The Portuguese government changed certain rules of the Golden Visa in Portugal on Feb. 12, 2021. While some of the conditions and investment amounts have changed, some others remained the same. 

Before going into more detail, you can check the brief points about these amendments below:

  • The minimum amount for fund investment will increase to €500,000 from €350,000

  • The minimum capital transfer option will jump to €1.5 million from €1 million

  • Golden Visa for Portugal real estate investments  will face some restrictions:

    • Qualifying residential properties are going to be those that are located in the Autonomous Regions of the Azores and Madeira or in the interior regions. Otherwise, they cannot qualify for a Golden Visa.

  • The changes will come into effect as of Jan. 1, 2022.

Portugal Golden Visa Changes Will Be in Effect as of 2022

In February 2020, the proposal was made. In February 2021, the government approved the changes.

Until Jan. 1, 2022, the current rules and requirements will continue.  So, you can complete your investment and application before that date. 

What Are the Real Estate Changes After the Changes to Portugal Golden Visa 2022?

The minimum required investment amounts will be the same. However, the required locations of the qualifying properties have changed.

It'll not be possible for you to buy a residential property in Lisbon, Porto, and in coastal towns of the mainland. So, only the purchase of properties in inland, and possibly rural or low-density areas will be eligible for Portugal Golden Visa. 

Capital Transfer Changes 

For capital transfer investments, the minimum required investment amounts will also increase. You can find the changes below:

  • Changes to the capital transfer amount: Rise to €1.5 million from €1 million

  • Investment Fund minimum subscription amount: From €350,000 to €500,000 

  • Research and Development minimum investment amount: From €350,000 to €500,000 

  • Job and Company Creation: The minimum incorporation amount will increase from €350,000 to €500,000. The number of jobs will remain at five.

Certain Requirements Will Not Change

The following investment options will not change for Golden Visa to Portugal:

  • Establishing a company in Portugal and employing at least 10 new local employees, and

  • €250,000 contribution in arts. 

The Situation of the Previous and Current Applicants of Portugal Golden Visa

The old and current applicants will not be affected by the changes. The amendments won't be retroactive to anyone who already submitted their application before Dec. 31, 2021.

However, note that the last day of Dec. 31, 2021 is for the pre-approval from SEF. So, you need to make your investment as immediately as possible and get pre-approval until December 31. Otherwise, you may not benefit from the current rules. 

What To Do Before Portugal Golden Visa Changes Take Effect

You may want to buy real estate in  Lisbon, Porto, or along the coast. Alternately, you may want to make a fund investment that is at a minimum amount of €350,000. In this case, you need to start your application process immediately. Otherwise, you'll be subject to the increased investment amounts. Or, you'll face geographical restrictions while buying property to qualify for Golden Visa.

You also need to submit your Golden Visa application before Dec.31st, 2021. Note that the process for the investment and application takes some time. 

What Types of Real Estate Acquisition Will Be Affected by the Changes in Golden Visa Portugal?

The restrictions on the locations of properties will only affect residential property purchases. Other types of real estate properties will not be affected by these restrictions. You can still buy them anywhere in Portugal and qualify for a Golden Visa.