Golden Visa
Golden Visa in Portugal: By the Numbers
Since its inception in 2012, the Portuguese Golden Visa program has been a gateway for global investors seeking European residency. Its success lies not only in its attractive benefits but also in the substantial numbers that demonstrate its impact on the Portuguese economy and its appeal to investors worldwide. Let’s delve into the key figures that define this program and highlight its significance.
12,718 residency permits to primary applicants.
20,424 residency permits to dependents, including family members accompanying the primary applicants.
This brings the total number of beneficiaries of the program to 33,142 individuals, underscoring its family-friendly nature and appeal as a long-term residency solution.
Total Number of Dependents: 20,424
Total Investment into Portugal: €7.3 billion
Real Estate Investments: Approximately 90% of applicants have chosen real estate as their preferred investment vehicle, contributing more than €6.48 billion to the Portuguese property market. Portugal has passed legislation in October 2023 changing what type of investment qualifies for the scheme. Buying property is no longer eligible for the program.
Capital Transfers: Investments in financial instruments in 2024 account for around €670 million up to September, reflecting the program’s versatility.
Job Creation or Business Investments: While a smaller segment, these investments have added value to the economy, especially in sectors like technology and tourism.
China: Represents 50% of total applicants, making it the top country of origin.
Brazil: Accounts for 12%, reflecting strong ties between the two Portuguese-speaking nations.
United States, Turkey, and South Africa: Together, these countries form a growing segment of applicants, highlighting the program’s global appeal.
2,901 residency permits were issued under the Golden Visa program.
This influx represented a total investment exceeding €677 million, reinforcing the program’s continued relevance despite regulatory changes in recent years.
No inheritance tax or wealth tax for residents.
Competitive property taxes and exemptions under certain conditions.
Cryptocurrency investments held for over a year are exempt from taxation, making it an attractive option for digital asset holders.
Additionally, the ease of opening accounts in over 150 regulated financial institutions makes Portugal a preferred choice for global investors.
A high-quality healthcare system, accessible to residents.
An education system recognized across Europe, with six universities in the global top 300.
A cost of living that is affordable compared to other European destinations, further enhancing its attractiveness.
If you’re considering joining the many investors who have benefited from this program, 3 Comma Capital is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us to explore how the Portugal Golden Visa can be your gateway to a brighter future.
Residency Permits and Beneficiaries
As of September 2024, the Portuguese Golden Visa program has granted:12,718 residency permits to primary applicants.
20,424 residency permits to dependents, including family members accompanying the primary applicants.
This brings the total number of beneficiaries of the program to 33,142 individuals, underscoring its family-friendly nature and appeal as a long-term residency solution.
Statistics of the Portuguese Golden Visa Program (October 2012 – September 2023)
Total Number of Main Applicants: 12,718Total Number of Dependents: 20,424
Total Investment into Portugal: €7.3 billion
Most Common Nationalities:
- China: 4,407 applicants
- Brazil: 1,256 applicants
- UAE: 781 applicants
- Turkey: 618 applicants
- South Africa: 574 applicants
Economic Contribution
The Golden Visa program has been a significant driver of foreign investment in Portugal, having generated over €7.2 billion since 2012. Here’s a breakdown of the main investment categories:Real Estate Investments: Approximately 90% of applicants have chosen real estate as their preferred investment vehicle, contributing more than €6.48 billion to the Portuguese property market. Portugal has passed legislation in October 2023 changing what type of investment qualifies for the scheme. Buying property is no longer eligible for the program.
Capital Transfers: Investments in financial instruments in 2024 account for around €670 million up to September, reflecting the program’s versatility.
Job Creation or Business Investments: While a smaller segment, these investments have added value to the economy, especially in sectors like technology and tourism.
Global Investor Base
The Golden Visa program attracts applicants from around the globe, with China leading the way:China: Represents 50% of total applicants, making it the top country of origin.
Brazil: Accounts for 12%, reflecting strong ties between the two Portuguese-speaking nations.
United States, Turkey, and South Africa: Together, these countries form a growing segment of applicants, highlighting the program’s global appeal.
Annual Trends and Growth
In the 12 months leading up to September 2024, American citizens are now outnumbering Chinese nationals, with the UK in third place. The demand for Golden Visas continues to rise, especially from families seeking stability and opportunity. In fact, the number of family applications has surged by 83% in just the last year:2,901 residency permits were issued under the Golden Visa program.
This influx represented a total investment exceeding €677 million, reinforcing the program’s continued relevance despite regulatory changes in recent years.
Tax Benefits and Financial Flexibility
Portugal’s tax-friendly environment adds to the appeal:No inheritance tax or wealth tax for residents.
Competitive property taxes and exemptions under certain conditions.
Cryptocurrency investments held for over a year are exempt from taxation, making it an attractive option for digital asset holders.
Additionally, the ease of opening accounts in over 150 regulated financial institutions makes Portugal a preferred choice for global investors.
Lifestyle and Economic Stability
Portugal’s consistent ranking as one of the safest and most peaceful countries in the world complements its Golden Visa offering. Ranked 7th on the Global Peace Index 2023, the country offers:A high-quality healthcare system, accessible to residents.
An education system recognized across Europe, with six universities in the global top 300.
A cost of living that is affordable compared to other European destinations, further enhancing its attractiveness.
Conclusion
The Portuguese Golden Visa program has not only transformed Portugal into a global investment hub but also offered thousands of families a pathway to security, prosperity, and a better quality of life. With its impressive economic contribution and ongoing popularity, the program remains a benchmark for residency-by-investment initiatives worldwide.If you’re considering joining the many investors who have benefited from this program, 3 Comma Capital is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us to explore how the Portugal Golden Visa can be your gateway to a brighter future.
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Duarte Caldas
Investments Principal
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With more than 20 years of experience in financial markets, Duarte specialized in the energy area in the last decade, where he had the opportunity to work with the main European Power and Gas institutions at CIMD Group. Previously, he worked as Market Strategist at IG Markets Iberia.
