The Portugal Golden Visa Programme has been extremely popular among South African and other non-EU investors. Since the programme was introduced, property prices have risen significantly, and many investors are exploring other alternatives, to secure residency in Portugal.
The Highly Qualified Activity is a great alternative avenue to secure residency, for entrepreneurially-minded investors. They are required to participate in a formal start-up incubation programme at one of the many Research & Development facilities within the universities in Portugal. The programme offers investors greater flexibility, than the Golden Visa as they can choose their level of involvement and there are no annual residency requirements, without compromising on any of the benefits of EU residency.
Golden Visa Portugal: Residency (awaiting confirmation of regulatory changes) |
Portugal Highly Qualified Activity | |
---|---|---|
Citizenship | Possibility of applying for citizenship after 6 years of residency, subject to a Portuguese exam | Possibility of applying for citizenship after 6 years of residency, subject to a Portuguese exam |
Immigration Rights | Live & work in Portugal and travel freely through Schengen countries | Live & work in Portugal and travel freely through Schengen countries |
Processing Times | 6 - 12 Months | 3 - 4 Months |
Investment Requirements | Purchase of property @EUR 350,000-EUR 500,000 for 5 years. Investment of EUR 1million in Portuguese Financial Institution. Business that will create 10 permanent jobs. | Participation in a start-up business incubation programme @EUR175,000 |
Return On Investment | Rental on property | Possibility of transition from incubation to operational business |
Family | Children and parents can be included in application | Children and parents can be included in application |
Residency Requirement | 7 days in year 1, and 14 days every year thereafter | No ongoing annual residency requirement |
Application Process |
- Initial application - End of year 1 - End of year 3 - Citizenship |
- Initial application - End of year 1 - End of year 3 - Citizenship |