With its warm climate, natural beauty and irresistible mix of old-world charm and modern convenience, Portugal has always been a top destination for travel. In recent years, however, it has also emerged as one of the world’s hottest real estate markets, captivating international buyers and investors with its social stability, economic incentives and access to Europe.
The small country on the westernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula also captivated The Agency, becoming a strategic priority for our expansion plans. Earlier this year, we opened our second European office in Lisbon, led by visionary Managing Partner Ayres Neto.
Renowned for his industry and market expertise, Ayres has built an impeccable reputation helping discerning clientele navigate the intricacies of buying and investing abroad. He now mentors a multicultural team of more than 12 nationalities who speak 13 different languages and manage a diverse portfolio of properties across the country. In addition to his ambitions for the business, Ayres is driven by a deep-rooted love of Portugal and desire to share it with buyers and investors from around the world.
“Portugal is a gateway to Europe,” Ayres proclaims. While geographically the country’s size and location on the Iberian Peninsula make it an excellent entry point to the continent, it’s the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program that really opens doors to Europe and its distinctive, high-quality way of life.
What is The Golden Visa Program?
The Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program—better known as the Golden Visa program—is an initiative that allows non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain residency by investing in Portuguese real estate and eventually provides a pathway to citizenship. Because Portugal is a full member of the EU, participants in the program can travel freely between the other 26 European countries within the Schengen Area.
Participants also gain the right to live, work, and study in the country, opening up exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. Given the country’s stable economic outlook and top-tier private and public education — including universities and international schools — it’s no wonder that young professionals and families have flocked to take advantage of the program.
Once there, participants often find they have no intention of going back, charmed by the welcoming and English-proficient locals, mild weather and delicious food and wine culture. Portugal is also regularly rated among the safest countries in the world and lauded for its excellent healthcare system. “Portugal is such an incredible place to live,” Ayres insists.
For investors, high net worth individuals and retirees who don’t necessarily want to relocate permanently, the Golden Visa program is equally alluring, as it only requires an average stay of seven days per year in Portugal over a five-year period to qualify. Moreover, Portugal’s non-habitual tax resident status presents a compelling financial incentive, allowing eligible applicants who fulfill government requirements to enjoy reduced tax rates on income and capital gains for a duration of 10 years.
The Agency Portugal specializes in guiding clients not only through the nuances of each city and property, but also through the Golden Visa program, providing comprehensive support throughout the application process. After all, Portugal’s allure is not in the extra paperwork but in the cobbled streets and contemporary penthouses of Lisbon, the enchanting vineyards of Alto Douro, the charming beach towns of Setúbal and hidden in some of the country’s latest luxury developments.
From urban apartments to rent, luxury villas to call home and land to develop, Portugal promises the perfect opportunity
for every type of investor. For more information on available listings, please visit TheAgencyRE.com/region/portugal.
