Since its launch in 2012, Portugal's Golden Visa programme, officially known as the Residence Permit for Investment Activity (ARI), has been one of the main vehicles for attracting foreign capital to the country. This programme offers citizens from outside the European Union the opportunity to obtain temporary residence in Portugal through qualified investments, with the possibility of transitioning to permanent residence or citizenship after five years.
Why invest in Madeira and Porto Santo?
With the recent changes to the Golden Visa rules, which now exclude property investments in the metropolitan areas of Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, Madeira and Porto Santo are emerging as increasingly attractive destinations. As well as continuing to be eligible for property investment, these regions offer paradisiacal landscapes and an advantageous tax environment, especially Madeira, with its free zone status.
Investment opportunities that can benefit from the Golden Visa
In Madeira and Porto Santo, investors have several options to qualify for the Golden Visa. These include
Property acquisition: A minimum investment of 500,000 euros.
Capital transfer: A minimum of 1 million euros.
Job creation: Creation of at least 10 jobs.
Scientific or technological research: Investment of 350,000 euros.
Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Minimum contribution of €250,000.
Advantages of the Golden Visa
Golden Visa holders benefit from a number of advantages, including:
Temporary residence in Portugal, renewable every two years.
Free movement within the 26 countries of the Schengen Area.
Possibility of applying for permanent residence or citizenship after five years, provided they fulfil the legal requirements.
Inclusion of family members in the visa application, allowing the benefit to be extended to direct dependents.
Growing interest from investors
In recent years, Madeira and Porto Santo have seen a considerable increase in interest from foreign investors, largely driven by changes to the Golden Visa programme. This influx of capital has contributed to the growth of the local property market and the economic development of the region, consolidating Madeira as a destination of excellence for living and investing.
In addition, Madeira's Free Trade Zone status provides extremely favourable tax conditions for investors and entrepreneurs looking to maximise their income in Portugal.
In our next article, we will analyse the investment opportunities in mainland Portugal that also qualify for the Golden Visa programme, exploring the options outside the main metropolitan areas, according to the new directives from the current government.
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