William Huston, AIF®, AIFA®

April 2024 Portugal Golden Visa News

Recent changes to the Portugal Golden Visa program have made securing residency and citizenship in this European nation more accessible than ever. While the removal of direct and indirect real estate investments is a major highlight of the revised program, other developments present great opportunities for foreign nationals, such as the option for US citizens to invest directly from their retirement accounts.

Learn more about these important changes and how you can apply.

William Huston, AIF®, AIFA®

William Huston, AIF®, AIFA®

Bay Street Portugal Projects

Bay Street Capital Holdings is an investment firm that represents one of the forty approved funds for Golden Visa applications in Portugal. The firm is working on boutique hotel projects in Portugal and has secured approval for projects in four different Portuguese cities. These projects have an estimated IRR of 18.87% and are subsidized with 45-55% cash back incentives from the Portuguese government.

Investing in Bay Street's Alt Path Fund gives you access to these attractive incentives and potential returns. In addition, our team can help you navigate the Portugal Golden Visa scheme. Whatever your needs are, whether an investment expert or a Portugal Golden Visa lawyer, we can provide you with the services you need to ease your investment journey and Golden Visa application process.

Whether your dream is to get established in Portugal or you simply want to diversify your investment portfolio, investing with Bay Street enables you to take advantage of this newfound flexibility and opportunity. Now is the perfect time to explore your options.

Start your Portugal Golden Visa journey with Bay Street today.

Portugal's Golden Visa Leads in Europe

Even with the removal of the real estate acquisition option, which is still a major option for a Golden Visa in other European programs, the Portugal Golden Visa remains one of the most sought after Golden Visas in Europe.

The following are some of the reasons why it remains at the top.

Reduced Time to Citizenship

One notable change to the Portuguese Golden Visa program is the reduction in the time required to obtain citizenship, which applies to both new Golden Visa applicants and those already in the process.

Now, the "5-year clock" starts ticking from the application stage, rather than from the date of visa issuance. This small but significant adjustment cuts down the waiting period by 12 to 18 months, and provides a clearer and faster path to Portuguese citizenship. This change not only simplifies the process but also boosts confidence and certainty for applicants.

The reduced time for citizenship represents a major step forward in the program, making it more aligned with investors' aspirations. Portugal's dedication to progress promises a brighter and more inclusive future for those seeking to make this beautiful country their home.

Minimum-stay Requirement is Unchanged

The minimum-stay requirement to maintain the visa hasn't changed. You're not required to relocate to Portugal to retain your residence permit. Instead, you need to spend just seven days per year in the country during the first year to maintain your permit. Following that, you must stay for a minimum of 14 days during every subsequent two-year period to uphold your residency status.

You Can Get Your Golden Visa for Less

Thanks to strategic investment structuring, you can now secure your Golden Visa with a reduced initial investment capital, and save up to €100,000.

Traditionally, the Golden Visa requires an investment of €500,000. But with smart investment strategies, you can now obtain your visa for just €400,000. This significant reduction in cost opens doors for a wider range of investors dreaming of Portuguese residency and citizenship.

A Simple Exit Strategy

Central to this approach is a simple exit strategy. As a Golden Visa investor, you agree to a predetermined exit of €500,000 upon receiving your passports. This not only lightens the initial investment burden but also offers a clear path to recouping your capital, minimizing risk and maximizing return on investment.

A Cheaper Option

For even greater flexibility and affordability, it is possible to qualify for the program with strategic investments of €350,000. While this cheaper option is not readily available, investors who work with Bay Street and its partners are informed whenever this option becomes available. These tailored options ensure that the Golden Visa program remains inclusive and accessible to all who wish to call Portugal home.

A Good Time to Invest and Apply

Securing your Golden Visa for less than €100,000 represents a significant shift in accessibility and affordability. With strategic investment, lucrative opportunities and Portugal's commitment to progress, now is the time to embark on your journey towards Portuguese residency and citizenship. Don't miss out on the chance to make your dreams a reality with Portugal's Golden Visa program.

Beyond financial benefits, investing in Bay Street's Alt Path Fund enables you to explore these lucrative opportunities in Portugal's thriving hospitality sector. With its significant contribution to the economy and promising growth prospects, this sector offers an attractive avenue for diversification and returns.

Spike in Direct Share Capital Investments

Since the real estate investment option has been removed and focus has been placed on investment funds, there has been a surge in demand for direct share capital investments. While both investment routes, via regulated venture capital funds and direct share capital meet the program's requirements, recent shifts in investor preferences highlight the appeal of direct share capital.

Investors weigh factors like returns and capital security when making decisions. For some nationalities, investing through regulated funds presents challenges like tax reporting obligations and regulations in their home countries. In contrast, direct investment into share capital offers a simpler, more flexible option, bypassing these known obstacles with a venture capital fund investment.

Direct Share Capital Advantages

Direct share capital investments stand out not just for their returns, but for their tailored approach. Investors can customize their portfolios based on risk tolerance, financial goals and regulatory considerations. This flexibility enhances the program's appeal.

The demand for direct share capital investments continues to grow due to the strategic advantages that it offers. Investors appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of this route, which not only streamlines the investment process but also maximizes long-term growth and stability.

The increased demand for direct share capital investments in Portugal's Golden Visa application signals a broader shift towards customizable and efficient investment solutions. As the investment landscape evolves, direct share capital investments will play a crucial role in shaping the program's future, offering investors unparalleled opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Great Opportunities for US Citizens

As a US citizen, you can now access Portugal's Golden Visa program using your retirement savings. This game-changing option has sparked a surge in demand among US investors, because it offers a solution to a common challenge; accessing retirement funds for overseas investments without facing hefty taxes.

For many US citizens, withdrawing funds from retirement accounts can lead to significant taxes and penalties, especially for those under 59.5 years old. This hurdle has discouraged many from exploring international investment opportunities, including residency and citizenship programs like Portugal's Golden Visa.

But now, with a dedicated pathway for US citizens to invest in Portugal's Golden Visa program using their retirement accounts, everything has changed. This innovative solution allows US investors to leverage their retirement savings without triggering tax consequences, opening up new possibilities for diversifying portfolios and securing European residency and citizenship.

The process is designed to comply with IRS regulations and local laws in Portugal, ensuring that US investors can navigate the program with confidence. By using their retirement accounts, US citizens can pursue their dreams of international residency and citizenship without sacrificing long-term financial goals or facing unnecessary tax liabilities.

Unlock your path to Portuguese residency with your retirement account.

Don't Miss Out on this Visa Gold Rush

The impact of these developments is significant and demand among US clients seeking to participate in the program has doubled. This newfound accessibility empowers US investors to achieve their goals with ease and efficiency.

As Portugal continues to attract investors worldwide, the inclusion of US citizens in the Golden Visa program marks a major milestone. By harnessing the power of retirement accounts, US investors can reap the benefits of the Portugal Golden Visa program while securing their financial future. This is a true win-win scenario that reflects innovation and collaboration in the global investment landscape.

Grab Your Chance for a Golden Future in Portugal

From shorter citizenship timelines to a surge in direct share capital investments, these recent developments in the Portugal Golden Visa reflect a commitment to progress and inclusivity, and ensures that everyone can pursue Portuguese residency and citizenship confidently.

The removal of real estate requirements and the introduction of new investment pathways, especially for US citizens using retirement accounts, have broadened the program like never before. These changes not only simplify the Golden Visa process but also offer investors greater flexibility, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Portugal's program sets the standard for European and international investment and residency opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a hopeful resident, it offers one of the best paths to achieve both goals.

Source

Bay Street Capital Holdings and Partners

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-01/best-places-to-get-a-golden-visas-portugal-austria-and-greece-top-list

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