a result, investing in residential properties in popular locations such as Porto, Lisbon, and significant portions of the coastal areas, including the Algarve and the Silver Coast, have been removed.
Eligible properties for the Portugal Golden Visa Program
The following are the eligible Portugal Golden Visa properties:
- Residential real estate: Investing in residential properties is a common choice for obtaining the Golden Visa. It can include houses in Portugal, apartments, townhouses, or villas.
- Urban rehabilitation projects: Properties of an urban rehabilitation project also qualify. These projects focus on restoring and revitalizing designated areas, contributing to urban development and preservation. You can search for Portugal Golden Visa renovation properties if you want this type of property.
- Properties in low-density areas: Investing in low-density regions provides additional benefits. Low-density areas have fewer than 100 inhabitants per km2 or a GDP per capita of less than 75% of the national average. These are where you can find affordable homes for sale in Portugal.
- Commercial real estate: Investing in commercial properties, such as offices, shops, hotels, or warehouses, is also an option under the Golden Visa Program.
- Properties in Madeira and the Azores: Both residential and commercial properties in the autonomous regions of Madeira and the Azores qualify for the Golden Visa Program.
The Portugal Golden Visa-eligible properties should strictly comply; areas falling outside these areas are non-investible.
What properties to buy in Portugal?
When applying for the Golden Visa via real estate investment, it is always important to think long-term, considering the investment must be maintained for five years. Before you search for Portugal real estate for sale, remember these key factors when deciding what to buy in Portugal:
Purpose of investment
Determine the purpose of your purchase. Are you buying a property for personal use, vacation houses in Portugal, or for investment and rental income? Clarifying your goals will help narrow your options because areas are restricted if you opt for residential purposes, such as Lisbon.
Location
Whether for personal or commercial use, finding a suitable location is crucial. Consider factors such as climate, proximity to amenities, access to transportation, and if the area has the potential for growth to make your investment worth it. Investing for business purposes is even more crucial, as you would want to be in areas with significant foot traffic.
Budget
Of course, you also have to consider that you would need to shell out not only the minimum investment amount but also additional costs like property taxes, maintenance, and legal fees. Sticking to a budget makes exploring properties within your price range more accessible.
Portugal Golden Visa properties: 3 Ways to find the best real estate for sale in Portugal
You can find many sources where you can skim through real estate in Portugal to find the perfect fit for your preferences and budget.
1. Real estate websites
Visit online platforms specializing in Portuguese properties, where you can search based on location, price range, and property type. Where to find the best Portugal real estate for sale? Check out the five best websites to find real estate for sale in Portugal to get reliable listings.
2. Real estate agencies
Nothing beats hiring local real estate agencies when finding properties in Portugal. They usually have access to various properties, including private listings, and can provide personalized assistance based on your preferences and requirements.
3. Referrals
Referrals can be a valuable method for finding a great real estate listing. Trusted recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have already purchased the property in Portugal can provide valuable insights into reliable agents and developers. Even referrals from locals can help you navigate the local market and connect with professionals who have a proven track record of delivering excellent real estate opportunities.
Buy property in Portugal through an investment fund
Are you still having second thoughts about going through the real estate investment route? Another option is to buy property in Portugal through an investment fund. Although both involve real estate, purchasing through an investment fund would include pooling funds from multiple investors, and the focus is primarily on generating profits rather than personal use of the property. It is best to search for Portugal Golden Visa investment properties if you will the property as part of an investment fund or for commercial purposes.
Get your Golden Visa in Portugal with Own Property Abroad
Do you want to obtain a Golden Visa in Portugal? Thanks to our knowledge and experience in the local market, we can help with your Golden Visa and real estate matters, such as legal requirements, finding suitable properties, negotiating the best deals, and conducting due diligence.
With our expert team, you won’t have to navigate the complexities of the Portuguese market alone. For further information on how we can assist you, kindly drop your details below or email us at [email protected].
Get help with obtaining your Golden Visa in Portugal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I buy property in Portugal and get residency?
Buying property in Portugal and obtaining residency is possible through the Golden Visa Program. By meeting the Golden Visa investment requirements, such as purchasing qualifying real estate, individuals can apply for and potentially obtain residency in Portugal.
Is Portugal ending the Golden Visa Program?
The government announced that the Golden Visa might end or undergo significant reform. However, there has yet to be a final law or definitive plan regarding its end.
How much do you have to invest in Portugal for Golden Visa?
It depends on the investment route. The minimum for Portugal Golden Visa properties is generally €500,000 ($545,000), but for those that belong to Portugal Golden Visa renovation properties or Urban Rehabilitation Projects, the amount reduces to €350,000 ($381,500).
