Belion Partners - Investing in Portugal News & Analysis

Lisbon’s New AL Rules: Practical Impact for Owners and Investors

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:45:23 GMT

Lisbon has officially updated its Municipal Regulation on Local Accommodation (RMAL) , bringing significant changes to how short-term rentals operate in the capital. For our clients at Belion Portugal , these updates are more than just legal shifts, they directly impact property valuations, management strategies, and tax considerations.

The new rules focus on "containment," halving the previous limits for allowed holiday rentals in many of the city's most popular areas. Here is a practical breakdown of what this means for your investment.

Where Can You Still Invest? The New "Micro-Monitoring"

The city no longer looks at Lisbon as a whole; it now analyzes pressure at the level of parishes (freguesias) and specific neighborhoods (bairros) .

The "saturation" limits that trigger a freeze on new licenses have been cut in half:

Absolute Containment (Limit: 10%): If ALs represent more than 10% of the housing in an area, no new licenses are issued .
Affected areas: Most of the historic center is now closed, including Santa Maria Maior (Alfama/Baixa), Misericórdia (Chiado), Santo António, São Vicente, Arroios, and Estrela .

Relative Containment (Limit: 5%): In areas with 5% to 10% saturation (like parts of Avenidas Novas ), new licenses are exceptionally difficult to obtain and require specific municipal approval.

Operational Tip: Before purchasing a property with the intent to rent, it is vital to check the current "ratio" of that specific street or neighborhood. At Belion, we can assist with this preliminary research to ensure your business plan is viable.

The License "Expiration" on Sale

Perhaps the most critical change for investors is the non-transferability of licenses in containment zones.

The Rule: If you sell a property located in an Absolute or Relative Containment zone, the AL license expires automatically . The buyer cannot "inherit" the permit.
The Exception: Transfers are generally only allowed in cases of inheritance or specific family reorganizations (e.g., divorce).

Impact on Property Value: If you are buying a property in the city center that currently operates as an AL, you must assume that you will likely not be able to continue that activity. This shifts the property's value toward the long-term rental or residential market.

A New Opportunity: The "Room" (Quarto) Modality

The municipality has created a small "safety valve" for residents. You can now register a Room (Quarto) for short-term rental, even in Relative Containment areas, provided:

The property is your primary and permanent residence .
The property is at least a T2 (two-bedroom) or larger.
You have lived there for at least three years (per latest guidelines).

This is an excellent way for resident owners to generate supplementary income while maintaining their primary home.

New Operational "Roadblocks"

No "Mini-Hotels": The city is cracking down on ALs that offer "extra" services like in-house cafes or retail shops. The focus is strictly on accommodation.
Public Auctions: If you buy a property through a municipal public auction, you are now barred from applying for an AL license, regardless of the area’s saturation.
Increased Supervision: Lisbon recently canceled over 6,000 "inactive" licenses. Maintaining active insurance and up-to-date documentation is no longer optional—it is a requirement for survival.

Summary Comparison: What Changed?

How Belion Portugal Supports Your Strategy

As a firm focused on accounting, business support, and property management , we look at these changes through the lens of your "bottom line."

Accounting & Tax Advisory: Navigating the financial implications of containment zones and taxable coefficients.
Property & Asset Management: Operational support for short-term rentals or transitioning units to the long-term rental market.
Business Support & Strategy: Assisting with market analysis, feasibility studies for new acquisitions, and corporate structuring.
Ongoing Compliance: Managing mandatory insurance, AIMA (formerly SEF) reporting, and municipal audit readiness to protect your assets.

The Bottom Line: Lisbon is still a premier destination, but the "gold rush" for new central AL licenses is over. Success now requires a more sophisticated, data-driven approach to property selection and management.

Questions about your property?

Reach our team through our contact form at Belion Portugal for a practical review of your current or future investment.

The application of these rules may vary depending on specific circumstances and administrative interpretation.

Attracting Global Talent: The IFICI+ Framework

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 09:18:23 GMT

Portugal’s IFICI+ 2026: Tax Incentives to Attract Global Talent

Strategic Insights for the 2026 Fiscal Landscape

For professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs eyeing Portugal as their next base of operations, the transition from the legacy Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime to the Fiscal Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI+) marks a significant shift in national policy. As of April 2026, the Portuguese government has moved beyond the broad-brush approach of attracting passive wealth, instead focusing on a merit-based system designed to catalyze the country’s "Knowledge Economy."

The IFICI+ is not merely a tax break; it is a strategic tool designed to integrate global expertise into the Portuguese scientific and technological fabric. By offering a competitive 20% flat tax rate on professional income for a decade, Portugal remains one of the most attractive destinations in Europe for high-value talent.

Is the IFICI+ Regime Right for Your Relocation?

The primary distinction of the IFICI+ compared to its predecessor is its exclusivity . While the "old" NHR was a popular choice for retirees and those living off international dividends, the IFICI+ is strictly reserved for those contributing active, high-value labor to the economy.

Targeted Professional Profiles

High-Tech & Digital Professionals : This category is primarily for those working within certified startups or IT-driven sectors. To qualify, the employing entity must be recognized by Startup Portugal, ensuring the role contributes to the nation's burgeoning tech ecosystem.

Scientists & Academics : This includes researchers and professors integrated into the national science and technology system. Whether in private R&D centers or public universities, these individuals are seen as the backbone of Portuguese innovation.

Strategic Investors & Executives : Highly qualified staff and managers in companies that have secured "Productive Investment" contracts or are recognized by AICEP (Trade & Investment Agency) or IAPMEI (Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation) as vital to the national interest.

The Power of the 20% Tax Rate

The core appeal of the IFICI+ is fiscal predictability . Under standard Portuguese tax law, high earners can face progressive tax rates that scale up to 48% , with additional solidarity surcharges pushing the effective rate toward 53% .

Under the IFICI+ framework:

Category A (Employment Income): Salaries from qualifying high-value roles are taxed at a flat 20%.
Category B (Self-Employment Income): Independent contractors and freelancers providing services in eligible scientific or technical fields also benefit from the 20% rate.

It is crucial to understand that this benefit is activity-specific . If a beneficiary earns income from professional activities that fall outside the "qualified list," that specific portion of their income will be subject to the standard progressive rates. This "split-income" reality makes precise accounting and contract structuring essential.

Navigating the Eligibility Criteria

To secure the IFICI+ status in 2026, an applicant must satisfy three pillars of eligibility . Missing any of these can result in a permanent disqualification from the regime.

The 5-Year Rule: You must prove that you were not a tax resident in Portugal during any of the five years prior to your arrival . This is verified through tax certificates from your previous country of residence.
Tax Residency Establishment: You must become a Portuguese tax resident . This is typically achieved by spending more than 183 days in the country within a 12-month period or by maintaining a residential property that serves as your habitual abode.
Exclusivity Clause: You cannot be a current or former beneficiary of the "old" NHR or the Regressar program . The IFICI+ is intended for "fresh" talent entering the Portuguese system for the first time or returning after a significant absence.

The Practical Challenges: Documentation and Deadlines

The complexity of the IFICI+ lies in its bureaucratic "gatekeepers." Unlike the old NHR, which was largely managed through a simple registration with the Tax Authority, IFICI+ requires interaction with various sectoral bodies.

Certification: Depending on your role, you may need validation from ANI (National Innovation Agency), FCT (Foundation for Science and Technology), or IAPMEI .
The January 15th Deadline: Once you become a tax resident, you must apply for the incentive by January 15th of the following year. Failing to meet this administrative window can result in the loss of the benefit for that tax year.
Regional Nuances: For those relocating to the Azores or Madeira , specific regional legislations apply that can broaden the scope of eligible activities, particularly in sectors like blue economy or aerospace.

How to Ensure a Successful Transition

Relocating under the IFICI+ framework in 2026 requires more than just a change of address; it requires a synchronized strategy that aligns immigration status, professional certification, and long-term tax planning.

The complexity of the "New NHR" lies in its multi-layered approval process. Unlike the previous regime, eligibility for the 20% rate is often contingent on external validation from bodies like AICEP , IAPMEI , or Startup Portugal .

Securing this status demands a proactive approach to ensure that employment contracts and professional backgrounds are mapped correctly against the current list of eligible high-value activities.

Beyond the initial application, ongoing fiscal compliance is vital. Maintaining the benefit for the full 10-year period involves managing specific reporting requirements and monitoring the "split-income" nuances that arise when global professionals hold diverse portfolios.

For those looking to make Portugal their strategic base, early assessment is the most effective way to transition from a standard tax profile to one optimized under the IFICI+ incentive.

Please feel free to reach us through our contact form for a detailed assessment.

Family Reunification in Portugal: Transitional Exception Until April 2026

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:28:55 GMT

Portugal Family Reunification Explained: Eligibility, Requirements, and Deadlines

Portugal’s family reunification regime allows foreign residents holding a valid residence permit to bring certain family members to live with them legally in Portugal .

This framework ensures that individuals relocating to Portugal for work, study, investment, or other purposes can maintain family unity while residing in the country.

Eligible family members typically include spouses or partners, minor or dependent children , and, in some situations, dependent parents or other relatives , subject to conditions under Portuguese immigration law .

Recent updates to Portugal’s immigration legislation have tightened the process, generally requiring family reunification applications to be submitted through Portuguese consulates abroad.

For families already present in Portugal, a temporary exception allows certain eligible family members to apply for residence locally rather than through a Portuguese consulate abroad. This measure is temporary and will close in April 2026 , so families who qualify should act before the deadline.

What the Law Now Requires

Under Law No. 61/2025 :

Family reunification generally requires applications through Portuguese consulates abroad
The main applicant is typically required to have at least 2 years of legal residence in Portugal

The Transitional Rule (Until April 2026)

An important exception applies:

Family members who:

Entered Portugal legally
Are already present in Portugal

May submit their residence application locally
Avoid consular processing abroad
Can regularise their status more efficiently

After April 2026, this pathway is expected to close for most cases.

Who Can Be Reunited

Eligible family members typically include:

Spouse or partner
Minor or dependent children
Dependent parents
In specific cases, dependent adult children or siblings

Key Requirements

Authorities will assess:

Adequate housing in Portugal
Sufficient financial means
Proof of family relationship
Legal entry into Portugal (for transitional applications)

What You Should Do Now

If your family members are already in Portugal:

Confirm eligibility under the transitional rule
Gather and legalise all required documents
Submit the application before April 2026

Missing this deadline may mean:

Applying from abroad becomes mandatory
Longer processing timelines
Increased procedural complexity

Final Note

This transitional regime is a time-limited opportunity to simplify the family reunification process. Acting early can significantly reduce delays and uncertainty.

How Belion Can Support You

At Belion , we assist clients throughout the entire family reunification process, including:

Assessing eligibility under the transitional rules
Structuring and preparing complete applications
Reviewing and organising supporting documentation
Liaising with the relevant Portuguese authorities

If you are considering family reunification, now is the time to act.

Reach out to our team through Belion Portugal contact form to ensure your application is submitted correctly and within the applicable timeframe.

IMI in Portugal: Last Instalment Due by 30 November — What Property Owners Must Know

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:41:49 GMT

Author:

Isadora Ussene | Liaison Officer

As the end of November approaches, property owners who pay IMI in instalments are nearing their final deadline. Under Portuguese law, IMI may be paid in one, two or three instalments , depending on the total amount assessed for the year. Whenever instalments apply, the third and last payment is due by 30 November .

This is therefore a crucial time to ensure that no instalment remains outstanding. Failure to pay on time may trigger interest, surcharges and enforcement measures.

This article summarises how IMI works, how the property’s taxable value (Valor Patrimonial Tributário, or VPT) is calculated, and how municipal discount coefficients affect the final tax. It also clarifies how AIMI , the additional municipal property tax, applies to higher-value residential holdings.

What Is IMI?

IMI is an annual municipal tax levied on the taxable value of real estate located in Portugal . It applies to:

Urban properties
Rural properties
Mixed-use properties

The tax is due by the person who owns the property on 31 December of the relevant tax year (Article 8 CIMI).

Each municipality determines its own yearly IMI rate within the legally defined minimum and maximum limits.

How IMI Payments Work: One, Two or Three Instalments

The number of IMI instalments depends exclusively on the total annual tax due . The rule is defined in the General Tax Collection regime and consistently applied each year by the Portuguese Tax Authority:

1. Single Instalment (May)

IMI is paid in one instalment when the total assessed amount is €100 or less .
Payment deadline: May

2. Two Instalments (May and November)

IMI is paid in two instalments when the total assessed amount is more than €100 and up to €500 .
Payment deadlines:

May (first instalment)
November (second instalment)

3. Three Instalments (May, August and November)

IMI is paid in three instalments when the total assessed amount exceeds €500 .
Payment deadlines:

May
August
November (last instalment)

This means that for all taxpayers who fall into the two- or three-instalment categories, the final payment of the year must be made by 30 November .

Even when paid in instalments, the IMI rate and the taxable value (VPT) remain the same. Only the payment schedule changes.

How the Taxable Value (VPT) Is Determined

The Valor Patrimonial Tributário (VPT) is the central emelment of IMI. It is calculated according to the valuation rules set out in the Código do IMI (CIMI) ,

For urban buildings , the VPT is the result of a formula combining multiple coefficients:

1. Base Construction Value (Vc)

Nationally defined value representing the average construction cost per square metre. (Art. 39 CIMI)

2. Total Construction Area (A)

Includes private areas, dependent areas, gross areas and other surface elements. (Art. 40 CIMI)

3. Purpose / Use Coefficient (Ca)

Reflects whether the property is used for residence, commerce, industry or services. (Art. 41 CIMI)

4. Location Coefficient (Cl)

Determined annually by municipalities based on infrastructure, transport, services, and market desirability. (Art. 42 CIMI)

5. Quality and Comfort Coefficient (Cq)

Assesses lifts, garages, air conditioning, finishes, insulation, and energy efficiency. (Art. 43 CIMI)

6. Age / Depreciation Coefficient (Cv)

Older buildings benefit from depreciation factors that progressively reduce VPT. (Art. 44 CIMI)

These combined elements form the final VPT on which IMI is calculated.

Municipal Annual "Discount" Through the Location Coefficient

Under Article 42 CIMI , municipalities must approve the location coefficient (Cl) , which may effectively work as an annual adjustment, either increasing or decreasing the VPT depending on the classification of the area.

Although often referred to informally as a “municipal discount”, it is technically a valuation factor applied to the VPT formula. Its yearly approval by each municipality means that VPT may vary (positively or negatively), even without changes to the physical characteristics of the property.

AIMI: The Additional Municipal Property Tax

In addition to IMI, certain taxpayers may be liable for AIMI (Adicional ao IMI), a separate, nationwide tax applicable to higher-value residential real estate.

AIMI applies to:

Individuals whose taxable share of residential property exceeds €600,000 (per person)
Married couples or civil partners who opt for joint taxation, with a combined exemption of €1.2 million
Companies , with no exemption threshold

AIMI is calculated based on the sum of the VPT of all residential and building land held as of 1 January each year , after deducting applicable allowances.

AIMI rates (progressive for individuals and flat for companies) are set by central government, not municipalities.

Importantly, AIMI is paid in September , separate from the IMI instalments due in May, August and November.

Should You Request a VPT Revaluation?

Because VPT decreases as properties age and because municipal coefficients change periodically, many owners may benefit from requesting a VPT review.

Lower VPT → Lower IMI → Lower AIMI exposure (if applicable)

A reassessment may be especially relevant where:

The property is now significantly older
Location coefficients were updated
Quality and comfort factors have changed
A previous valuation is outdated

Final Reminder

If you pay IMI in two or three instalments, ensure the last instalment is paid by 30 November . This avoids interest and prevents the case from moving into enforcement.

If you need help with your IMI, get in touch with us – we're here to assist you.

Condominiums in Portugal: How They Work

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 16:16:22 GMT

Author:

Ana Espadinha | Property Consultant

If you own real estate in Portugal or are thinking about buying — especially an apartment — the most common form of ownership you’ll come across is the condominium, known locally as " propriedade horizontal ".

However, condominiums aren’t exclusive to apartment buildings. Detached or semi-detached houses located within private developments can also form part of a condominium, sharing common areas such as roads, gardens, or security services.

Condominium ownership in Portugal involves a combination of private and shared responsibilities that can initially seem complex. Balancing the individual ownership of private units with collective obligations for the building’s maintenance, fees, and internal regulations can be overwhelming for those who simply wish to enjoy their home in Portugal.

To simplify this, we’ve prepared a guide to help property owners understand how condominiums work and how the rules apply in practice.

What Is a Condominium ( Propriedade Horizontal )?

A condominium in Portugal is a legal property regime in which a building or development is divided into independent units, such as apartments, offices, or houses, while the owners share responsibility for common areas. These shared elements may include the foundations, roof, stairways, lifts, gardens, pools, or access roads.

While propriedade horizontal is the most common form, the concept also applies to residential complexes with shared facilities, even if the homes are detached or semi-detached.

What Is the Latest Condominium Law in Portugal?

The most recent legal framework stems from Law No. 8/2022, which revised the Horizontal Property Regime originally established under Decree-Law No. 268/94. This update clarified several aspects of condominium management and introduced new obligations for property owners.

In practical terms, here are the most relevant measures:

When a property is sold, the new owner must inform the condominium administrator by registered letter within 15 days of the sale.
Before a sale, the condominium administration must issue a statement confirming that no debts exist.
This statement must list all current condominium fees, payment deadlines, and any outstanding amounts.

How Condominium Fees (Quotas) Work

In Portugal, each property owner within a condominium contributes a periodic fee — monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually — to cover the expenses related to the maintenance and operation of the building’s common areas.

Although these fees are generally based on the permillage (the fraction that represents each unit’s share of the total property), their exact amount is approved collectively during the condominium’s general meeting. This means owners can agree to adapt the fees according to the building’s needs or by mutual consent.

Typical shared expenses include:

Cleaning and maintenance of common areas
Repairs and improvements
Building insurance
Electricity for common spaces
Security and administrative services

Additionally, Portuguese law requires every condominium to maintain a reserve fund (fundo comum de reserva). This fund is mandatory and intended to cover major repairs or unforeseen expenses, ensuring that the building remains well-maintained over time.

Failure to pay condominium fees within eight days of their due date can result in an additional charge of 50% of the amount owed.

Are Condominium Meetings Important?

Condominium meetings play a crucial role in ensuring effective management of the property. The general meeting, usually held during the first quarter of the year, is particularly important, as it is when owners:

Review and approve the accounts for the previous year
Approve the annual budget for the current year
Elect or confirm the condominium administrator

Owners must be notified in advance and receive the agenda to be discussed. Participating actively in meetings helps create a transparent and collaborative environment, ensuring that all decisions reflect the community’s best interests.

A well-managed and engaged condominium not only improves day-to-day living but also preserves — and can even enhance — the value of the property.

How Can a Property Manager Help With Condominium Matters?

A professional property manager plays a key role in keeping condominiums running smoothly. They oversee maintenance, handle finances, ensure compliance with regulations, and act as an intermediary between residents and the condominium board.

By delegating these tasks to a qualified team, property owners can save time, avoid conflicts, and ensure that their investment is properly maintained.

If you need assistance managing your condominium or representation at meetings, our experienced property management team is here to help.

IUC: New Payment Changes Come into Effect in 2026

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 16:47:38 GMT

Author:

Carlos Jesus | Customer Success Specialist

The Single Road Tax (IUC) will be changing starting in 2026. Until now, vehicle owners subject to IUC had to pay this tax in the month of their vehicle's license registration. Starting next year, there will be a single payment date for all taxpayers, with payment now being made in February of each year. This change is part of a tax simplification measure and introduces new rules that all drivers should be aware of to avoid heavy fines.

But while for some the IUC is second nature, not all residents in Portugal may be aware of the need to pay this tax or even understand what the Single Road Tax actually is.

For that reason, this guide was developed to explain to you what IUC is, how it works, the costs, and what changes.

What Is the IUC?

The Single Road Tax (IUC) is an annual tax applicable to any light passenger vehicles, light mixed-use vehicles, goods and mixed-use vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, tricycles, quadricycles, recreational boats, and private aircraft registered in Portugal. Owners of these assets, or any individuals or legal entities registered as owners, are liable for this tax. Financial lessees and purchasers retaining title are also regarded as owners and are subject to the IUC.

The Single Road tax also applies to the type of vehicles referred to in the previous paragraph, which, although not subject to registration in Portugal, remain here for a period exceeding 183 days, consecutive or interpolated, in each calendar year, except for light-duty goods vehicles with a gross weight equal to or greater than 12 tonnes.

The tax base, as a rule, is based on engine displacement, voltage, age, and fuel. A substantial portion of IUC revenue accrues to the municipalities where the taxpayer resides.

How Is Portugal’s IUC (Single Road Tax) Regulated?

The legal framework that regulates the IUC (Single Road Tax) is Law No. 22-A/2007, of 29 July. Its most recent updates were introduced by Law No. 45-A/2024, of 31 December.

When and How Is It Collected?

The Tax and Customs Authority is responsible for collecting the tax, considering, for all legal purposes, the tax act performed at the tax office of the taxpayer's residence or registered office. Tax collection is made by the taxpayer online, subject to the conditions of registration and access to electronic declarations.

At the time of tax collection, a single collection document is issued, which, certified by the means used in the collection network, proves proper payment of the tax.

No payment is due, nor is there any charge, if the amount of tax paid is less than €10.

In the year in which the vehicle is registered in the national territory, the tax needs to be settled by the taxpayer within 30 days after the end of the legally required period for the respective registration. In subsequent years, the tax must be collected by the end of the month in which it becomes due.

What Exactly Changes in 2026?

One of the main changes is the end of payment in the month of registration, which will be replaced by a fixed schedule that's easier to manage for all drivers. Starting 1 January 2026, payments will be due by the end of February, regardless of the month the vehicle was registered. This change applies to all vehicles subject to the IUC, whether new or used.

But there's more. If the tax amount exceeds €100, taxpayers can choose to pay the amount in two instalments. The first half must be paid by the end of February and the second by the end of October . However, those who prefer can continue to pay in full in February.

This change provides more predictability, helping to avoid forgetfulness and potential penalties. Until now, as payment was tied to the vehicle's license plate month, it was sometimes difficult to remember, especially for vehicles whose license plates no longer indicate the month and year of registration.

It's important to emphasise that these new rules do not change existing payment methods. The IUC can continue to be paid through the Tax Authority's Portal or in person at Tax Authority offices, CTT (Postal Service), or authorised banking institutions. The Single Vehicle Document ( Documento Único Automóvel ) remains required for this purpose.

Electric vehicles , in turn, remain exempt from IUC payment as an incentive for sustainable mobility.

This measure is part of a broader tax simplification package and aims to make taxpayers' lives simpler, with clear and standardised deadlines.

In short:

The IUC payment deadline is now fixed: until 28 February.
For amounts over €100, you can pay in two instalments: February and October.
The usual payment methods (online or in person) remain.
Electric vehicles remain exempt.
The month of registration no longer influences the tax schedule.

Practical Examples

Car with €90 IUC - one-time payment by the end of February.
Car with €150 IUC - one-time payment of €75 in February and €75 in October.
Motorcycle with €40 IUC - one-time payment by February.

What Happens if You Miss Its Deadline?

Missing the IUC deadline can be costly. Failure to pay the IUC (Tax on Vehicles) within the deadline may result in a fine of 15% to 50% of the outstanding amount, with a minimum of €50 (or €25 if paid voluntarily after the deadline). In addition to the fines, daily interest and costs may be applied in the event of coercive collection.

Furthermore, unpaid taxes prevent the mandatory inspection from being carried out and, if continued non-compliance occurs, may lead to the immobilisation or impoundment of the vehicle.

To avoid any surprises, it's best to schedule a reminder with the payment deadline to fulfil this obligation, which in 2026 will be 28 February. If you have a vehicle registered in your name, mark this date on your calendar.

Conclusion

The IUC (Single Road Tax) will undergo changes starting in 2026. The goal of this reform is to simplify tax collection for both taxpayers and the Portuguese Tax Authority. From then on, the payment schedule will be unified, applying equally to all taxpayers, and it will remain unchanged even if a new vehicle is purchased.

In addition, certain exemptions from IUC may apply. If you believe you might qualify, it is advisable to review the criteria on the Tax Portal or consult your local tax office.

Have questions about your IUC or other taxes? Our team are ready to help you.

Portugal Short-Term Rentals (Alojamento Local): A Launch & Compliance Guide for Non-Resident Owners

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:58:13 GMT

Miguel Pinto | Certified Accountant

Nuno Rodrigues | Certified Accountant

Portugal continues to attract international investors who value its quality of life , stable property market and favourable climate. Many foreign buyers acquire homes for future relocation or occasional personal use, but are increasingly seeking to maximise their investment by renting them out on a short-term basis when they are not in residence.

This model - known locally as Alojamento Local (AL) - allows owners to generate income while keeping the property available for personal holidays or eventual settlement. Yet, to operate legally and efficiently, non-resident owners must ensure that their AL activity is properly registered and compliant with Portuguese tax and licensing rules.

Below, we highlight the key points every foreign owner should understand before offering a property on Airbnb, Booking.com or similar platforms.

Registering the Activity

The first step is to obtain a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF) . Non-residents outside the EU or EEA must also appoint a fiscal representative to handle their communication with the Portuguese Tax Authority ( Autoridade Tributária – AT).

Once this is done, owners must file a start-of-activity declaration ( Declaração de Início de Atividade ) with the AT, indicating the relevant business code ( CAE ), usually 55201 – Alojamento mobilado para turistas . At this stage, it is also necessary to provide a valid bank account (IBAN) . It is advisable to use an account exclusively dedicated to the activity , ensuring that all related payments and receipts are made through it, as this facilitates clear accounting records and compliance verification.

This registration formally establishes the owner as a service provider of short-term accommodation and enables the issuance of invoices and tax filings.

Choosing the right VAT (IVA) and accounting regime is equally important. The small-business exemption offers simplicity and relief from charging VAT, yet it prevents recovery of input VAT on expenses such as renovation or furnishings. The standard regime , on the other hand, allows for VAT deduction, though it requires regular filings. A qualified accountant can help determine which option best fits each investor’s profile.

Obtaining the Alojamento Local Licence

No property may be operated as a short-term rental without proper AL registration. The process is conducted via the Balcão do Empreendedor online portal and managed at the local Municipal Council .

Once the registration is approved, an RNAL number is issued and must appear in all listings, promotional materials, and signage on the property.

However, two important caveats must be considered:

Municipal restrictions on new licences
Some municipalities, especially Lisbon , have suspended the issuance of new AL licences in certain areas — known as areas of containment or zones where the local supply of AL is closely regulated. For example, Lisbon extended its suspension of new AL registrations in many freguesias, pending the adoption of an updated municipal regulation.
Porto and other urban municipalities may also adopt restrictive criteria. Applicants must always check the municipality’s AL map/zoning rules before planning to obtain a new licence.
Transfer of existing licences
Recent legal changes have reintroduced the transferability of AL licences. As of August 2024, a licence tied to a property can generally be transferred to a new owner when the property is sold, even if new licence issuance is suspended.
That said, the municipal regulations may impose exceptions or limitations (for instance, in areas of containment) that restrict transfer or impose conditions.
Practically, when negotiating a purchase, one must verify that the existing AL registration is valid, current, and eligible for transfer and ensure that the municipality accepts the change of ownership under its local rules.

Because of these restrictions, acquiring a property that already holds a valid AL licence can offer a significant advantage in markets where new licences are constrained. But it’s not a guaranteed solution - municipal rules must still permit transfer in the relevant location.

Beyond the Licence: Operational Compliance

Operating an AL involves a few additional registrations and routine obligations:

Guest reporting (SIBA): all foreign guests must be reported to the immigration database within three working days of both arrival and departure.
Tourist tax: many municipalities require the collection of a per-night municipal tax (for example, €4 per person in Lisbon), which must be declared and paid monthly.
Safety and consumer protection: the property must hold civil liability insurance, maintain minimum safety equipment, and display both a physical and electronic complaints book .

These obligations, though administrative in nature, are monitored closely — non-compliance may result in fines or suspension of the AL licence.

Understanding VAT and Income Tax

Short-term accommodation in Portugal benefits from a reduced VAT rate (6% on the mainland). When cleaning fees are part of the accommodation service, the same rate applies; when invoiced separately, they may fall under the standard 23% rate.

For personal owners , income from AL is taxed under Category B of the Personal Income Tax (IRS) , either under the simplified regime or organised accounting. Corporate owners are taxed under Corporate Income Tax (IRC) .

In both cases, payments made to non-resident entities (such as Airbnb or Booking.com commissions) must be reported through Modelo 30 , and VAT on these services must be self-assessed under the reverse-charge mechanism .

Invoicing and Digital Compliance

Each booking requires the issuance of an invoice to the guest, not to the platform. The invoice must include the total price of accommodation and, where applicable, cleaning and tourist-tax amounts.

For occasional hosts, the Tax Authority’s online invoicing portal may be used; frequent operators or management companies must use certified invoicing software that automatically generates QR and ATCUD codes and reports transactions to the AT.

Even when platforms collect payments directly from guests, the obligation to issue invoices and declare income remains with the registered operator.

Owner or Management company: Who Should Invoice?

Many non-resident owners appoint local management companies. Depending on the contract, two models are common:

Agency model – the manager acts on behalf of the owner, issuing invoices in the owner’s name and charging a management fee (subject to standard VAT). In this case, the Alojamento Local licence (RNAL) remains in the owner’s name , as the owner is the official operator of the activity, while the manager provides support services.
Lease model – the manager rents the property and operates the AL in its own name, paying fixed rent to the owner. The Alojamento Local licence must therefore be registered to the manager , as the entity carrying out the short-term rental activity. The lease agreement should expressly authorise the use of the property for AL purposes ; otherwise, the municipality may refuse to register the licence in the manager’s name. In this model, the owner’s income is treated as rental income , usually exempt from VAT under Article 9(29) of the VAT Code, while the operator assumes full AL responsibility.

Clarifying which structure applies is crucial to avoid inconsistent VAT or income-tax reporting.

Practical Considerations for Platform-Based Rentals

Platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com typically collect payment from guests and transfer the balance to the owner after deducting their commission.

The owner must still issue an invoice to the guest for the full amount and account for VAT appropriately. Commission payments to non-resident platforms trigger reverse-charge VAT and Modelo 30 filing duties, even when the owner benefits from the VAT exemption regime.

A Solid Compliance Foundation

While online sources can provide general orientation, the safest approach is always to cross-check requirements with Turismo de Portugal , the Tax Authority , and the relevant Municipal Council .

Portugal’s regulatory framework for short-term rentals is clear but increasingly rigorous, especially in major cities. Ensuring that registrations, invoicing, and tax obligations are correctly handled from the outset prevents costly regularisations later.

Conclusion

Running an Alojamento Local can be a rewarding way to make the most of your Portuguese property, combining personal enjoyment with a reliable income stream. But like any business activity, it requires proper structuring, registration and ongoing compliance.

At Belion Portugal , our team assists non-resident property owners with the complete AL setup, from fiscal registration and municipal licensing to invoicing, VAT and annual filings.

If you own or plan to purchase a property in Portugal and wish to explore how to optimise its use through compliant short-term rentals, our team will be pleased to guide you every step of the way.

How Much Will Rent Increase in Portugal in 2026?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:56:41 GMT

How much will house rent increase in Portugal in 2026? Stay informed about the annual house rent update for 2026.

If you are a landlord and have questions like: Can I raise my tenant's rent? How much can I increase the rent? This post is for you. And if you are a tenant, and you are worried about how much your landlord can raise your rent? What are the legal limits? These questions will be addressed shortly in this post as well.

Can I Raise the Tenant's Rent?

Yes, you can. Each year, the Portuguese real estate market updates rental prices in accordance with the guidelines established under the Novo Regime de Arrendamento Urbano (NRAU) .

How Much Can I Raise My Tenant’s Rent?

Rents in 2026 may be adjusted in line with the legal update coefficient, resulting in an increase of 2.24%. This increase can be applied on 1 January 2026 or at any other time during the year. However, by law, landlords must notify tenants at least 30 days in advance.

I Have Never Increased My Tenants' Rent - What Are My Options Now?

If you have never raised your tenants' rent, you may be able to apply an increase greater than the 2.24% set for 2026. In this case, you can adjust the rent using the cumulative coefficient from the past three years, which exceeds 11%.

I'm a Commercial Landlord — Can I Apply This Rent Update Too?

Yes, you can. This adjustment applies to both residential and commercial rental properties, as well as other leased spaces, in rural and urban areas.

How Are Annual Rent Increases Regulated?

For 2026, Notice No 23174/2025/2, published on 19 September in Diário da República (Portugal’s official gazette), officially set the maximum rent increase at 2.24%. The notice states:

“…It is hereby made public that the coefficient resulting from the provisions of Article 24(1) of Law No. 6/2006 of 27 February and Article 11(5) of Decree-Law No. 294/2009 of 13 October is 1.0224 .”

How Are Annual Rent Increases Calculated?

The rent adjustment coefficient is determined by the variation in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) over the preceding 12 months, based on data available as of 31 August each year. This calculation is carried out by INE - Instituto Nacional de Estatística, Portugal’s equivalent of the UK’s ONS - Office for National Statistics, or the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

It is important to note that this house rent update is not mandatory. The landlord may choose whether or not to apply the rent increase.

What We Recommend

It is advisable to consult the tenancy agreement to check whether there is a specific clause regarding rent updates. In the absence of such a clause, the newly published coefficient should be applied and communicated to the tenant, along with the updated rent amount, with at least 30 days’ prior notice .

Need Help Managing Your Rental Properties?

If you're a landlord and need help managing your properties, reach out to us - we're here to help.

House Insurance in Portugal: Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:33:49 GMT

Author:

Nádia Lavaredas | Property Manager

Imagine coming home after a long day at work. You are ready to relax, but as soon as you open the door, you find the living room flooded; a pipe burst while you were away. Or picture this: you return from holidays to discover the door broken and half your belongings gone.

These situations are not rare, and they can quickly turn into nightmares… unless you have house insurance in Portugal.

Why You Need House Insurance in Portugal

Many people see house insurance as just another formality, something required by law or banks. But in reality, home insurance in Portugal is a safety net that protects you against unexpected events such as fires, floods, and burglaries. Without it, you could be facing thousands of euros in repairs, replacements, and liability costs, not to mention sleepless nights.

In Lisbon , as in many cities around the world, accidents in apartments are quite common. A single water leak can damage not only your property but also your neighbour’s ceiling. With the right home insurance in Lisbon, you won’t be left to deal with these expenses alone.

Is House Insurance Mandatory in Portugal?

Yes! Portuguese law requires all apartment owners in condominiums to have at least fire insurance. However, most homeowners choose more complete coverage, known as multi-risk house insurance, because it protects not only the walls of the property but also furniture, appliances, electronics, and personal belongings .

But perhaps the greatest benefit of house insurance is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that, whatever happens, you have support to repair damage, replace items or simply reduce the financial impact gives you a sense of freedom that is hard to put into words. You can enjoy your house, go on holidays or even rent out your property , confident that if something goes wrong, you will not be left to deal with the consequences on your own.

Types of House Insurance in Portugal

When looking for the best house insurance in Portugal, you’ll come across several policy options:

Fire Insurance

The minimum legal requirement for properties in condominiums.

Multi-risk House Insurance

The most popular and complete option, covering fire, water damage, natural disasters, burglary, liability, and household contents.

Contents-only Insurance

Focused on movable goods and personal belongings such as furniture, appliances, and electronics.

Additional Coverage

Tailored options for specific needs, including jewellery, works of art, home assistance, or legal protection.

Not sure which policy fits your needs? Our team can guide you in choosing the best house insurance in Portugal, tailored to your situation.

How to Choose the Best House Insurance Policy

Choosing home insurance in Portugal is not just about finding the cheapest option. It’s about making sure the coverage fits your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

The value of your property and contents.
Whether the home is your main residence, a rental, or short-term accommodation (like Airbnb).
The risks are specific to your location. For example, house insurance in Lisbon may need stronger coverage for apartment buildings and shared spaces.
Additional protections, such as liability coverage, are needed to avoid disputes with neighbours or tenants.

Comparing quotes and understanding the small print is essential. A basic policy might look attractive until a serious incident happens, and then you’ll wish you had invested in broader coverage.

House Insurance in Lisbon: What to Know

Lisbon has one of the highest concentrations of apartment buildings in Portugal, which means risks are often shared between neighbours. Multi-risk house insurance in Lisbon usually includes liability coverage for water leaks, fire damage, or accidents that could impact other apartments or condominium areas.

If you are buying or renting a property in Lisbon , make sure your insurance also covers:

Common areas such as roofs, staircases, and elevators.
Short-term rental activity (if you plan to host tourists).
Higher-value personal belongings like electronics, jewellery, or art.

If you are buying or renting property in Lisbon, we can help you review your insurance options and ensure your home is fully protected.

FAQs about House Insurance in Portugal

Is house insurance mandatory in Portugal?

Yes, fire insurance is required by law for apartment owners in condominiums.

How much does house insurance cost in Portugal?

On average, basic policies start at €100–€150 per year, while multi-risk home insurance in Portugal can range between €200 and €650 annually, depending on coverage and property value.

Can foreigners buy house insurance in Portugal?

Yes, both residents and non-residents can take out home insurance, whether they live in the country or own property as an investment.

What is covered by multi-risk home insurance?

Multi-risk policies typically include fire, water damage, natural disasters, theft, liability, and household contents.

Peace of Mind Is Priceless

In the end, home insurance in Portugal is like wearing a seatbelt: it won’t prevent accidents, but it will make all the difference when they happen. Protecting your property is not just about walls and roofs; it’s about safeguarding your financial stability, your memories, and the well-being of your family.

Because protecting your house is not just about walls and roofs. It is about safeguarding memories, stability and, above all, the well-being of those who live there.

Protecting your home in Portugal starts with the right information and the right policy. Contact us today to get expert guidance on house insurance in Lisbon and across Portugal.

Portugal Golden Visa 2025: Law No. 56/2023 – Key Changes & New Investment Rules

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:18:46 GMT

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains one of the world’s most prominent residency-by-investment programmes. But as of 2025, the legal framework has evolved significantly.

For years, Portugal’s Golden Visa programme has served as a gateway for non-EU nationals to secure residence — and eventually citizenship — through investment. However, with the enactment of Law No. 56/2023 , substantial changes have been introduced. Whether you’re considering your first application or seeking clarity on the validity of a prior real estate investment, this article will guide you through the updated Golden Visa landscape in 2025.

Interested in Portugal’s Golden Visa? Get in touch with us!

What Has Changed Under Portugal’s Golden Visa Programme?

The most significant reform came with the entry into force of Law No. 56/2023 in October 2023 . This legislation redefined the types of qualifying investments and marked a policy shift, prioritising long-term economic and social impact over passive capital inflows.

The following popular investment routes were removed from the programme:

Real estate acquisitions of €500,000 or more.
Purchases and renovations of properties over 30 years old or located in designated urban rehabilitation areas, with a minimum combined investment of €350,000.
Capital transfers of €1.5 million or more.

These exclusions represent a fundamental shift in the scheme’s orientation, prompting many to ask:

Are Previous Golden Visa Investments Still Valid After 2023?

Yes. Law No. 56/2023 confirms that the amendments are not retroactive; residence permits already issued, as well as pending applications or family reunification requests made under the previous framework, remain valid.

Applications submitted before the legal changes, including those pending municipal approval, will continue to be processed under the former regime. However, renewals of these permits will now fall under a new category: the Immigrant Entrepreneur Residence Permit .

What Is the Immigrant Entrepreneur Residence Permit?

Introduced by Law No. 56/2023 under Article 89 , this permit applies to applicants who invested under the former Golden Visa routes but whose renewals now follow a distinct regime.

Key differences include:

Validity : Renewals are valid for 3 years (as opposed to the 2-year term under Article 90-A ).
Investment Maintenance : There is no requirement to maintain the original investment over time.
Fees : Issuance fees are significantly reduced (€181.50 per applicant).
Minimum Stay : Holders must spend a minimum of 21 days in Portugal over each 3 years (i.e., approximately 7 days per year).

Please note : Renewals must be carried out in person with the Portuguese authorities. This mechanism protects the acquired rights of good-faith investors while aligning their residency status with the government’s current immigration policy.

Thinking about applying for Portugal’s Golden Visa? We’re here to help.

Which Investments Still Qualify for the Golden Visa in 2025?

Following the legislative reforms, the current Golden Visa investment routes focus on innovation, culture, and job creation. Eligible options now include:

€500,000 in scientific research conducted by institutions within the national science or technology system.
€250,000 in support of artistic production or preservation of cultural heritage, through qualified public or private institutions.
€500,000 in collective investment or venture capital funds regulated under Portuguese law, provided that at least 60% of investments are made in Portuguese companies, with a minimum maturity of five years.
Incorporation or expansion of a company that creates and maintains at least ten full-time jobs.
€500,000 capital transfer to establish or reinforce a company’s share capital, combined with the creation or maintenance of jobs for at least three years.

Investments in low-density areas may benefit from reduced thresholds. These are defined as regions with fewer than 100 inhabitants per km² or a GDP per capita under 75% of the national average, covering much of mainland Portugal, excluding most coastal regions and the islands of Madeira and the Azores.

Golden Visa Fees in 2025: What Are the Costs?

Administrative fees are updated annually, most recently in March 2025. These are payable to AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) :

Initial residence permit:

Processing: €618.60
Issuance: €6,179.40

Renewals (current investment routes):

Processing: €618.60
Issuance: €3,089.70

Renewals (former routes converted to Immigrant Entrepreneur):

Processing: €618.80
Issuance: €181.50

CPLP nationals (Portuguese-speaking countries) : Issuance fee reduced to €58.10

All fees apply to each applicant, including dependents under family reunification.

Can Golden Visa Holders Apply for Portuguese Citizenship or Permanent Residency ?

Yes. However, the timing differs:

Permanent Residency : The five-year qualifying period begins from the date of the initial residence permit.
Citizenship : The five years is calculated from the day after payment of the application analysis fee, assuming the permit is subsequently granted.

Pending Legislation : A proposal under discussion (expected by September 2025) may extend the citizenship timeline :

7 years for CPLP nationals.
10 years for all other applicants.

In either case, applicants must fulfil general eligibility criteria, including proof of A2-level proficiency in Portuguese .

Need help with your Golden Visa application? Just reach out.

Looking Ahead

Portugal’s Golden Visa remains an active and strategic route to Portuguese residence and, ultimately, citizenship. The 2023 reforms under Law No. 56/2023 recalibrated the scheme, shifting focus from real estate to investments aligned with national development goals: science, culture, innovation, and employment.

Despite the removal of older routes, investor rights have been preserved, and a clear framework now supports both legacy applicants and new investors committed to Portugal’s long-term economic and social priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Portugal’s Golden Visa still available in 2025?

Yes. Although real estate and capital transfer options were eliminated, new routes remain available, focusing on science, culture, and employment.

Can I renew my Golden Visa if I invested in real estate before 2023 ?

Yes. Your permit remains valid, but it will be reclassified under the Immigrant Entrepreneur category upon renewal.

What are the current fees?

As of March 2025, fees range from €181.50 to €6,179.40, depending on the type of permit and the stage of the application.

Can Golden Visa holders still apply for citizenship?

Yes, currently after five years. However, the law may soon require a longer period, depending on nationality.

Get in touch with us! Our multidisciplinary team is ready to support you.

Portuguese Citizenship for Newborns: How to Register and What Parents Need to Know

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 12:13:13 GMT

Understanding how the registration process works in Portugal is essential for expat families or foreign parents looking to register a child born in Portuguese territory and explore options for Portuguese citizenship .

Introduction:

If you are a foreign parent living in Portugal and recently welcomed a newborn, you might be wondering whether your child qualifies for Portuguese citizenship, and what that means for your own legal status. In this guide, we’ll explain how the registration process works, which legal paths are available, and what steps you need to take to secure your family’s future in Portugal.

Need help with your child’s citizenship? Just reach out.

How to Register a Newborn’s Birth in Portugal

When a child is born in Portugal, parents must register the birth through the Civil Registry (Instituto dos Registos e Notariado – IRN), which is free of charge and can be done either online or in person.

The documents required to register a newborn in Portugal are:

A birth certificate is issued by the hospital where the child was born.
Parents’ identification documents.
If applicable, a marriage certificate or proof of legal partnership.

Can a Baby Born in Portugal Get Citizenship?

To provide accurate guidance to the reader, reference must be made to Portuguese legislation. In this context, we refer to the Portuguese Nationality Law, formally known as Law No. 37/81 of 3 October , which has undergone several amendments.

Regarding the right of a child born in Portugal to acquire Portuguese citizenship, this will depend on specific conditions. According to Article 1, No. 1, e), f) and g) , a child of foreign parents born in Portugal may obtain Portuguese citizenship if:

At least one parent was born in Portugal and was residing here, regardless of possessing a residence permit, at the time of the child’s birth.
At least one parent has been legally residing in Portugal , or has lived here, regardless of residence status, for at least one year before the child’s birth. ( Note: This provision may be revoked in September 2025 under the proposed amendment to the nationality law , which would increase the required period of residence to three years. )
Be stateless if not granted Portuguese citizenship.

As outlined in Portuguese law, children born in Portugal to foreign nationals have significant opportunities to acquire Portuguese citizenship. Notably, Portuguese nationality law does not require parents to hold permanent residence status .

Contact us! We can help you with your Portuguese citizenship application.

What If the Parents Don’t Meet Residency Requirements?

In a scenario where the expat parent does not meet the residency requirements, Portuguese citizenship may still be granted later through the naturalisation route outlined in Portuguese nationality law.

This path is outlined in Article 6, No. 2 of the Portuguese Nationality Law ( Law No. 37/81 of 3 October ), which provides that minors born in Portugal may acquire Portuguese citizenship through naturalisation . To be eligible for Portuguese citizenship upon application, one of the following requirements must be met:

One parent has lived in Portugal, irrespective of residence status, for at least five years immediately before the citizenship application.
One parent holds legal residence in Portugal.
The minor has attended at least one year of pre-school, primary, secondary, or vocational education in Portugal .

Can Foreign Parents Get Residency or Citizenship in Portugal?

Expat parents whose child was born in Portugal do not automatically acquire Portuguese citizenship. However, there are several alternative routes available for parents to obtain Portuguese citizenship or a residence permit. These options are especially relevant for expat families planning to settle in Portugal long-term .

How Can a Parent Apply for Portuguese Citizenship?

As a foreign national with a child who holds Portuguese citizenship, you may apply for Portuguese citizenship yourself. It is important to note that this is not an automatic entitlement and is subject to assessment by the relevant Portuguese authorities.

Obtaining Portuguese citizenship as a parent is provided for in Article 6, No. 8 of Law No. 37/81 of 3 October , which allows foreign parents of Portuguese citizens to apply for citizenship through the naturalisation route who have resided in Portugal for at least five years before the application, irrespective of holding a residence permit, provided that filiation was established at the time of the child’s birth.

How to Get a Residence Permit in Portugal as a Parent

When the expat parents of a Portuguese child do not fulfil the requirements previously outlined to hold Portuguese citizenship, the Portuguese law offers an alternative path for these expats to have a residence permit. This alternative option is defined in Article 122, No. 1, k) of Law No. 23/2007 of 4 July . For the parent to acquire a Portuguese residence permit, they need to meet the following requirements:

Have minor children who are either resident in Portugal or hold Portuguese citizenship.
Exercise effective parental responsibilities, including the provision of support and access to education.

This option allows the parents of a child born in Portugal to reside in the country, and the residence permit grants foreign parents the opportunity to live and work in Portugal .

After a certain period, a foreign parent with continuous legal residence may gain further opportunities, including the ability to apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Want to apply for Portuguese citizenship? We are here to help you.

Conclusion:

To summarise, a child born in Portugal to expat or foreign parents may acquire Portuguese citizenship under certain conditions, most notably if one of the foreign parents has been residing legally in Portuguese territory. If the requirements are not fulfilled at birth, the child may still become eligible for citizenship later through the naturalisation process.

Foreign parents also have access to multiple pathways for obtaining Portuguese citizenship and residence permits. It is advisable to consult with legal experts specialising in immigration and nationality law in Portugal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a baby born in Portugal get citizenship automatically?

Not always. While some children born in Portugal can acquire citizenship at birth, it depends on factors like the parents’ residency status and time spent in the country.

2. Do parents need a residence permit for their child to get Portuguese citizenship?

No, Portuguese law allows children to acquire citizenship even if the parents don’t hold a residence permit, under certain conditions.

3. Can parents apply for citizenship if their child is Portuguese?

Yes. Parents of a Portuguese child may apply for citizenship through naturalisation if they have resided in Portugal for at least five years, even without a residence permit.

4. What if the child doesn’t qualify for citizenship at birth?

In that case, the child may still apply for Portuguese citizenship later via the naturalisation route, especially if they study in Portugal or if the parents meet certain residency conditions.

5. Can foreign parents stay in Portugal if their child has Portuguese nationality?

Yes. Portuguese law offers a residence permit option for parents who actively care for a child who is either a legal resident or a Portuguese citizen.

Get in touch with us! Our multidisciplinary team is ready to support you.

Own an Alojamento Local in Portugal? Your License Could Be at Risk

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:07:23 GMT

Over 70,000 local lodging (Alojamento Local) units are at risk of having their licenses cancelled. This could result in the loss of their short-term rental registration in Portugal.

This occurs when property owners fail to submit civil liability insurance, as required by Decree-Law No. 76/2024 of 23 October. This new AL regulation came into effect in March of this year. It aims to monitor and gather accurate information on the number of local lodging units in Portugal.

Own a guesthouse in Portugal but find the language a challenge? Get in touch - we can help you manage your property with confidence.

According to a report by Diário de Notícias, the deadline for submitting the required proof is drawing to a close. From mid-June onwards, local councils are expected to begin issuing formal cancellation notices to non-compliant property owners.

In addition, the Associação do Alojamento Local em Portugal (ALEP) has stated that landlords must respond within 3 to 10 days once notified by local councils. They must demonstrate that they hold valid civil liability insurance for their short-term rental property . Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of their AL registration.

Please note that, although the new AL rules coming into force in March, the government has not publicly clarified the definitive legal deadline for submitting the required proof.

Portugal has 124,000 active registrations in the Registo Nacional de Estabelecimentos de Alojamento Local (RNAL). So far, 50,000 have submitted proof of civil liability insurance via the government portal. Estimates suggest that between 30,000 and 50,000 AL licences may currently be inactive.

The new legislation requires this insurance to be submitted annually to cover damage caused by guests. The average annual cost of this short-term rental insurance for a flat is approximately €80.

Important note : Municipalities with more than 1,000 active AL registrations have until November to decide whether they will implement their own local accommodation regulations . This applies to municipalities in Lisbon , Porto and the Algarve. In the Algarve, where 40% of the AL sector is concentrated, the majority of property owners are foreign nationals. Many face language barriers and may find it more difficult to stay informed about changes in AL legislation.

This new measure will help determine how many AL licences are currently in use. It will also support the updating of Portugal's local accommodation database. This contributes to the development of public policies based on accurate data.

Are you a local accommodation owner in Portugal? Do you need support managing your property? Get in touch with us- we are here to help with your AL registration needs.

Residence Permits in Portugal Now Valid Until 15 October 2025

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:30:17 GMT

A new legal change has just come into effect in Portugal. As of 1 July 2025, Decree-Law No. 85-B/2025 is officially in force, introducing significant changes for foreign residents in Portugal: residence permits that expired between 22 February 2020 and 30 June 2025 are now considered valid until 15 October 2025.

This measure affects a large number of people and provides additional time to prepare the necessary documentation and move forward with the renewal process.

Who Is Covered Under the New Rules?

The extension applies to foreign nationals legally residing in Portugal whose residence permits expired during the previously mentioned period. However, it is important to note that the decree is valid only within Portugal and in the resident’s home country.

If your residence permit is included in this time window, that means it will expire, so there is a need to renew it. The process must be initiated through the online platform created by AIMA, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum . After registering, applicants will receive email notifications with instructions on how to proceed. A fee, set by the Portuguese government, will apply.

How the Renewal Process Works

Depending on your situation, the steps may vary. If your passport and biometric data are current, you can complete the process entirely online. Otherwise, you will be asked to attend an in-person appointment to update your biometrics and provide any missing documentation.

One crucial point : the application only moves forward after you pay the applicable AIMA fee. Once you receive the invoice, it is essential to make the payment quickly, as delays may be seen as a decision to withdraw your renewal request.

Fees Vary by Permit Type

Not all residence permits cost the same to renew. For example, if you are applying through the Portuguese Golden Visa programme , the current renewal fee is €4,050.30. Other permits may involve lower fees, depending on the specifics of your residence status. Currently, the lowest AIMA fee is €45.30.

What Happens After 15 October?

The law also includes a transitional rule to cover cases where AIMA has not processed an application by the deadline. According to Article 2, paragraph 2 of the decree:

From 15 October 2025 onwards, proof of payment for the renewal request — issued by AIMA — will serve as valid documentation. This proof remains valid for 180 days from the date it was issued.

In other words, if you have already paid the renewal fee but have not heard back from AIMA by 15 October, you are still covered for another six months, giving you extra time to see your residency situation regularised.

Why It is Worth Getting Professional Support

With limited time and a potentially high number of applicants, early preparation is advisable. Consulting with an immigration lawyer in Portugal can help you avoid delays, ensure your documents are complete, and navigate the system with less stress.

Need support with your residence permit renewal?

We work closely with trusted legal professionals and can connect you with the right experts for your case.

If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out — we are here to support you however we can.

Portugal to Introduce Significant Reforms to Citizenship and Immigration Laws

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 16:32:56 GMT

Following the Portuguese elections on 18 May , the government wants to introduce major reforms to the citizenship and immigration laws.

With that in mind, the Council of Ministers held a meeting yesterday, 23 June, during which a series of proposals concerning immigration and citizenship were approved.

Immigration was a major issue during the 2025 Portuguese elections, driven by the sharp rise in the number of immigrants in Portugal. In 2023, the foreign resident population surpassed one million, increasing by a third compared to the previous year. This surge, combined with a lack of response from the responsible authorities, such as AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo) , fuelled public debate.

The proposals will be presented and discussed in Parliament later this week.

The most significant changes to the citizenship and immigration laws are highlighted below.

Residence requirement for citizenship extended

The new government will propose to Parliament that applicants for Portuguese citizenship through residency, who currently need to reside legally in Portugal for five years, will instead be required to do so for seven to ten years. A seven-year requirement will apply to citizens of countries where Portuguese is an official language, such as Brasil, Angola, Moçambique, Cabo Verde, and others. A ten-year requirement will apply to citizens of all other countries.

This new residency requirement begins to count from the date the residence permit is obtained, as stated by António Leitão Amaro, Minister of the Presidency of Portugal.

Other important changes include stricter requirements concerning knowledge of the Portuguese language, culture, political system, and democratic values. This knowledge will be assessed through examinations. Currently, only knowledge of the Portuguese language is required, either demonstrated by passing the CIPLE exam or by completing a 150-hour PLA course .

In addition, the citizenship application should be accompanied by a personal and solemn declaration of adherence to the democratic rule of law.

Concerning the applicants' criminal records, the current legislation requires that applicants have not been convicted of a crime punishable in Portugal by a prison sentence of more than 3 years, and this new proposal wants to make citizenship unfeasible for those convicted of any custodial sentence.

Regarding individuals born in Portugal to at least one foreign parent, that parent must have legally resided in the country for a minimum of three years; otherwise, the child will not be granted Portuguese citizenship at birth. Besides, the parents must formally express their wish for the child to acquire Portuguese citizenship, as citizenship will no longer be granted automatically.

Loss of citizenship for immigrants sentenced to five years in prison

This proposal is one of the most controversial proposals of this new government. It consists of a mechanism for losing Portuguese citizenship for those who will be condemned to at least five years in prison.

This mechanism will apply only to naturalised citizens who have held Portuguese nationality for less than ten years, excluding citizens by origin. It will always be applied as an ancillary penalty, imposed by a judge following legal proceedings, based on a case-by-case assessment of the seriousness and circumstances, and only for crimes of a particularly serious nature. For example, crimes against the Portuguese state or serious offences against individuals, such as murder and rape.

Fast-track scheme to attract international teachers and students

Regarding job-seeker visas, when someone wishes to come to Portugal to work without an employment contract or a job offer, the scheme will remain in place, but only for highly qualified positions. The roles covered will be defined by a government directive.

It will be developed in partnership with higher education institutions and their representative organisations. A proposal similar to the one agreed with Portuguese companies — the Green Lane agreement — was formally signed on 1 April 2025 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This Green Lane is characterised by the granting of work visas within 20 days to foreign nationals contracted by Portuguese companies based outside Portuguese territory.

In the case of higher education institutions, the aim is to attract foreign investors, professors, and students to Portugal, with AIMA establishing a dedicated department to handle these visas.

What will change in family reunification in Portugal ?

This new proposal introduces a requirement of at least two years of residency in Portugal to proceed with the family reunification process. Also, only minors can achieve this status in Portuguese territory. Other family members need to be outside Portuguese territory for their request to be considered.

The criteria will increase; they are: adequate accommodation, sufficient means of subsistence.

Integration requirements for applicants and their families, including language learning and knowledge of Portuguese constitutional values.

CPLP residence permit regime

The government intends to maintain the exemption from an AIMA opinion for these visas, but a report from the Internal Security System's Border Coordination Unit (UCFE) is now required.

CPLP residence permits in Portugal now require a prior consular visa and can no longer be requested with a tourist visa or visa exemption.

Creation of a foreigners and borders unit within the Portuguese police

The creation of this unit had already been discussed in Parliament under the previous government, elected in 2024 .

This new unit will be responsible for controlling entry at airport borders, inspecting foreigners and immigrants in the entire Portuguese territory, and carrying out the removal of foreign nationals who do not comply with the rules.

It will be called the National Unit for Foreigners and Borders (UNEF) and will operate within the Public Security Police (PSP).

Other proposed changes to the citizenship law

There are other reforms that the Portuguese government wants to implement, such as:

Abolition of the extraordinary naturalisation programme for descendants of Portuguese Sephardic Jews.
New restrictions on the naturalisation process through Portuguese ancestry are limited to great-grandchildren.

For tailored advice regarding nationality or residency applications, considering these proposed changes, please contact us. We are here to offer you our help.

I Own a Second Property in Portugal – How to Turn It Into Passive Income?

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 16:37:56 GMT

Author:

Nádia Lavaredas | Property Assistant & Commercial Manager

For many individuals, owning a second property is the result of a carefully planned investment, a family inheritance, or a significant life change. However, once the property is acquired, the crucial question becomes: How can real estate ownership be efficiently and securely monetised?

An unoccupied property inevitably incurs ongoing costs, including property taxes , maintenance fees, insurance, and condominium charges. Nevertheless, if managed correctly, it also represents a significant opportunity for both capital appreciation and a steady income stream.

This is why owning a second home in Portugal can be a smart investment.

What Are the Best Options for a Second Property in Portugal?

Long-term Rental

This option is ideal for real estate investors seeking financial stability and a predictable monthly income. With less frequent tenant turnover and reduced management complexity, it is particularly attractive for absentee owners or investors looking for steady cash flow.

Short-term Rental (e.g., Vacation Rentals or Airbnb)

Short-term rental, also known as Alojamento Local (AL), is another viable option. For property owners, this approach can generate higher returns, particularly in prime tourist destinations or urban centres. That said, it requires more active management, including frequent guest turnover, cleaning, maintenance, and compliance with local regulations.

Mixed Use – Personal Use Combined with Rental Income

For owners who wish to enjoy their property during certain periods, renting it out when not in use can balance lifestyle needs with financial benefits, optimising the overall return on investment.

Do you own a second property in Portugal? Are you looking for professional guidance to maximise financial gains from your real estate investment?

Belion Partners has extensive expertise in the Portuguese real estate market. We offer a wide range of services, including property management , short-term rentals, property search , and even real estate legal support through our trusted law firm in our network.

If you need any of these services, feel free to reach out—we are here to help!

Key Considerations for Effective Management of Real Estate

Regulatory Compliance and Licensing:

Particularly crucial for short-term rentals (AL), where local laws may impose specific licensing requirements and operational restrictions.

For more information, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team is ready to help you.

Comprehensive Tenant Management:

This includes drafting and managing rental agreements, securing deposits, ensuring timely maintenance, and providing support to tenants or guests to foster good relationships and reduce vacancy rates.

Market-Driven Rent Optimisation:

Regularly assessing and adjusting rental rates is essential for maintaining competitiveness in the dynamic real estate market. This strategic approach not only maximises income potential but also minimises vacancy periods, ensuring properties remain occupied and profitable. By analysing market trends and tenant demand, property managers can optimise pricing, attract quality tenants, and protect the landlord’s investment.

Legal Protection and Asset Security:

Ensuring that all contracts and operations comply with the law protects the owner’s investment and mitigates risks related to tenant disputes or property damage.

When Time or Expertise Is Limited, Professional Help Makes All the Difference

Managing a second property, especially from a distance or alongside other commitments, can quickly become overwhelming. Engaging a specialised property management company offers peace of mind through transparent, diligent administration tailored to maximise the value of your investment.

Such professionals handle everything—from marketing the property and screening tenants to overseeing maintenance and ensuring legal compliance. In addition, we liaise with the condominium , ensuring you reap the benefits without the usual hassles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foreigners rent out property in Portugal?

Yes, foreign property owners can legally rent out their properties in Portugal for both long-term and short-term rentals. However, short-term rentals (Alojamento Local) require proper licensing and registration with local authorities.

What are the tax implications for rental income in Portugal?

Rental income in Portugal is subject to Portuguese personal income tax (IRS) . Both residents and non-residents typically pay a flat rate of 25% on rental income. However, property owners—whether residents or not—can choose to aggregate their rental income for personal income tax purposes. This means that the income will be subject to progressive tax rates, along with other sources of income to which those rates apply. For more details, refer to the withholding tax rates that Portugal applies under personal income tax regulations.

Can I manage my Portugal rental property remotely?

Yes, many foreign owners successfully manage properties remotely using local property management companies. These services handle tenant screening, maintenance, legal compliance, and day-to-day operations for typically 8-15% of rental income.

What ongoing costs should I budget for my rental property?

Beyond mortgage payments, budget for property taxes (IMI), insurance, condominium fees, maintenance, utilities (if included), management fees, and income taxes. These typically represent 20-30% of gross rental income.

Thinking about investing in Portuguese real estate or making the most of your second home? Let’s turn your property into a profitable asset. Get in touch with us—we are here to help!

Portugal Elections 2025: Official Results

Mon, 19 May 2025 15:17:43 GMT

Yesterday, Portugal held its general elections , with the Democratic Alliance (AD) emerging as the winner.

The Democratic Alliance (AD) is a right-wing coalition between the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People’s Party (CDS). They won with 32.7% of the vote, increasing their number of seats to 89. Last year’s election , they won with 29.52% of the vote, securing 79 parliamentary seats.

Although AD has emerged as the winner and will remain the ruling party, they do not have a majority, as at least 116 parliamentary seats are needed to achieve one.

The second and third most-voted parties, the Socialist Party (PS) and CHEGA, a far-right party, are tied, each holding 58 parliamentary seats.

The Socialist Party (PS) received 23.4% of the vote, significantly lower than last year’s 28.63%, resulting in a loss of 20 parliamentary seats. Its leader, Pedro Nuno Santos, announced his resignation on election night after the results were revealed.

The CHEGA party secured 22.6% of the vote, the highest percentage ever achieved by a third political force in Portugal. They gained eight parliamentary seats. It remains uncertain whether they will become the second political force in Portugal, as the emigration votes are yet to be counted, which will determine four additional parliamentary seats.

The Liberal Initiative (IL) gained 5.5% of the vote, gaining nine parliamentary seats - one more than in last year’s elections.

LIVRE , the only left-wing party to have experienced vote growth, secured 4.2% of the vote, winning six parliamentary seats, four more than in last year’s election.

The Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU) is a left-wing coalition between the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) and the Ecologist Party ‘The Greens.’ It has 3% of the vote, resulting in three parliamentary seats – one fewer than in the 2024 Portuguese general elections.

The Left Bloc (BE) has 2% of the vote, securing one parliamentary seat, far fewer than the five seats they won in last year’s elections.

People-Animals-Nature (PAN) , with 1.4% of the vote, retains one parliamentary seat, matching the number of seats they previously held.

Together for the People (JPP) is a new addition to the Portuguese Parliament, a political party that operates mainly in Madeira. It gained one parliamentary seat with 0.3% of the vote.

It is worth noting that abstention decreased during the 2025 general elections in Portugal. Although the figure remains high at 35.62%, its decline is a positive sign that Portuguese citizens are increasingly aware of the importance of political participation.

With only four parliamentary seats yet to be allocated, the official results can already be seen. At this moment, Portugal’s political landscape has no majority political force, meaning governance will depend on negotiations between parties. The far right is currently the second-largest political force in Portugal, tied with the PS.

At Belion Partners , we are closely monitoring the impact of this election on Portugal.

Any questions about Portugal? Feel free to ask.

Curious about Portugal's current political landscape? Here’s an article to explore:

Why did Portugal hold an early general election?

IMI in Portugal: Key Facts, Costs and Tips for Property Owners

Fri, 16 May 2025 11:56:46 GMT

Author:

Isadora Ussene | Liaison Officer

At this time of year, real estate owners know that taxes related to their properties are approaching.

Complying with the tax calendar is crucial to avoid penalties and optimise your fiscal situation .

With that in mind, we have developed this practical guide to assist property owners in Portugal, particularly those who struggle with the Portuguese language and bureaucracy, in gaining a clearer understanding of IMI, or Municipal Property Tax. This ensures that foreign real estate owners can easily access and comprehend this information.

To make things clear, we have structured this insight around the most relevant questions that many people have about IMI in Portugal, ensuring quick and easy access to the information:

What Is IMI?

IMI (Imposto Municipal sobre Imóveis) is a municipal property tax in Portugal , levied annually on real estate properties. The tax is based on the Taxable Asset Value (Valor Patrimonial Tributário - VPT) assigned by the Portuguese Tax Authority (Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira - AT), not on the property's purchase price.

Who Pays IMI?

The owner of a property as of 31 December of the previous year is responsible for paying IMI for that tax year.
Even if the property is sold during the year, the IMI liability remains with the owner on record at the end of the previous year.

When Is IMI Paid?

IMI charges begin at the end of April, with payments due by 31 May. For many real estate owners, this is their only IMI payment of the year. For others, it may be paid in two or three instalments.

Important note : Due to ongoing disruptions in access to the Tax Authority portal following the blackout in the Iberian Peninsula on 28 April, the Portuguese Government has decided to extend the deadline from 31 May to 30 June.

What Are The Deadlines For Paying IMI In Portugal?

31 May

For IMI payments up to €100, the full amount is due by 31 May.

For IMI amounts exceeding €100, 31 May is the deadline for the first instalment.

Those who opt to pay the IMI tax in a single instalment, regardless of the total amount, must also complete payment by 31 May.

If you do not receive the payment notice by then, you should download it from the Finance Portal as soon as possible. If you need help managing your Finance Portal , or if you find Portuguese challenging and struggle to manage it:

Get in touch with us - we can manage your Portuguese Finance Portal for you.

31 August

Individuals whose IMI tax exceeds €500 have the option to pay in three instalments. For those who choose this payment model, the second instalment is due on 31 August.

In addition to the advantages already mentioned, hiring a Property Management service offers several other benefits, making property management more efficient and profitable:

30 November

This is the deadline for the final IMI instalment payment. It applies to those who opt for two instalments (for IMI amounts between €100 and €500) as well as those who opt for three instalments (for IMI amounts exceeding €500), provided that the instalment payment option has been selected.

What Documents and Requirements Are Needed to Pay IMI?

To pay IMI, the details provided in the letter sent by the Tax Authority (AT) are required. In the absence of this letter, payment details can be checked on the Finance Portal. Access to the Finance Portal requires authentication through one of the following methods:

Tax Identification Number (NIF) and
Portal access password.

Important : To access the Finance Portal, you need to complete a pre-registration.

Don't have a registration in the Portuguese Finance Portal?

Contact us – we can handle it for you!

The other methods are only available for those with Portuguese citizenship status; they are:

Digital Mobile Key (CMD).
Citizen Card.

How Can IMI Be Paid?

IMI can be paid through various methods:

Multibanco (ATM) : Use the reference provided in the tax notification under the option “pagamentos ao estado” (payment must be made from a Portuguese bank account).
Online Banking : Pay through a Portuguese bank using the reference number, in the option” pagamentos ao estado”.
Tax Office (Finanças) : In-person payment at an AT branch.
Direct Debit : Set up automatic payments via the AT website (this must be requested with some anticipation and is recommended to be made from a Portuguese bank account, as the Finance Authority does not accept payments from all foreign bank accounts).

Who Is Exempt from IMI?

Some property owners may be eligible for IMI exemption, which can be either permanent or temporary. The exemption depends on the household income and the Taxable Asset Value (VPT) of the property.

The permanent IMI exemption is automatic and granted annually by the Tax Authority. The requirements are:

Household's gross annual income must not exceed 2.3 times the yearly amount of the Social Support Index (IAS), which is €16,824.50 (€522.50 × 14 months × 2.3) in 2025.
Property must be the primary residence, and the VPT must be €67,260.20 or lower.

The temporary IMI exemption lasts for a maximum of three years and is not available to families with outstanding debts to the State. The requirements are:

The property must have a VPT of no more than €125,000 and must be the registered fiscal residence.
The household's annual income must not exceed €153,000.

What Is the Additional Municipal Property Tax AIMI?

AIMI (Adicional ao IMI) is an additional property tax for high-value properties. It applies to:

Individuals who own properties with a combined VPT exceeding €600,000 (the exemption applies for each taxpayer).
Companies that own real estate (no exemption threshold applies).

AIMI Tax Rates:

0.7% for VPT above €600,000 and up to €1 million (individuals).
1% for VPT above €1 million.
1.5% for VPT above €2 million.
0.4% for corporate entities.

When Is The AIMI Tax Paid?

The AIMI tax must be paid annually in September. By the end of August, the tax authorities send the payment document, detailing the settlement, the properties, the ownership shares, the taxable value, and the amount due.

Important Information Regarding IMI:

The IMI tax rate is determined by each municipality, ranging from 0.3% to 0.45% for urban properties.
The VPT is calculated by the AT based on property characteristics, including location, size, and type of use.

We hope this overview clarifies what the IMI tax involves and the key deadlines to meet.

If you need help with your IMI, get in touch with us – we're here to assist you.

Portugal Elections: All You Need to Know

Wed, 14 May 2025 14:43:55 GMT

Portugal will hold a general election next Sunday, 18 May 2025. These early elections follow the rejection of the government's vote of confidence in the Assembly of the Republic on 11 March 2025, which led to the resignation of the current government.

As a reminder, the Portuguese government was elected on 10 March 2024. We have developed an article for those interested in viewing the results of the 2024 Portuguese elections.

For the 2025 Portuguese general elections, we have developed this article to inform voters about how they can exercise their right to vote and the options available to them.

What Is the Election Campaign Period?

The election campaign period started on 4 May and will continue until 16 May, with 17 May dedicated to the day of reflection.

Which Parties Are Running in the 2025 Portugal Elections?

Political parties and coalitions that are running in these elections are the following:

PS
AD (PSD/CDS-PP)
Chega
Iniciativa Liberal
BE
CDU (PCP/PEV)
Livre
PAN
PPM
JPP
Ergue-te
ADN
PCTP/MRPP
Volt Portugal
Nós, Cidadãos!
Nova Direita
RIR
MPT
PTP
Partido Liberal Social

It is important to highlight that some of the parties mentioned will have a limited presence in certain electoral districts.

Which Parties Are Represented in the Portuguese Parliament?

Of the 20 parties and coalitions running in the 2025 general elections in Portugal, eight are currently represented in the Portuguese Parliament. They are:

PS
AD (PSD/CDS-PP)
Chega
Iniciativa Liberal
BE
CDU (PCP/PEV)
Livre

How Many Members of Parliament Are Elected in Each Electoral District?

Each electoral district elects a number of Members of Parliament proportional to its population. Portugal's Parliament has a total of 230 Members of Parliament, distributed among the districts accordingly.

For example, Lisbon , the largest electoral district, elects 48 Members of Parliament (20.9% of the Parliament), followed by Porto with 40 (17.4% of the Parliament). The third-largest is a tie between Braga and Setúbal, each electing 19 Members of Parliament (8.3% of the Parliament each). Closing the top five is Aveiro, which elects 16 Members of Parliament (7% of the Parliament).

Portugal Elections: Who Is Eligible to Vote?

Regarding the upcoming legislative election in Portugal, all Portuguese citizens aged 18 or over have the right to vote, provided they are duly registered in the electoral roll. Brazilian citizens residing in Portugal, who hold a Citizen Card or Identity Card, are also eligible to vote thanks to the Equality of Political Rights statute.

Where Can I Vote in the Portuguese Elections?

There are two options available to know when to vote in the future legislative elections that will happen on 18 May 2025, they are:

Send a text message with the following text : RE [Identification Number] [Date of Birth in the format YYYYMMDD] to the number 3838. This service is free of charge.
On the Electoral Registration Portal : Use your Citizen Card number or Identity Card number and your date of birth in the format YYYYMMDD, or enter your full name and date of birth in the same format.

Portugal Elections: What Will I Need to Vote?

To vote, the voter must provide their name to the polling station and present an official identification document. The Citizen Card or Identity Card is the most common document, but if the voter does not have either, any other official document with a recent photograph may be accepted.

If the voter does not have any identification document, they may be identified by two voters who confirm their identity through a declaration of honour or by unanimous recognition from the polling station members.

What Is the Election Timetable?

The polling stations will be open from 08:00 am to 7:00 pm on the day of the legislative elections. Usually, all Portugal elections follow this schedule.

What Happens After the Election?

Following the closing of polls at 7:00 pm on 18 May, counting will begin immediately. Once the results are announced, the President of Portugal will invite the leader of the party or coalition with the most seats to form a government.

Should no single party secure an outright majority (116 seats), negotiations may lead to coalition agreements or the formation of a minority government. Portugal has increasingly seen coalition governments in recent years as the political landscape has become more fragmented.

As we reach the end of this article, we hope our readers and clients exercise their right to vote with awareness, actively participating in the democratic process – a right that many have fought for. At Belion Partners , we will be closely monitoring the developments that arise from these elections.

If you are curious about Portugal or want to learn more about this country, feel free to reach out to us.

We have also developed some articles to help you learn more about this lovely country we call home. Examples include:

How to Get Portuguese Citizenship

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:13:08 GMT

Portugal offers countless reasons that attract people to live here, and few would dispute this. That’s why so many individuals aspire to get Portuguese citizenship and enjoy the associated benefits, particularly the tax benefits that Portugal provides .

However, when it comes to acquiring a Portuguese passport , certain complications can arise. These include: extensive documentation with tight deadlines requirements; legal representation to submit the paperwork in the IRN (Instituto dos Registos e Notariado) online platform; coordination with AIMA for appointments; securing certifications; proven basic knowledge of Portuguese , and, most importantly, which path does one need to follow to obtain a Portuguese passport?

There's no need to worry. This article was created to provide clarity for those seeking to achieve Portuguese citizenship. The key question that needs to be addressed is:

Reach out to Belion Partners for expert guidance on your Portuguese citizenship journey.

What are the different ways to become a Portuguese citizen?

To become a Portuguese citizen, there are some available paths, each one tailored to specific situations, here are the principal paths, as well as the requirements of each one:

Citizenship by Naturalisation

If you are already a resident of Portugal , this path is for you. To qualify, applicants must be 18 or older, or emancipated minors who have legally resided in Portugal for at least the five years immediately preceding the application.

It is vital to mention that knowledge of the Portuguese language is required. Applicants must demonstrate an A2 level of proficiency in Portuguese, which corresponds to the elementary level as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Note that demonstrating A2-level proficiency in Portuguese is required for almost every pathway to acquiring Portuguese citizenship.

There are two ways to secure this certificate:

Take the CIPLE exam.
Complete a certified Portuguese course with a duration of 150 hours.

The CIPLE exam evaluates social communication skills, comprehension of written and oral texts, understanding of speech acts, themes, and more. It is exclusively certified and administered by CAPLE, with testing available at various CAPLE-certified centres worldwide.

Alternatively, applicants can opt for the PLA (Portuguese Host Language) course, which offers a pathway to Portuguese citizenship without the need to pass the CIPLE exam.

Other requirements are:

Not been convicted for a crime punishable in Portugal by a prison sentence of more than 3 years.
Not been involved in terrorism-connected activities.

Get in touch with us and begin your journey to becoming a Portuguese citizen today .

Citizenship by Marriage or Civil Partnership

If you are in an official relationship with a Portuguese citizen, this pathway allows you to attain Portuguese citizenship. The duration of the relationship is a significant factor.

Applicants who have been married to, or in a recognised civil partnership with, a Portuguese citizen for six years or more – or if the couple has children with Portuguese nationality – are only required to present the necessary documentation.

In the case of less than six years, it is required to present effective connections to the Portuguese community, which can be:

Being born in, and a national of, a Portuguese-speaking country, and married to, or in a life partnership with, an original Portuguese citizen for at least five years.
Having sufficient knowledge of the Portuguese language, provided the applicant has been married to or in a life partnership with, an original Portuguese citizen for at least 5 years.
Having legally resided in Portugal for at least the 3 years immediately preceding the application, has been registered with the Portuguese tax office and national health service, and either:

Attended an educational institution in Portugal ; or
Demonstrated knowledge of the Portuguese language.

4. Having legally resided in Portugal for at least five years immediately preceding the application.

Other requirements are:

Been over 18 years old or an emancipated minor.
Not serving a foreign country as a non-conscription military member or non-technical civil servant.

Citizenship by Investment

This path is one of the most sought-after to earn Portuguese citizenship, those who want to become citizens of Portugal and, do not reside in the country can opt for this path.

It is essential to clarify that citizenship itself is not for sale. What is granted through investment is a residence permit — specifically, the Portuguese Golden Visa, which is a form of residence by investment. Over time – 5 years to be precise – this residence status may lead to eligibility for citizenship by Naturalisation.

To acquire the Portuguese Golden Visa some requirements, need to be fulfilled such as:

Residing 7 days a year in national territory.
Having an investment for a Golden Visa in that period.

Note that there are specific investment options designed for the Golden Visa. Identifying the preferred option is crucial .

Get In Touch with us!

Citizenship by having a Portuguese Grandparent

If at least one of your grandparents is Portuguese and has retained their Portuguese nationality, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship through this pathway.

The requirements for this citizenship path are:

Not been convicted for a crime punishable in Portugal by a prison sentence of more than 3 years.
Not been involved in terrorism-connected activities.
Had a basic knowledge of the Portuguese language.

Citizenship by Having a Portuguese Parent

If you were born outside of Portugal but one of your parents is indeed Portuguese who retained their citizenship, you can apply through this path to become a Portuguese citizen.

The requirements to apply for Portuguese citizenship by having a Portuguese parent are:

Not been convicted for a crime punishable in Portugal by a prison sentence of more than 3 years.
Not been involved in terrorism-connected activities.

Citizenship by being a descendant of Portuguese Sephardic Jew

This pathway stands out from the others, as it was established in 2015 to acknowledge the significant historical connection of Sephardic Jews to Portugal.

In 2024, amendments were introduced to this pathway, specifically addressing the three-year residency requirement in Portugal. Applicants are now required to have legal residence in Portugal for a minimum of three years, either continuously or intermittently.

The requirements to request Portuguese citizenship by being a descendant of a Portuguese Sephardic Jews are:

Be over 18 years old or emancipated.
Be a descendant of Portuguese Sephardic Jews.
Belonging to a Sephardic community of Portuguese origin.
Not been convicted for a crime punishable in Portugal by a prison sentence of more than 3 years.
Not been involved in terrorism-connected activities.

We hope this article has clarified the pathways to acquiring Portuguese citizenship and helped you identify the one best suited to your circumstances.

Applying for Portuguese citizenship requires extensive documentation, much of which must be translated into Portuguese. Given the complexity of the application process and its documentation requirements, we strongly recommend seeking professional legal guidance.

Contact Belion Partners to assist you on your journey to obtaining Portuguese citizenship.

Portugal Grants a Tax Incentive for Electric Cars, Motorcycles, and Bicycles

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:31:16 GMT

The Portuguese government has announced updates to the tax incentive programme promoting the adoption of zero-emission vehicles which could include cars, motorcycles and bicycles. In 2025, financial support for 100% electric cars will increase, while motorcycles and bicycles will also benefit from enhanced incentives.

Curious about how you can benefit from this exciting opportunity? Reach out to us!

For conventional bicycles, the incentive will more than triple, rising from a maximum of 150 EUR to 500 EUR. For electric bicycles, the incentive will cover 50% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of 750 EUR, representing a 50% increase from previous years.

Electric motorcycles will continue to receive 50% support on their purchase price, but the maximum incentive has tripled, increasing from 500 EUR to 1,500 EUR.

The acquisition of electric cars is subject to a price limit, which has been increased compared to last year’s threshold. For light passenger vehicles with more than five seats, the maximum eligible purchase price has been raised to 55,000 EUR. For vehicles with five or fewer seats, the limit is now 38,500 EUR. These amounts already include VAT and associated costs.

In 2024, the Portuguese government allocated 10 million euros for this tax incentive. However, due to a lower-than-expected number of applications, the full amount was not utilised. As a result, the unused funds have been carried over to 2025, increasing the total budget to 13.5 million euros. It is important to note that to qualify for this incentive, applicants must scrap a fossil fuel vehicle that is over 10 years old.

The tax incentive for electric cars is set at 4,000 EUR for individuals. For Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS), other social organisations, local authorities, and transport authorities, the incentive increases to 5,000 EUR.

Applications for this tax incentive will open at the end of March 2025 and remain available until 30 November 2025, or until the allocated funds are fully exhausted.

How to Apply for the Tax Incentive

To benefit from this tax incentive, applicants must meet the following requirements:

The vehicle must be purchased between 1 January and 31 December 2025.
The owner must retain the vehicle for at least 24 months.
The vehicle cannot be exported.

Applications must be submitted online through the Environmental Fund website by completing the designated form and providing the required supporting documents, which vary depending on the type of vehicle. It is important to note that both the website and the application form are in Portuguese, requiring proficiency in the language.

This tax incentive aligns with Portugal’s broader sustainability goals by encouraging the transition to clean energy vehicles, improving air quality, and reducing noise pollution in urban areas.

If you want to take advantage of this tax incentive, contact us – we can handle the entire application process for you!

ETA: The New Authorisation to Travel to the UK

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:02:22 GMT

Starting 2 April 2025, all foreign nationals, including EU citizens, will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom . This digital travel permit will be mandatory for those visiting England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland for short stays without a visa or UK immigration status. Portuguese citizens and residents are among those subject to this new requirement.

The ETA functions similarly to ETIAS (Europe’s Travel Authorisation System), which will soon be required for visa-exempt travellers entering certain EU countries. However, it is essential to note that not all EU member states will adopt ETIAS – only 30 countries will implement this system.

While the ETA is a travel permit and not a visa, it does not guarantee entry into the UK. It simply allows the holder to travel to the UK; for the purpose of residing there, a visa is still required.

This system aims to strengthen border security and modernise the UK's immigration process by implementing a more digital and efficient entry system. By requiring travellers to provide biographic, biometric, and contact information, along with responses to a short set of security questions, the ETA helps authorities assess applicants in advance. This not only prevents the entry of individuals who may pose a risk but also ensures a faster and more secure entry process for the millions of travellers who enter the UK each year.

The current cost is 10 pounds, allowing multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to six months at a time, valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires – whichever comes first. The UK government has already expressed its intention to increase the cost of an ETA to 16 pounds in the future, justifying the raise as a way to reduce reliance on taxpayer funding for the migration and borders system.

To apply for an ETA, the holder needs to meet certain requirements, which include:

Pay the fee.
Provide passport and contact details.
Submit a valid photo.
Answer a set of security questions.

The application process is straightforward and fully online, often taking only a few minutes. However, applicants are advised to apply at least three working days in advance, as additional processing may be required in some cases.

If an ETA application is rejected, authorities will provide a reason, and the applicant may reapply. If the ETA is ultimately refused, the only alternative for travel to the UK would be to apply for a visa.

At Belion Partners , we closely monitor developments in UK-Portuguese relations.

If you require assistance in Portugal regarding your relocation or any related matters, feel free to reach out to our team.

Portugal to Hold Early General Elections in 2025

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:25:19 GMT

Portugal will hold early general elections following the rejection of the government's vote of confidence in the Assembly of the Republic on 11 March 2025. This outcome led to the resignation of the current government.

The vote of confidence was opposed by nearly all opposition parties, including the Socialist Party (PS), CHEGA (far-right), Left Bloc (BE), Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), LIVRE, and the sole deputy of PAN (People-Animals-Nature), Inês Sousa Real. The only votes in favour came from the ruling coalition, the Democratic Alliance (AD) – which includes the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People’s Party (CDS) – along with the Liberal Initiative (IL).

While the official election date is yet to be confirmed, two potential dates have been suggested: 11 May or 18 May 2025. The Portuguese President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, is expected to make an official announcement today.

The political crisis leading to the dissolution of the government stems from allegations of a potential conflict of interest involving Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. Below is a timeline of the key developments:

15 February 2025

Portuguese daily newspaper Correio da Manhã reported that the wife and children of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro are partners in a real estate trading company called Spinumviva. The company's corporate purpose was last amended on 9 April 2024, just a week after Montenegro’s government took office.

Originally a consulting firm, Spinumviva is also engaged in real estate trading, viticulture, and other consultancy, scientific, and technical activities. Until 2022, the company was jointly owned by Luís Montenegro, his wife, and their two children, with Montenegro serving as the managing partner and majority shareholder. However, after being elected president of the PSD in 2022, he transferred his shares to his wife – who became the majority shareholder – and their children.

Despite formally leaving the company, Montenegro remains married under a community property regime, meaning he could still benefit from Spinumviva’s profits. Additionally, the company could potentially gain from recent legislative changes, particularly the new land law , which facilitates the conversion of rural land into urban land.

21 February 2025

A motion of no confidence was presented in Parliament by CHEGA.

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro addressed the allegations but refused to disclose the company’s clients, citing confidentiality.

27 February 2025

Correio da Manhã revealed that Montenegro had previously acted as legal counsel for Solverde, a casino operator, during negotiations with the Portuguese State.

These negotiations led to amendments in casino concession contracts in the Algarve and Espinho, which Montenegro’s government would now decide upon.

28 February 2025

Portuguese weekly newspaper Expresso reported that Spinumviva has been receiving a monthly payment of 4,500 EUR from the Solverde Group since July 2021.

Solverde confirmed the contract for compliance and data protection services but refused to disclose who specifically provides these services.

On the same day, the Socialist Party (PS) proposed a parliamentary inquiry into Montenegro’s family business activities.

1 March 2025

A second motion of no-confidence was presented by the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), scheduled for a vote on 5 March 2025.

5 March 2025

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro opened the debate by announcing that he would present a vote of confidence in the Government.

11 March 2025

The vote of confidence was rejected by the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic, leading to the resignation of the current government.

13 March 2025

The Portuguese Council of State convened.

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, as the highest authority in the country, is expected to announce the dissolution of Parliament and confirm the election date.

With Portugal now set for early elections, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the country's political landscape. At Belion Partners , we will be closely monitoring developments and promptly presenting updates to our readers.

Top Reasons to Hire a Property Management Service

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:10:49 GMT

Author:

Nádia Lavaredas | Property Assistant & Commercial Manager

Real estate is a popular investment for those seeking passive income; however, managing a property requires significant time and effort, making it far from a truly passive venture.

A professional property management service offers an effective solution for property owners looking to maximise their investment’s profitability without the burden of daily management tasks.

Regardless of the property type—residential, commercial, or short-term rental—a specialised management company can handle all administrative, operational, and legal responsibilities, ensuring a seamless experience for both owners and tenants.

Beyond saving time and reducing stress, professional property management helps optimise revenue, minimise risks, and ensure the property remains well-maintained.

Below, we highlight the key advantages of having professional property management:

Professional Management and Expertise

A specialised team in property management, ensuring efficiency and market expertise.
Compliance with applicable legal and tax regulations.

Reduction of Work and Stress

The owner does not need to worry about day-to-day operational issues.
The company manages complaints, repairs, maintenance, and tenant communication.

Preventive Maintenance and Repairs

Continuous monitoring of the property's condition.
Swift intervention to prevent larger issues and high costs.

Financial Management and Transparency

Periodic reports on income, expenses, and property profitability.
Timely payment of expenses such as condominium fees, property tax (IMI), and insurance.

Greater Legal Security

Compliance with contractual and legal obligations.
Representation in case of litigation or eviction, if necessary.

Enhanced Tenant Experience

Efficient communication and quick response to requests.
Increased tenant satisfaction and loyalty.
Careful evaluation of tenants to reduce the risk of default.
Management of lease agreements and rent collection.

In addition to the advantages already mentioned, hiring a Property Management service offers several other benefits, making property management more efficient and profitable:

Move-in & Move-out Management

Organised procedures for tenant check-ins and check-outs.
Thorough inspections to assess the property's condition before and after the rental period.

Tax Optimisation

Support in meeting tax obligations and optimising taxes related to rental income.
Advisory on available tax benefits for property owners.

Access to Partnerships and Specialised Services

A network of maintenance, repair, and renovation service providers at competitive prices.
Opportunity to secure favourable terms with insurers, energy suppliers, and cleaning companies.

Flexibility in Property Management

Option for short- or long-term rental, depending on the owner's objectives.
Flexibility to adjust the strategy according to market conditions.

Legal Support and Conflict Management

Advisory services for resolving tenant disputes.
Assistance with eviction proceedings or contract breaches, if necessary.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

• Implementation of measures to reduce energy costs and improve property efficiency.

• Recommendations to make the property more sustainable and appealing to tenants.

With these advantages, a property management service not only simplifies administration but also enhances long-term appreciation and profitability.

Belion Partners stands out in the property management sector for its efficient, transparent, and personalised approach. With an experienced team and in-depth knowledge of the real estate market , we provide comprehensive services that ensure the profitability and value appreciation of your property – without the hassle.

From rigorous tenant selection to preventive maintenance, as well as financial and legal management, we handle every detail to guarantee a secure and worry-free investment . Partner with Belion Partners to unlock the full potential of your assets with true dedication and professionalism.

Need expert property management for your real estate investment? Contact us.

Bringing Your Dog to Portugal: Ensuring Proper Registration and Licensing

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:35:56 GMT

Owning a pet, whether a dog or a cat, comes with legal responsibilities. This article outlines the requirements for registration, licensing, and electronic identification (microchipping) that pet owners must comply with in Portugal.

All dogs between three and six months old must be registered and licensed at the parish council corresponding to the owner's or keeper's place of residence. The dog’s license requires annual renewal upon payment of a fee. To obtain a valid license, the owner must ensure compliance with certain conditions, including electronic identification (mandatory for dogs born from 1 July 2008), an up-to-date rabies vaccine, and possession of the dog’s health booklet.

Need assistance with dog registration or licensing? Contact us for professional support.

Dog Registration Categories

Given the diverse roles that dogs serve, the registration system in Portugal is structured into different categories to reflect their specific purposes.

For example, guide dogs, which are specially trained to assist visually impaired individuals, have distinct skills and temperaments that differentiate them from companion dogs, whose main role is to offer companionship and emotional support.

To ensure accurate classification, the following registration categories exist in Portugal:

Category A - Companion dog.
Category B - Dog for economic purposes.
Category C - Dog for military purposes.
Category D - Dog for scientific research.
Category E - Hunting dog.
Category F - Guide dog.
Category G - Potentially dangerous dog.
Category H - Dangerous dog.

For Categories G (potentially dangerous dogs) and H (dangerous dogs), specific legislation applies, including Decree-Law No. 312/2003 of 17 December, Decree-Law No. 315/2009 of 29 October, Ordinance No. 422/2004 of 24 April, Ordinance No. 585/2004 of 29 May, and Order No. 10819/2008 of 14 April.

Need help with the registration process? Contact us for assistance.

What Qualifies as a Dangerous Dog?

Regardless of breed, a dog is classified as dangerous if it meets any of the following criteria:

Having bitten or attacked a person.
Having seriously injured or killed another animal outside the owner’s property.
Having been voluntarily declared by its owner to the parish council of its area of residence as having aggressive behaviour.
Has been deemed by competent authorities as posing a risk to public or animal safety.

Dogs classified under Category C, designated for military purposes, and for police and state security purposes, are exempt from licensing requirements. However, they must be registered and identified according to the specific regulations of the respective authorities.

Requirements for a Dog License in Portugal

To obtain a dog license in Portugal, owners must fulfil the following conditions:

All dogs : Health booklet, up-to-date rabies vaccine, and microchip identification.
Hunting dogs : Hunter’s license required.
Potentially dangerous dogs : Liability waiver, criminal record certificate, civil liability insurance, physical and psychological fitness assessment, and mandatory sterilisation/castration.

Note:

Potentially dangerous breeds or crossbreeds include Brazilian Mastiff (Fila Brasileiro), Argentine Dogo (Dogue Argentino), Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Tosa Inu.
Sterilisation/castration is mandatory unless the animal has an LOP/Pedigree registration with the Portuguese Kennel Club.

How Can I Bring My Dog to Portugal?

The process for bringing a dog to Portugal depends on its country of origin. If the dog is coming from an EU country, its entry is regulated under the common European framework.

For long-distance relocations, engaging a Pet Transport Specialist is advisable to ensure a safe, comfortable, and stress-free journey.

It is important to arrange the transportation of your pet well in advance, ensuring that all travel documentation, vaccination, and permit requirements are thoroughly researched to avoid any last-minute issues.

Need assistance for relocating to Portugal? Contact us for guidance.

Key 2025 Tax Deadlines for Residents and Businesses in Portugal

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:15:49 GMT

Every year, the Portuguese Social Security establishes a tax calendar to inform residents and business owners in Portugal about the legal deadlines for fulfilling their tax obligations in 2025.

As the 2025 tax season approaches, we have prepared this overview to highlight the most important tax deadlines, helping residents and businesses stay organised and ensure compliance with the Portuguese Tax Authority.

Familiarity with the 2025 tax calendar is essential. Keeping track of key deadlines ensures compliance and helps individuals avoid legal penalties, which can be costly and increase the tax burden for foreign residents in Portugal .

This information is particularly relevant for residents in Portugal, holders of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime , companies headquartered in Portugal, and individuals earning income sourced within the country.

Below are the key dates and events that residents in Portugal should be aware of, along with brief descriptions for context.

31st January 2025

Form 44 Declaration (Category F Income Without Electronic Rent Receipts)

Landlords must report rental income received from tenants via the Finance Portal. This obligation applies to various agreements, including leasing contracts, subleasing, granting usage rights for a property (when not classified as leasing), and renting machinery or furniture installed in leased properties.

10th February 2025

Form 10 Declaration

Companies and self-employed individuals classified under Category B of the Personal Income Tax (IRS in Portuguese) , which includes professional and business income, must submit the Form 10 Declaration by 10th February 2025. This submission applies to the annual income for 2024 of domestic employees who were not declared on a monthly basis.

17th February 2025

Notification of Long-Term Lease Contracts or Terminations

Landlords are required to notify the Portuguese Tax Authority of any new or terminated long-term lease contracts. This notification is crucial for accessing tax benefits related to personal income tax (IRS) .

Consultation and Update of Household Data

Any changes in household composition that occurred by the date of 31st December 2024 must be refreshed. This includes significant events such as births, marriages, divorces, deaths, or changes of residence.

25th February 2025

Validation of Last Year's Invoices on the e-Fatura Portal

Ensure all invoices from the previous year are correctly registered, update information, or correct any errors. It is necessary to link all expenses accurately to the taxpayer’s NIF (Portuguese Tax Identification Number) to ensure precise tax reporting.

NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal in Portuguese) is a personal tax identification number in Portugal, required for purchasing goods or services, entering contracts, opening bank accounts, and other financial transactions.

1st April to 30th June 2025

Form 3 Declaration

Filing of the Personal Income Tax Return for the 2024 Fiscal Year: This process can be completed between 1st April and 30th June, either by using Form 3 or through the Automatic Income Tax Return option.

These are just a few of the key deadlines, but there are numerous other important tax obligations to consider, including those related to Personal Income Tax, Business Income Tax, VAT (Value Added Tax, or IVA in Portuguese), Stamp Duty, and Property Tax.

If you wish to stay informed about the 2025 Portuguese tax calendar or prefer to delegate the management of these obligations , our team is ready to assist you.

Contact us to learn more!

New Opportunities for Portuguese Real Estate: New Legislation for Rural Lands

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 12:07:41 GMT

Portugal is home to a diverse range of land types, each serving distinct purposes. While some areas are designated as protected zones to preserve the natural environment, others are primarily used for agricultural and livestock activities. These areas are broadly classified as rural lands, where housing construction is not allowed.

However, an amendment to the Legal Framework for Territorial Management Instruments (RJIGT) was introduced through a decree-law approved on 28th November by the Portuguese government.

This new measure aims to address the housing crisis that Portugal has been facing in recent years by increasing the availability of land for residential construction .

It is important to note that this amendment is currently in the deliberation period. Hearings with the National Association of Portuguese Municipalities (ANMP) and other relevant entities are still underway, and the final version of the decree-law has yet to be finalised.

To effectively address the housing crisis and prevent real estate speculation, this new framework mandates that 70% of the construction on these lands will be designated for public or affordable housing, explicitly excluding the development of luxury properties in these areas.

The maximum price for these homes will be capped at either the national median house price or 125% of the median price in the respective municipality, whichever is higher.

In municipalities with higher housing costs, such as Lisbon and Cascais, the price limit is set at 225% of the national median. By providing these pricing thresholds, the government hopes to attract middle-class buyers while encouraging developers to invest in interior regions , where property prices are typically lower.

The remaining 30% of houses built on these rural lands will not be subject to price or rental restrictions, providing developers with greater flexibility to target other market segments.

To preserve the sustainability of Portugal’s lands, areas classified as National Ecological Reserve (REN), National Agricultural Reserve (RAN), those protected by the Natura 2000 network, and other sensitive zones will remain excluded from the scope of this amendment.

Portugal’s real estate and social policies are closely interconnected, aiming to create a balanced and fulfilling life in this beautiful country.

If you want to explore the Portuguese real estate market or need guidance, feel free to contact us . Our team is ready to provide tailored support and expert advice.

NHR 2.0: Introducing IFICI+, a New Tax Benefit for Foreign Residents

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 17:25:22 GMT

The new tax benefit, IFICI+, which was already in existence , has now been formally regulated on 23rd of December 2024, through Regulation No. 352/2024/1. Eligible individuals who meet the specified criteria can now submit their applications to take advantage of this opportunity.

If you wish to apply for the IFICI+ tax benefit, which is now fully regulated, contact us for more details.

The introduction of the IFICI+ tax benefit, designed for foreigners aiming to establish tax residency in Portugal , came into effect following the conclusion of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime programme.

The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime was a programme that provided special tax benefits for those seeking to become tax residents in Portugal. Introduced in 2009 and concluding in 2023, the NHR tax regime successfully attracted individuals of independent means, pensioners, and certain skilled professionals to establish residency in Portugal for tax purposes.

With the necessary regulations now in effect, NHR 2.0, known as the IFICI+ tax benefit, is fully operational. Following an in-depth review of Regulation No. 352/2024/1, we have identified the key aspects worth highlighting.

Core Aspects of the IFICI+ Tax Benefit

The key features of the IFICI+ tax benefit are as follows:

Taxpayers who meet the eligibility requirements can benefit from a reduced Personal Income Tax rate of 20% on net income from categories A (employment) and B (self-employment) derived from eligible activities.
This reduced rate applies for a period of 10 consecutive years , beginning from the year of residency registration in Portugal.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the IFICI+ tax benefit, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be a Portuguese taxpayer.
Not have been a tax resident in Portugal in the past 5 years.
Not currently benefit, nor have previously benefited, from the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime or the Regressar tax benefit.
Engage in a professional activity that falls within the scope of paragraphs a) to f) of number 1 of Article 58-A of the Estatuto dos Benefícios Fiscais (EBF) – Tax Benefits Statute.

Requirements Verification

The following entities are responsible for validating the eligibility of candidates for the IFICI+ tax benefit:

Tax Authority – Ensures compliance with all legal requirements of the application.
Activity-Specific Regulatory Bodies – Validate the eligibility of professional activities based on the framework established in Article 58-A, number 1, paragraphs a) to f) of the EBF. The relevant regulatory bodies are detailed in Regulation No. 352/2024/1, Article 2, number 2, paragraphs a) to f).

Essential Documentation

To apply for the IFICI+ tax benefit, the following documentation must be submitted:

Employment contract – For dependent workers.
Permanent commercial certificate – For individuals involved in corporate activities.
Scholarship contract – For scientific research professionals.
Proof of academic qualifications.
Additional documentation – As may be requested.

Taxpayers benefiting from the IFICI+ tax regime must report any changes in their professional situation to the relevant regulatory entity overseeing their respective activity.

Any professional change may impact the beneficiary's eligibility to continue receiving the IFICI+ tax benefit. Such changes must be reported by 15th of January of the year following the occurrence, specifying, where applicable, the date the previous activity was terminated.

Registration Requests

Adhering to timelines is crucial in this process. There are two different timelines, depending on whether the foreign resident was already a resident in Portugal in 2024 or not.

First-Year Residents : The application must be submitted by 15th of January of the year following the first year of residency in Portugal.
Tax Residents in 2024 : Individuals who became residents in 2024 have until 15th of March 2025, to complete their application.

Applications must be submitted to the appropriate regulatory bodies, which vary depending on the applicant's professional activity.

These are the key highlights of Regulation No. 352/2024/1. For more information about the IFICI+ tax benefits or assistance with your application, contact us . With our expertise, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Portugal Public Holidays in 2025

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 11:54:42 GMT

As we welcome 2025, it’s the perfect moment to plan for well-deserved breaks and celebrations. Anticipating festive gatherings, relaxing escapes, or simply taking time to recharge, the upcoming year’s public holidays offer the ideal opportunities to make it all happen.

The public holidays in Portugal provide a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of this sun-kissed country throughout the year.

For foreigners residing in or spending time in Portugal , public holidays present an opportunity to immerse themselves in Portuguese society, actively participate in local traditions, and fully experience the country's vibrant festivities.

Here is the list of Portugal’s public holidays for 2025:

1st January (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day (Ano Novo in Portuguese)
18th April (Friday) – Good Friday (Sexta-feira Santa in Portuguese)
20th April (Sunday) – Easter Sunday (Domingo de Páscoa in Portuguese)
25th April (Friday) – Liberty Day (Dia da Liberdade in Portuguese)
1st May (Thursday) – Worker’s Day (Dia do Trabalhador in Portuguese)
10th June (Tuesday) – Portugal Day (Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas in Portuguese)
19th June (Thursday) – Corpus Christi (Corpo de Deus in Portuguese)
15th August (Friday) – Assumption Day (Dia da Assunção de Nossa Senhora in Portuguese)
5th October (Sunday) – Republic Day (Dia da Implantação da República in Portuguese)
1st November (Saturday) – All Saints’ Day (Dia de Todos os Santos in Portuguese)
1st December (Monday) – Independence Restoration Day (Dia da Restauração da Independência in Portuguese)
8th December (Monday) – Feast of Immaculate Conception (Dia da Imaculada Conceição in Portuguese)
25th December (Thursday) – Christmas Day (Dia de Natal in Portuguese)

Here is a calendar of 2025 highlighting the public holidays for better visibility:

Carnival ( Carnaval in Portuguese) is an optional holiday observed in February, falling on a Tuesday. While not a public holiday, it is often granted as a day off depending on local regulations and company policies.

Municipal holidays vary by region and often coincide with local festivals celebrating patron saints. In June, the country celebrates the Santos Populares, or Popular Saints, with many cities and councils designating these festivities as public municipal holidays. Lisbon celebrates Saint Anthony* (Santo António in Portuguese) on 13th June, Porto commemorates Saint John** (São João in Portuguese) on 24th June, and Sintra celebrates Saint Peter*** (São Pedro in Portuguese) on 29th June.

These municipal holidays fill the streets with joy and celebration . Every corner offers traditional food and drinks, accompanied by the lively sounds of Portuguese popular music. The streets come alive , adorned with vibrant decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.

Following the June celebrations, villages and towns across Portugal host festivals dedicated to their patron saints throughout the summer, which lasts until September. Originally rooted in the Catholic tradition, these events transformed into vibrant social gatherings where families, friends, and neighbours come together to enjoy quality time in a warm and festive atmosphere.

For anyone looking to experience Portuguese culture fully, these holidays and festivals are a gateway to the country's way of life.

If Portugal is on your radar and you’re considering embracing the Portuguese lifestyle, contact us ! We are here to assist you in making a smooth transition to this beautiful country.

* (Municipalities that celebrate Saint Anthony) Aljustrel, Alvaiázere, Amares, Cascais, Estarreja, Ferreira do Zêzere, Lisboa, Proença-a-Nova, Reguengos de Monsaraz, Vale de Cambra, Vila Nova da Barquinha, Vila Nova de Famalicão, Vila Real, Vila Verde.

** (Municipalities that celebrate Saint John) Angra do Heroísmo, Horta, Porto Santo, Calheta, Figueira da Foz, Tavira, Moura, Almada, Alcácer do Sal, Lousã, Lourinhã, Alcochete, S. João da Pesqueira, Armamar, Castelo de Paiva, Sertã, Tabuaço, Mértola, Almodôvar, Arronches, Castro Marim, Cinfães, Figueiró dos Vinhos, Moimenta da Beira, Nelas, Santa Cruz das Flores, Vila Franca do Campo e Vila do Porto, Gaia, Vila do Conde, Valongo, Braga e Terras de Bouro.

*** (Municipalities that celebrate Saint Peter) Póvoa de Varzim, Sintra, Montijo, Évora, Castro Verde, São Pedro do Sul, Seixal, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Ribeira Grande, Felgueiras e Bombarral, S. Pedro do Sul.

Condominium Meetings in Portugal: All You Need to Know

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:32:26 GMT

Whenever a property is part of a condominium (which it will be if it is an apartment), there are several aspects and responsibilities to be considered: charges, rules of procedures, and possible restrictions. That said, shared ownership also entails participating in condominium meetings (referred to as "assembleias de condóminos" in Portuguese) to ensure the smooth management of a building's common spaces.

What Are Condominium Meetings?

Condominium meetings are formal gatherings where co-owners discuss and decide on essential matters related to the condominium and common areas. These meetings are important for common decision-making, as well as financial and operational management.

Types of Condominium Meetings

Annual General Meeting

The most important condominium meeting is the general meeting, which usually takes place in the first quarter of each year . The main goals of such meeting are as follows:

Approving the accounts of the previous year : reviewing the condominium’s income and expenses related to the previous year, as well as the status of the accounts.
Approving the annual quote for the current year : setting and voting on the financial plan for the year, which includes aspects of general maintenance of the building, repairs, and necessary improvements to the building. According to the approved quote, the fees each owner must make to cover the common costs should also be defined.
Electing the condominium administrator : the owners may vote to elect or re-elect the condominium administrator, which can be an external company. The administration is in charge of overseeing the day-to-day management of the building.

The general meeting is mandatory , and owners shall be notified in advance, along with an agenda to be discussed. This meeting provides an opportunity for the co-owners to align their financial and operational priorities. Active participation and collaboration during these meetings are essential to promoting a harmonious and well-managed community.

2. Extraordinary Meetings

These meetings are called whenever required to address urgent or non-routine issues, such as repairs, renovation works, amendments to the condominium rules of procedures or any other matter that may require immediate action or decision.

For decisions to be valid, meetings must have a quorum of property owners present or represented by power of attorney. Voting is typically proportional to each owner's share of the condominium (usually determined by the size of their property). Certain decisions may require unanimous agreement.

Belion Portugal: Supporting Your Condominium Needs

Managing property in a condominium can be time-consuming, especially if you are not in Portugal.

Belion Portugal provides a wide range of property-related services, as well as liaising with the condominium. Our team can represent the owner before the condominium administration, which includes receiving all the correspondence (such as payment notices, meeting notices, newsletters, and circulars), representing the owner before other joint owners or condominium members and attending the condominium meeting in representation.

If this is a service you need, feel free to contact us . We'd be delighted to assist you!

The Year 2024 In Review

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 16:37:14 GMT

As 2024 draws to a close, it is the perfect moment to reflect on the significant events of the year. At Belion Partners, we have documented key changes that have shaped our business and influenced the broader landscape of life in Portugal.

Portugal’s International Recognitions

First and foremost, we extend our congratulations to several Portuguese cities for their international recognition throughout 2024. At Belion Partners, we attentively monitor and document these achievements, which reflect positively on the country as a whole.

According to the European Commission, Braga has been recognised as one of the top European cities to live in. The city stands out in various aspects, including its age-friendly environment, high-quality healthcare services , clean air, vibrant cultural facilities, LGBTIQ inclusiveness, and the overall sense of safety enjoyed by its residents.

The European Commission's Quality of Life Survey, now in its 6th edition, was designed to evaluate living conditions across various European cities. This extensive survey covered capital cities and major urban areas within the EU, EFTA, the UK, Turkey, and the Western Balkans. A total of 83 cities were included, with 70,000 interviews conducted to provide a comprehensive dataset.

Meanwhile, in the 2024 edition of Time Out magazine's " 30 Coolest Streets " list, two Portuguese cities – Lisbon and Porto – were prominently featured. Rua da Boavista in Lisbon achieved the 7th place, while Rua Sá de Noronha in Porto secured the 16th spot.

Situated in Lisbon's Cais do Sodré area, Rua da Boavista has transformed beyond its origins as a nightlife destination. Today, it provides a diverse array of experiences suited to various lifestyles. From enjoying a relaxed family brunch and exploring chic boutiques to savouring an unforgettable dinner at its renowned restaurants, Rua da Boavista invites you to immerse yourself in its dynamic and vibrant ambience.

In Porto , Rua Sá de Noronha captures the city’s youthful and vibrant spirit. Known for its dynamic cultural offerings, including poetry readings and theatrical performances, it provides endless opportunities for discovery. For culinary enthusiasts, this street boasts exceptional dining experiences, allowing visitors to savour stunning cuisine in a setting that perfectly blends charm and sophistication.

Finally, Cascais , a coastal resort town near Lisbon, received the Green Destination Platinum award for its commitment to promoting sustainability both in the short and long term. This recognition highlights Cascais' exceptional environmental quality and its innovative approach to various municipal functions. The town’s dedication to sustainability benefits both residents and visitors, emphasising community engagement and the implementation of fair and effective ecological solutions.

Portuguese gastronomy also received international acclaim in 2024. The Michelin Gala, hosted by Catarina Furtado – a prominent figure in Portugal – spotlighted Portugal’s culinary excellence. As a result, Portugal now boasts 39 Michelin-starred restaurants , with 8 establishments earning two stars and 31 achieving one-star status.

Portugal's Global Standing

Building on these local successes, Portugal has strengthened its position on the world stage across multiple domains - from education and safety to innovation and economic development.

Portugal ranks among the top 10 countries for English proficiency among non-native speakers, securing the 8th place. This ranking is provided by the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), which analyses data from 2.2 million individuals across 113 countries worldwide.

The widespread proficiency in English within Portuguese society makes Portugal an attractive destination for foreigners, particularly those from English-speaking countries. This linguistic accessibility facilitates smoother communication and eases the transition for expatriates, enhancing their overall experience and integration into Portuguese culture.

Portugal ranks 7th in the world for safety , according to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI) report, published by the Institute for Economics and Peace. This high ranking as one of the safest countries worldwide enriches the quality of life in Portugal and significantly boosts its appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike.

In 2024, Portugal also achieved a prominent position regarding its passport, ranking 3rd in the Nomad Passport Index (NPI) . This global ranking assesses passports based on their freedom to travel and live in different countries. Additionally, the validity of the Portuguese passport will be extended from 5 years to 10 years , doubling its duration.

Regarding Portugal’s economy, The Financial Times, a renowned British newspaper, recently published its inaugural list of European start-up hubs, titled “Europe’s Leading Start-up Hubs”. Portugal is home to two technology hubs within the Top 10 : Startup Braga, which holds the 7th spot, and Startup Lisboa – Unicorn Lisbon Factory, which ranks in 10th place.

Political Landscape

2024 marked a pivotal year in Portuguese politics, combining historical commemoration with significant electoral changes that have reshaped our country's direction.

Firstly, the country celebrated its 50th anniversary as a democracy. On the 25th of April 1974, a military coup ended the authoritarian regime that had ruled Portugal, an event known as the Carnation Revolution.

In March, Portugal held general elections , resulting in a notable political shift from left to right. The Democratic Alliance (AD), a right-wing coalition formed by the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People’s Party (CDS), emerged as the winner. The Socialist Party (PS), which previously held a majority, now ranks as the second-largest political force.

Portugal also held regional elections in the Azores , an autonomous region located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

In the international political landscape, the US election has garnered significant attention in the global media. With Donald Trump’s victory, many US citizens have begun exploring options for relocation, and Portugal has emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations .

AIMA’s 2024 migration report states that US citizens are the leading nationality in securing Portuguese Golden Visa . This demonstrates the growing interest that citizens of the United States have in living in Portugal.

Another highly desired Portuguese visa is the D7 visa , which has gained popularity due to its affordability. This visa option is especially attractive for retirees, remote workers, and those with stable passive income, offering a pathway to residency in Portugal without the need for significant financial investment. As a result, the D7 visa has become an appealing choice for individuals seeking a cost-effective way to enjoy the benefits of living in Portugal.

If the Portuguese visas has piqued your interest, contact us – we are here to offer our assistance.

2024 Tax Updates and Changes

The evolving regulatory landscape in 2024 has brought several crucial changes that impact both businesses and individuals. Understanding these developments is essential for anyone operating in or relocating to Portugal.

The legal landscape regarding tax representatives in Portugal has changed in 2024 . Therefore, it is important to understand whether a tax representative is required in your specific situation when moving to Portugal, as the requirements vary depending on individual circumstances.

Short-term rental regulations in Portugal have changed. On the 23rd of October 2024, Decree-Law No. 76/2024 was enacted, granting local authorities increased regulatory powers over Alojamento Local (AL) properties. This decree allows for greater control over the allocation, regulation, supervision, and potential intervention in short-term rental units.

A new tax benefit, IFICI+ , has been introduced to attract highly qualified foreign talent, with a focus on scientific research, innovation, and human capital. This initiative was introduced in response to the conclusion of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime .

In September 2024, a new withholding tax regime was introduced with the aim of reducing the tax burden on Portuguese citizens.

Another measure to alleviate the tax burden on younger Portuguese citizens is the introduction of personal guarantees to financial institutions , such as banks, provided by the Portuguese state. This initiative aims to simplify the credit approval process for individuals purchasing their first real estate property, intended as their primary and permanent residence. The conditions are outlined in Decree-Law No. 44/2024.

In 2024, there were updates to the CAE codes , the Portuguese Classification of Economic Activities. This revision, known as CAE Rev. 4, will come into effect in January 2025.

As we transition into 2025, these developments position Portugal favourably for continued growth and international recognition. The combination of urban achievements, economic progress, and regulatory refinements creates a robust foundation for both businesses and individuals looking to establish themselves in Portugal.

If you are considering relocating to Portugal and need assistance with Portuguese visas, tax implications, or other related matters, feel free to reach out to us . We are here to help.

As we close this 2024 year in review, we would like to extend our best wishes for a prosperous and fulfilling 2025 to our clients and partners . We are grateful to be by your side on this journey and look forward to continuing to be part of it.

Portuguese Housing Update: House Rents Can Increase Up to 2.16% in 2025

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:43:09 GMT

Each year, the Portuguese housing market is updated in accordance with the guidelines established under the Novo Regime de Arrendamento Urbano (NRAU). For 2025, Notice No. 23099/2024/2, published on the 18th of October, officially set the maximum rent increase at 2.16%.

In practical terms, the rent for a property priced at EUR 1,000 could increase by EUR 21.60.

It is important to note that if a landlord has not adjusted the rent in the past three years, they may now apply an increase of up to 11%, reflecting the cumulative adjustments from those years. However, this update is not mandatory and applies only to existing rental agreements. Landlords also have flexibility in timing, as the increase can be implemented at any point in 2025 – not necessarily in January - as long as they provide tenants with at least 30 days' prior notice.

What Are the Criteria for the Annual House Rent Updates?

The rent adjustment coefficient is determined by the variation in the Consumer Price Index (IPC) over the preceding 12 months, based on data available as of the 31st of August each year. This calculation is carried out by INE (Instituto Nacional de Estatística). It is then officially published in the Diário da República , Portugal's Official Gazette, by the 30th of October of the year prior to its implementation.

What Were the Annual Rent Updates in the Last 6 Years?

In the last six years, we have witnessed significant fluctuations in this index, which have greatly impacted the Portuguese rental market. For the record, here are the values for the past six years:

2019 : 1.15%
2020 : 0.51%
2021 : -0.03%
2022 : 0.43%
2023 : 2%
2024 : 6.94%

Is This Update Only for Housing Rents?

This adjustment applies to both residential and commercial rental properties , as well as other leased spaces, in rural and urban contexts.

As a Landlord, I Am Not Being Updated on My Tenant's Rent. What Can I Do?

If your tenant's rent has not been updated in recent years, as a landlord , you have the option to adjust the rent using the cumulative coefficient from the past three years. For 2023, 2024, and 2025, this totals around 11%. To proceed, you must provide the tenant with at least 30 days' prior notice, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

How to Inform a Tenant About a Rent Increase?

In addition to providing at least 30 days' notice of the updated rent payment date, the notice must be in writing.

There are two options to provide the notice to the tenant:

A registered letter with an acknowledgement of receipt.
Hand-delivery, requiring the tenant's signature as proof of receipt.

The notice must clearly include the current rent amount, the new updated rent, and the date when the adjusted rent will take effect.

This rent update can occur when contracts are more than one year old, that is, one year after the beginning of the contract. The landlord can require the updated rent after informing the tenant of the new amount. If the application of the coefficient is incorrect, the tenant should contest.

A landlord may terminate the rental agreement when specific tenant non-compliance occurs, such as overdue rent. Alternatively, the landlord may oppose the automatic renewal of the contract, provided the opposition is communicated within the legally defined timeframe.

How Can I Benefit from Property Management Solutions?

Managing rental properties, especially from abroad, can be challenging. Property management services simplify this process, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and profitability.

At Belion Partners, we offer a range of tailored solutions to landlords, including:

Legal Compliance : Ensuring compliance with Portuguese regulations is essential, and staying informed about any updates is crucial to avoid potential legal issues.
Effective Tenant Management : We simplify property ownership by managing the time-consuming aspects of tenant search and management, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for landlords.
Maximise Rental Income : A deep understanding of the Portuguese real estate market allows us to develop effective pricing strategies that not only attract tenants but also ensure landlords achieve optimised returns.
Coordination of Essential Services : Ensuring your property is fully prepared involves having all necessary utilities in place, such as gas inspections, energy certification, and more. Additionally, cleaning plays a vital role in presenting your property at its best.
Property Maintenance and Management : Managing a property with a reliable partner to handle daily issues and unexpected situations makes all the difference. With Belion Partners' team, we ensure that any issue is addressed promptly and efficiently.

Our dedicated team at Belion Partners is here to support your property management needs. Contact us to learn more about our methodology and how we can assist you.

Digital Nomadism: A Growing Trend Among U.S. Citizens

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 16:50:02 GMT

The concept of nomadism has been integral to human history, but in 2024, digital nomadism has reached new heights. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of remote work has boosted this lifestyle, as lockdowns and home-office requirements proved to companies and employees alike that working from anywhere is not only feasible but often highly effective.

The flexibility of remote work has inspired many individuals to embrace a nomadic lifestyle, enabling them to work for U.S.-based companies while residing abroad in Europe.

Currently, many U.S. citizens are exploring opportunities to live abroad while working remotely, often seeking destinations that offer a lower cost of living than the U.S. alongside high standards of safety .

Recognizing the growing demand for remote work opportunities abroad, many countries have implemented specific visa types to accommodate digital nomads. As of 2024, over 50 countries worldwide offer digital nomad visas, providing legal pathways for professionals to work remotely while residing abroad.

Following the 2024 elections , interest in a nomadic lifestyle surged among US citizens. With Portugal offering a sunny climate, economic stability , and a welcoming environment for remote work , the country quickly became a top destination for Americans seeking to establish a base abroad under the digital nomad lifestyle.

To provide a complete understanding of Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa, we have prepared a thorough, step-by-step guide. This guide covers every detail—from eligibility criteria to the application process—ensuring that all essential information is clearly outlined and readily accessible.

What is the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa ?

The Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the D8 Visa, is specifically designed for non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely and wish to live in Portugal. This visa is valid for two years, with American nationals eligible to apply. Additionally, applicants can bring their families to Portugal under the family reunification rules, making it a viable option for those looking to settle with the family in Portugal.

What Is the Process for Obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa?

The process for obtaining this residence permit begins with applying for a special residence visa. This application must be submitted at the Portuguese Consulate that serves the applicant’s current region of legal residence, even if the applicant's nationality allows for visa-free entry into Portugal.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a non-EU/EEA citizen.
Have proof of remote work, either as an employee or self-employed.
Demonstrate a minimum income of three times the Portuguese minimum wage, which in 2024 is 3,280.00 EUR per month.
Hold a clean criminal record under Portuguese law.
Provide valid health insurance coverage .

Minimum Stay Requirements

The minimum stay requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa vary. During the initial two-year period, the visa holder must spend at least 16 months within Portuguese territory. Upon renewal, which extends the visa for another three years, the holder must spend a minimum of 28 months in Portugal. In both cases, the absence from Portugal cannot exceed six consecutive months between renewals. It is important to note that there may be specific exceptions to these requirements.

Types of Digital Nomad Visas

In Portugal, there are two types of Digital Nomad Visas available:

Long-term residency visa – This visa is valid for two years and can be renewed for an additional three years. It is ideal for those wishing to establish permanent residency in Portugal and pursue Portuguese citizenship or permanent residency.
Temporary stay visa – This visa allows the holder to stay in Portugal for up to one year, with the option for renewal. It provides flexibility, as holders can enter and exit Portugal without committing to long-term residency. This option is particularly appealing to individuals who wish to experience life in Portugal beyond the typical 90-day tourist limit.

How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa

While the process to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa is straightforward, seeking legal guidance is highly recommended. Adhering to specific deadlines is crucial, as missing them could result in the application being invalid. Additionally, the application requires various documents from different entities, making professional assistance helpful.

The general steps to obtain the Digital Nomad Visa are as follows:

Obtain a Portuguese tax ID number (NIF).
Obtain a Portuguese Social Security number (NISS).
Open a bank account in Portugal and transfer the required funds, which vary depending on whether it's just the applicant or includes family members.
Secure long-term accommodation in Portugal, either through purchasing or renting property.
Prepare the necessary documents, which typically include proof of income, accommodation, health insurance, a clean criminal record, and a valid passport. Please note that requirements may vary depending on the specific Portuguese Consulate serving your region of legal residence.
Submit the residence visa application along with the required documentation and, if necessary, schedule an interview at the Portuguese Consulate. Processing times may vary .
Await the decision from the Portuguese Consulate. If approved, you will receive a residence visa that allows for up to two entries and a stay of up to four months in Portugal.
Travel to Portugal within the visa validity period to apply for the residence permit.
Apply for the residence permit by submitting all required documents at the Immigration Authorities (AIMA) office and paying the government fees.
Receive your residence card at your Portuguese address.

The steps outlined above provide a general overview of the process. At Belion Partners, we offer personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, ensuring you follow the most efficient path. Please feel free to contact us — we are here to guide you every step of the way.

The Portuguese Real Estate Market

Whether you're imagining a quiet home in the countryside, a vibrant apartment in Lisbon, or a cozy spot in a small town, Portugal has something special for everyone. At Belion Partners we bring deep knowledge and expertise in the Portuguese real estate market . We are here to help you explore your options to find a property that meets your needs and aspirations.

Benefits of the Digital Nomad Visa

The D8 Visa provides several benefits for its holders and their family members, including:

The opportunity to reside in a sunny European country.
Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, encompassing 29 countries.
Access to Portugal's healthcare system .
Access to Portugal's education system .
The potential to benefit from the IFICI+ tax benefit .
A streamlined pathway to obtaining Portuguese citizenship or permanent residency after 5 years.

How Can I Bring My Family to Portugal?

The Digital Nomad Visa allows holders to bring their families to Portugal. However, it is important to note that not all family members qualify under the family reunification rules. To be eligible for family reunification, the following criteria must be met:

Spouse or committed partner.
Children under 18 years of age.
Dependents over 18, provided they are unmarried and enrolled as full-time students in Portugal (or in another country in the case of the Golden Visa).
Dependent parents of either spouse or partner.
Siblings under 18 years of age, if legally under the supervision of either spouse or partner.

How Belion Partners Can Support You

For many years, Belion Partners has been assisting U.S. nationals in establishing their lives in Portugal. Our firm specializes in a wide range of areas, including accounting and tax matters , and we have built strong connections with immigration law experts . Additionally, we have extensive experience in the real estate market, an essential aspect for individuals looking to establish themselves in a new country.

If you’re considering Portugal as your new base, contact us . We’re here to ensure you have the information and support you need to make the most of the opportunities this country has to offer.

Why is Portugal an Ideal Choice for New Beginnings for U.S. Citizens?

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:26:55 GMT

In the wake of the 2024 presidential elections, a growing number of U.S. citizens are exploring relocation options abroad. Recent data underscores this trend—according to Henley & Partners, demand for residency and dual citizenship applications from the U.S. has surged by an impressive 504%. Many of these inquiries focus on Portugal, prompting the question: Why are so many Americans choosing to make Portugal their new home?

Portugal has long been a favored destination for Americans seeking a new home abroad. With its pleasant climate, affordable cost of living, and high standards of safety, the appeal is undeniable. Portugal’s rich cultural heritage, combined with its warm and welcoming community, creates an ideal environment for those looking to make a fresh start. For many, Portugal represents not just a destination, but a place to truly call home.

Recent data from Portugal’s Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) underscores the increasing appeal of Portugal among U.S. citizens. In its 2024 report, using data from 2023, AIMA confirmed that Americans were the leading nationality to secure Residence Permits for Investment Activity, known as Golden Visas. Of the 2,901 Golden Visas granted last year, 1,554 were linked to family reunification . Of those, 567 were issued to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens thus represented roughly 20% of all Golden Visas issued in Portugal, and approximately 42% of total Golden Visa holders, underscoring the significant appeal of Portugal's residency programs among American investors and families alike.

Why Is the Portuguese Golden Visa So Attractive to U.S. Citizens?

The Portuguese Golden Visa program has become a highly attractive residency option for U.S. citizens due to its flexibility and broad investment opportunities. This program offers multiple pathways to establish residency in Portugal through varied investment channels tailored to different interests and objectives. Investment options include:

Donations to Portuguese arts and culture.
Contributions to scientific research.
Investments in Golden Visa funds.
Business incorporation in Portugal.
Creation of 10 new permanent jobs in Portugal.

Each of these investment options allows U.S. citizens to secure residency in Portugal and, if desired, extend this opportunity to their family members under the family reunification conditions. Additionally, some of the investment options require different amounts.

A distinctive advantage of the Portuguese Golden Visa is its minimal stay requirement , the shortest among global residency-by-investment programs. Visa holders need only spend 7 days per year in Portugal, offering exceptional flexibility for U.S. citizens who seek residency options without the commitment to permanent relocation.

For U.S. citizens considering relocation abroad, the Portuguese Golden Visa offers an ideal blend of flexibility and freedom. This visa not only grants residency in Portugal and the European Union but also provides visa-free travel to 172 countries, allowing families to experience and explore all EU countries and more without the need for additional visas. This extensive travel mobility allows American families to assess which country best aligns with their goals, lifestyle preferences, and other important considerations for a potential move abroad.

Should you wish to learn more about the Portuguese Golden Visa, we are here to assist you. Please feel free to contact us for detailed guidance and support.

That is why the Golden Visa is the most sought-after by Americans. However, one question remains: Is the Golden Visa the only option?

What Residency Options Does Portugal Offer for U.S. Citizens?

Portugal offers a wide range of residency options for those seeking to make this beautiful country their home. If you and your family decide that Portugal is the right place for you and wish to explore alternatives to the Golden Visa, several other pathways are available, such as:

Passive Income Visa (D7 Visa)

A popular choice among U.S. expats to reside in Portugal is through the Passive Income Visa, also known as the D7 visa. This visa is particularly appealing due to its relatively low financial requirements. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a source of passive income, which can include earnings from activities such as rental income, royalties, dividends, or interest from financial investments, among other possibilities. There are numerous viable options to meet this requirement, offering flexibility for different financial situations.

To qualify for the Passive Income Visa, applicants must demonstrate a minimum annual income of 9,840 EUR, which is equivalent to Portugal’s minimum wage. If a second adult, such as a spouse or partner, is included in the application, they must show an additional 50% of this amount, totaling 4,920 EUR per year. For each dependent child, the requirement is 30% of the minimum wage, or 2,952 EUR annually.

Please note that the income values outlined above are subject to annual adjustments, in line with changes to Portugal's minimum wage.

It is important to highlight that D7 visa holders are not restricted from pursuing professional activities in Portugal. While passive income is a requirement for the visa, it does not preclude individuals from engaging in employment or business ventures.

Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa)

The Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the D8 Visa, offers U.S. citizens a clear pathway to reside and work remotely in Portugal. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate an average monthly income of at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage, which equates to approximately 3,280.00 EUR in 2024. Higher-income levels may improve the chances of approval, as consular officers have discretionary authority in assessing applications. It is important to note that the visa application must be submitted before the residence permit request and should be made through a Portuguese consulate in the US.

The Digital Nomad Visa offers two types of residency options: Temporary Stay and Long Stay. The Temporary Stay Visa is valid for one year and permits individuals to work as self-employed freelancers or manage an online business. This option is well-suited for those seeking flexibility and a shorter-term commitment while residing in Portugal.

If a digital nomad intends to live in Portugal for an extended period, typically more than one year, the Residence Permit for Digital Nomads would be the perfect solution.

Immediate family members can also apply for residence permits under the family reunification rules, facilitating a smoother and more cohesive relocation process for those moving to Portugal.

Entrepreneur Visa (D2 Visa)

Also known as the D2 Visa, it is a great option for U.S. citizens who want to:

Open a business in Portugal.
Already have a business in the U.S. and would like to open a branch in Portugal.
Work as self-employed individuals, including independent or liberal professionals who have a work contract or a written work proposal. Freelancers and digital nomads can also apply if they can prove that they offer differentiated services that are relevant to the country.

The person who applies for the D2 Visa can also bring their family together under the family reunification provisions if they wish.

If you need any help regarding these visas and deciding which one is the best choice, feel free to reach out to us . We will be more than happy to help you.

Additional Visa Options

To accommodate the diverse immigration needs and motivations of individuals, Portugal offers a variety of visa options. Below are some of the visa types:

D1 Visa : Tailored for individuals seeking to live and work in Portugal, this visa requires a valid work contract or employment offer with a minimum duration of one year in Portugal.
D3 Visa : Designed for highly skilled professionals, the D3 visa is available to US citizens holding a valid job contract for at least one year in a qualified field. Applicants may strengthen their application by demonstrating higher income levels and relevant qualifications.
D4 Visa : This visa is intended for individuals coming to Portugal for study or training purposes. It is available to students, exchange participants, and those undertaking professional internships with a duration of more than three months.
D5 Visa : Exclusively for college and university students, the D5 visa allows residence for those pursuing higher education in Portugal.
D6 Visa : The D6 Visa facilitates family reunification, allowing legal residents in Portugal to bring their spouse, dependent children under 18, and financially dependent parents over 65 to live with them.

It is important to note that all of the visas mentioned provide the opportunity to become eligible for Portuguese citizenship after holding it for five years . This is one of several pathways available for individuals seeking to obtain Portuguese citizenship.

What Are the Different Pathways to Portuguese Citizenship?

Portugal offers various pathways for American citizens seeking to acquire Portuguese citizenship. If you are interested in obtaining Portuguese citizenship, here are the available options:

Citizenship by Descent : An American citizen may qualify for Portuguese citizenship if they have Portuguese ancestry, such as a Portuguese parent or grandparent. This provides automatic eligibility to apply for citizenship.
Citizenship by Residency : After five years of legal residency in Portugal, a US citizen may apply for Portuguese citizenship, making it an appealing option for those who have established themselves in the country.
Citizenship by Marriage : An American citizen married to a Portuguese citizen for at least three years may apply for Portuguese citizenship. This route provides a clear pathway for those in a long-term relationship with a Portuguese national.
Citizenship by Civil Partnership : Similar to marriage, this route allows an American citizen in a civil partnership with a Portuguese citizen for at least three years to apply for citizenship.
Citizenship by Investment : The Golden Visa program is the most popular investment-based route to Portuguese citizenship. This allows US citizens to gain residency and, eventually, citizenship through qualifying investments in Portugal.

These are the primary pathways to obtaining Portuguese citizenship.

If you would like to learn more about the best option for your circumstances, please contact us . We are here to provide you with personalized guidance and help you make an informed decision.

After considering all of this information, one question remains:

Why Is Portugal a Great Place to Live for U.S. Citizens?

To provide a well-founded answer to this question, an entire article dedicated solely to this topic would be necessary.

However, I will give a few reasons why Portugal feels like home for everyone:

Safety

According to the most recent data from the Institute for Economics and Peace, Portugal ranks as the 7th most peaceful country in the world, according to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI). Safety is a critical factor for US citizens considering relocating abroad with their families.

English Proficiency

A study by the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) ranked Portugal 8th globally, demonstrating a high level of English proficiency. In addition, Portuguese people are renowned for their welcoming nature. This combination makes the integration process much smoother for U.S. citizens relocating to Portugal.

Quality Education

Portugal’s education system is highly regarded for its quality, with numerous private American international schools available. This offers US citizens and their families a range of flexible educational options across the country.

Healthcare

Portugal’s national healthcare system is known for its quality and accessibility, benefiting all legal residents.

Pleasant Climate

Portugal enjoys a lot of sunshine, with between 2,500 and 3,200 hours of sunlight annually. This delightful climate encourages residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities, explore the country’s vibrant streets, and immerse themselves in its stunning natural landscapes.

Unique Cuisine

Portugal's culinary scene is truly exceptional, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage. Its gastronomy is as diverse as its landscape, with each region offering distinctive dishes, wines, liqueurs, appetizers, and desserts that delight the senses.

Mobility

The Portuguese passport offers significant benefits, including visa-free access to 172 countries and full European Union citizenship. This grants holders the freedom to live, work, and study in any EU member state. Additionally, family members can enjoy these same privileges through the family reunification provisions.

Vibrant Cities

Portugal consistently captivates with its diverse appeal. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the serene villages in the countryside, every region offers its own distinctive charm. Lisbon and Porto have been recognized by Time Out magazine as home to some of the coolest streets in the world, while Braga is celebrated as one of Europe’s cities offering the highest quality of life .

Excellent coastal towns

From Cascais to Costa da Caparica, this region has been recognized by various international media outlets for its beauty . The lifestyle along this stretch of Portugal's coast could arguably be described as paradise.

As you can see, Portugal is truly a country suited for everyone. From the youngest exploring the opportunities life has to offer, to those in their later years seeking to enjoy the best of their golden years , Portugal provides a welcoming environment for all.

For American entrepreneurs looking to develop new ideas, Portugal offers an ideal environment. Lisbon has already been honoured as the innovative European Capital . Whether you're a young entrepreneur looking to launch your first startup or an established business seeking growth, Portugal has introduced special legislation to support innovation and ranks among the top 10 startup destinations in Europe .

For expats seeking the freedom to live and explore without the constraints of modern life, Portugal is the ideal destination. Previously acclaimed as the top destination for American expats , offering a lifestyle that combines flexibility, opportunity, and quality of life.

If you are ready to explore the country, we proudly call home, we invite you to reach out to us . We are here to provide you with expert guidance and support every step of the way.

Steps to Successfully Relocate from the U.S.: Making It a Reality

We understand that living abroad is a significant decision, but when the desire for change arises, it’s important to take that step. With the right information and guidance, the process can be made manageable and realistic, helping you and your family transition smoothly to this new chapter in your life.

For many years, we have worked with U.S. families. Contact us to see how we can cooperate together.

Changes to CAE Codes in 2025: What You Need to Know

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 10:46:27 GMT

In a world of continuous evolution, with rapid advancements across numerous fields and daily technological breakthroughs shaping every facet of public life, the government sector also adapts to reflect these changes. In line with this progress, new CAE codes will be introduced next year to more accurately encompass emerging economic activities undertaken by companies and self-employed people in Portugal.

This update, known as CAE Rev. 4, will come into effect in January 2025. In line with this, all businesses and self-employed individuals must revise their CAE codes by the established deadline of 30th November 2024 to ensure compliance. Failure to meet this requirement may result in non-compliance with the new classification. CAE Rev. 4 will officially replace the current CAE Rev. 3 coding structure.

To update CAE codes, companies and self-employed taxpayers currently registered with these codes are required to complete a mandatory survey called IRCAE—Inquérito para Reclassificação das Atividades Económicas (Economic Activities Reclassification Survey). This process is essential for accurately reclassifying economic activities under the new framework.

To provide a thorough understanding of CAE codes and their integral role within Portugal's economic framework, this article offers a detailed overview of all aspects related to CAE classifications.

What Are CAE Codes?

The Classificação Portuguesa de Atividades Económicas (CAE) codes are numerical identifiers used to classify the specific business sector or area of economic activity in which a company or self-employed professional operates. These codes, specifically the CAE Rev. 4, align with the EU’s updated NACE Rev. 2.1 standards, which also take effect in 2025, ensuring consistency across European economic activity classifications.

What Is the Purpose of CAE Codes?

The CAE classification is used for two main purposes:

For taxation purposes : CAE codes enable the Portuguese tax authority to identify the appropriate tax categories for taxpayers and entities. This applies to IRS tax (Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Singulares), comparable to the Federal Income Tax in the United States or the Income Tax in the United Kingdom, and IRC tax (Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Coletivas), which parallels corporate income tax in the U.S. or corporation tax in the U.K.

For statistical purposes : CAE classifications support Portugal’s national statistical agency, INE, in cataloguing economic activities, akin to the work of the Census Bureau in the US or the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS). This facilitates accurate economic activity reporting and analysis, categorising each professional branch based on its precise tax requirements.

For instance, the IRC tax regulations for small to medium-sized companies engaged in industrial activities differ significantly from those applicable to large agricultural enterprises, as well as third-sector organisations.

Which CAE Code Suits My Professional Activity Best?

For both companies and self-employed individuals, possessing a CAE code is a legal requirement. Thankfully, this system is well-structured, making the selection process intuitive. The CAE codes are categorised into 21 sections (labelled A to U), which are further divided into various divisions, groups, classes, and subclasses, ensuring clarity and ease of use.

Is There a Limit to the Number of CAE Codes One Can Use?

Yes, there is a limit to the number of CAE codes a company or self-employed person can have, capped at 20 CAE codes. Additionally, it is mandatory to have a primary CAE, with the remaining codes being secondary CAEs.

Where Can I Find the CAE List?

The CAE List can be accessed on the SICAE (Sistema de Informação da Classificação Portuguesa das Atividades Económicas) webpage.

How Do I Update My CAE Code?

To assist companies and self-employed individuals registered in Portugal with updating their CAE codes from CAE Rev. 3 to CAE Rev. 4, the IRCAE (Survey for the Reclassification of Economic Activities) has been established. Developed by the INE, this survey enables users to review their current CAE codes (CAE Rev. 3) and facilitates the selection of new codes (CAE Rev. 4) that align more accurately with their economic activities.

Please note that completing the CAE code update by the 30th of November 2024 is necessary.

Neglecting to update CAE codes by the deadline may result in administrative challenges or complications with tax authorities in the future. Both businesses and self-employed individuals need to take the necessary actions to comply with this update, thereby ensuring a seamless transition to the new classification system.

Updating CAE codes not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also guarantees that businesses and self-employed individuals are accurately represented within the evolving landscape of economic activities in Portugal.

If you have questions or need assistance with your CAE code update, or any related matter, contact us . Our team is ready to provide professional assistance with the IRCAE survey or any specific queries regarding CAE compliance or other related matters.

Updates on Short-Term Rentals: Enhanced Local Authority Jurisdiction

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 13:06:10 GMT

On the 23rd of October 2024, Decree-Law No. 76/2024 was enacted, establishing regulatory powers over Alojamento Local (AL) properties in Portugal . This decree grants local authorities enhanced control over the allocation, regulation, supervision, and potential intervention in short-term rental units. The decree will come into effect on the 1st of November 2024.

With this new decree-law, municipalities now have the jurisdiction to establish operational procedures, implement containment zones, and promote sustainable growth areas for short-term rentals. Importantly, this law removes the need for unanimous approval in condominium meetings when using an apartment in a residential building for short-term rental purposes, thereby reinforcing local control over AL property use . Until the 1st of November, a unanimous vote is still required for such approvals. Beginning on the 1st of November, approval from two-thirds of the condominium members will replace the previous requirement for unanimous votes.

Starting on the 1st of November 2024, local authorities will hold the authority to oversee local lodging activities within their jurisdictions. This includes the ability to designate “contention zones” and “sustainable growth zones,” either for entire civil parishes or specific areas within them. Contention zones apply to regions currently experiencing oversaturation of AL properties, while sustainable growth zones address areas at risk of such overload. These designations enable the implementation of targeted measures aimed at avoiding potential negative impacts on neighbourhoods and preserving local quality of life.

This new regulation also considers housing demand and environmental impact as key factors. Every three years, authorities will conduct a thorough evaluation, based on comprehensive studies to justify the geographical boundaries of these zones, ensuring decisions are evidence-based and respond to community needs.

In contention zones, local authorities may adopt criteria that restrict new local lodging licenses. Specifically, if a property was leased for residential purposes within the two years preceding an application for a local lodging license, authorities may choose not to issue a license for that property.

This decree-law empowers local authorities to regulate AL activities. For instance, municipalities with over 1,000 registered local accommodation establishments will see their municipal assemblies decide whether to implement specific regulations governing the activity.

To support the implementation of administrative regulation, municipalities may now establish a dedicated role for managing local accommodation oversight. This role will facilitate the municipality’s handling of disputes between residents, property owners , tenants, and other involved parties by assessing complaints, offering recommendations, and promoting best practices for local lodging activities. Municipalities reaching 1,000 registered local accommodations must set this regulatory framework within a 12-month period.

It is essential to understand that Local Lodging (AL) activities may be prohibited if explicitly stated in the apartment building regulations. Furthermore, changes can be made to these regulations to prohibit short-term rentals through a reasoned resolution approved by a majority of the building's residents. The prohibition should be based on documented instances of disruptive behaviour that affect the normal use of the premises and compromise residents' peace. Following this, a formal request must be submitted to the local authority for a decision. If the license is revoked, it will remain in effect for a maximum period of five years.

If the local authority decides not to revoke the local lodging license, it is responsible for facilitating discussions among all parties involved to reach a consensus, aiming to conclude the process through mutual commitments and conditions. The timeline for achieving this resolution is set at 60 days, culminating in a final report outlining proposed solutions and measures to be implemented, or determining the impracticality of reaching an agreement.

This new regulation stipulates that the maximum capacity for Alojamento Local establishments is limited to nine rooms and twenty-seven guests, except for hostels with room-based configurations.

The landscape of Alojamento Local regulations in Portugal is continually evolving. At Belion Partners, we have a comprehensive understanding of the local lodging market and its regulatory framework. If you need assistance with AL property management or licensing, please contact us . We are committed to helping you navigate your needs effectively.

Do Harry & Meghan’s Portugal Estate Qualify for a Golden Visa?

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 16:29:28 GMT

A recent topic gaining significant attention in the international press is the potential relocation of British royal family members Prince Harry and Megan Markle to Europe, potentially through the purchase of a property in Portugal.

Recent news indicates that the luxurious property they purchased is located in Melides, a coastal parish in the Alentejo region belonging to Setúbal District. Melides is acclaimed for its stunning beaches and the exceptional weather typical of Portugal’s southern coast.

Harry and Meghan are not the first members of the British royal family to buy a home in Portugal. Princess Eugenie, and her husband Jack Brooksbank, also bought a house in Portugal. They reside in Melides with their two sons, August and Ernest, embracing the many opportunities and exceptional quality of life that Portugal offers to foreign residents, regardless of their royal status!

With Harry & Meghan’s potential move back to Europe and purchase of real estate in Portugal, speculation has arisen about whether Harry and Meghan might seek the Portuguese Golden Visa. The question arises:

Would They Be Eligible for the Portuguese Golden Visa ?

The answer is yes. As a U.S. citizen and a British citizen, respectively, Meghan and Harry do not hold European Union citizenship and therefore lack the same freedom of movement within the EU. They are subject to the same EU immigration requirements as other non-EU nationals.

For those considering an application for the Portuguese Golden Visa, one key question remains:

Does Real Estate Acquisition Qualify as a Golden Visa Investment?

The answer is no. Real estate acquisition is no longer a qualifying investment for the Golden Visa. This option was removed following changes introduced by the "Mais Habitação" bill, which was approved by the Portuguese parliament in October 2023.

While real estate no longer qualifies as a Golden Visa investment, it remains a significant consideration for those relocating to Portugal. For individuals seeking to experience the best of what Portugal offers, selecting the right property is essential.

However, take note that the Portuguese Golden Visa program requires just 14 days of residence every 2 years , so relocating to Portugal is optional.

Since real estate acquisition is no longer a valid investment option for obtaining a Portuguese Golden Visa, this raises another important question:

What Are the Current Golden Visa Investment Routes?

Currently, there are five qualifying investment routes for the Golden Visa:

Golden Visa Investment Funds : A capital transfer of 500,000 EUR to acquire participation units in investment funds or venture capital funds focused on the capitalisation of companies.
Donations to Portuguese Arts and Culture : Capital transfers of 250,000 EUR to support artistic production and national cultural heritage through public and private entities, with a reduced amount of 200,000 EUR if located in low-density areas.
Scientific Research Activities : A capital transfer of 500,000 EUR to fund research conducted by public or private institutions within the national scientific and technological system.
Incorporation of a Commercial Company : An investment of 500,000 EUR in a new or existing Portuguese company, creating five new permanent jobs or maintaining ten jobs over three years.
Creation of Ten New Permanent Jobs : Establishing a Portuguese entity with a minimum of 10 new permanent jobs (reduced to 8 jobs in low-density areas) with no specified minimum capital.

Among the five investment options available for the Golden Visa, one stands out as the most sought-after choice: Golden Visa investment funds. This prompts another important question:

What Makes Golden Visa Investment Funds an Attractive Choice?

One of the most compelling advantages of these investments is the tax exemption . Investors enjoy tax-free profits, income, and capital gains, allowing them to retain 100% of their income and capital gains , as well as their initial investment of 500,000 EUR, without incurring taxes. In contrast, real estate acquisition does not offer this benefit, as it is subject to annual taxes, including the Imposto Municipal Sobre Imóveis (IMI).

Another significant advantage of Golden Visa investments is their substantial potential for high returns, with possibilities of annual earnings reaching up to 25%, depending on the fund's strategy and historical performance data. It is important to note that while past performance does not guarantee future results, it does provide a valuable indication of potential.

Lastly, the diversification of investments within Golden Visa funds, spanning various companies and sectors, serves to mitigate risks, thereby enhancing the overall security and potential returns of the investment.

These funds must be approved and regulated by the CMVM (Portuguese Securities Market Commission) and must allocate at least 60% of the investment towards commercial companies based in Portugal.

With these options in mind, potential Golden Visa applicants may wonder:

Why Apply for the Portuguese Golden Visa?

Portugal offers a wealth of advantages, both measurable and immeasurable.

Among the tangible benefits of living in Portugal, the following can be found:

Tangible Benefits:

Portugal’s Healthcare System : Renowned for its high quality and accessibility, Portugal's national healthcare system ensures that individuals and families receive exceptional medical care. All legal residents benefit from access to this comprehensive system.
Education System : Portugal's education system is recognized for its excellence, offering numerous private British and American international schools. Golden Visa applicants and their family members have the flexibility to study at a variety of institutions throughout the country.
Citizenship : After maintaining the Golden Visa for five years, individuals may apply for Portuguese citizenship, contingent upon meeting specific criteria, including passing a basic Portuguese language test. Once citizenship is granted, the individual becomes eligible for a Portuguese passport, one of the most desired in the world.
Travel Mobility : The Portuguese passport grants visa-free travel to 172 countries and full European Union citizenship, enabling applicants to live, work, and study in any EU member state—a real sense of freedom. This benefit is extended to family members under the family reunification regulations.

Among the lifestyle benefits of living in Portugal, the following can be found:

Lifestyle Benefits:

Safety : According to the latest data from the Institute for Economics and Peace, Portugal is ranked as the 7th most peaceful country in the world, per the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI). It stands out as the only southern European nation to achieve this distinction.
Stunning Landscapes : Portugal's diverse natural beauty enchants every region, from the northern mountains to the southern coastline and the picturesque islands. Each area offers unique marvels, including the majestic Serra da Estrela mountains, the stunning beaches of the Algarve, and the breathtaking Peneda-Gerês National Park—a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Pleasant Climate : Renowned for its abundant sunshine, Portugal enjoys between 2,500 and 3,200 hours of sunlight annually. This delightful climate invites residents and visitors alike to explore its vibrant streets, partake in outdoor activities, and experience its natural wonders.
Exceptional Gastronomy : Portugal's culinary scene is nothing short of extraordinary. It is often said that the country’s gastronomy is as rich and varied as its landscape, with each region offering its own unique dishes, liqueurs, wines, appetisers, and desserts.

With these advantages in mind, Portugal emerges as a premier destination for individuals seeking to embrace a high-quality lifestyle abroad, filled with new opportunities for the whole family.

Relocating internationally is a significant and multifaceted decision that necessitates careful consideration. Recognising this complexity, Belion Partners offers an extensive range of services and a robust network to facilitate a seamless transition to Portugal. We serve as a one-stop solution for all legal, accounting, and relocation needs.

If you are interested in exploring the Golden Visa opportunity, please reach out to us . We would be pleased to assist you in this exciting journey.

Young Portuguese Tax Residents Can Access Financing of Up to 100% for First-Time Home Purchases

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:00:51 GMT

Tax residents in Portugal who are 35 years old or younger are eligible for financing of up to 100% for the purchase of their first home. This initiative is aimed at facilitating homeownership for young residents by offering comprehensive financial support for their first house acquisition.

Decree-Law No. 44/2024, enacted on the 11th July, introduces new conditions allowing the Portuguese state to provide personal guarantees to financial institutions, such as banks. This initiative aims to simplify the credit approval process for individuals purchasing their first real estate property intended as their primary and permanent residence.

The implementation of this measure requires regulation by government officials responsible for finance, housing, and youth affairs. Once in place, young taxpayers residing in Portugal who meet the eligibility criteria will be able to access this financing option.

This state-guarantee financing is not the only initiative the Portuguese government has introduced to support young taxpayers and reduce their tax burden. Another significant measure, effective since the 1st August 2024, is the exemption from IMT tax (Municipal Property Transfer Tax) and stamp duty for first-time home buyers, provided the house is their primary residence.

To provide a clearer understanding of this government regulation—who qualifies, which properties are eligible, and whether foreign residents can benefit—detailed answers to these important questions are provided below.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria for the State Guarantee?

To qualify for this state guarantee, individuals must meet the following criteria:

Be 35 years old or under;
Hold tax residence in Portugal;
Must not currently own a property;
Have an annual taxable income not exceeding € 80 000 (which falls within the 8th Personal Income Tax Bracket );
Have no outstanding debts to the tax authority or social security;
Ensure that the property being purchased is their first real estate acquisition and intended as their permanent residence.

Which Documents Are Needed to Request This State Guarantee?

To apply to the state guarantee, young taxpayers will need to submit the following documentation:

ID card (or equivalent for foreign residents);
Proof of tax residency;
Statement of Personal Income Tax (IRS) liquidation;
Property registry certificate (proving the applicant does not own another real estate);
Debt clearance certificates from the tax office and social security;
Document showing the purchase price of the house;
Property Register;
Declaration by the young taxpayer confirming that the financed housing is intended as their first permanent residence and that they have never benefited from a state guarantee.

Which Real Estate Properties Qualify for the State Guarantee?

To address this question effectively, two key aspects must be considered: the property’s price and the nature of the acquisition.

The property must be valued at no more than € 450,000. It is important to note that the state guarantee applies exclusively to credit agreements for purchasing a home; and does not cover credit for house construction.

Are All Portuguese Banks Offering This State Guarantee?

No, participation is optional for banks. Banks have until the end of October 2024 to opt in. If a bank chooses to participate, it will have 60 days to establish the necessary processes. After this period, the bank will be ready to offer housing loans backed by the state guarantee.

What Is the Deadline for Applying for the State Guarantee?

After fulfilling all the aforementioned requirements, applications can be made for contracts signed up until the 31st December 2026.

How Long Will This State Guarantee Last?

The state guarantee is valid for 10 years, starting from the date the contract is signed.

If I Buy a house with a state guarantee, can I sell it?

Yes, homeowners are allowed to sell their property at any time, even if it was purchased with the state guarantee. In such cases, the state guarantee will be terminated upon the issuance of the mortgage discharge.

Regarding the IMT tax exemption, homeowners must keep the property as their permanent residence for six years from the date of purchase.

There are specific exceptions to this rule where the property can cease to be the primary residence without incurring penalties:

Property Sale : If the house is sold, the exemption will not apply to any future property purchases.
Household Changes : In cases of household changes, such as marriage, divorce, or the addition of new dependents, the exemption remains valid as long as the property continues to be used as a residence.
Employment Relocation : If there is a job relocation more than 100 kilometres away from the property, the exemption is maintained if the property continues to be used for residential purposes.

Can I Change Banks Without Losing the State Guarantee?

Yes, the guarantee remains valid if the mortgage is transferred to another bank that participates in the state guarantee protocol.

Can Young Taxpayers Buy Real Estate Without Making a Down Payment?

Yes, young taxpayers can purchase real estate without a down payment, provided that the loan is obtained from a bank participating in the state guarantee programme.

Are Banks Obligated to Provide 100% Financing?

Banks participating in the state guarantee programme may offer financing up to 100% of the property's purchase price, provided the young taxpayer demonstrates the financial capacity to support the loan. The mortgage approval process under this initiative follows the same criteria as standard mortgage agreements, meaning the bank will assess the applicant's financial effort ratio.

Does the State Guarantee Also Apply to Young Foreign Residents ?

Yes, foreign residents who meet the eligibility criteria can also take advantage of the state guarantee, regardless of nationality.

Can the State Guarantee Be Combined with IMT and Stamp Duty Exemptions?

Yes, the state guarantee can be combined with IMT and stamp duty exemptions for first-time home purchases, provided the buyer meets the requirements for both benefits.

This initiative marks a significant step toward helping young taxpayers overcome the housing challenges in Portugal. If you have questions or need further guidance in making the most of these opportunities, please don’t hesitate to reach out . We are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring that the process is as smooth and straightforward as possible.

New Opportunities: How Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa Can Change Your Work Life

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 14:22:32 GMT

Portugal has long been renowned as an idyllic retirement destination, featuring favourable weather conditions, affordability, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Interestingly, these same qualities are now drawing a different crowd: young professionals starting their careers. Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live, not just for its climate and cost of living, but also for its modern infrastructure and widespread internet access.

The pandemic has reshaped our lives, showing that many tasks can be done from home without the need for a traditional office. Working remotely offers benefits like avoiding long commutes, endless traffic jams, and having more quality time with loved ones. This shift has led people worldwide to rethink their lifestyles and careers, resulting in a growing influx of expats, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and retirees relocating to Portugal for a more balanced life.

In light of this trend, Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa , also known as the D8 Visa, was introduced by the Portuguese government in 2022. This visa offers non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens the opportunity to pursue residency in Portugal while working remotely.

There are two distinct subtypes of the Digital Nomad Visa, dependent on the desired length of stay in the country.

For those planning a stay of less than 12 months, the Temporary Stay Visa is a suitable choice. This visa is valid for a year, enabling people to work and reside in Portugal. It is worth noting that this visa may be extended for an additional year, subject to approval by the Portuguese Immigration Authorities, known as AIMA. However, it is important to remember that this visa does not include the right to apply for a residence permit in Portugal. The application process for the Temporary Stay Visa for Digital Nomads must be initiated at the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy in the applicant's current country of legal residence.

On the other hand, if the applicant intends to stay in Portugal for more than 12 months and establish residency, the D8 Visa, or Residence Visa for Digital Nomads, presents the ideal solution. This visa offers the possibility of acquiring a residence permit in Portugal.

The D8 Visa process involves two key steps:

Firstly, the Residence Visa is acquired at the Consulate or Portuguese Embassy in the applicant's country of legal residence. This visa, valid for 120 days, acts as the entry permit for Portugal.
Secondly, the Residence Permit is secured in Portugal through the Immigration Authorities. This permit affirms legal residency in Portugal, with the initial permit issued for a two-year period, followed by renewals lasting three years. After five years of legal residency in Portugal, the option to apply for permanent residence or Portuguese citizenship arises, subject to passing a Portuguese language exam .

When applying for Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, the necessary documents include:

For employees: Employment contract or employer’s declaration of employment.
For self-employed individuals: Company contract, service agreement, or documentation verifying services provided to one or more entities.
Moreover, all applicants must provide:

Evidence of average monthly income for the past three months, equivalent to at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (€3,280.00 currently).
Proof of tax residency.
Confirmation that remote work is feasible, supported by a contract or agreement with a remote work clause, accompanied by an employer's endorsement of remote work from Portugal.

Given Portugal's status within the European Union, acquiring Portuguese citizenship and a Portuguese passport presents many advantages. These include visa-free travel across Europe, freedom of movement among EU countries, and the right to live and work across the Union.

As the demand for remote work opportunities grows, professionals are increasingly turning to online resources to support their career changes. Below is a carefully curated list of platforms tailored to a diversity of industries, helping professionals find remote work and excel in their fields of work:

General Job Platforms

Remote.co – More than just job listings, this platform offers valuable insights on remote work, virtual team management, and best practices for remote companies.
Remotive – Focused on tech, customer support, product, and marketing roles, Remotive also fosters a supportive community for remote workers.
RemoteOK – One of the largest platforms for finding remote jobs globally, covering industries from tech to non-tech roles.
Remote.io – A job board tailored to remote professionals, particularly those in tech, featuring roles in development, design, and marketing.
FlexJobs – A well-known platform offering a wide selection of hand-screened remote, part-time, and freelance jobs, alongside premium services such as CV reviews and webinars.
SimplyHired – A comprehensive job search engine that lists remote and hybrid opportunities across multiple industries.
YouTeam (YC W18) – Specialising in vetted tech talent, this platform connects businesses with engineers from reputable software development agencies.

Creative & Design

99designs – A platform where businesses can connect with freelance designers through design contests or direct hiring for projects like logos, websites, and branding.
Dribbble and Behance – Both serve as portfolio platforms for creative professionals to showcase their work. Dribbble also offers a job board dedicated to remote design roles.
ArtStation – A platform favoured by digital artists, game designers, and concept artists for displaying their portfolios.
DesignCrowd – Similar to 99designs, this platform connects designers with clients through design contests.
Designhill – A crowdsourcing platform for businesses seeking designers for logos, web projects, and other graphic design needs.

Content Writing & Editing

Textbroker International – A platform where freelance writers can complete content assignments for businesses.
WriterAccess – This platform connects freelance writers with clients looking for content, blog posts, or articles, offering project management tools to streamline the process.
ProBlogger – A job board featuring opportunities for bloggers and content creators.
FreelanceWriting.com – Another job board dedicated to freelance writers, offering a range of opportunities across various content types.
iWriter – A marketplace where freelance writers can apply for content writing jobs.

Web Development & IT

Codeable – A specialised platform connecting clients with vetted WordPress development experts.
GitHub Jobs and Stack Overflow Jobs – Both platforms are dedicated to developer and tech roles, with a focus on connecting engineers and programmers with remote opportunities.
Webflow Experts – A niche platform where businesses can find certified Webflow designers and developers.

Marketing & Social Media

Emplifi (formerly Socialbakers) – A customer experience platform combining social media marketing, customer care, and social commerce to help brands track performance, engage with customers, and gain insights through social listening and AI-driven automation.
Community.co – Specialising in building and managing professional communities, often through branded and leadership networks.
Hootsuite Marketplace – A platform that connects businesses with social media professionals to manage and optimise their social media strategies.
Sprout Social – A comprehensive social media management tool offering scheduling, analytics, customer engagement, and social listening features.
Traackr – Focused on influencer marketing, this platform helps brands discover, manage, and measure relationships with influencers.
Social Media Examiner – A leading resource for social media marketing education, offering guides, case studies, and insights on the latest trends.

Business & Consulting

Catalant Technologies – A platform that connects businesses with independent consultants and experts for business strategy, operations, and transformation projects.
Expert360 – Similar to Catalant, Expert360 provides access to freelance consultants and industry experts for both short- and long-term projects, with a focus on management consulting.
The Muse – Offering career advice, job listings, and company profiles, this platform helps job seekers find meaningful work and assists employers in attracting top talent.

Freelancing Platforms

Fiverr – A global marketplace offering freelance services across a wide range of industries, where freelancers can list their services and clients can hire for short-term projects.
Upwork – One of the largest freelancing platforms, offering services across multiple sectors, from tech and design to writing and marketing.
PeoplePerHour – Specialising in hourly contracts, this platform connects freelancers with businesses seeking web development, content creation, and digital marketing expertise.
Freelancer.com – A well-known platform where freelancers can bid on jobs across various sectors.
Toptal – A premium network for freelancers, Toptal provides top talent in software development, design, and finance for high-end clients.
Guru.com – A freelancing site offering a broad range of services including programming, design, writing, and consulting.
Twine – Focused on connecting creatives with clients, Twine is ideal for those in music, film, and graphic design.
Workhoppers – A platform aimed at part-time and freelance workers, helping businesses hire locally or remotely.
FreeUp – A curated marketplace that connects businesses with top-tier freelancers across various industries.
Hubstaff Talent – A free directory of freelancers and agencies, specialising in remote talent for both project-based and long-term work.
SolidGigs – A job board that curates freelance openings and sends top opportunities to freelancers on a daily basis.

If you are considering making Portugal your next home base, we are here to help. With its vibrant culture, exceptional quality of life, and welcoming environment for remote workers, Portugal could be the perfect place for your new chapter. Reach out to us for expert guidance on Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa process and let us ensure your transition is smooth and stress-free.

Together, we’ll make your relocation to Portugal seamless and rewarding.

Is Portugal Becoming a Hotspot for American Tourists?

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 13:50:47 GMT

The number of US tourists visiting Portugal continues to rise steadily each year. By 2024, the United States has become the second-largest source of foreign visitors to the country. Data from the National Statistics Institute of Portugal (INE) highlights this impressive growth, reflecting the increasing appeal of Portugal as a top destination for American travellers.

Based on the available data, the number of tourists from the US surged from 584,700 in 2022 to 902,000 in 2023, and in 2024, it exceeded one million. It's important to note that these figures represent only the first six months of each year. In just two years, the number of American visitors to Portugal nearly doubled.

The UK remains the leading market for Portugal's tourism sector, reflecting its longstanding role as a major contributor. In the first half of 2024, Portugal welcomed 1.2 million visitors from the UK, marking a 6% increase compared to the same period last year.

Looking at the data, it’s clear that the US is quickly closing the gap on the UK, making these two nations the top contributors to Portugal’s tourism sector. In fact, the US market has already outpaced other key markets, such as Spain and Germany.

UK tourists account for 13% of all foreign visitors to Portugal and contribute 18% of the total overnight stays. Out of the 25 million non-resident guests in Portugal, British visitors alone made up 4.7 million stays.

Overall, Portugal's tourism sector is experiencing a steady upward trend, with foreign tourists playing a significant role in this growth. For instance, in 2023, the sector not only recovered but exceeded pre-pandemic levels .

Regarding US tourists , this growth tendency has already been observed in the first four months of this year. When comparing expenditures in 2024 to those in 2019, they have more than doubled.

In the first six months of 2024 alone, Portugal's tourist accommodations welcomed 14.4 million guests, marking a 5.6% increase from the same period last year. Among these, 8.8 million were international visitors, making up 62% of the total.

When it comes to overnight stays, US tourists contributed 2.35 million – positioning the US as the fifth-largest source market for overnight stays, behind the UK, Germany, Spain, and France.

In total, foreign guests accounted for 71.5% of the 35.5 million overnight stays in Portugal, which represents 25.4 million.

If we only take into account the five major markets, which are the UK, Germany, Spain, France, and the US, together they account for 14.4 million overnight stays in Portugal.

In global terms, Portugal has seen a 4.5% increase in overnight stays at tourist accommodation establishments. This growth is reflected in a 12.3% rise in total revenue from hotel establishments and a 12.1% increase in room revenue.

This robust growth in the tourism sector is not only bolstering Portugal's economy but also enhancing its appeal as a destination for long-term visitors and expatriates. A key factor contributing to this appeal is Portugal's impressive standing in English proficiency. Remarkably, Portugal ranks among the top ten countries globally for English proficiency among non-native speakers , making it the only country in Southern Europe to achieve such high levels. This linguistic advantage significantly reduces language barriers, making Portugal an even more attractive destination for English-speaking tourists and potential residents alike.

The combination of a thriving tourism sector, strong economic growth , and high English proficiency creates a favourable environment for international investment. As more visitors, particularly from English-speaking countries like the United States, discover Portugal's charms, opportunities in various sectors – from real estate to hospitality – continue to expand.

For those looking to capitalise on Portugal's current economic momentum and growing international appeal, navigating the local regulations and tax strategies is crucial. Expert guidance can be invaluable in ensuring the success of any investment in this dynamic market. At Belion Partners, we specialise in providing the necessary legal and accounting services to help investors make the most of these promising opportunities.

Our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of investing in Portugal's promising market, allowing you to benefit from the country's economic growth and increasing popularity among international visitors. Contact us ; we are here to offer you, our help.

Portuguese Passport Validity to Be Extended to 10 Years

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 15:34:00 GMT

The Portuguese passport is set to have its validity extended from the current 5 years to 10 years, doubling its duration. This change is expected to take effect in the first quarter of 2026.

This extension will apply exclusively to the Portuguese Electronic Passport (PEP) and will only be available to legally adult citizens aged 18 and older.

Introduced in 2006, the Portuguese Electronic Passport (PEP) distinguishes itself from its predecessor by incorporating an electronic chip that securely stores the holder’s biometric data, including their photograph and fingerprint.

The decision to extend the passport's validity period aims to ease the lives of Portuguese passport holders, particularly those residing outside the European Union and the Schengen area, where renewal processes can be time-consuming and costly.

This measure is part of a broader set of initiatives introduced by the new Portuguese government , which was elected in the general elections held in March this year. Specifically, 15 measures were presented to optimise the lives of Portuguese citizens and residents.

In addition to the passport validity extension, the government has introduced several other measures to streamline and digitalise public services. This package aims to promote the standardisation, simplification, and digitalisation of public services, extending their reach to a growing number of citizens and businesses alike.

Other measures in this package include the dematerialised issuance of dental vouchers to eligible users. Through this new initiative, citizens in Portuguese territory can receive a code via text message or digital channels from SNS 24 (accessible through the app or digital portal).

In the case of relocating to a different municipality, it is now possible to change one’s health centre and their child’s school simultaneously with updating the address on the ID card.

Now, residents of Portugal will only need to implement the Digital Mobile Key, and their ID card will serve as the sole authentication method across various state service sites, eliminating the need for multiple passwords.

The assignment of the SNS (National Healthcare Services) number will be implemented in all maternity hospitals, both private and public , ensuring that every newborn leaves the hospital with their birth registration in the National User Register and their SNS number assigned.

For foreign citizens, a new measure will be implemented to streamline the process of obtaining individual identifier numbers—NIF (Taxpayer Identification Number), NISS (Social Security Identification Number), and SNS (National Healthcare Services Number) —through the existing integrated network. This initiative will reduce the time required to complete these services and help expedite the pending processes handled by AIMA . The measure is set to take effect in the last quarter of 2024.

The government has also announced additional initiatives within this package, including the creation of a digital service called "Lost My Wallet." This service will be accompanied by the dematerialisation of the digital health bulletin for pregnant women and for child and adolescent health, the simplification of the initial parental allowance allocation, and the inclusion of new cards in the digital wallet.

These initiatives exemplify the Portuguese government's commitment to driving an efficient digital transition , making public services more modern and user-friendly for the citizens and residents in Portugal.

In conclusion, these comprehensive reforms reflect Portugal's dedication to modernising its public services and improving the quality of life for its citizens and residents. From extending passport validity to digitalising various administrative processes, these changes are set to significantly enhance the efficiency and accessibility of government services. As Portugal continues to evolve its public sector, residents and potential investors can look forward to a more streamlined and user-friendly experience in their interactions with the state.

At Belion Partners, we have extensive experience in collaborating with public services. If you require assistance in implementing or managing services with public entities, reach out to us . We are here to provide you with our expertise and support.

Short-Term Rental: Updates on Licensing Changes

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:16:00 GMT

Recent developments in the short-term rental sector, known in Portugal as Alojamento Local (AL), have brought significant alterations. On the 8th of August 2024, the Council of Ministers announced that AL licences can once again be transferred, marking a major shift in the regulations previously set by the former government. Alongside this, two other crucial modifications were approved: the removal of licence expiry dates and an increase in local authorities' influence over decisions related to short-term rentals.

What Has Changed in Short-Term Rental Licences?

Under the previous government, the “Mais Habitação” package was introduced to address the housing crisis. One of its measures included a ban on transferring short-term rental licences when a property was sold.

With the changes introduced by the Council of Ministers, when a short-term rental property is sold, the licence now transfers along with the property. This means the new owner automatically acquires both the property and its short-term rental licence as part of the transaction.

This isn’t the first modification introduced by the new government in the short-term rental sector. On the 27th of May 2024, the government abolished the CEAL (Contribuição Extraordinária para o Alojamento Local), a special contribution that was previously required from short-term rental property owners.

Another significant alteration is the removal of the licence expiry dates , which was another measure introduced by the "Mais Habitação" package. Previously, short-term rental licences were set to expire starting in 2030 and then every five years thereafter, requiring renewal based on municipal regulations. This provision was met with strong opposition from the sector, and the new government has now decided to eliminate it.

The final adjustment approved by the Council of Ministers on the 8th of August 2024, reflects the new government's commitment to decentralisation. This approach grants more authority to local municipalities, empowering them to make decisions on short-term rentals—including the issuance of new licences—based on a detailed, street-level assessment of local housing needs.

These alterations align with the current government’s political agenda and demonstrate their commitment to reforming the short-term rental sector in Portugal.

Potential Future Changes in the Short-Term Rental Market

The Portuguese government is considering adjustments to the role of condominiums in regulating local accommodation. Currently, condominium assemblies hold significant authority to close local accommodation units in properties with horizontal ownership. For example, a condominium assembly can, with a two-thirds majority, block the establishment of a local accommodation unit within the building, unless the title constituting the horizontal property explicitly allows it.

We continue to closely monitor the ongoing changes in Portugal's local lodging market to keep our readers and clients informed with the latest developments in this sector.

Expert Assistance for Your Portuguese Real Estate Investments

At Belion Partners, we specialise in Portuguese real estate, offering tailored, end-to-end consultancy services to meet each client's unique needs. Our comprehensive solutions cover everything from investment planning to day-to-day property operations.

If you are considering investing in Portuguese real estate and need expert guidance to understand these recent modifications, we invite you to contact us . Our team is ready to assist you with our in-depth knowledge and experience in this dynamic market.

Growth of English Bilingual Education in Portugal

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 10:20:01 GMT

Introduction to Bilingual Education

Bilingual education offers numerous benefits to learners. These advantages include enhanced cognitive development and improved academic performance. Furthermore, in our globalised world, fluency in at least two languages is essential for becoming a global citizen, making bilingual education increasingly valuable.

With this perspective in mind, the Portuguese Ministry of Education , through the General Education Directorate (Direção Geral de Educação – DGE), has implemented an English Teaching programme in collaboration with the British Council Portugal.

The PEBI Programme in Portugal

The Programa Escolas Bilingues/Bilingual School Programme (PEBI) began in the 2016/2017 school year. It continues the work of a previous project, Projeto Ensino Bilingue Precoce/Bilingual School Project, which ran from 2011 to 2015. The programme is designed for preschool children and students from 1st to 9th grade.

Implementation Across Education Levels

Regarding kids in preschool education, the PEBI aims to introduce children to English through natural integration in daily and playful activities for at least 5 hours per week. The goal is for preschool children to learn English naturally and fluidly as they learn their mother tongue, in this case, Portuguese.

In the primary cycle, the approach shifts slightly. At this stage, the students engage in English for seven hours weekly. Subjects partially taught in English include environmental studies, artistic education, and physical education.

In the second and third cycles, students engage with the English language for nine to eleven hours weekly, a substantial rise compared to the previous cycles. This includes a variety of subjects beyond English, such as history, geography, maths, information and communications technology, visual education, physical education, music education, and more.

Current Reach and Future Goals

The PEBI programme currently serves 4,600 students across Portugal, spanning 38 schools and educational clusters (Agrupamentos Escolares). Specifically, it includes 32 public educational clusters and 6 private schools, distributed throughout nearly every region of the country, with a significant presence in the northern areas and major cities like Lisbon and Porto. Additionally, the programme extends internationally, being implemented in a Portuguese school in Mozambique, an African country where Portuguese is the official language .

Looking at the broader landscape of Portuguese public education, there are around 800 educational clusters and non-grouped schools across the country. Currently, the PEBI programme is present in less than 5% of these public education infrastructures. The goal for 2025 is to expand this reach to 7% of Portuguese public education institutions, thereby enhancing the programme's coverage by an additional 2 percentage points.

The significance of the PEBI programme is amplified by the growing number of foreign residents in Portugal , which is reflected in the rising percentage of students who do not speak Portuguese as their mother tongue. Recent data shows that approximately 10% of students in the Portuguese school system fall into this category.

With this programme, the Portuguese educational framework fosters a safe and inclusive environment for all who choose to live in this progressive country . Moreover, the global benefits of studying in Portugal under this programme contribute significantly to the success of students once they learn in a bilingual environment.

For families considering a move to Portugal to take advantage of this progressive education system, expert assistance can be invaluable. Belion Partners specialises in guiding families through the intricacies of Portuguese immigration policies and visas, including the D7 visa. Our range of complementary services ensures a smooth transition for those looking to benefit from Portugal's innovative approach to education. Contact us , and let us provide the support you need.

Portugal's 2024 Tax Reform: New Withholding Tax Rates for Personal Income Tax

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:16:42 GMT

Starting in September 2024, a new withholding tax regime will be introduced with the goal of easing the tax burden on Portuguese citizens . While the adjustments will officially take effect in September, they will be applied retroactively to income earned earlier in the year (since January). Personal Income Tax (IRS – Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Singulares) continues to be a central focus in the Portuguese Government's policy agenda .

The new withholding tax structure introduces the following adjustments:

1st Tax Bracket: The rate will be reduced from 13.25% to 13% for taxable income up to €7,703 per year.
2nd Tax Bracket : The rate will be reduced from 18% to 16.5% for taxable income ranging from €7,703 to €11,623 per year.
3rd Tax Bracket: The rate will be reduced from 23% to 22% for taxable income ranging from €11,623 to €16,472 per year.
4th Tax Bracket: The rate will be reduced from 26% to 25% for taxable income ranging from €16,472 to €21,321 per year.
5th Tax Bracket: The rate will be reduced from 32.75% to 32% for taxable income ranging from €21,321 to €27,146 per year.
6th Tax Bracket: The rate will be reduced from 37% to 35.5% for taxable income ranging from €27,146 to €39,791 per year.

The new tax rates reflect a reduction across the 1st to 6th income brackets, with decreases ranging from 0.25% to 1.5%. In practical terms, this equates to monthly tax savings of between €24 and €336. While the 7th, 8th, and 9th brackets will not see direct rate reductions, the progressive nature of the tax system ensures that all income levels will benefit from the overall decrease.

While these changes apply to the general tax regime, it's important to consider how they interact with other tax programs in Portugal. One such program is the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime , which has been a significant factor in Portugal's tax landscape for foreign residents .

It's worth noting that the NHR tax regime will continue to offer its flat tax rate to those who currently benefit from it. Although the NHR regime itself has already ended for new applicants, those who are eligible can still submit applications until the end of 2024 . This provides a transitional period for individuals who may have been planning to take advantage of this programme.

In line with Portugal's commitment to attracting foreign investment and talent, the government has introduced a new tax benefit regime called IFICI+ . This regime offers a flat income tax rate of 20%, similar to the NHR regime, but it applies exclusively to salaries and professional incomes. IFICI+ is designed to attract highly qualified foreign talent, focusing on sectors such as scientific research, innovation, and human capital.

At Belion Partners, our tax advisory and accountancy experts work seamlessly together to offer a full range of solutions, from tax advice and support with securing the new tax benefits to comprehensive tax representation, accounting, and compliance services for both individuals and businesses. Reach out to us to learn how we can tailor our services to meet your specific needs.

Travel Insurance: Why It's Essential for Your Vacation

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 12:44:45 GMT

Summertime is that time of year when offices are half-empty and the people there are counting down to their holidays. It's the season for travelling , exploring new countries, enjoying the beach and dining outdoors while socialising with friends.

While the relaxing vibe of holidays and summer brings joy, safety remains a top priority for everyone. Travel insurance plays a crucial role in ensuring protection against accidents and unexpected events while on vacations.

To emphasise the importance of travel insurance during vacations, consider the following key reasons to secure coverage:

Accidents Abroad

Accidents can happen in countless ways, often when least expected. When travelling abroad, these incidents require immediate medical attention. Travel insurance safeguards access to the necessary healthcare, providing peace of mind and essential support in the event of an accident.

It is important to note that if an accident happens during a car or boat trip, travel insurance may not be applicable, as these vehicles are typically required to have their own passenger insurance.

Sudden Illness

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that diseases can strike anywhere. If symptoms appear before travelling, travel insurance can cover the costs of cancelling flights, accommodations, and other pre-paid expenses related to the travel. If illness occurs during the trip, travel insurance guarantees consultations, treatments, and, if needed, hospitalisation. This ensures essential care and support, providing peace of mind for the insured person and their family.

Illness Abroad

Travel insurance provides comprehensive assistance, covering medical and pharmaceutical expenses abroad, as well as transport and repatriation for injured or sick individuals.

In cases of prolonged hospitalisation, the insurance also covers the travel expenses of a relative to offer support. Extended stays for convalescence are also included. All of these levels of care are similar to those offered by health insurance and are sometimes included in such policies.

Travel insurance coverage applies to sudden illnesses only, excluding chronic or pre-existing conditions, pregnancy or childbirth assistance, and mental health issues.

Loss of Luggage

Arriving at a vacation destination without personal belongings is a major headache. Travel insurance can alleviate this inconvenience by covering expenses for unaccompanied luggage loss. For accompanied luggage, coverage is provided only if the luggage is stolen, and the theft must be reported.

It's important to understand that not all items in the luggage are covered by insurance. Items such as money, jewellery, electronic equipment, and other special objects are typically excluded from reimbursement. For the covered items, most insurance companies offer compensation ranging from 150 to 500 euros.

Damage to Third Parties

Travel insurance covers unintentional damage caused by the insured person, their family members, or their pets during the vacation period. However, if the damage is proven to have occurred under the influence of alcohol beyond the legal limit or narcotics, the insurance company may seek compensation for the incurred losses.

Exclusions from insurance policies include damages caused by firearms and those related to road accidents, which should be covered by specific insurance policies.

These are just a few reasons highlighting the importance of travel insurance. At Belion Partners, we collaborate with insurance intermediaries to provide tailor-made insurance solutions specific to your needs. If you want to learn more about insurance in Portugal or need assistance, feel free to contact us . We are here to guide you and present you with the best coverage options.

The Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) Special Tax Regime is Making a Comeback

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 11:13:44 GMT

The Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) Special Tax Regime is set to be reintroduced by the new government, with several key differences from the previous version that was discontinued by the former administration.

Initially established in 2009, the Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) Special Tax Regime aimed to attract foreign residents by offering a favourable tax rate. It required setting up fiscal residence in Portugal and living in the country for 183 days a year, with a flat 20% income tax rate on all types of income for a period of 10 years. However, this program was discontinued in 2023 amid concerns that it contributed to the housing crisis in Portugal.

The Portuguese government is set to introduce a remodelled version of the tax benefit. Approved by the Council of Ministers on the 4th of July 2024, this measure is part of a broader package of 60 new initiatives aimed at stimulating the Portuguese economy. Specifically, this measure is the 10th in that package and is named IFICI+.

The new tax benefit, IFICI+, aims to attract highly qualified foreign talent, focusing on scientific research, innovation, and human capital. By encompassing a broader range of qualified professions and companies, this initiative seeks to stimulate Portugal's national economy and promote progress. The flat rate of 20% income tax remains, but it now applies exclusively to salaries and professional incomes.

The government aims to boost the growth of Portuguese companies and attract foreign investment through this measure. This aligns with recent legislative changes in the startup law , made up by the previous government, designed to make Portugal an attractive hub for start-ups and business development.

To benefit from this new tax advantage, foreigners wishing to become Portuguese tax residents must acquire a residence permit . There are several residency options to consider, with one of the most popular being the Portugal D7 visa , also known as the Portugal Passive Income Visa.

At Belion, our tax advisory and accountancy partners collaborate to provide comprehensive solutions, including tax advice, assistance with obtaining this new non-habitual residence status, tax representation, accounting, and tax compliance for both individuals and companies. Contact us to discover how we can assist you with your needs.

Good Morning America Spotlights Portugal: A Rising Star for US Citizens

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:49:05 GMT

The beloved morning show Good Morning America, America's top-rated program on ABC, recently showcased Portugal in its broadcasts on the 18th and 20th of June. Host Robin Roberts captured the essence perfectly: "It’s easy to see why Portugal is on so many travel bucket lists…".

US tourism in Portugal has surged in 2024 , reaching unprecedented levels. Initiatives like the Good Morning America TV show could pique the interest of American citizens, offering them a view into Portugal's multitude of attractions and enhancing their understanding of what this captivating country has to offer.

The broadcast of the 18th of June kicked off in Portugal's southernmost region, the Algarve. The journey began at the Benagil Sea Cave, one of Portugal's most photographed wonders, accessible only by boat or kayak. This natural wonder offers a glimpse into the natural beauty that makes Portugal so attractive.

Following the sea cave adventure, the exploration continued along the Algarve's white sandy beaches with crystalline waters and dramatic cliffs. These stunning coastal landscapes have earned the Algarve a reputation for having some of the world's most beautiful beaches.

After the Algarve, the journey continued to Lisbon and Porto, where Roberts interviewed US expats to understand why more than ten thousand Americans now call Portugal home, with numbers steadily rising. The top three reasons cited for the growing appeal of this coastal gem are:

Lower housing costs
Affordable Healthcare
Low crime rate

On a recent Belion Partners interview with retired US expatriates , the mild winters, a stable government within Europe, and, of course, the tasty and affordable food were other factors that stood out.

Exploring the interviews with Roberts, the first interviewees expressed their desire for a quieter, slower, and more peaceful way of life, which they found in Portugal. They also highlighted an interesting fact: Portugal offers a unique lifestyle that feels both close and different, being just a six-hour flight away from the US. This proximity allows them to enjoy a serene lifestyle without feeling isolated from their loved ones.

The next interview was with an American family seeking a higher quality of life for their children, particularly in terms of education. Portugal stands out as an excellent choice. The Portuguese school system is renowned for its excellence, with both public and private schools maintaining high standards. It is important to mention that private schools in Portugal often rank higher than public ones. Additionally, Portugal’s private school fees are significantly lower than those in the US, making quality education more affordable.

The final interview was held with one retired individual and another who is almost retired. They also find Portugal appealing, particularly due to its affordable living, excellent healthcare, and safety, factors that are increasingly significant in that age range. These attributes make Portugal an ideal place to spend one’s golden years .

On the broadcast of the 20th of June, the focus was entirely on Sintra, a city renowned for its enchantments. The segment showcased what makes this city special, such as the Pena Palace, steeped in romantic history, and Quinta da Regaleira, a cultural uniqueness in this corner of the world. They also explored Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Sintra’s timeless charm makes it a place worth visiting every now and then.

The broadcast concluded with a true taste of Portugal, featuring traditional pastries like pastéis de Belém, queijadas, and travesseiros, and a sip of Port wine. It's no surprise why Americans are increasingly choosing Portugal as their new home .

When considering a move to Portugal, there are numerous residency options available to explore. One of the most popular is the D7 visa , also known as the Portugal Passive Income Visa. This visa is tailored for passive income earners, including retirees, who wish to relocate to Portugal and embrace all the opportunities and lifestyle this country has to offer.

If Portugal has captured your interest and you're eager to learn more about this remarkable country, contact us . We specialise in offering tailored services to ensure your transition to Portugal is as seamless as possible.

US Tourism in Portugal Hits Record Highs in 2024

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:59:00 GMT

In the first four months of 2024, U.S. tourists increased their spending in Portugal by 18.2% compared to the same period last year and is now the fourth largest market in Portugal's tourism sector, surpassing the Spanish. U.S. tourists contributed €692.2 million to the Portuguese economy, while Spanish contributed 678.4 million euros.

The ranking of the most valuable markets for tourism in Portugal has traditionally been dominated by UK citizens. This is due to the long-standing diplomatic relations between the UK and Portugal which have allowed U.K. citizens to become well-acquainted with Portugal's safety , pleasant climate, and exquisite cuisine. From January to April 2024, U.K. tourists spent €960.2 million in Portugal. They were followed by German tourists, who spent €800.4 million, and French tourists, who spent €704.9 million.

The growth of the U.S. market in Portugal is evident when comparing current expenditures to those of previous years. In 2019, U.S. tourists spent €269.4 million in Portugal. By 2024, this expenditure had more than doubled, demonstrating a dynamic and significant increase in tourism from the U.S.

In broader terms, Portugal's tourism sector is flourishing, showing consistent annual growth in both revenue and the number of tourists, including both international and domestic visitors. To illustrate, the Portuguese tourism sector generated €6,829 million in revenue during the first four months of 2024, marking a remarkable 12.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

In the first five months of 2024, Portugal welcomed 6.9 million international tourists, a figure that excludes local accommodation units with fewer than ten beds. This marks a 7.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Additionally, domestic tourism saw a rise, with 4.4 million Portuguese residents travelling within the country, reflecting a 1.9% increase from the previous year.

Portugal's tourism sector experienced a significant boom in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels . Adding to this, the country continues to enhance the travel experience by increasing safety and comfort for visitors. A notable advancement is the introduction of biometric technology at Portuguese airports , further modernising the journey for travellers.

The Algarve is usually the favourite region among foreign visitors, renowned for its beautiful beaches, unique seafood, and vibrant nightlife. However, Portugal's charm extends beyond this region. Lisbon and Porto , with their rich histories and dynamic cultures, are must-visit cities. Additionally, Costa da Caparica , often likened to the Portuguese California, and Cascais, a coastal town near Lisbon, attract many tourists. Notably, Cascais has been recognised as a top green destination for its efforts in promoting sustainability.

If you are considering relocating to Portugal or wish to learn more about what this beautiful country has to offer, feel free to contact us . Our dedicated team is here to provide you with expert guidance and support.

How to Register Your Children in the Portuguese Public School System

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:40:32 GMT

The Portuguese school system is renowned for its quality and comprehensiveness, attracting many expats who relocate to Portugal and want their children to learn in the Portuguese system. Enrolling in the Portuguese education system is an excellent way to ensure the full integration of your children into the Portuguese culture while providing them with a world-class education.

The Portuguese Ministry of Education has announced the enrolment dates for the 2024/2025 school year. These dates are crucial for ensuring your child secures a place in the desired school.

For preschool education and the first year of primary education, enrolment was between the 15th of April 2024 and the 15th of May 2024.

Enrolment for the second year of the second cycle (6th grade) through to the end of the third cycle (9th grade), as well as for the 11th grade (the second year of secondary education), will be open from 22nd of June 2024, to 28th of June 2024.

For enrolments from the 2nd grade to the 5th grade, the dates are set from the 6th of July 2024 to the 10th of July 2024.

For students entering the 10th grade to the 12th grade (the first and third years of secondary education), enrolments will happen from the 15th of July 2024 to the 25th of July 2024.

School Enrolments and Renewals: What is the Difference?

Understanding the difference between school enrolments and renewals is essential. School enrolments refer to the initial enrolment in preschool education or the first year of compulsory education. This also applies to any year of compulsory education if the student is transferring from a foreign education system—a situation that has become increasingly common as Portugal has become a preferred destination for expats .

Renewals occur when a student continues in preschool education, progresses to the next grade or fails to do that. This process is automated and managed by the educational institutions. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule, there are:

Change of educational establishment or system.
Change of the student’s educational guardian.
Change of course or training programme.
Selection of new subjects.

These distinctions are crucial for ensuring your child’s seamless integration into the Portuguese educational system.

How to Enrol Your Kids in the Portuguese Educational System

To enrol your children in the Portuguese educational system, adhering to the provided schedules is crucial, remember these dates vary each year. Missing the deadlines can jeopardise your child’s admission to their desired schools, moving them to the end of the placement list and potentially losing any priority criteria they may have.

Rest assured that every student will be placed in an educational institution, ensuring access to education for all.

Enrolments are conducted online through the Portal das Matrículas the enrolments portal in English. Here are the required documents for enrolment:

Citizen card of both the educational guardian and the student.
Student’s NIF (Tax Identification Number).
Student’s NISS (Social Security Number).
Student’s SNS (National Health Service) number.
Recent photo of the student.

The Authentication process in Portal das Matrículas can be made through a citizen card, digital key, or tax authority credentials, depending on your preferred method.

Additional documents, such as proof of home or work address, may be necessary to benefit from geographical criteria for school placement.

Selecting the right educational establishment is vital for your child’s learning journey. Belion Partners is here to assist you in finding the perfect school that meets your child’s needs and aspirations. Contact us to explore how we can assist you in securing the ideal school for your child in Portugal.

Portugal Ranked 7th Among the World's Most Peaceful Countries

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:00:19 GMT

According to the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI) report, Portugal was recognised as the 7th safest country in the world and 5th in Europe, maintaining its 7th position from the 2023 GPI report . This is particularly noteworthy given the global trend of decreasing peacefulness, with the overall level of peacefulness deteriorating by 0.56%.

The Global Peace Index, created by the Institute for Economics and Peace, offers the most comprehensive data-driven analysis of global peace trends, their economic value, and strategies for developing peaceful societies. The 2024 report covers 99.7% of the world’s population and uses 23 qualitative and quantitative measures to assess peace. This year's report reflects data from 2023.

The GPI evaluates peacefulness through three domains: Safety and Security, Ongoing Conflict, and Militarisation. Of these, only Militarisation showed positive changes globally.

The top 10 countries in the 2024 Global Peace Index are:

Iceland
Ireland
Austria
New Zealand
Singapore
Switzerland
Portugal
Denmark
Slovenia
Malaysia

Europe continues to be the most peaceful region worldwide, with seven of the top ten countries located on the continent. This reflects Europe’s strong diplomatic relations and commitment to maintaining peace in their borders.

In 2023, there were 56 ongoing conflicts worldwide, the highest number since the end of World War II, involving 92 countries. This increase complicates negotiation processes for lasting peace and prolongs conflicts. The 2024 GPI report notes that while 65 countries improved their peace index, 97 saw a decline, highlighting the widespread deterioration in global peacefulness.

North America's Position in the 2024 Global Peace Index

In the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI) report, the North American region, encompassing the United States and Canada, experienced the largest deterioration in peacefulness among all areas, with an average drop of nearly 5%. However, it's important to highlight the significant disparity between these two countries. Even with a slight decline, Canada still holds the 11th position as one of the safest countries in the world. In contrast, the United States is ranked 132nd, falling behind countries such as Brazil (131st), South Africa (127th), and Honduras (123rd).

Despite this regional decline, North America remains the third most peaceful region globally, following Europe and Asia-Pacific. The primary factors contributing to the decrease in the U.S. peace index include politically motivated attacks and mass shootings. While the number of terrorist attacks has decreased and there have been improvements in the homicide rate, the U.S. homicide rate still remains twice the global average.

Portugal: A Safe Haven for US Expats

Safety is a fundamental human necessity, and Portugal excels in providing it. Over the past decade, Portugal has made significant strides in the Global Peace Index (GPI), improving from the 18th position in 2014 to the 7th in 2023. This remarkable progress in safety is one of the key reasons why Americans are increasingly choosing Portugal as their new home .

Portugal's high level of English language proficiency further enhances the appeal for US expats, making integration into Portuguese culture seamless compared to other southern European countries.

Portugal’s affordability is a significant draw for US expats, with the cost of living offering exceptional value. Lisbon, in particular, is renowned for being one of the most budget-friendly cities in Europe . Here, you can enjoy a high quality of life without the high expenses typically associated with major European capitals.

From the energetic streets of Lisbon to the peaceful countryside villages, Portugal offers diverse and charming experiences at every turn. In 2024, two streets in Portugal, Rua da Boavista in Lisbon and Rua Sá de Noronha in Porto were ranked among the 30 coolest streets in the world by Time Out magazine .

Portugal offers opportunities for both investment and retirement. The Passive Income Visa , designed for retirees and those with passive income, is an excellent choice for those wanting to live in Portugal. To provide insights for those who are interested in making Portugal their new home, we conducted an interview with US expats about their experiences living in Portugal.

If you are considering relocating to Portugal, reach out to us . At Belion Partners, we understand that each client has unique goals and needs when moving abroad. That's why we offer personalised, tailor-made solutions for every single customer.

Portuguese Language Requirements for Citizenship: What You Need to Know

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 16:38:35 GMT

For those seeking Portuguese citizenship , language proficiency is a key requirement. The minimum required level is A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale, which corresponds to the upper level of a basic user.

Portuguese is widely spoken across several countries. Therefore, applicants for Portuguese citizenship from Portuguese-speaking nations are exempt from this language requirement, as they already possess the necessary proficiency.

How can I obtain a certificate for A2 level Portuguese?

In order to fulfil the A2 proficiency requirement, candidates have the option to select from a variety of approaches.

For example, if you have studied Portuguese, whether as a subject or a curricular unit, either as a native or non-native speaker, for a minimum of two years in a recognised educational institution , you can present your qualification certificate to demonstrate your language proficiency. This route is ideal for those aiming to achieve a higher level of Portuguese proficiency, often chosen by international students planning to study in Portugal and seeking to deepen their understanding of the language.

CIPLE Exam:

The CIPLE (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) exam is designed to assess A2 level proficiency. Administered by CAPLE (Centro de Avaliação e Certificação de Português Língua Estrangeira), the exam is available globally at various CAPLE-certified centres.

The CIPLE exam is open to anyone over 16 and lasts for two hours, divided into three parts:

Reading comprehension and writing (1 hour 15 minutes, 45% of the total grade)
Listening comprehension (30 minutes, 30% of the total grade)
Oral production (15 minutes, 25% of the total grade)

The grading scale is as follows:

Failed (0-54%)
Sufficient (55-69%)
Good (70-84%)
Very Good (85-100%)

A score of 55% or higher is required to pass.

What alternatives do I have for the CIPLE exam?

For those who prefer not to take the CIPLE exam, there are alternative routes to demonstrate A2 proficiency, as outlined in decree-law Nº 237-A from 14 December 2006 article 25 number 2 subparagraph e, stayed the following:

Certificate of the Portuguese Host Language (PLA) course attesting to the completion of level A2 or higher of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, issued by educational establishments of the public network, by establishments that are part of the network of centres of direct and participatory management of the IEFP, I.P., and by the Qualifica Centres, under Ordinance no. 183/2020, of August 5.

The PLA course provides individuals with the chance to acquire Portuguese citizenship without the requirement of passing the CIPLE exam. It is an ideal choice for those who are not familiar with the Portuguese language. The PLA courses last a total of 150 hours and upon completion, participants will receive a certificate of completion.

At Belion Partners, we specialise in assisting clients with all aspects of obtaining Portuguese citizenship. Whether you need help with language courses or navigating the citizenship process, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us to learn more about how we can support your journey to Portuguese citizenship.

New Measures for Short-Term Rentals Announced by the Portuguese Government

Wed, 29 May 2024 17:14:49 GMT

Overview of Changes to Alojamento Local (AL) Regulations

Short-term rentals, known as Alojamento Local (AL) in Portuguese, have recently undergone significant regulatory changes. The new government has revoked several measures introduced by the previous administration, particularly those affecting contributions from owners of short-term rental properties and the validity of local accommodation licences .

Previous Government's Short-Term Rental Policies

Prior to the general elections in March 2024, the previous government introduced a policy package called “Mais Habitação.” This initiative aimed to tackle the country's housing crisis by increasing the availability of houses. The complete plan addressed various aspects, including local lodging regulations, residential leasing policies, tax implications, and the management of vacant properties.

One of the key components of this package was the special contribution to local accommodation (CEAL) , set at 15%. This contribution was calculated based on factors such as the economic coefficient of local accommodation and urban pressure coefficients. It was intended to regulate the short-term rental market and ensure contributions from property owners.

New Government's Short-Term Regulations

On the 27th of May, 2024, the new government revoked several of these changes. The most significant reversal was the abolition of the CEAL, meaning that owners of short-term rental properties are no longer required to pay this special contribution. The payment deadline would have been on the 25th of June, 2024.

Another important change is related to the "coeficiente de vetustez" (coefficient of agedness), which assesses properties based on the year since their construction or last major renovation. This coefficient has, also, been revoked and will not be used for the purpose of IMI assessment.

In addition to these changes, the new government has shifted the regulatory focus to decentralisation. Local authorities are now empowered to regulate local lodging activities and handle conflicts in buildings with horizontal property divisions. Local authorities will also manage the validity of local accommodation licences .

Commitment to Real Estate Investment and Local Regulation

The Portuguese government is dedicated to fostering an environment that encourages real estate investment, particularly in the tourism sector. At the same time, it seeks to balance this with local regulations designed to prevent and mitigate the ongoing housing crisis affecting Portugal and other European countries. Given the varying demands for housing across different cities and regions in Portugal, these measures aim to effectively provide tailored solutions that address local needs.

If you need assistance with your real estate investments in Portugal or navigating the specific requirements for tourism-related licences, we are here to help. Contact us for expert guidance and support in making the most of your investment opportunities in Portugal.

IMI Deadline Approaching: Pay Your Property Tax by Month's End

Mon, 20 May 2024 12:19:21 GMT

The IMI, or Municipal Property Tax, is an annual obligation for property owners in Portugal. This tax applies to various types of properties, including houses, shops, garages, and more. Ensuring compliance with Portuguese law, property owners must pay this tax every year. This year the deadline is 31st of May 2024. Payment schedules vary depending on the tax amount.

Payment Schedules and Amounts:

For taxes equal to or less than €100: The entire amount is due by the 31st of May.
For taxes between €100 and €500: The amount can be paid in two instalments. The first instalment is due by the 31st of May, and the second by the 30th of November. Alternatively, the full amount can be paid by the 31st of May.
For taxes greater than €500: The tax can be paid in three instalments, due by the 31st of May, 31st of August and 30th of November. Alternatively, the full amount can be paid by May 31st.

How Can I Choose Between Instalments or Pay in Full?

To comply with state tax regulations, you must select your preferred payment method: whether in instalments or in full. Taxpayers need to register on the Tax Authority’s portal. After registration, they should proceed to the relevant section of the portal to find the payment details. Additionally, taxpayers will receive notification by mail from the Tax Authority, which will include the payment details.

It's important to note that all communications from the Portuguese Tax Authority are in European Portuguese, so it's advisable to understand the language in order to comprehend these communications and fulfil tax obligations.

It's crucial to mention that if you haven't received the notification containing the payment details from the tax authority via mail or email, it's essential to ensure you meet the deadline. Failure to do so may result in penalties being imposed on the taxpayer.

Belion Partners has developed a specialised service to ensure that our clients stay informed about all communications from the Portuguese tax authority and meet all legal deadlines. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you.

How is IMI Calculated?

The Municipal Property Tax (IMI) is calculated annually by local authorities based on the Taxable Asset Value (VPT) of the property. The IMI is a small fraction of the VPT. Since not all influencing factors to create this value are updated by the Tax Authority, it might be beneficial to request a re-evaluation of your property to ensure accurate taxation. The deadline to request a re-evaluation is the 31st of December 2024.

If you have any questions regarding the IMI or other tax matters, Belion Partners is here to help. Reach out to us for expert guidance and support.

Portugal Ranks 3rd in the Nomad Passport Index: A Prime Destination for Global Citizens

Fri, 17 May 2024 16:34:37 GMT

Portugal proudly holds the 3rd position in the Nomad Passport Index (NPI), a global ranking that evaluates passports based on their freedom to travel and live in different countries. This achievement emphasises Portugal's appeal in the era of digital nomadism, where technology enables a lifestyle of mobility and independence.

Digital nomadism has surged in popularity as the 21st century brings advanced technology, allowing individuals to work remotely and avoid the confines of traditional office settings. This shift has created a need for passports that offer extensive travel freedom and minimal restrictions, making Portugal's high ranking particularly noteworthy.

The Nomad Passport Index assesses 199 global passports on five key criteria: Visa-free travel, global perception, taxation of citizens, dual citizenship, and personal freedom. This comprehensive analysis provides a broader measure of a passport's value compared to the Hanley Passport Index , where Portugal also ranks highly at 5th place in 2023, based on visa-free access data from the International Air Transport Association.

The top 10 strongest passports according to the Nomad Passport Index are as follows:

Switzerland
Ireland
Portugal
Luxembourg
Finland
United Arab Emirates
Netherlands
Norway
Germany
New Zealand

European countries dominate this list, holding 8 out of the 10 spots, highlighting Europe's robust diplomatic relations and global connectivity. Portugal stands out as the only southern European country in the top 10, making its passport the strongest in the region. This ranking reflects Portugal's commitment to personal freedom and the high standards across the evaluated criteria.

Beyond its powerful passport, Portugal has garnered international acclaim for its dynamic start-up ecosystem , one of the leading European countries in technological innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. These attributes make Portugal an exceptional place to live and invest, offering a fertile ground for both personal and professional growth.

If you are considering residing or investing in Portugal, we are here to assist. Our company specialises in providing tailored services to guide you through every step of the process. Reach out to us for expert assistance and make the most of what Portugal has to offer.

Cascais Recognised as a Top Green Destination with Platinum Status

Wed, 15 May 2024 15:32:11 GMT

Cascais, a coastal resort town in Portugal close to Lisbon, recently won an award for its investment in promoting sustainability in the short and long term.

The ceremony took place at the ITB Tourism Fair in Berlin and the award was bestowed by the Green Destination Foundation. The accolade takes into consideration five key criteria—environmental, cultural, economic, social, and management.

This prize primarily focuses on tourism and acknowledges Cascais' holistic approach and exemplary investment in fostering sustainability, underpinned by meticulous strategic planning and other sustainable indicators.

This recognition underscores Cascais' ongoing dedication to environmental responsibility, extending beyond the tourism sector. Past accolades from the Green Destination Foundation include a QualityCoast Silver award in 2013 and the esteemed QualityCoast Gold prize in 2021, reflecting Cascais' consistent pursuit of sustainable practices.

The Green Destination Platinum prize not only celebrates Cascais' environmental quality but also acknowledges its efforts in various town functions. Notably, the municipality's commitment to environmental sustainability benefits both tourists and residents, with a focus on community engagement and the implementation of fair ecological solutions.

Driven by a vision to be the ultimate destination for living, be it for a day, a week, or a lifetime, Cascais' local authorities have spearheaded numerous initiatives from expanding green spaces and tree plantations to nurturing biodiversity in both urban and protected areas. Additionally, community gardens, eco-friendly transportation, and renewable energy creation initiatives epitomise Cascais' unwavering commitment to sustainable development.

Cascais has long been a popular choice for expatriates . The town boasts a wide array of delectable restaurants that specialise in shellfish, a diverse selection of homes tailored to individual needs, stunning beaches, wonderful natural landscapes, and it is very close to Lisbon. These attributes make Cascais an appealing place for expatriates to settle down and call home.

Looking ahead, Cascais sets its sights on the prestigious GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification, a testament to its dedication to global sustainability standards. It's a noble aspiration for a town that has long prioritised the well-being of its inhabitants and holds sustainability as a core value.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cascais for its well-deserved accolades and commend the town for its enduring commitment to sustainability.

Expat Interview: Living in Portugal

Mon, 13 May 2024 14:34:57 GMT

This is an interview conducted with Helen and Daniel , aged 59 and 60 respectively, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

When relocating to a different country, seeking advice from fellow expatriates can be immensely beneficial. They have navigated the same journey and can offer insights and tips that surpass what you might find in any online guide, drawn from their valuable experiences and the lessons they have learned along the way.

Undoubtedly, consulting someone who has previously relocated can be invaluable as you prepare to embark on a similar journey. However, what should you do if you don't have acquaintances with such experience?

On that thought, we have invited Helen and Daniel to share insights into their life in Lisbon, Portugal. They will uncover various aspects such as challenges they face, linguistic and cultural barriers, local cuisine, cost of living, and much more, providing a comprehensive overview.

1. What inspired you to retire and relocate overseas?

We had always intended to relocate to Europe once our kids were grown. We lived for a short time in London and had spent much of that time travelling in Europe. We had kept a growing wish list of places we dreamed of exploring.

During the pandemic two of our sons moved to California, our older son was married. They knew we were not satisfied living in the large home we had raised them in, each weekend was spent managing the needs of our home and yard. We knew that we wanted to move, but we were not sure where.

Our interest in Europe grew as politics, quality of life and civility in the US became problematic. Guns. Exploding healthcare costs. Political divisions between neighbours. Out of control policing. Racism. Women’s Rights. Really, it is very draining to experience all of this on a daily basis.

2. What motivated your decision to choose Portugal?

We were searching for a destination with mild winters and a stable government within Europe. Initially, Italy was on our radar, but concerns about its complexity for foreigners and the rise of fascist elements deterred us. Spain was considered next, but we were looking for a more diverse and tolerant population.

Our interest shifted towards Portugal, inspired by positive feedback about the country and its people from our family and friends. Visiting in the Winter of 2022, we were struck by the well-educated, diverse, and tolerant people we encountered. A preliminary discussion with a Portuguese lawyer and her team enlightened us on the visa requirements , positioning us as promising candidates. Lisbon, in particular, impressed us with its blend of people from various backgrounds contributing to its status as a peaceful and unique world-class city.

And of course, the food was great, too.

3. What led you to choose Lisbon?

Aware of life's unpredictability, we chose to live near a city with an international airport offering daily flights to the States. This ensures that in case of a family emergency, we can quickly return to assist them.

Additionally, by basing our home in Lisbon , we could enjoy a plethora of cultural activities and, utilise the superb public parks and transportation system. We knew we wanted an urban lifestyle so that a car was not needed for our day to day activities.

4. What type of residence permit enables you as an American to live in Portugal?

Our residence permit is the Portugal D7 Visa .

5. Did you encounter any resistance from your family and friends regarding your choice to relocate to Portugal?

The reactions were mixed. Our kids and a few friends were thrilled for us. We hope to inspire our children to develop their skills and pursue career opportunities outside the US. They have loved to visit us, and we keep in touch a few times a week.

Some of our extended family was not happy or genuinely surprised that we would make such a sweeping change at this point in our lives.

Most of our friends we met while raising kids together in the neighbourhood, we continue to have good relationships with them, but we were sad to say goodbye as it is more difficult to keep in touch with them because, at this point, we are all pulled in so many different directions.

6. Do you speak Portuguese? How challenging is it to navigate daily life?

We fully intend to master as much of the Portuguese language as we are able. Daily life in Lisbon without strong Portuguese skills is manageable. We can try to speak in Portuguese with those we encounter, and we are able to find our way through the city.

We seek out professionals (physicians, electricians, lawyers) who are accommodating enough to collaborate with us at our current stage of language learning. Occasionally, we find that our efforts are met with puzzlement or hilarity.

We appreciate kind-hearted Portuguese who have tried to correct our poor pronunciation in day to day exchanges. Some Portuguese people will automatically speak English in order to avoid hearing us speak their language poorly.

We are unfamiliar with using our Portuguese service provider's phone and answering machine, we cannot call for help in case of emergency. We walk through the streets and still take an extra minute to understand the meaning of street signs, menus, and conversations around us.

Sadly, we haven’t really formed any close relationships with our Portuguese neighbours.

7. What is the comparison between the cost of living in Portugal and the United States?

Overall, our expenses have significantly decreased, largely due to downsizing from a large home. costs for utilities, food, and healthcare have declined markedly

However, the cost of travelling to visit family has increased. Similarly, expenses for electronics and technology are higher.

8. Where do you obtain your healthcare services? Are you covered by a local insurance policy?

Visa regulations require that we carry private health insurance . We utilise private practice for healthcare access and turn to the SNS - Sistema Nacional de Saúde when required, as certain medications are only accessible through the public system.

9. Is there anything you wish you had been aware of or approached differently before relocating to Portugal from the United States?

We should have learned more Portuguese and Portuguese history. And we would recommend those considering a similar move to definitely reflect on the challenges, such as, how strongly the time zones differences with family and friends impact staying in touch.

" Our routine seems unhurried and less stressful compared to the lives we lead in the US. "

10. Do you have many Portuguese friends, or do you tend to socialise more with fellow expatriates?

At this time, we have a few close Portuguese friends and a few acquaintances, but day-to-day activities are generally spent with expats or new residents who are helpful in sharing their experiences and advice for understanding the Portuguese way of doing things.

11. Do you feel “accepted” in the local community?

Sometimes. For the most part, we are still considered outsiders, especially due to the language barrier. But overall, the Portuguese people have been welcoming and friendly towards us. We have found that making an effort to learn the language and culture has helped us feel more integrated in the community.

12. Did you relocate to Portugal from the United States for retirement, or are you still employed? If you are working, is it for a local or an international company?

Daniel is employed full-time at a company headquartered in Porto. I have volunteered with various organizations based in the US.

13. What aspects of life in Portugal appeal to you, particularly in your own city?

We love Lisbon. When either of us feel blue or homesick, it is nice to go outside and see the beautiful parks filled with people. We have parks in American cities, but they are not as cared for and loved by residents as the parks we visit in Portugal. We appreciate the sense of safety in Lisbon and that the people we see are so civil and kind to one another.

We like to feel part of a very multicultural and thriving community. We love to see so many independent booksellers and people reading in parks and on trains. We love the food. Our routine seems unhurried and less stressful compared to the lives we lead in the US.

14. What challenges do expatriates face when residing in Portugal?

Firstly, we do not consider ourselves as expats. We hope to eventually gain Portuguese citizenship, we are not here for tax reasons, nor do we view our relocation to Portugal as temporary.

One ongoing challenge we face is securing reliable and skilled contractors. Our historic home requires extensive repairs , yet finding contractors who consistently deliver on their contractual promises proves difficult, as many come and go with varying degrees of commitment and quality.

15. What advice would you give someone contemplating relocation to Portugal?

Take your time getting to know your new home before buying. Learn Portuguese. Try to have a sense of humour about the challenges, moving later in life has additional challenges. Plan for damp cold winters (but not freezing). Look for caring kind people and ask for help when you need help. It can be lonely and scary moving to a new country.

16. What are your longer-term plans? Do you intend to stay in Portugal for the foreseeable future?

We hope to stay in Portugal for the foreseeable future. As previously stated, our aim is to obtain Portuguese citizenship eventually. Another goal is attaining functional competence in the Portuguese language. Our decision to move to Portugal is not motivated by tax benefits, we do not consider our relocation to be temporary.

17. Anything you would like to add to assist others in making a decision to move overseas?

Ask lots of questions, read, study, talk to people who have already moved here. If possible, find a professional lawyer who will help with understanding legal requirements of the immigration process.

Thank you, Helen and Daniel, for graciously sharing your thoughts and insights on your new life in Lisbon. Your perspectives have provided a valuable glimpse into the experiences of newcomers in Portugal. We wish you both an enriching journey ahead filled with memorable moments and a deep sense of belonging within the vibrant local community.

If you are considering relocating to Portugal and, require assistance or information regarding the best option to obtain Portuguese residency or any related matters, please don't hesitate to contact our team . We would be delighted to assist you.

The Agenda of Portugal's New Government

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 17:30:37 GMT

On March 10, 2024, Portugal underwent a pivotal moment in its political landscape with the culmination of general elections . The resulting power shift saw the Socialist Party relinquish its longstanding position to the right-leaning coalition, the Democratic Alliance (AD), led by Luís Montenegro.

This new government is poised to enact substantial reforms aimed at steering Portugal towards a direction more conducive to foreign investment and alleviating the tax burdens faced by its younger workforce. In the following text, we will elucidate the most noteworthy changes envisaged by the Portuguese government for this legislative term.

What will change in Local lodging?

Under the previous administration, the introduction of the "mais habitação" package ushered in a series of measures that garnered mixed reviews. Among these was the imposition of certain regulations concerning local lodging, notably the imposition of the Special Contribution to Local Accommodation (CEAL), currently fixed at 15% of the property's value. The new government aims to abolish the CEAL, along with lifting the restrictions imposed on licences.

Immigration policies

While the restructuring of the immigration agency by the previous government has been executed, the current administration seeks to further enhance its operations. The aim is to ensure a swift and responsive service catering to the needs of immigrants in Portugal. Portugal has been proactive in enhancing the efficiency of its immigration infrastructure and policies. For those considering residency in Portugal , Belion Partners stands ready to provide the necessary assistance.

IRS: The Personal Income Tax

This new government aims to reduce the tax burden on the Portuguese population by lowering the IRS bracket to the eighth level.

Corporate Income Tax (IRC) reductions

A pivotal commitment of this administration lies in the reduction of the prevailing corporate tax rate from the current 21% to 15%. Should this initiative gain traction, it will undoubtedly pique the interest of prospective investors looking to capitalize on opportunities in Portugal .

What will change for the young workers?

The new government is poised to introduce a series of tax reforms aimed at empowering young professionals, particularly in their pursuit to acquire their first homes, addressing Portugal's housing crisis. These initiatives seek to ease the financial burden on young individuals.

Specifically, Montenegro proposes exempting young professionals from both the IMT (Real Estate Transfer Tax) and the Stamp Tax. Additionally, the government plans to implement a public guaranteed mechanism, facilitating bank financing for young professionals looking to purchase their first homes.

Combating the house crisis

In this regard, while detailed measures remain somewhat scarce, the new government aims to bolster demand for residential leasing, foster stability in the real estate market, provide assistance to vulnerable tenants, facilitate young individuals in purchasing their first homes, and revoke outdated policies.

The measures proposed by the Democratic Alliance were a key part of their campaign promises. These measures are now a priority on the government's legislative agenda, but they still need to be approved in parliament. We are closely monitoring these developments and will keep our clients informed of any political changes that may affect their affairs and interests in Portugal.

Learning Portuguese: Your Adventure Begins

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 10:20:09 GMT

Author: This article was written by Portuguesepedia, an all-in-one language learning platform dedicated to European Portuguese.

Thinking about learning Portuguese? Whether you're planning a trip to Portugal or simply interested in expanding your horizons, Portuguese is a valuable language to acquire.

However, embarking on a new language journey can feel intimidating. You might be concerned about memorizing vocabulary, mastering pronunciation, or feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of material.

The good news is that with the right approach and a commitment to learning, you can approach Portuguese with confidence and make steady progress. Let's explore some practical tips and strategies to help you navigate your path to Portuguese fluency.

1. The Power of Consistent Practice: Making it Stick

Learning Portuguese requires dedication and consistent effort. Unlike cramming for a test, language acquisition is a marathon, not a sprint. Daily practice is the key to internalising the language and making it your own. While it might seem tempting to power through long study sessions every few days, many language learners overlook the importance of regularity and consistency. Here's the reason why:

Small, Daily Doses are Brain-Friendly: Our brains function best when consistently exposed to new information. Just like building muscle, regular practice strengthens your neural pathways for the Portuguese language. Fifteen minutes a day might seem insignificant, but these daily doses add up over time, making the language stick much better than sporadic cramming sessions.
Consistency Builds Momentum: Imagine yourself riding a bike. It takes a little effort to get started, but once you're going, it becomes much easier to keep moving. Daily practice has a similar effect on language learning. As you consistently engage with Portuguese, you'll build momentum and fluency, making it easier to stay motivated and tackle more complex concepts.
Regular Practice Prevents Regression: Language learning is indeed a bit like riding a bike – if you don't use it for a while, you might get a little wobbly. By incorporating Portuguese into your daily routine, you'll retain what you've learned and keep your skills sharp.

2. Live, Breathe, Portuguese: Seamlessly Integrate the Language into Your Life

One of the most effective ways to learn Portuguese is to weave it into the fabric of your daily life. Forget about carving out dedicated study hours and instead, transform your everyday activities into opportunities for language acquisition. Here are some creative ways to integrate Portuguese into your routine:

Turn Your Surroundings into Flashcards: Walk around your house and label everyday objects with sticky notes that have their Portuguese names written on them. This constant visual reinforcement will help you memorize vocabulary effortlessly. From "a mesa" (the table) to "a torradeira" (the toaster), your entire home will become a giant Portuguese learning environment.
Narrate Your Day in Portuguese: Throughout your morning routine, describe your actions out loud in Portuguese. As you brush your teeth, say "Estou escovar os dentes" (I am brushing my teeth). Making coffee? Announce "Estou a fazer café" (I am making coffee). This internal monologue might feel silly at first, but it's a fantastic way to solidify grammar structures and practice everyday conversation.
Infuse Your Commute with Audio Immersion: Turn your daily commute into a Portuguese language bath. Download some engaging Portuguese podcasts or audiobooks and listen to them on the bus, train, or while walking. Not only will this boost your listening comprehension, but you might also discover new interests and cultural insights along the way.

3. Fuel Your Passion, Ignite Your Portuguese: Learning Through What You Love

Learning Portuguese doesn't have to feel like a chore. In fact, it can be a delightful journey of discovery, especially if you tap into the things you already love. Here's the secret: choose resources that ignite your passions and fuel your curiosity.

Are you a die-hard soccer fan? Immerse yourself in Portuguese sports commentary or listen to interviews with your favourite Portuguese footballers. Do you spend hours lost in the kitchen whipping up culinary masterpieces? Find Portuguese cooking shows or blogs brimming with delicious recipes and food terminology. Perhaps music is your muse? Tune into Portuguese music channels or delve into the lyrics of your favourite artists, all while deciphering the language.

Learning a language through the lens of your passions not only makes the process enjoyable but also fosters a deeper connection to the culture and its people. So go ahead and embrace your inner foodie, music enthusiast, or sports fanatic – all while learning Portuguese in a way that feels fulfilling and truly rewarding.

4. Bringing Portuguese to Life: The Power of Contextual Learning

Contextual learning is the magic bullet for mastering Portuguese. Ditch the dry vocabulary lists and grammar drills in favour of resources that paint a vivid picture of how the language is used in real life. Here's why contextual learning is your secret weapon:

Beyond the Textbook: Textbooks can provide a solid foundation, but real-life Portuguese is full of colourful expressions, slang, and regional variations. By immersing yourself in podcasts, TV shows, or online articles aimed at native speakers, you'll gain exposure to the authentic language used on the streets, not just in classrooms.
Understanding the Bigger Picture: Grammar rules become more than abstract concepts when you see them play out in real conversations. Contextual learning allows you to connect the dots between vocabulary, grammar structures, and how they function together to convey meaning. This holistic approach not only accelerates your learning but also makes it more intuitive and engaging.

So, ditch the rote memorisation and embrace the richness of contextual learning. You'll be surprised at how quickly your Portuguese fluency blossoms as you navigate the language in its natural habitat.

5. Practice Speaking Early and Often: Don't Let Fear Hold You Back

Speaking is the crown jewel of language acquisition, allowing you to truly interact and connect with others. Yet, many learners hold themselves back, waiting until they feel perfectly prepared before uttering a single word.

Here's the good news: speaking Portuguese from the get-go is the key to unlocking fluency and conquering your inhibitions.

Start Simple, Speak Often: You don't need complex grammar structures or an expansive vocabulary to start speaking Portuguese. Begin with basic greetings, introductions, and everyday expressions. Find a language exchange partner online or practice with a Portuguese-speaking friend. Even ordering a coffee or asking for directions in broken Portuguese is a victory! The more you speak, the more comfortable you'll become, and fluency will gradually blossom.
Embrace the Power of Shadowing: Shadowing is a fantastic technique where you mimic audio recordings of native speakers. Listen to a short sentence in Portuguese, pause, and then try to repeat it exactly, imitating their pronunciation and intonation. This practice hones your listening comprehension and pronunciation skills simultaneously, making you sound more natural as you speak.
Celebrate Mistakes as Stepping Stones: Don't be afraid to make mistakes! They are inevitable and, more importantly, valuable parts of the learning process. Every error is an opportunity to learn and improve. Embrace imperfections with a growth mindset, laugh them off, and keep practising. The more you speak, the more confident you'll become, and the fewer mistakes you'll make over time.

6. Be Kind to Yourself and Embrace the Rollercoaster ride

Language learning is a journey, and like any good adventure, it has its twists and turns, exhilarating highs, and moments that leave you wanting to crawl under the covers. The key to surviving (and thriving!) on this adventure is to embrace self-compassion and navigate the inevitable ups and downs with kindness.

Progress Isn't Always a Straight Line: Imagine yourself hiking a magnificent mountain trail. The path might not always be a smooth incline; there will be switchbacks, plateaus, and even the occasional dip. Language learning is similar. There will be days when you conquer complex grammar concepts and days when even the simplest phrases feel like a struggle. This is perfectly normal! Recognise that progress isn't always linear, and celebrate those little victories, like mastering a tricky pronunciation or finally wrapping your head around verb conjugations.
Listen to Your Inner Voice: Language learning requires dedication and perseverance, but it shouldn't come at the expense of your well-being. If you're feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, take a break! Step away from the textbooks and immerse yourself in a relaxing activity. A gentle walk in nature, listening to your favourite music, or spending time with loved ones can recharge your batteries and bring renewed focus to your studies.

Remember, fluency is a marathon, not a sprint. By prioritising self-compassion, embracing the inevitable challenges, and celebrating every small victory, you'll transform your Portuguese language learning journey into a rewarding experience.

Is it Still Possible to Apply for Portugal's Golden Visa?

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 16:36:50 GMT

The Portuguese Golden Visa programme is widely regarded as one of the top global Golden Visa options. In order to gain a deeper understanding of this programme, it is important to analyse its characteristics.

The Portuguese Golden Visa allow the holder to appreciate a high standard of quality life at an affordable cost, making it an attractive destination for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Another reason is with the Portugal Golden Visa, the holder can easily travel, reside, and work in other European Countries, giving them unparalleled freedom to decide where they want to go.

One of its features is a low residency requirement, holders of the visa are required to stay in the country for an average of only 7 days per year, which is one of the lowest requirements among Golden Visa programmes. This allows for more freedom of movement. Additionally, the citizenship eligibility is also lower compared to other programs. In Portugal, one can acquire citizenship within 5 years, whereas in Greece's Golden Visa programme, it takes 7 years to become eligible for citizenship.

What has changed in the Portuguese Golden Visa Programme?

The Golden Visa programmes worldwide have undergone legislative adjustments, and the Portuguese programme was no exception. In Portugal, these legislative adjustments , which took effect in October 2023, were driven by two primary motivations. Firstly, to alleviate external pressure on the real estate market in order to combat the housing crisis triggered by excessive demand and the consequent rise in prices. Secondly, to attract investment for the country's economic development by redirecting real estate investment, which has always been clearly dominant, towards the Portuguese business sector.

Despite Real Estate investment no longer being a possible investment route for the Golden Visa, routes for investment in funds of capitalization of Portuguese companies, company creation, job creation, as well as donations for research activities and national cultural heritage remain available.

Here are the investment routes available for Portugal's Golden Visa programme:

Investing €500,000 or more in participation units of investment funds or venture capital funds focused on company capitalisation under Portuguese law, with a minimum maturity period of at least five years and a substantial allocation of the investment to national companies.
Investing a minimum of €500,000 into establishing a commercial company in Portugal, alongside the creation of five permanent jobs, or increasing the share capital of an existing Portuguese company while generating employment opportunities.
Creating a minimum of 10 job positions;
Contributing €500,000 or more to research activities conducted by esteemed public or private scientific institutions within the national scientific and technological system;
Supporting national cultural heritage through capital transfers of €250,000 or more for investment in artistic production, restoration, and upkeep. This can be directed towards public institutes, administrative services, and entities dedicated to preserving the rich cultural legacy of Portugal;

In conclusion, the Golden Visa programme remains available, with attractive investment routes for those wishing to invest in Portugal and secure mobility within the European Union.

If you are seeking assistance with your Portuguese Golden Visa or any related residency matter, you can reach out to us . We are here to extend our help and offer you tailored expertise every step of the process.

Understanding the Role of Tax Representatives in Portugal: Why Having One is Crucial

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:30:24 GMT

Author:

Isadora Ussene | Liaison Officer

Under certain circumstances, the Portuguese government requires individuals and businesses to appoint a tax representative. This representative will act on behalf of the taxpayer in dealings with the Tax Authority, ensuring compliance with Portuguese tax obligations and regulations.

More specifically, those who need a tax representative include independent workers, self-employed individuals, and foreign companies like branch offices. Failure to meet this obligation can result in legal repercussions as the appointment of a tax representative is required by law under these specific circumstances.

The tax representative must meet two key criteria:

Have a tax residence in Portugal.
Be subject to VAT if the non-resident citizen carries out a self-employed activity subject to VAT.

Due to some amendments to the tax law, tax representation is not mandatory for everyone, to gain a comprehensive understanding of this topic, let's delve into the legislation governing tax representation in Portugal.

The primary legislation regulating tax matters in Portugal is the General Tax Law, outlined in Law Decree No. 398/98 dated 17th December 1998.

Upon closer examination of the General Tax Law, we find that Article 19 numbers 6 and 15, respectively, stipulate the following:

Taxable individual resident abroad and those who, although resident in Portugal, are absent for a period exceeding six months, as well as collective persons and other entities legally equivalent to them that ceased their activity, must appoint a representative for tax purposes, who is resident in national territory.
The obligation to appoint a tax representative does not apply to taxable individuals who subscribe to the public service of electronic notifications linked to the unique digital Portal, the regime of electronic notifications and citations on the Tax Authorities’ website or the electronic mailbox. This is not applicable for taxable self-employed with activity subject to VAT, with the exeption of the provisions regarding legal persons or other legally equivalent entities that cease their activity.

Based on this, if you are a taxable person who chooses to register on the digital platforms of the Portuguese Tax Authority (e.g., Portal das Finanças) or an official electronic mailbox (e.g., Via CTT), the appointment of a tax representative is optional. (Under certain circumstances).

This stance is further supported by Law Decree no. 44/2022, dated July 8, which was accompanied by circular letter no. 90057 issued by the Tax Authority on July 20, 2022.

The requirement for a tax representative arises when a taxpayer enters into a legal relationship with the Tax Authority and does not opt for subscribing to any of the electronic notifications from the Tax Authority.

Do you Need a Tax Representative in Portugal?

Offering a straightforward answer to this inquiry poses a challenge, as it is a nuanced matter influenced by various factors specific to the situation. Considerations include whether the individual or entity in question is an individual or a corporate entity and other pertinent circumstances that could affect the particular case.

For taxable self-employed individuals with activity subject to VAT, non-resident corporate entities or other legally equivalent entities that cease their activity, having a tax representative is mandatory in Portugal.

For those for whom having a tax representative is optional as per legal requirements, opting for one in Portugal can be a prudent choice. It ensures seamless fulfilment of tax obligations in a foreign country, allowing individuals to fully embrace life in Portugal without the hassle of tax compliance. This affords them more time to immerse themselves in the beauty that Portugal has to offer.

Why is it Important to Have a Tax Representative in Portugal?

In instances where having a tax representative is not mandatory, it is still crucial to appoint one. This representative ensures timely receipt of all notifications from the Tax Authority and ensures compliance with the legal deadlines in force, complementing even in the fiscal scope. The tax representative also informs of the right to complain or appeal, whenever applicable or necessary.

Additionally, it is imperative to note that all notifications and summons will be in European Portuguese. Fluency in this language is essential for effective comprehension and response.

Furthermore, while the Tax Authority website offers various tasks, each may have a distinct process. Prior knowledge of both the specific situation and the digital channel itself is advised to navigate the website effectively.

To gain a better understanding of the digital channels of Portuguese Tax Authority be aware of the following:

Deadlines are mandatory to comply with, failure results in penalties;
Some tax obligations are not notified until they have a fine, such as vehicle circulation tax or specific tools like SCUT;
Notifications regarding fines or delayed tax payments are exclusively available within the Tax Authority portal. You will receive an uninformative email informing you that you have a message on the portal. Then, you will need to access and navigate through the portal to understand what it is and access payment references. This process requires several extra steps to be completed.
Notifications and citations sent through electronic channels are considered equivalent to those sent by post. However, depending on the Tax Authority's system, they may be dispatched as registered letters to the address you have registered with them. This means that if you have a non-Portuguese address, the risk of not receiving notifications or receiving them after the deadline has passed is higher. If you do not receive a notification, you will not be able to make the payment. In this case, you will need to request new payment references by navigating through the Tax Authority's website.

At Belion Partners, we specialise in tax representation, communication and notifications to and from the Tax Authority assessorship, bookkeeping and accounting services , tailored to meet the needs of individuals and corporate clients seeking tax compliance solutions in Portugal. Staying abreast of tax matters is crucial because it allows us to understand the complexities of engaging with the Portuguese Tax Authority, giving us a comprehensive perspective. This, in turn, enables us to provide customised solutions to meet each client's individual needs.

If you require assistance or information regarding tax representation in Portugal or any related matter, reach out to us . We are here to provide expert guidance and support to your specific needs and circumstances.

Why Americans are Choosing Portugal as Their New Home

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:39:55 GMT

Portugal, with its relaxed pace of life, breath-taking beaches, and cost-effective living, is becoming increasingly attractive to Americans. Exploring the Portuguese way of life uncovers a wealth of advantages, positioning it as a top selection for many. Whether you are drawn to Portugal for a visit, considering moving, or just curious, continue reading to discover the charm of life in this captivating country.

Apart from its economic advantages, Portugal attracts Americans with its beautiful landscapes, hospitable people, and vibrant cultural heritage, drawing them irresistibly. Picture yourself enjoying more than 300 sunny days a year, savouring exquisite cuisine in charming Portuguese restaurants, and adopting the relaxed Southern European way of life. Add to this the benefit of English-speaking residents, and Portugal stands out as a premier choice for American expatriates.

The most southwestern country in Europe offers a diverse palette of living experiences, from the lively urban environment and opulent residences to quaint historical towns and serene beachfront escapes along the Atlantic coast. It attracts American expatriates to its major mainland cities such as Lisbon and Porto, as well as the flourishing Algarve region, known for its tourism boom. The allure is enhanced by the country's safety, excellent international schooling options, and a vibrant job market, whether in the dynamic urban settings or the peaceful countryside of Northern and Central Portugal.

Here are a few compelling reasons to consider relocating to Portugal:

Affordable Living: Portugal offers a cost-effective lifestyle compared to the United States, despite Lisbon experiencing a price increase. It still stands as an affordable choice relative to other Mediterranean locations.
Welcoming Community: Experience the warmth of the Portuguese people known for their friendliness and English proficiency. Perfect for US expats adjusting to a new environment with a strong American community for support.
Healthcare Excellence: The Portuguese healthcare system, known as Serviço Nacional de Saúde, is widely regarded as exceptional. Public hospitals offer free medical care to both citizens and residents, while private healthcare clinics provide faster appointments and premium services for those with private health insurance.
Safety and Stability: Ranked the seventh safest globally in the 2023 Global Peace Index, Portugal offers low crime rates, ensuring a secure environment.
Ideal Climate: Portugal's climate can be quite diverse. The northeast revels in balmy summers, while the northwest is adorned with rain-soaked colours, each area crafting its own distinct panorama. Southern Portugal enjoys arid warmth, with sun-drenched days from mid-June to late September, boasting average temperatures surpassing 25°C. Lisbon, during winter, provides a gentle respite with mild 14°C weather.

Families moving to Portugal have the option to choose schools that offer instruction in English or adhere to a British curriculum, complemented by lessons in Portuguese. They can discover a wide range of international schools, especially in Lisbon and Porto, designed to meet various educational requirements.

English is a common language among the Portuguese, facilitating communication even if you're not fluent in European Portuguese. However, as an expat, learning European Portuguese becomes essential. While many locals speak English, dealing with government offices might require a basic grasp of Portuguese. Embracing the official language of the country can open doors to deeper connections with the community.

This charming country offers a lifestyle that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Whether it's the lively atmosphere of Lisbon you crave or the tranquil ambiance of the Algarve, Portugal delivers. Imagine a nation where life moves at a leisurely pace, yet vibrant urban experiences are just around the corner.

Portugal provides a distinctly straightforward pathway for immigrants, featuring a variety of visa options specifically tailored to accommodate expatriates. From the investment-based residency program to the esteemed Golden Visa , along with the Digital Nomad Visa (D8) suited for remote workers, and the Portugal D7 Visa for retirees and passive income earners, Portugal extends a warm welcome, making relocation smoother and more accessible.

With the right guidance, the journey towards Portuguese residency and possibly citizenship is seamless. Whether you are enticed by the affordable living, the delightful climate, or merely seeking a fresh beginning in this charming nation, Portugal is inviting to all non-EU citizens with its vibrant expat community and a warm embrace within the European Union.

Should you wish to relocate to Portugal, please feel free to reach out to us . Our team is committed to offering thorough assistance in navigating these legal complexities with the highest level of diligence and accuracy.

Portugal Arises as Europe's Start-Up Powerhouse

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 15:01:55 GMT

The Financial Times, a distinguished British newspaper, has recently unveiled its inaugural list of European start-up hubs, titled 'Europe’s Leading Start-up Hubs'. This comprehensive compilation aims to spotlight the primary technological hubs across Europe.

Portugal boasts 2 technology hubs positioned within the Top 10. Startup Braga claims the 7th spot on this list, while the Startup Lisboa – Unicorn Lisbon Factory secures the 10th position. Both initiatives were idealised by local authorities, driven by the ambition to foster innovative concepts within their respective cities.

Furthermore, it's worth noting that Portugal's technological scenery has garnered international acclaim and attention in the past, particularly in Lisbon. One notable instance is the European Commission's iCapital award, which designated Lisbon as the European capital of innovation for 2023 .

The Portuguese start-up scene boasts four additional hubs, each one representing the investment of the country in modernising its economy:

Building Global Innovators, positioned in 25th, is based in Lisbon.
IPN – Instituto Pedro Nunes is positioned in 44th and is based in Coimbra.
Casa do Impacto, positioned in 75th place, is based in Lisbon.
BETAi, securing the 124th position, is also based in Lisbon.

Casa do Impacto, positioned at 75th, stands out as the sole start-up hub on the list dedicated exclusively to addressing social and environmental challenges.

Lisbon ranks as the third European city with the highest number of recognised hubs on this list, tying with Berlin and Amsterdam, each with four hubs. Madrid claims the second position with five acknowledged hubs, while London is the city with the most start-up hubs on the list, with 17 of them. Compiled by the Financial Times, this list features 125 start-up hubs from 19 different countries.

At the top of the ranking sits UnternehmerTUM, a German hub. It's worth noting that the United Kingdom emerges as the most prominent country on this list, with 24 distinct hubs. Portugal, with six recognised hubs, shares the same standing as Italy.

The start-up ecosystem serves as a driving force fostering innovation, job creation, technological advancements, and overall economic growth. Recognising the immense benefits of nurturing such an environment, the Portuguese government established a specific regime for start-ups , marked by the implementation of a groundbreaking start-up law (Law No. 21/2023), which took effect on May 26, 2023.

The “Europe’s Leading Start-up Hubs” list was made by the Financial Times in collaboration with Statista R, a subsidiary of the German company Statista specialising in statistics and market data, and with Sifted who is a leading media brand for the European Start-up Community. This comprehensive list is the result of a meticulous survey involving over 2,000 European entities and the evaluation of more than 2,600 alumni. It showcases the cities and countries across Europe that serve as thriving business incubators and accelerators, highlighting their pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurial growth.

In the year 2024, Europe stands on par with the US in the start-up landscape, underscored by the fact that, to date, 98 European cities have birthed at least one unicorn. In the business realm, a unicorn refers to a start-up company valued at $1 billion or more, privately owned, and not listed on a share market. This remarkable achievement solidifies Europe's position as a player in the global start-up arena.

Portugal stands at the forefront of Europe in this era of technological advancement, actively transforming innovative ideas into business-ready concepts. To thrive in Portugal's business environment and harness the full potential of your business activities, you need robust support and expert legal guidance to establish your company in Portugal.

If you are seeking assistance with establishing your company in Portugal or with related corporate matters, reach out to us . We are here to extend our help and offer you tailored expertise every step of the way.

Portugal Ranks on Time Out’s 30 Coolest Streets in the World

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 16:41:08 GMT

Portugal is a country that never fails to surprise and delight. From the lively streets of Lisbon to the peaceful and tranquil villages in the countryside, every corner holds its own unique charm, just waiting to be explored. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, Portugal offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

In the 2024 edition of Time Out magazine's " 30 Coolest Streets in the World ", Portugal proudly claimed two spots on the list. Rua da Boavista in Lisbon secured the 7th spot, while Rua Sá de Noronha in Porto obtained the 16th position.

These streets were chosen for their lively community spaces, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy bustling businesses, diverse dining options, and vibrant entertainment venues. Such criteria are what earned them a place on this prestigious list. Whether it's a grand boulevard or a quiet alleyway, what matters most is the modernity and liveliness these streets reflect.

Located in Lisbon's Cais do Sodré area, Rua da Boavista has evolved beyond its reputation as a nightlife hotspot. Today, it offers a range of experiences catering to different lifestyles. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely family brunch, browsing trendy boutiques, or having a memorable dinner at one of its acclaimed restaurants, Rua da Boavista welcomes you to experience its lively atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Rua Sá de Noronha in Porto reflects the youthful energy of the city. With its thriving cultural scene featuring poetry readings and theatre performances, there's always something new to discover. For food enthusiasts, Rua Sá de Noronha offers exceptional dining options where they can enjoy delicious cuisine in its charming surroundings.

Portugal's recognition on Time Out's rankings is no surprise; Costa da Caparica had previously secured the 18th spot on their list of the " 40 Coolest Neighbourhoods in the World ." This acknowledgement reflects the active engagement of Portugal's residents in enhancing their country's quality of life and fostering diverse events for all to enjoy.

If you're considering making Portugal your home and want to experience all it has to offer, we specialise in guiding the relocation and settling-in process. Reach out to us and embark on your journey to discover the wonders of living in Portugal.

Find Out Why Portugal Is a Dream Retirement Destination!

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:08:00 GMT

Portugal has consistently been hailed by numerous publications as one of the premier destinations for enjoying the golden years. Renowned for its exceptional quality of life, splendid scenery, and welcoming culture, Portugal captivates the hearts of many. Whether it's the sunny climate, delectable cuisine, or laid-back lifestyle, Portugal offers something special for everyone, irrespective of their desires.

For residents of the United Kingdom, Portugal stands out as an easily accessible and friendly country. British nationals, whether as tourists or expatriates, frequently find themselves drawn to Portugal's charm. Moreover, Portugal boasts a plethora of high-quality services tailored for retirees, exemplified by its excellent healthcare system.

Let's delve into the benefits of retiring in Portugal.

Affordable Living

Portugal is renowned for its affordability, making it particularly attractive for individuals from the UK or the US looking to stretch their savings and pensions. Enjoying delicious cuisine and various leisure activities while still maintaining financial security is entirely achievable in Portugal.

English Proficiency in Portugal

Portugal ranks among the top 10 countries globally for English language proficiency among non-native speakers . This proficiency facilitates a smooth transition to life in Portugal and extends an invitation to those eager to explore all the country has to offer.

The Portuguese sun

In Portugal, the sun isn't just a source of warmth; it's a point of pride for locals. With sunny days gracing the country year-round, Portugal beckons all to embrace the great outdoors. This abundance of sunlight isn't just pleasant; it's a key ingredient for healthy ageing.

Embracing an active lifestyle amidst Portugal's natural splendour is a testament to vitality in one's golden years. From coastal vistas to picturesque countryside, Portugal offers an idyllic backdrop for rejuvenation. Everywhere you turn, Portugal's coastline unveils stunning beaches, while its countryside reveals tranquil rivers winding through majestic mountainscapes. Each locale presents an opportunity for invigorating walks in nature and revitalizing dips in the rivers.

Vast Array of Property Options

In Portugal, your retirement dreams can become a reality, tailored to your unique preferences and lifestyle desires.

Imagine retiring in the composed countryside, surrounded by lush green landscapes, where the relaxing sounds of nature and the gentle flow of rivers are your daily companions. Portugal offers this peaceful haven for those seeking comfort in nature's embrace.

Alternatively, if your dream is to retire in a charming coastal village, waking up to the sight of the sea every day and savouring delicious fish dishes under the warm sun, Portugal waves with its coastal allure. Here, an active lifestyle infused with coastal charm awaits.

For those yearning for the vibrancy of city life, Portugal boasts cosmopolitan cities teeming with history and cultural richness. Whether it's exploring ancient cobblestone streets or indulging in cultural activities, Portugal's cities offer an enriching retirement experience. Instead, if your heart desires a luxurious villa with a golf course and a private pool, Portugal has that too.

With a diverse array of properties catering to different lifestyles, Portugal invites you to choose the perfect setting for your retirement bliss .

At Belion Partners, we specialise in helping you find the property that best suits your needs and desires. With our client-focused approach, we ensure that the properties we present align with your requirements, making your retirement dreams a reality. Explore Portuguese properties with Belion's dedicated assistance .

Exceptional Healthcare

Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which have impacted the functioning of healthcare services, Portugal's healthcare system stands among the finest globally, owing to its advanced facilities and highly skilled healthcare professionals. Besides, all residents of Portugal have access to these excellent services. The public health system known as Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) is free of cost or with minimal payments.

For those seeking additional options, private healthcare in Portugal provides a wealth of infrastructure and insurance plans tailored to individual needs. These offerings prioritise personalised and specialised care, guaranteeing patients receive the highest standard of attention and support.

Exploring nature’s beauty in Portugal

Embark on a journey through the natural wonders of Portugal, where beauty knows no bounds.

Explore lush forests adorned with a symphony of colours and scents, where the rustle of leaves, babbling brooks, and melodious bird songs create a harmonious melody. Majestic mountains stand tall, offering breathtaking vistas that stretch to the horizon.

Venture to the coastline, where pristine white sand beaches meet the azure waters of the sea. Discover hidden caves adorned with magnificent crystals and single rock formations, each boasting an unrivalled palette of colours. Pause to admire serene lakes and cascading waterfalls, each a testament to nature's simple yet profound beauty. Explore islands of distinct origins, ranging from volcanic formations to semi-tropical paradises, where you have the freedom to select what beauty you want to admire.

Nurturing community connections

Portugal has a thriving community of UK and US expatriates who found their haven for retirement. Some statistics from 2022 revealed that Portugal welcomed over 30,000 UK citizens and 10,000 US citizens, with these numbers steadily increasing year by year.

This huge expatriate community offers retirees more than just shared cultural backgrounds; it provides a support network and facilitates the process of settling into a new country. The opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals eases the transition and enriches daily life in Portugal. It is beneficial for social purposes and in practical terms of day-to-day life.

Renowned for their warm hospitality, the Portuguese are welcoming to newcomers, all lifetime surrounded by this beauty reflects their ingrained appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Encompassed by this received environment, retirees are encouraged to savour every moment and embrace the generous spirit that defines Portuguese culture.

A Welcoming Visa Policy

Last but certainly not least, let's discuss the residence permits available in Portugal. For non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens with a pension income or other passive income of at least €9,840 per year, and 50% of that amount for a second adult (such as a spouse or partner), Portugal offers the passive income D7 Visa . If you meet the requirements mentioned, you may be eligible for this visa.

Discover the numerous wonders this extraordinary country has to offer and experience the privilege of calling it home - it's a dream you can reach.

At Belion Partners, we specialise in guiding individuals through the process of relocating and embracing their golden years to the fullest. Reach out to us and let us be your trusted partner in making your dream of retiring in Portugal a reality. We're eager to extend our assistance and support to you.

Braga: A Top European City for Living, According to the European Commission

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:39:28 GMT

The 2023 Quality of Life Survey, now in its 6th edition, was designed to assess the living conditions across various European cities. This comprehensive survey encompassed capital cities and other major urban areas within the EU, EFTA, UK, Turkey, and the Western Balkans. A total of 83 cities were included in the study, with 70,000 interviews conducted to gather a wealth of data.

The survey evaluated the quality of life in each city based on seven key criteria:

Level of satisfaction with life in the city;
Safety and social cohesion within the city;
Employment opportunities, housing availability, and cost of living;
Ease of transportation and mobility within the city;
Availability and quality of cultural amenities, public spaces, parks, and healthcare services;
Health and wellbeing initiatives within the city;
Efficiency and effectiveness of local public administration.

These criteria provided a holistic view of what it’s like to live in these cities, offering valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement.

Within each criterion, a series of questions were questioned to understand the city’s trends and to examine each aspect of the main point individually. Comparisons were made with previous surveys, and questions about the past were included to ascertain whether people’s perceptions of their own city’s quality of life had increased or decreased. Overall, the results were positive, indicating an improvement in the quality of life across Europe over the past five years.

In response to the question, “Is my city a good place to live for people in general?” Braga received a resounding affirmation with 98% positive responses, tying in first place with Rostock, a city in Germany. On the first criterion, Braga garnered 80% positive responses, placing it among the top cities in Europe.

One of the standout features of Braga in this survey was the comparison with data from five years ago. The majority of Braga’s residents reported that the city has improved, indicating that the city’s efforts to enhance its services, health and cultural offerings have been successful. This strategy not only retains current residents but also attracts new ones. The provision of material assistance in times of need was another aspect highly appreciated by the residents of Braga.

In terms of health factors, specifically air quality, Braga boasts a satisfaction range of 71%-78%. This is a strong indicator of the quality of life and ranks among the best levels observed in Southern European cities.

With respect to inclusiveness and safety, the majority of Braga’s residents report feeling fairly and equally treated. In the context of LGBTIQ inclusiveness, the city achieves a commendable inclusiveness range of 75%-85%. In terms of general safety, Braga’s rating exceeds 80%.

As for cultural facilities and access to them, satisfaction among Braga’s residents ranges from 72% to 84%.

The survey concluded that smaller, non-capital cities, such as Braga, generally offer a better quality of life, particularly in terms of public spaces and healthcare. Migrants and families with young children reported feeling safer in these smaller cities.

Braga also excels in being an age-friendly city, thanks to its high-quality health services, clean air, and the overall sense of safety that residents feel. Furthermore, Portugal’s considerate immigration policies are exemplified by the Portugal Passive Income Visa . This visa, specifically designed for individuals with a consistent passive income such as a pension, simplifies the process of making Portugal their residence.

Braga, situated in the north of Portugal, is a city where centuries of history intersect with the modernity of the 21st century. Braga, with its vibrant shopping avenues, noble baroque residences, and expansive squares, provides a living testament of history for those who seek to immerse themselves in it.

If you’re interested in learning more about Portugal and considering a move to this wonderful country to enjoy its many wonders, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us . We would be delighted to assist you with our expertise.

A Closer Look at the 2024 Election Results in Portugal

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:50:51 GMT

Portugal conducted general elections on the 10th of March. The political landscape was shaped by the right coalition formed between the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People’s Party (CDS), known as the Democratic Alliance (AD), which emerged as the leading party with 29.52% of the votes, securing 79 parliamentary seats. Despite this victory, they narrowly avoided a tie with the second-strongest political force.

The Socialist Party (PS), previously holding a majority, now ranks as the second-largest political force, attaining 28.63% of the total votes and electing 77 parliamentarians. This shift signifies a significant transformation in Portugal's political scenario, with potentially far-reaching consequences.

Vote counting for the recent election remains incomplete, awaiting the inclusion of results from 31 consulates. Consequently, the allocation of four parliamentary seats remains undecided.

The balance of power has shifted from left to right in this political election, with right-wing parties emerging as the winners. The far-right Chega party experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity, quadrupling the number of elected parliamentarians from 12 to 48. The liberal initiative (IL), another right-wing party, maintained its previous results, securing 5.08% of the votes and electing 8 parliamentarians.

The political party PAN (People-Animals-Nature), positioned outside the traditional left-right spectrum, secured 1.92% of the total votes, electing one parliamentarian to represent their interests.

On the left side of the hemicycle, the general election witnessed a notable rise of the LIVRE party, securing 3.26% of the votes and electing 4 parliamentarians—an increase from the previous elections where they had only one deputy. The Left Bloc (BE) maintained its position with 5 parliamentarians and 4.46% of the votes. The Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU), a coalition between the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) and the Ecologist Party (PEV), secured 3.30% of the votes, electing 4 parliamentarians, which represents a decrease of 2 parliamentarians from the prior general elections.

It is noteworthy that abstention decreased during the 2024 general elections in Portugal, defying the prevailing trend of increasing abstention observed since the nation's transition to a free democratic state following the Carnation Revolution on the 25th of April 1974.

Portugal’s Culinary Stars Shine Bright: New Michelin Honors Unveiled

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 14:48:38 GMT

Portugal, renowned for its cuisine, has recently garnered new accolades for its delectable food and meticulously prepared dishes. The prestigious ceremony happens in Albufeira, Algarve, marking a significant milestone: it was the first-ever Michelin gala held exclusively in Portugal. Prior to this, the galas were jointly hosted with our neighbouring country, Spain.

The Michelin Gala 2024, which took place on February 27th, was hosted by Catarina Furtado, a well-known figure among the Portuguese audience. With these fresh distinctions, Portugal’s list of Michelin-starred restaurants now stands at 39, including 8 establishments boasting two stars and 31 adorned with one star.

Among the victors, the spotlight shines brightly on Antiqvvm , helmed by chef Vítor Matos, who clinched his second Michelin star. This achievement propels the restaurant into the coveted two-star category, alongside other establishments such as The Yeatman ( Vila Nova de Gaia ), Ocean ( Porches ), Alma ( Lisboa ), Belcanto ( Lisboa ), Casa de Chá da Boa Nova ( Leça da Palmeira ), II Galo D’Oro ( Funchal ), and Vila Joya (Albufeira).

The winners, now part of the Michelin Guide with one Michelin star, include the following restaurants:

2Monkeys , led by chefs Vitor Matos and Francisco Quinas ( Lisboa )
SáLa de João Sá , by chef Pedro Sá ( Lisboa )
Desarma , by chef Octávio Dias ( Funchal )
Ò Balcão , by chef Rodrigo Castelo ( Santarém )

There are new awards beyond the Michelin Stars, and some of them have been included in The Portugal Michelin Guide 2024. While Michelin Stars recognise restaurants with exceptional cuisine, there are additional categories, such as the Michelin Green Star. This distinction is conferred upon establishments committed to sustainable gastronomy. Notably, at the 2024 Gala, Medalhinha Nova ( Albergoa ) received a green star for its dedication to the circular economy in the Alentejo region. Also, Ò Balcão ( Santarém ) focuses on preserving the region’s river ecosystem and eradicating invasive species.

Another category, the Bib Gourmand, celebrates restaurant-friendly establishments offering delicious food at moderate prices. Eight restaurants were honoured with this prize, bringing Portugal’s total to 32 recognised establishments. The winners include:

Flora ( Viseu )
Inato Bistrô ( Braga )
Norma ( Guimarães )
Olaias ( Figueira da Foz )
OMA ( Baião )
O Pastus ( Paço de Arcos )
Pátio 44 ( Porto )
Poda ( Montemor-o-novo )

The Service Award recognises a restaurant personality who possesses a genuine passion for service, ensuring that all customers feel special and enjoy an exceptional dining experience. Pedro Marquês at The Yeatman clinched this prestigious award.

The Young Chef Award celebrates young culinary talents with impressive potential. Rita Magro, from The Blind ( Porto ), emerges as the winner of this prize.

The final accolade of the gala is the Sommelier Award. It is given to a sommelier who possesses a profound knowledge of wines. Leonel Nunes at II Galo D’Oro ( Funchal ) proudly received this distinction.

In addition to Michelin Stars, the Michelin Guide Portugal 2024 features 96 recommended restaurants, with 21 new additions to the list. The guide now encompasses a total of 167 restaurants, each rewarded with these diverse prizes and recommendations.

This remarkable achievement exemplifies the ascent of Portuguese gastronomy on the international high-quality cuisine stage. With a rich culinary culture, Portugal aims to surpass its borders and share the incredible flavours found within our country. We extend our sincerest congratulations to all the laureates and wish them continued success in maintaining their exceptional culinary standards.

If you are considering moving to Portugal and making the most of everything this beautiful country has to offer, get in touch with us . We would be delighted to assist you with your move to Portugal.

Countdown to Portugal's General Elections: Tax Implications and Changes

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:25:04 GMT

On Sunday, March 10, 2024, Portugal will hold early general elections following the resignation of Prime Minister António Costa on 7th November 2023. The decision stemmed from an unexpected independent investigation initiated by the Public Prosecutor's Office within the Supreme Court of Justice, focusing on the lithium and green hydrogen sectors.

The former ruling party, Partido Socialista, ended the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime . As the election nears, polls are unable to predict the winner, with two frontrunners: the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista) and the right-wing coalition Democratic Alliance (Aliança democrática), which recently won in the Azores region.

If the election outcome mirrors that of the Azores, where the Democratic Alliance coalition emerged victorious, some measures outlined in the 2024 state budget may be reconsidered, including the discontinuation of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime. This is a possibility since historically, the right-wing has demonstrated a stronger propensity towards attracting foreign investment.

How to exercise your right to vote?

To exercise the right to vote, and be an active part of this democratic process, Portuguese citizens need to possess specific documentation. The primary document necessary is the ID card. When heading to the polling station to vote, the ID card must be presented. It's crucial to note that the ID card must be valid to be considered. Alternatively, other forms of identification accepted include:

Driving Licence;
Passport;
Attestation of identity by two electors;
Recognition of the voter by all members of the polling station.

The location where you cast your vote is determined by your registration. For instance, if you change your residency without updating your ID card residency, you remain registered in your previous area of residency. Updating your residency is mandatory and will automatically update your ID card.

Portuguese citizens residing abroad can cast their votes at the Portuguese consulate corresponding to their area of residence and exercise their voting rights on the 10th of March 2024.

Portugal Emerges: Among the Fastest-Growing Economies in 2023

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 11:51:17 GMT

In the year 2023, Portugal’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exhibited a robust growth rate of 2.3%. This data underscores a positive trajectory in the nation’s economic performance and signifies an enhancement of its overall financial position. The data was meticulously collected by the intergovernmental organization known as the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development).

This growth represents a significant advancement for Portugal, as it surpassed both the Eurozone and European Union averages. While the Eurozone and EU recorded an average growth rate of 0.5%, Portugal’s remarkable performance reached 2.3%, even outpacing the overall OECD average (1.6%).

Among the OECD member countries, only a select few achieved a higher growth rate than Portugal:

Costa Rica: 5.1%
Mexico: 2.5%
United States: 2.5%
Spain: 2.5%

Notably, out of the 27 countries for which data is available, 10 experienced a decline in GDP during 2023 compared to the preceding year (2022). The most substantial contraction occurred in Estonia, with a negative growth rate of -3.0%. Despite a slowdown in growth, the majority of countries still experienced positive economic expansion.

Analysing the year in quarters, Portugal particularly excelled in the final quarter of 2023, securing the 4th highest GDP growth globally. Tied with the United States at 0.8%, Portugal once again surpassed the averages of the European Union (0.1%), Eurozone (0%), and OECD (0.4%). This outstanding economic performance positions Portugal as an attractive investment destination. Investing in Portugal is a great opportunity that should not be missed, especially now that the country is experiencing remarkable economic growth.

Linked to Lisbon’s recent accolade as the most innovative capital of Europe , Portugal continues to strategically invest in reshaping its economic paradigm, leveraging technology and innovation to drive sustained development. For potential investors, this is an opportune moment to consider Portugal.

If you require guidance and support for investing in Portugal, please reach out to us . We would be delighted to assist you.

Digital ID Cards and Driving Licences Now Legally Valid

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:20:30 GMT

Digital documents such as ID Cards and Driving Licences now hold legal recognition, following amendments made under Law No. 19-A/2024, published on February 7th, 2024. These legislative changes affirm that digital versions of these documents possess the same legal and probative validity as their original counterparts.

This recent alteration by the Portuguese government underscores its commitment to modernizing and simplifying the lives of residents in the country. Expected to positively impact daily routines, this change will facilitate easier access, sharing, and consultation of documents from anywhere.

The government's dedication to progress and development is evident in initiatives prioritizing the safety and convenience of its citizens.

How does this change work?

To access personal documents, residents can utilize the helpful app provided by the Portuguese government called id.gov.pt. Developed by Agência para a Modernização Administrativa, I.P. (AMA I.P.), this app offers a secure and reliable way to access a wide range of documents, providing residents with access to their individual digital wallet.

Which documents are stored in the digital wallet?

The documents currently available in the digital wallet include:

ID Card
Driver Licence
Single Automobile Document (DUA)
ADSE Beneficiary Card
Blood Donor Card
Employee Card (it is for public employees only)
Single Port Card
Cultural Affairs’ Worker Card
European Youth Card
Digital Defence Identification Document
Former Combatant Card
Military Health Care Card (ADM)

How can one gain access to their own digital wallet?

To access the digital wallet, residents must first create a Digital Mobile Key, which serves as an authentication method. Once set up, citizens can access their digital wallet through the app, allowing for secure and convenient storage of important documents and information.

What are the benefits for expats?

This digital wallet simplifies the process for those wishing to reside in Portugal. Important digital documents like the ID Card and Driving Licence offer easy access, reducing the need for physical paperwork. This advantage is particularly notable in streamlining verification processes, such as during an AIMA appointment.

For more information about the innovative digital wallet or the process of moving to Portugal, feel free to contact us . We would be delighted to offer our assistance.

Portugal Excels in the 2024 World Aquatics Championship

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:53:34 GMT

The 2024 World Aquatics Championship took place in Doha, Qatar, from February 2nd to 18th. Portugal’s performance in this year’s edition was noteworthy, as the country secured three medals and four more diplomas, marking its best appearance ever in the World Aquatics Championship. With their impressive display of skill and talent, Portugal has undoubtedly made a mark in the world of aquatic sports and in its own sporting history.

The main contributor to this outstanding result was athlete Diogo Ribeiro, who alone won two gold medals. His first medal came in the 50-metre butterfly event with a time of 22.97 seconds. The podium was completed by American swimmer Michael Andrew (23.07 seconds) and Australian swimmer Camaron McEvoy (23.08 seconds).

His second gold medal was also in the butterfly style, this time in the 100-metre event, where he reached gold with a time of 51.17 seconds, setting a new national record for the event. In second place was Simon Bucher, an athlete from Austria, with a time of 51.28 seconds, and completing the podium was Polish swimmer Jakob Majerski with 51.22 seconds.

Diogo Ribeiro became a two-time world champion for Portugal, a remarkable achievement considering Portugal's history in swimming events over the last decades, where they had never reached any gold medals. In the 2024 edition, Portugal secured two of them.

The 100-metre butterfly is an Olympic event, and at this moment, Diogo Ribeiro is a serious candidate for an Olympic medal, another historical achievement for Portuguese swimming.

The other medal was won by Angélica André in the 10 kilometres Open Water Swimming, where she secured the bronze medal with a time of 1 hour 57 minutes 28.2 seconds. The winner was Sharon van Rouwendaal from New Zealand (1 hour 57 minutes 26.8 seconds), and Spanish swimmer Maria de Valdes took second place (1 hour 57 minutes 26.9 seconds). This bronze medal was Portugal's first in the World Championship in open waters.

Following this achievement, Angélica André has secured her spot in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and we extend our sincerest wishes for her success in the upcoming Olympic competition.

Portugal has achieved its best results, indicating that the country is heavily investing in its talent. This investment in sports has enabled Portugal to achieve prime results and is a testament to the country's commitment to building an elite group of athletes.

Portugal Ranks in Top 10 for English Proficiency Among Non-Native Speakers

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 15:34:48 GMT

This study was conducted by the EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), analysing 2.2 million individuals from 113 countries globally in its 2023 report. With high participation, it reveals notable trends in English language proficiency worldwide.

Portugal's language proficiency has been commendable, consistently ranking high in various surveys. In the latest survey conducted in 2023, Portugal managed to secure 8th place, attaining a high proficiency level. Interestingly, among the southern European countries, Portugal is the only one to achieve this feat. Other countries such as Greece, Spain, France, and Italy lagged far behind Portugal in terms of language proficiency. It is worth noting that Greece was the only other southern European country to reach a high proficiency level, trailing Portugal.

Portugal's ability to attract expats is bolstered by several factors, including its high English proficiency, welcoming culture, and smooth transition process. For those considering living in Portugal, the Passive Income Visa offers a viable option.

The top 10 countries in the 2023 report are as follows:

Netherlands
Singapore
Austria
Denmark
Norway
Sweden
Belgium
Portugal
South Africa
Germany

Additionally, the report ranks cities with sufficient data, and the top three Portuguese cities for English proficiency are Coimbra, Braga, and Guimarães. Coimbra stands out as the most English-proficient city in Portugal, on par with European capitals Vienna, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. This marks a significant shift compared to previous years, with neither Lisbon nor Porto, the two largest Portuguese cities, ranking in the top three, despite maintaining high proficiency levels. Notably, Coimbra's prominence is attributed to its status as a university town.

Another noteworthy finding is the global trend of the youngest age group (18 to 20 years) experiencing a slight decrease in proficiency, while in Portugal they gain some proficiency. The age group that reached higher results in Portugal was 20-25 years old. Globally the most proficient age group was 26-30 years old and 31-40 years old tied in the top.

Regarding gender, males are exhibiting higher gains in English proficiency compared to females, consistent with observations since 2019.

For further inquiries or information about Portugal, please feel free to contact us . We will be delighted to assist you.

Portugal: A Premier Destination for US Expatriates

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 15:03:21 GMT

As we fast forward to the year 2024, the landscape of work has undergone remarkable transformations. Initially, remote and hybrid work arrangements were considered novel and unconventional, but today they have become the new norm and a standard way of working across different industries and sectors.

It is worth noting that the ongoing trend of flexible work arrangements is not limited to a few specific countries, but rather a global phenomenon that has been transforming the way organizations operate and how employees manage their personal and professional commitments. This shift towards greater work-life balance and adaptability has become a crucial aspect of modern working culture, enabling businesses to stay competitive while empowering workers to achieve their goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

With the advent of remote work and digital communication technologies, a new trend has emerged that allows individuals to reside in one country while working for an employer based in a different country. This lifestyle is commonly known as being a digital nomad.

Jennifer Liu reports on CNBC Make It that Deel a global hiring HR platform, has revealed that American users applied for Visas in Portugal before any other country. The data provided by Deel sheds light on the global hiring trends and the popularity of Portugal among American job seekers.

Portugal's popularity as a destination for digital nomads can be attributed to a number of factors. Firstly, the country boasts a sunny, mild climate which is highly attractive to those seeking a warm, pleasant environment.

Additionally, Portugal is renowned for its delicious cuisine and vibrant culture, which only adds to the allure of the country. In terms of affordability, Portugal is a top choice for expats due to its reasonable cost of living.

Moreover, the country is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe, which make it an ideal location for those who enjoy a relaxing way of life. All of these factors combined make Portugal the preferred choice for many American digital nomads seeking a new and exciting place to call home.

The Portuguese D7 Visa offers an incredible opportunity for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Portugal. With the D7 Visa, applicants can embrace the lifestyle, work, and explore not only Portugal but also other EU countries. If you're curious to learn more about this visa and its benefits, explore further details on this page .

If you require assistance or information regarding the best option to obtain Portuguese residency or any related matters, please don't hesitate to contact us . We would be delighted to assist you.

* This article was made possible by the contribution of the article The 7 most popular countries for U.S. workers moving abroad , by Jennifer Liu on CNBC Make It.

2024 Azorean Regional Election, Who Wins and What It Could Mean for the 2024 Legislative Elections

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 17:11:46 GMT

The regional elections took place last Sunday, 4th of February, with the winning coalition comprising three different parties: PSD/CDS/PPM. Despite their victory, the coalition did not secure a majority, holding 26 seats in the regional assembly, three short of the required 29 for a majority.

Led by José Manuel Boleiro of the PSD party, the coalition is named aliança democrática (AD). A notable outcome of the election was the PS Party's first defeat since 1996, as they secured 23 seats, becoming the second political force. It's worth mentioning that the PS party is the current ruling party in Portugal.

With Portugal set to hold a general election on the 10th of March 2024, the reasons for this early election are elaborated in this article . Given the victory of the right-wing coalition in this regional election, there's speculation that a similar outcome could occur in the general elections. Such a shift may signal changes in Portuguese legislation regarding immigration and external investment, as historically, the right-wing (PSD) has shown greater receptiveness to external investment, influencing immigration policies.

Other noteworthy points from the election include losses for the left-wing parties, with the PS party securing 23 seats, the Bloco de Esquerda party and the PAN party each securing one seat. Additionally, the right-wing Iniciativa Liberal Party may secure one seat in the legislative assembly.

The right-wing extremist party, known as Chega, gained ground with five seats. Despite this, the right-wing has stated its refusal to enter into any political alliances with the far-right, affirming its commitment to Portuguese democratic values and rejecting far-right ideologies.

The Azorean Archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, comprises nine islands, all of volcanic origin. Characterised by dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, verdant pastures, and abundant blue hydrangeas, the islands offer a unique and picturesque environment.

Portugal's Tourism Boom: Exceeding Pre-Pandemic Levels

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:28:41 GMT

Portugal has always been renowned for its stunning beauty, rich culture, and high quality of life. As a result, the tourism sector has become one of the most important pillars of the Portuguese economy.

The country's popularity as a tourist destination has grown by leaps and bounds, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural heritage. With so much to offer, it's no wonder that Portugal has become an attractive place for tourists seeking unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime.

The tourism sector in Portugal witnessed unprecedented growth in the year 2023, setting new records for the country. The number of guests and overnight stays in Portugal experienced a remarkable surge, with the figures reaching an all-time high. The statistics reveal that Portugal recorded a staggering 77 million overnight stays in the year 2023, which is an impressive 11% surge compared to the previous year, 2022.

Moreover, the tourism sector generated revenues amounting to approximately € 25,000 million, which is a notable increase of almost 40% compared to the year 2019. These numbers are a testament to Portugal's thriving tourism industry and its growing popularity as a top vacation destination.

In 2024, Portugal appears to be maintaining its tremendous appeal as a destination for short-term tourism. However, it's worth noting that the country also presents a unique opportunity for individuals who seek to turn their dream of living in this vibrant destination into a reality. There are several routes to take, and the Passive Income Visa is a particularly compelling option for those who wish to fully immerse themselves in Portugal's rich culture, lifestyle, and opportunities.

With its diverse attractions, welcoming people, and vibrant culture, Portugal is truly an incredible destination that continues to captivate visitors from all over the world.

If you are interested in exploring a new life in Portugal or would like more information, please contact us . We would be delighted to offer our assistance.

Biometric Advancements in Portugal: How They are Changing the Travel Experience

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 16:55:45 GMT

Portuguese airports have recently rolled out an innovative biometric experience, starting earlier this year at Lisbon and Porto airports. By mid-2024, this transformative travel initiative will extend to Faro, Ponta Delgada, and Funchal airports, promising passengers an elevated journey experience. Spearheaded by a collaboration between ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal/VINCI Airports and Vision-Box, a prominent technology company specializing in the travel industry.

The initial phase of the program, introduced at Lisbon and Porto airports, is overseen by ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal/VINCI Airports and is exclusively available for TAP Air Portugal flights. Travellers aged 18 and above journeying within the Schengen area can take advantage of this streamlined biometric process. The aim is to expand this initiative to include more destinations and airlines.

Funding for these cutting-edge biometric experiences is provided by the Portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan (PPR) and the NextGenerationEU program, through the Accelerate and Transform Tourism Agenda. This strategic agenda aims to change the customer experience in Portugal's tourism sector.

Vision-Box leads this innovative travel experience through its Seamless Journey Platform, seamlessly integrating biometric devices into existing systems for real-time data orchestration. This guarantees smooth collaboration among various travel stakeholders' systems, optimizing efficiency, security, and convenience for both passengers and stakeholders alike. Notably, this modern approach eliminates the need for traditional boarding passes and travel documents, fostering a privacy-focused ecosystem.

Initiating with enrolment, travellers can effortlessly register via ANA Aeroportos' mobile app, facilitated by Vision-Box Seamless Mobile SDK.

Alternatively, at the airport, self-service check-in kiosks equipped with Vision-Box's Seamless Kiosks allow travellers to register autonomously, or they can receive assistance at check-in counters utilizing Vision-Box's Seamless Desk.

Consequently, enrolled travellers can navigate the airport effortlessly, relying solely on facial recognition at biometrically enabled Vision-Box Security Gates.

During boarding, passengers can utilize Vision-Box Self-Boarding Gates, powered by state-of-the-art AI-enabled Vision-Box Facial Recognition Algorithm.

This groundbreaking initiative aligns with the Portuguese government's digitalisation agenda, aimed at fostering growth within the tourism sector. Moreover, Lisbon's recognition as the capital of innovation in Europe underscores the city's commitment to pioneering advancements in the technology field and customer journey experience. All of these aspects are augmented by the new tax benefit that the Portuguese government has devised for the year 2024, as outlined in this article , for those who opt to reside and work in Portugal under a qualified occupation.

If you are interested in living and working in Portugal or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us . We would be delighted to offer our assistance.

When Will I Be Able to Confirm My Personal Income Tax (IRS) Invoices?

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 16:01:09 GMT

Please note that you have until the 26 ^th of February 2024, to complete the validation process for all invoices. This is the final deadline for verifying, entering, and reviewing all the necessary data in the online e-fatura system. It is imperative that you ensure all steps are accurately completed before the deadline to benefit from the deduction of expenses in personal income tax (IRS).

It is crucial to follow this specific process to ensure that taxpayers can take advantage of their eligible expense deductions across various sectors such as health, education, housing, nursing homes, and general family expenses. By adhering to this process, individuals can maximise their deductions.

The taxpayer can partially recover the Value Added Tax (VAT) in Portugal. Nevertheless, it is important to note that this recovery is only applicable for expenses directly related to specific services, such as lodging, restaurants, automobile shops, hairdressers/barbers, beauty clinics, gyms, and veterinary services. On the other hand, the VAT paid for newspaper and magazine subscriptions, public transportation tickets, and monthly passes has a total recovery for the taxpayer.

It is essential to understand the significance of invoice validation. The process plays a vital role in ensuring that the expenses declared by taxpayers are accurately categorized and comply with the regulations set by the Portuguese Tributary and Customs Authority. In case of any uncertainty about the category of an expense, the authority places it in the pendent sector until the taxpayer confirms the bill. However, if the taxpayer fails to confirm the bill by the end date, which is the 26th of February, the expense doesn't count as a tax deduction and is automatically excluded from the personal income tax (IRS) deduction process. This can result in the taxpayer losing money if they do not adhere to the process.

Confirming invoices is a crucial yet time-consuming process that requires one-by-one confirmation of each invoice. In cases where you have children, it is imperative to register their expenses and link them to their NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal). This step is essential for recording their expenses in the e-fatura system, which is the only way to ensure that all expenses are accurately registered.

If you have any further questions or require assistance on this matter or related issues, please feel free to reach out . We will be delighted to assist you.

Portugal Public Holidays in 2024

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:41:31 GMT

We reached a new year and public holidays are always a good time to make some reflections and plans. They are times of festivities and contemplation. Public holidays reflect the traditions and the culture of one determined country. Not only offers moments of celebration but also prompts us to consider a big reflection on our own lives.

As they represent the culture of Portugal, it is important to be familiar with them and recognize their official names. That's why we have created a table listing the days and their official names, helping to acknowledge the historical significance behind each public holiday.

Public Holidays across Portugal:

1st January (Monday) – New Year’s Day

29th March (Friday) – Good Friday

31st March (Sunday) – Easter Sunday

25th April (Thursday) – Liberty Day

1st May (Wednesday) – Worker’s Day

10th June (Monday) - Day of Portugal, Camões and Portuguese Communities

20th June (Thursday) – Corpus Christi

15th August (Thursday) – Assumption Day

5th October (Saturday) – Implantation of the Republic

1st November (Friday) – All Saint’s Day

1st December (Sunday) – Independence Restauration Day

8th December (Sunday) – Feast of Immaculate Conception

25th December (Wednesday) – Christmas Day

The optional or additional holiday is Carnival, which normally is generally allowed as a day off but depends on the judgement of each local council.

13th February (Tuesday) – Carnival

The municipal public holidays in Portugal can vary depending on the municipality. In June, the main three Popular Saints – Santos Populares - are celebrated and many cities and councils recognise these festivities as a public municipal holiday. Lisbon has 13th June (Thursday) to celebrate Saint Anthony*, and in Porto is Saint John** which is on 24th June (Monday) and in Sintra is Saint Peter***, celebrated on 29th June (Saturday).

Public holidays offer an opportune moment for strategic thinking. As we mark the calendar and contemplate the year ahead, the idea of making a fresh start takes centre stage—a notion that resonates strongly with those considering a residency journey in Portugal.

For those with a strategic mindset, this period prompts a closer look at acquiring a residence through investment in Portugal, where the allure of a bright start aligns seamlessly with the celebratory spirit. With this collective pause, inviting individuals to ponder a new life in Portugal through the Portugal Golden Visa programme .

Portugal, known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse cultural legacy, indicates those seeking to smarten up. Public holidays become not just a time for celebration but also a gateway to exploring the viewpoint of establishing residency in a country that values tradition and offers a stable foundation.

An ideal pathway for those ready to take a step into the realm of Portugal's enchantment is the D7 Visa , an amazing route for those eager to fully embrace and indulge in the rich, captivating attraction of this beautiful country.

If you're keen on discovering the richness of life in Portugal, feel free to get in touch with us . We'll be delighted to offer our help.

The Hidden Wonders of Portuguese Blue Coast

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 17:07:11 GMT

The Portuguese Blue Coast gets its name from its natural beauty, which is similar to the Côte D’Azur in southern France. The Blue Coast is located in the Setúbal District of Portugal, stretching from the Setúbal Peninsula to the municipality of Sines.

In the small coastal village of Porto Covo, located within the Sines municipality, you'll find everything you need to live a fulfilling life. From beautiful beaches to exceptional fish dishes, sandy shores, and a pleasant climate, this village is an appealing place to build your own life.

In this unique location, there's a real estate project in Porto Covo facing the Praia Grande called CASAS DO MAR. This project was designed to fit perfectly in front of the amazing beach and takes into consideration the natural beauty of Porto Covo. This project is located an hour's distance from Comporta.

It's characterized by its fine lines and meticulous materials, which provide both comfort and visual appeal with a harmonious chromatic composition. The project consists of 21 apartments with 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms, a garden, a private pool for the ground floors, spacious social areas a common bathroom, and a storage/laundry room. The upper floor provides a unique view of the beach and the charming village.

CASAS DO MAR project offers buyers and future owners the freedom to choose what they want to do with the apartments - whether they want to sell them, start a new chapter in them, or even use them as tourist investment real estate.

For those intending to relocate to Portugal, either for retirement or remote work, this is an opportunity to consider seriously. To initiate your move, you will need to apply for an appropriate residence permit . For those who want to spend their holidays in a sunny and immaculate region, CASAS DO MAR is undoubtedly a great choice and an investment with a good yield.

If you're interested in embracing this new possibility or would like more information, feel free to reach out to us . We'll be delighted to offer our help.

Immigration in Portugal: A Positive Balance

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 12:39:21 GMT

According to recent data, the number of immigrants in Portugal has significantly increased. This includes both the number of immigrant people as well as their contribution to Portuguese Social Security. The observatory for migrations has tracked that in 2022, there were 782,000 immigrants in Portugal who contributed 1,861 million euros to social security while receiving 257 thousand euros in social support. This results in a positive balance of 1,604 million euros.

According to recent data, the UK nationals are the second-largest community of immigrants in Portugal, comprising 45,218 people. If you're interested in joining this community and living in a safe and wonderful country, there are several options available. You can learn about how to move to Portugal after Brexit . Alternatively, if you're already a part of this community and need assistance with the next steps, you can explore how to obtain Portuguese citizenship .

In the first paragraph, we mentioned some gross numbers related to immigration in Portugal. If we express those numbers in percentages, immigrants represent 7.5% of the Portuguese population and contribute 13.5% to the Portuguese Social Security. These numbers indicate that immigration in Portugal is characterized by a working population but with some differences. For instance, immigrants from the European Union community are characterized by an older population, similar to the Portuguese population, which contrasts with immigration from outside the European Union.

Foreigners account for 16.7% of all births in Portugal, which is a positive trend as it counters the ageing population, a tendency that has been seen for a long time in Portugal and Europe in general.

From a percentage point of view, in geographical matters, the region of Portugal with the highest percentage of immigrants is the Algarve. Within this region, Vila do Bispo has the highest percentage of foreigners, making up 42.2% of the total population. This is almost half of the population. Lisbon is the region of Portugal that hosts the majority of foreigners who live in Portugal, 41% of all foreigners live in Lisboa.

In terms of political participation, the foreign population have low rates, only 7.4% of them are voter registration.

After analysing the data, we can confidently state that immigrants have a positive impact on society. They contribute to the economic growth of the welcoming country, provide a renewal of the population, and perform certain job roles that locals are unwilling to take up. To ensure that this "new" global trend of population movement has a positive impact, it is essential to establish good policies and laws for immigration.

If you have any further questions or require assistance on this matter or related issues, please feel free to reach out . We will be delighted to assist you.

Municipality Benefit on Personal Income Tax (IRS) in 2024

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:02:46 GMT

Since 2008, residents in Portugal's municipalities have been offered the opportunity to benefit from a tax incentive called floating participation on IRS (participação variável no IRS). This is part of the inter-municipality financial regime, known as Regime Financeiro das Autarquias e Entidades Intermunicipais in Portuguese.

The law states that each municipality is entitled to float participation every year, ranging from 0% to 5% of the IRS derived from taxpayers with a tax residence in the same municipality. This benefit aims to attract more taxpayers to the local territories, ultimately resulting in increased tax collection for the local governments.

How to access this tax benefit?

Individuals and their families residing in a Portuguese municipality that provides the personal income tax benefit may be eligible to benefit from it.

If you are planning to relocate to Portugal and wish to take advantage of the opportunities available, there are various residence permits you can apply for. European Union citizens will require a Certificate of Residency (CRUE). For those outside the European Union, several residence permits , including the popular Portuguese D7 Visa , are available for application.

Know how to have this benefit?

In order to benefit from this tax incentive, it is important to be aware of the legal deadlines. The municipality must communicate with the Portuguese Tributary and Customs Authority (AT), until the 31st of December 2023 indicating the rate (ranging from 0% to 5%) from the IRS that they wish to retain for themselves.

As for the taxpayer, it is mandatory to complete and submit the IRS statement between the 1st of April 2024 and the 30th of June 2024 to be eligible for the tax benefit. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the loss of the tax incentive.

How can you confirm that you gain from this tax benefit?

The subtraction will be applied automatically by the Portuguese Tributary and Customs Authority (AT) at the time of tax settlement. To confirm receipt of the benefit, check your tax settlement bill for the line that says, “municipal benefit.”

Know how to calculate your IRS benefit?

The deduction on the IRS is not the same for all taxpayers in each municipality as it varies. To calculate the reduction, you need to know the percentage retained by your municipality and deduct it from the maximum rate, which is 5%. For instance, if your municipality decides to retain 3% of the taxpayer's IRS, the taxpayer will receive a 2% return rate (5% - 3% = 2%).

What is the retention rate from each Portuguese municipality?

In the next list, we provide you with the retention rate from each Portuguese municipality:

Continental Portugal:

Abrantes 4,50%

Águeda 0,00%

Aguiar da Beira 0,00%

Alandroal 5,00%

Albergaria-a-Velha 2,75%

Albufeira 0,00%

Alcácer do Sal 4,00%

Alcanena 4,80%

Alcobaça 2,40%

Alcochete 4,00%

Alcoutim 0,00%

Alenquer 4,80%

Alfandega da Fé 5,00%

Alijo 3,00%

Aljezur 0,00%

Aljustrel 5,00%

Almada 3,50%

Almeida 0,00%

Almeirim 5,00%

Almodôvar 4,00%

Alpiarça 5,00%

Alter do Chão 2,50%

Alvaiázere 2,50%

Alvito 4,00%

Amadora 3,80%

Amarante 5,00%

Amares 5,00%

Anadia 3,00%

Ansião 3,00%

Arcos de Valdevez 3,00%

Arganil 0,00%

Armamar 1,00%

Arraiolos 5,00%

Arronches 0,00%

Arruda dos Vinhos 3,80%

Aveiro 5,00%

Azambuja 5,00%

Baião 5,00%

Barcelos 4,75%

Barrancos 5,00%

Barreiro 5,00%

Batalha 5,00%

Beja 5,00%

Belmonte 2,50%

Benavente 2,50%

Bombarral 3,50%

Borba 4,00%

Boticas 0,00%

Braga 3,00%

Bragança 5,00%

Cabeceiras de Basto 2,00%

Cadaval 2,50%

Caldas da Rainha 2,00%

Caminha 5,00%

Campo Maior 5,00%

Cantanhede 5,00%

Carrazeda de Ansiães 0,00%

Carregal do Sal 5,00%

Cartaxo 5,00%

Cascais 5,00%

Castanheira de Pera 0,00%

Castelo Branco 1,50%

Castelo de Paiva 5,00%

Castelo de Vide 2,50%

Castro Daire 3,00%

Castro Marim 3,50%

Castro Verde 4,00%

Celorico da Beira 4,00%

Celorico de Basto 4,00%

Chaves 5,00%

Cinfães 3,00%

Coimbra 5,00%

Condeixa-a-Nova 5,00%

Constância 5,00%

Coruche 3,00 %

Covilhã 5,00%

Crato 5,00%

Cuba 5,00%

Elvas 5,00%

Entroncamento 5,00%

Espinho 4,50%

Esposende 5,00%

Estarreja 3,00%

Estremoz 3,50%

Évora 3,50%

Fafe 3,00%

Faro 5,00%

Felgueiras 4,34%

Ferreira do Alentejo 5,00%

Ferreira do Zêzere 1,00%

Figueira da Foz 3,25%

Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo 0,00%

Figueiró dos Vinhos 3,00%

Fornos de Algodres 5,00%

Freixo de Espada a Cinta 5,00%

Fronteira 0,00%

Fundão 5,00%

Gavião 0,00%

Gois 2,50%

Golegã 5,00%

Gondomar 5,00%

Gouveia 4,00%

Grândola 5,00%

Guarda 4,00%

Guimarães 5,00%

Idanha-a-Nova 2,50%

Ílhavo 4,00%

Lagoa (algarve) 2,00%

Lagos 0,00%

lamego 4,00%

Leiria 5,00%

Lisboa 0,50%

Loulé 0,00%

Loures 4,75%

Lourinhã 3,75%

Lousada 4,00%

Lousã 4,00%

Macedo de Cavaleiros 1,00%

Mafra 4,75%

Maia 5,00%

Mangualde 4,00%

Manteigas 0,00%

Marco de Canaveses 3,00%

Marinha Grande 5,00%

Marvão 2,50%

Matosinhos 5,00%

Mação 4,00%

Mealhada 2,00%

Meda 5,00%

Melgaço 5,00%

Mértola 3,00%

Mesão Frio 3,00%

Miranda do Corvo 4,00%

Miranda do Douro 2,50%

Mirandela 2,00%

Mogadouro 0,00%

Moimenta da Beira 4,50%

Monchique 2,50%

Mondim de Basto 3,50%

Monforte 5,00%

Montalegre 5,00%

Montemor-o-Novo 3,00%

Montemor-o-Velho 4,50%

Montijo 4,00%

Monção 2,00%

Mora 5,00%

Mortágua 0,00%

Mourão 3,00%

Murtosa 4,00%

Murça 2,50%

Nazaré 5,00%

Nelas 4,00%

Nisa 2,50%

Óbidos 1,00%

Odemira 3,50%

Odivelas 5,00%

Oeiras 4,70%

Oleiros 0,00%

Olhão 4,00%

Oliveira de Azeméis 5,00%

Oliveira de Frades 5,00%

Oliveira do Bairro 0,00%

Oliveira do Hospital 5,00%

Ourem 5,00%

Ourique 2,50%

Ovar 2,00%

Palmela 5,00%

Pampilhosa da Serra 0,00%

Paredes 5,00%

Paredes de Coura 3,00%

Paços de Ferreira 5,00%

Pedrógão Grande 1,00%

Penacova 4,00%

Penafiel 5,00%

Penalva do Castelo 4,00%

Penamacor 0,00%

Penedono 0,00%

Penela 5,00%

Peniche 3,00%

Peso da Régua 5,00%

Pinhel 5,00%

Pombal 2,50%

Ponte da Barca 4,00%

Ponte de Lima 0,00%

Ponte de Sor 3,50%

Portalegre 3,50%

Portel 5,00%

Portimão 5,00%

Porto 3,50%

Porto de Mos 2,50%

Povoa de Lanhoso 4,50%

Povoa de Varzim 4,00%

Proença-a-Nova 2,50%

Redondo 3,00%

Reguengos de Monsaraz 5,00%

Resende 0,00%

Ribeira de Pena 5,00%

Rio Maior 4,60%

S. Brás de Alportel 5,00%

S. João da Madeira 4,50%

S. João da Pesqueira 5,00%

S. Pedro do Sul 2,00%

Sabrosa 0,00%

Sabugal 0,00%

Salvaterra de Magos 5,00%

Santa Comba Dão 4,40%

Santa Maria da Feira 5,00%

Santa Marta de Penaguião 0,50%

Santarém 4,50%

Santiago do Cacém 5,00%

Santo Tirso 3,50%

Sardoal 5,00%

Sátão 5,00%

Seia 2,50 %

Seixal 5,00%

Sernancelhe 5,00%

Serpa 5,00%

Sertã 2,50%

Sesimbra 5,00 %

Setúbal 3,50%

Sever do Vouga 2,50%

Sines 3,75%

Sobral de Monte Agraço 5,00%

Soure 5,00%

Sousel 5,00%

Tábua 5,00%

Tabuaço 5,00%

Tarouca 5,00%

Tavira 2,50%

Terras de Bouro 5,00%

Tomar 4,00%

Tondela 2,50%

Torre de Moncorvo 5,00%

Torres Novas 5,00%

Torres Vedras 3,75%

Trancoso 0,00%

Trofa 4,80%

Vagos 2,50%

Vale de Cambra 2,50%

Valença 2,00%

Valongo 5,00%

Valpaços 5,00%

Vendas Novas 5,00%

Viana do Alentejo 2,50%

Vidigueira 5,00%

Vieira do Minho 0,00%

Vila de Rei 2,50%

Vila do Bispo 0,00%

Vila Flor 0,00%

Vila Franca de Xira 4,75%

Vila Nova da Barquinha 4,50%

Vila Nova de Cerveira 3,00%

Vila Nova de Famalicão 4,50%

Vila Nova de Foz Côa 5,00%

Vila Nova de Gaia 2,50%

Vila Nova de Poiares 5,00%

Vila Pouca de Aguiar 5,00%

Vila Real 5,00%

Vila Real de Santo António 5,00 %

Vila Velha de Ródão 5,00%

Vila Viçosa 3,00%

Vimioso 5,00%

Vinhais 0,00%

Viseu 4,00%

Vizela 3,50%

Vouzela 5,00%

Azores Archipelago:

Angra do Heroísmo 5,00%

Calheta 0,00%

Corvo 5,00%

Horta 4,50%

Lagoa 5,00%

Santa Cruz das Flores 0,00%

Santa Cruz da Graciosa 3,00%

Lajes das Flores 2,00%

Lajes do Pico 5,00%

Nordeste 5,00%

Velas 0,00%

Madalena 5,00%

Povoação 2,50%

Vila Praia da Vitória 5,00%

Ribeira Grande 1,75%

Ponta Delgada 3,50%

Vila Franca do Campo 5,00%

Vila do Porto 5,00%

S. Roque do Pico 5,00%

Madeira Archipelago:

Calheta 0,00%

Camara de Lobos 3,50%

Funchal 0,00%

Machico 4,00%

Porto Santo 3,75%

Ponta do Sol 0,00%

S. Vicente 5,00%

Santana 0,00%

Santa Cruz 4,00%

Ribeira Brava 5,00%

If you have any further questions or require assistance on this matter or related issues, please feel free to reach out . We will be delighted to assist you.

The Year 2023 in Review

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 15:18:31 GMT

As we reach the end of 2023, we look back at some of the highlights we communicated with you during the last 12 months, looking ahead for 2024.

This year has witnessed the continuation of significant international conflicts, such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and the rise of new ones such as the Israeli-Palestinian war, with political, social, and economic impacts that extend across the globe.

In 2023, Portugal maintained diplomatic relations with other countries, as exemplified by the Portugal-UK driving licence agreement , demonstrating a commitment to fostering positive international relationships.

Despite the Portuguese passport regularly holding a top-ranking position in Henley’s Passport Index , the SEF agency was dissolved in October, with AIMA taking its position . Previously responsible for immigration and border services, SEF has now been succeeded by the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA). This reorganization aims to improve the agency's efficiency by delegating tasks and functions to other, more specialized, public entities. The outcomes of this restructuring will be monitored throughout 2024.

In early November, the Portuguese Prime Minister resigned after a criminal investigation for alleged corruption. This occurred after a succession of several resignations within the government since the beginning of the term, which was won by an absolute majority by the Socialist Party in January 2022. Nevertheless, the dissolution of the government was scheduled for after the approval of the 2024 state budget, deemed essential to ensure economic stability and enable continued access to European funds for the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR - Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência).

The year 2023 marks the end of new applications to the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, as approved in the 2024 state budget. Nevertheless, it will still be possible to apply in 2024 for all those who qualify under a valid residence visa, as described in this article . It is also important to note that this same budget initiate a new tax incentive, specially made for people who teach in higher education, do scientific investigations or come to work for Portuguese Startup companies.

In the wake of the housing crisis in Portugal, the government has introduced the 'Mais Habitação' (More Housing) Programme with the aim of improving access to housing conditions. One of the approved measures was the exclusion of real estate investment as a path to the Portugal’s Golden Visa, which came into force in October 2023. However, in comparison to previous announcements, the Portugal’s Golden Visa programme will remain available with alternative investment options, as described in this article .

In the tech field, artificial intelligence has become increasingly widespread, with many people and companies incorporating it into their daily lives and production processes. This trend is expected to continue as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent in various industries.

Lisbon has been awarded the European Capital of Innovation prize by the European Commission. This achievement is the result of various factors. Firstly, the project that Lisbon submitted for the award utilized technology to promote knowledge and social equality, which was a significant win for all.

Secondly, Lisbon's successful bid to host the 2023 edition of Web Summit was another contributing factor. Though there were some challenges such as the CEO of the event resigning and many companies expressing their reluctance to participate due to uncertainties, Lisbon persevered and emerged victorious. A significant number of companies were present, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) was the primary theme of this edition.

Finally, Lisbon's digital transformation has made it an ideal location for startups and remote workers . The reasons are the thriving tech scene and abundance of co-working spaces make it a hub for remote workers seeking a vibrant and supportive community. it is an ideal location for those looking to launch it in the tech field.

Portugal has been consistently improving its standing as a sought-after destination for residency and is increasingly being recognized for its quality of life. Several locations in the country have garnered high rankings in various international indicators, making it a highly desirable place to live. At the same time, the nation maintains its distinguished status as a premier global destination for retirement , due to the great balance between quality of life and the cost of living.

Furthermore, in 2023, Portugal was acknowledged as one of the prime destinations for expats . This recognition is attributed to the pervasive "beauty of simplicity" atmosphere that Portugal exudes; in every corner of this coastal country, a piece of history is alive. Each locale boasts a unique and delectable culinary experience. Every region unveils a distinct landscape and environment. Moreover, the favourable climate and the amiable people contribute to Portugal's inclusion on this list.

Portugal continues to maintain an impressive track record in terms of safety, consistently ranking among the safest countries in the world . Whether it is in the security and social protection domain, or domestic and international conflict and militarisation realm, Portugal has built a reputation for prioritising the safety and well-being of its citizens and visitors alike.

As we approach the end of the year, we would like to express our gratitude for the opportunity to assist our clients and contribute positively to their lives. Looking forward to 2024, we remain dedicated to offering support within our field of expertise, ensuring a seamless experience for individuals planning to relocate and reside in Portugal.

Local Accommodation Owners Have a New Contribution to Make

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 14:52:27 GMT

Lately, the government has implemented measures to limit the number of houses exclusively dedicated to short-term rentals, making more local lodging establishments available for residential purposes. These new adjustments are included in the Mais Habitação package, and also in Law No. 56/2023 which was published on the 6th of October.

Owners of local accommodation establishments will have an extraordinary contribution to make, which operates like an extraordinary tax. This contribution applies to all local accommodation units with the appropriate licence and paperwork. Nonetheless, there are some exceptions to this general measure for local accommodation establishments. The contribution is only applicable to apartments, and exceptions include:

Local accommodations located in territories in the interior of Portugal;
Local accommodations that are used as permanent accommodation. In this case, the proprietors must prove that the short-term accommodation does not exceed 120 days per year.
Residential houses that are not autonomous parts or fractions suitable for independent use.

The official name for this new monetary contribution to local accommodation is CEAL, which stands for “Contribuição Extraordinária para o Alojamento Local”, or a special contribution to local accommodation in English.

This new tax has a value of 15% and depends on various factors, such as the area of the apartment, the income generated from the local lodging business, the evolution of the leases, and the urban pressure in the location of the apartment. This contribution needs to be paid until the 25th of June of the next year, in this case, until 2024.

We expect that the tax authorities will clarify some practical aspects deriving from the implementation of this new contribution and will comment as soon as they are published.

If you have any further questions or require assistance on this matter or related issues, please feel free to reach out . We will be delighted to assist you.

Lisbon is One of the Cheapest Cities in Europe

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 17:35:58 GMT

Lisbon is considered one of the most affordable cities in Western Europe, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). This index measures the cost of living for people based on the comparison of over 400 prices of more than 200 goods and services in 173 cities worldwide. The data for this index is collected twice a year in March and September and is published in June and December.

Compared to Athens, the capital of Greece, Lisbon has a lower cost of living, as it was cheaper in the year 2022. However, in 2021, the capital of Greece was cheaper than Lisbon. In 2020, the two cities were on the same level.

In terms of other European cities, besides Athens, Lisbon is more affordable than, in ascending order, Stockholm, Rotterdam, Luxembourg, León, Rome, Brussels, Manchester, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Barcelona, Stuttgart, Amsterdam, Madrid, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Oslo, Munich, Milan, Reykjavík, Helsinki, Dublin, Frankfurt, London, Vienna, Copenhagen, Paris, Geneva, and Zurich.

The top 10 most expensive cities in the world are Zurich, Singapore, Geneva, New York, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Paris, Tel Aviv, Copenhagen, and San Francisco. Conversely, Damascus is the most affordable city in the world, followed by Tehran and Tripoli.

In addition to its reputation as one of the most affordable cities in Western Europe, Lisbon also stands out as an attractive destination for those seeking to establish residence in Portugal . The city's affordability, as highlighted by the Economist Intelligence Unit's cost-of-living index, contributes to its allure as a unique and desirable place to live.

Many individuals, drawn by Lisbon's distinctive charm and economic advantages, explore the possibility of obtaining Portuguese residence .

If you are interested in the process of acquiring Portuguese residence or have any related inquiries, feel free to reach out to us for assistance. We are here to help make your transition to Lisbon a seamless and rewarding experience.

Extend in the Validity of Documents and Visas

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 10:32:31 GMT

Good news for those with documents that need to be updated due to validity concerns: The deadline for making these changes has been extended.

The new decree-law No. 109/2023 has been announced to provide relief and flexibility to individuals whose documentation and visas are closer to expiration. According to the new decree, the documents and visas with an expiry date falling within 15 days immediately preceding the date of entry into force of the decree-law or after it will be accepted under the same terms until the 30th of June 2024.

This extension means that those whose documents or visas were approaching expiration within the specified lapse of time now have more time to renew them. It is important to note that the government has also announced that documents will still be accepted under the same terms beyond the extension validity, provided that the holder shows proof of having scheduled the renewal appointment.

As long as the holder has a renewal appointment and the respective proof, the documents will still be valid and accepted until the closure of the renewal process. This is outstanding news for all the parties involved, as it gives them the flexibility to complete the process without any bureaucratic obstacles.

This measure was already taken by item 16 in decree-law No. 10-A/2020, issued on March 13, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since they are exceptional and temporary measures, the government need to amend them through the new decree-law No. 109/2023.

Should you require assistance regarding this matter or any related issues, please feel free to reach out to us .

Local Accommodation Proprietors Now Have Updated Renewal Schedules for Their Licences

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 16:50:01 GMT

The Portuguese government has recently announced an extension to the deadline for local lodging establishments to submit their proof of activity, now scheduled until 23:59 on the 13 ^th of December.

This decision comes in response to the challenges faced by property owners attempting to register their activities on the official platform.

The official website has experienced a surge in traffic, causing disruptions to the registration process. Both the Economy Ministry and Sea, Housing, and Administrative Modernisation have acknowledged the technical issues faced by users on the online platform. Landlords have encountered difficulties, prompting the Economy Ministry to advocate for an extension beyond the original deadline of 7 ^th of December 2023.

The Association of Local Lodging in Portugal (AALP) has received complaints from individuals attempting to upload required documentation onto the online platform. Users have encountered an error message stating: "A communication error occurred with the external entity. Please, make a new process."

The documentation is crucial for verifying the activity of local lodging establishments and ensuring their continued operation. Failure to submit the required documents may lead to the potential cancellation of their activity by local authorities.

Should you require assistance with updating your local accommodation licence or encounter any related issues, please feel free to reach out to us .

Lisbon, the Capital of Innovation 2023

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:57:48 GMT

Lisbon, recognized as the Capital of Innovation in Europe by the European Commission through the iCapital award, has been honoured for its commitment to fostering innovation and development within its local communities. This prestigious accolade, accompanied by a monetary prize of 1 million euros, underscores Lisbon's dedication to advancing innovative initiatives.

In the final phase, Lisbon emerged victorious over the other 2 finalists, Varsovia in Poland and Lviv in Ukraine. The award ceremony, held on the 27th of November 2023, in Marseille, France, saw Carlos Moedas, the current mayor of Lisbon, graciously accepting the prize. Mayor Moedas outlined his intention to allocate the monetary award to fund social innovation projects aimed at reducing social exclusion within the city.

The Unicorn Factory Lisboa, a platform dedicated to supporting startups and scaleups in developing robust products, business models, and efficient processes, will manage the investment of the prize money. Thus far, this platform has attracted 54 new technological hubs from 23 different countries, launched 13 incubation and acceleration programs, created 10,000 job opportunities, tripled the number of startups in the city, and diversified into various sectors such as digital health, web 3 technologies, and artificial intelligence, all achieved within a span of two years, as reported by the Town Hall.

This groundbreaking project served as the cornerstone of Lisbon's candidacy for the iCapital award. With this victory, Lisbon has garnered European validation for its endeavours to evolve into an innovative city, offering an environment conducive to growth and success. As we look forward, we expect Lisbon's continued commitment to becoming a global technological hub.

Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime Comes to an End

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:16:53 GMT

It has been confirmed that the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime will end in 2023, as approved by the Portuguese parliament with the final vote of the 2023 State Budget on 29th November.

Nevertheless, individuals who are interested in benefiting from this special tax regime may still do so until the end of 2024, as long as they meet any of the following requirements:

Promise or employment contract, promise or secondment agreement signed by 31st of December 2023, whose duties must take place in Portugal;
Lease or other contract granting the use or possession of the property in Portuguese territory concluded until 10th of October 2023;
Reservation contract or promissory contract for the acquisition of real rights over property in Portuguese territory concluded by 10th of October 2023;
Enrolment or registration of dependents at an educational establishment domiciled in Portuguese territory, completed by 10th of October 2023;
Residence visa or residence permit valid until 31st of December 2023;
Procedure initiated by 31st of December 2023, for granting a residence visa or residence permit, with the competent authorities.

The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime has been in place since 2009. This regime allows individuals to benefit from a 20% tax rate applied to category A (dependent) and B (independent) income for a period of 10 years. Although this special tax regime has come to an end, the state budget has introduced a new tax incentive for those who teach in higher education or do scientific research, or for those who come to work for startup companies.

The new tax benefit is also eligible for workers who are "qualified for job positions recognised by the Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade of Portugal, E.P.E., or by IAPMEI - Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation, I.P., as relevant to the national economy, particularly within the framework of attracting productive investment" and "job positions or other activities carried out by tax residents in the autonomous regions of the Azores and Madeira, under the terms to be defined by regional legislative decree" are also qualified for this new tax benefit.

Furthermore, people who work for certified startups are eligible for this new tax benefit. Startups are defined as companies with no more than 250 employees, an annual turnover of no greater than 50 million euros, and less than 10 years in operation. They must also have their headquarters or representation in Portugal, or at least 25 employees within the country. Furthermore, they cannot be a merger or division of a larger company.

These are alternative paths for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime for those who wish to benefit from a special tax regime in Portugal.

If you have any further questions or require assistance on this matter or related issues, please feel free to reach out . We will be delighted to assist you.

You Only Have 10 Days to Renew Your Local Accommodation Licence

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:27:21 GMT

If you own a local lodging establishment, it is mandatory to renew your licence by the 7th of December of the current year to maintain your registration. Failure to renew your licence by the deadline will result in the loss of your licence and the inability to operate the short-term rental business.

Cancellation of your local lodging licence will be carried out by the respective town hall or local authority . This requirement is established under the Portuguese Law nº 56/2023, Section Two, Article 21º, Items 1 and 2.

The law also mandates that holders of local accommodation registries must provide proof of their short-term rental business by submitting relevant documentation to the respective authority. This measure is part of the Mais Habitação package and has been in effect since 7th October 2023.

This package was created to address the housing crisis in Portugal by discouraging short-term rentals and promoting long-term housing rentals.

It is imperative to take the necessary actions to maintain your local accommodation licence and business. Please note that this action is mandatory by law , and if you have not yet renewed your lodging licence, you have only 10 days left to do so before the deadline on 7th December 2023 .

If you need assistance with updating your local accommodation licence or have any related issues, please do not hesitate to contact us . We would be delighted to help you.

Portugal Holds the 5th Position in the Strongest Passport in the World

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 18:02:44 GMT

Portugal ranks in 5 ^th place in the Henley Passport Index. This index measures the freedom to travel worldwide without a need for a Visa. A Portuguese passport grants visa-free access to 187 countries worldwide, in other words, Portuguese have the world at their fingertips. Having the right to travel freely in the world is certainly a privilege that only a few can appreciate.

This 5 ^th place is shared since other countries have free access to 187 countries too, there are Belgium, Czechia, Malta, New Zealand, Norway and Switzerland.

The winner is Singapore with an astonishing 193 countries with visa-free access. This index is updated in real-time to have accurate data and be a valuable source of information. This data aligns with IATA (International Air Transport Association).

This is proof that Portugal is improving its diplomatic relationships with the world and accomplished quality standards. This allows Portuguese passport holders to enjoy the world with a lot of open doors.

A passport is a travel document issued by a country's government to its citizens that verifies the identity and nationality of the holder for international travel.

Are you looking to obtain a Portuguese passport? Contact us today for expert guidance!

Monthly VAT Have a New Date

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 15:40:00 GMT

Please be informed that there is a new deadline for the payment of monthly VAT. The deadline for September's monthly VAT and the accumulated VAT of the third quarter of 2023 is on the 27th of this month. This change was brought about by the amendments in the state budget from last year, 2022. The payment deadline for monthly VAT is now on the 25th of the second month after the VAT becomes due. However, this month, November, the deadline is on the 27th because the 25th falls on a Saturday.

The payment deadline for the accumulated VAT of the third quarter of 2023 is also on the 27th of this month. If you wish to opt for the flexibility option, you can request it through the Tax Authority's Portal by the end of the voluntary payment period at Payment Flexibility > Join.

Please note that the number of instalments cannot exceed the remaining months until the end of the respective year, which is 2023 in this case. Therefore, the payment for September's monthly VAT and the accumulated VAT of the third quarter of 2023 can only be made in two monthly instalments (November and December).

If you need any help with this matter or other accounting issues, please do not hesitate to contact us . We would be delighted to help you.

Local Accommodation, Mandatory Actions to Maintain the Licence

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:37:27 GMT

If you own a local lodging establishment, it is mandatory to renew your licence by the 7th of December of the current year to confirm your registration. Failure to do so can result in the loss of your licence and the inability to operate your business.

If proprietors of local lodging fail to update their licences, they may be cancelled by the respective town hall or similar local authority. This requirement is established under Portuguese Law nº 56/2023, Section Two, Article 21º, Items 1 and 2.

This measure is part of the Mais Habitação package and started to take effect on the 7th of October 2023. The law mandates that holders of local accommodation registries must provide proof of their business by submitting relevant documentation to the respective authority.

It is imperative to take the necessary actions to maintain your local accommodation licence and business.

If you need assistance with updating your local accommodation licence or have any related issues, please do not hesitate to contact us . We would be delighted to help you.

Changes in Residential Leasing Agreements for New Contracts

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:38:30 GMT

Under the new Portuguese law nº 56/2023, which was published on the 6th of October, new measures have been introduced regarding leasing for residential purposes. The new law sets a growth limitation of 2% for new leases.

This law applies to properties that have been leased for residential purposes in the last 5 years, and the monthly rent cannot exceed 2% of the last lease of the same property, as explained in Article 34º, item 1.

However, there are some exceptions to this new law, which are as follows:

The first exception applies to cases where the property lease does not exceed the general price limits by type and location, as set out in Portuguese decree nº176/2019, published on the 6th of June;
The second exception applies when the lease price has not been legally updated in the previous 3 years. In this case, the updated lease can increase from 2% to 5.43%, as explained in Article 34º, item 3.

It is important to note that this new update applies only to residential leases and new contracts . It is also worth mentioning that the real estate market in Portugal is currently facing a crisis due to high demand and low supply. As a result, real estate prices have risen significantly, which has exceeded the purchasing power of the average Portuguese citizen.

If you need any help with renting, contracts, property search or other related issues, please contact us , we will be delighted to assist you.

The Epic Return of Web Summit 2023

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 12:06:25 GMT

The much-awaited Web Summit 2023 is finally here! The event, which will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), kicked off today, 13th of November, and will run until the 16th of the same month at the FIL (Feira Internacional de Lisboa) in Lisbon, Portugal.

This year, the event has a new CEO, Katherine Maher, former CEO of Wikipedia. With 2,600 start-ups participating, this year's Web Summit boasts of the highest number of start-ups joining the event so far. 115 of these start-ups are from Portugal, representing the host country.

The event is also expecting 70,000 visitors, including 900 investors, 2,000 confirmed media, 300 associates, and 800 speakers. Notably, these participants come from 160 different countries and 42% of these participants are women.

The main topic of discussion at this year's event is AI and its impact on various aspects of society. This event has taken place in Portugal since 2016, this year represents the 8th edition. The Portuguese government announced a 10-year partnership with Web Summit in 2018, which means this event will continue to take place in Lisbon until 2028.

It's worth noting that this year's event is happening at a time of political instability in Portugal. Former CEO Paddy Cosgrave resigned over a controversy stemming from a personal opinion he shared on social network X about the Israel-Palestine conflict. Despite these issues, the organizers are confident that this year's edition will be a great success.

Uncertainty about the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 17:09:11 GMT

The President of Portugal declared, on 9th November, the dissolution of the parliament and called for an early general election on 10th March 2024, following the resignation of the Prime Minister, as divulged earlier in this article .

In the national address, the President announced the planning of elections for 10th March 2024, ensuring the discussion and approval of the 2024 state budget, with the final vote programmed for 29th November 2023.

At this stage, there are three possible outcomes for the future of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) Tax Regime :

1. The termination of NHR in 2023 is approved, as proposed in the State Budget ;

2. The end of the tax regime is extended beyond 31st December 2023;

3. The initiative is removed from the State Budget.

Until 29th November, there is no certainty regarding the future of the NHR tax regime. We recommend acting before the end of 2023 to avoid potential issues, given that the official end date is still 31st December 2023.

If you have any further inquiries or require assistance regarding to this matter, please do not hesitate to get in touch . We are here to offer our support and guidance.

Photo Credit: © Rui Ochoa / Presidência da República

Possibilities for the Future of Special Tax Regime

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 14:53:12 GMT

On November 7th, Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa submitted his resignation, which was subsequently accepted by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The Prime Minister's decision to step down was prompted by a surprise independent investigation that will be conducted by the Public Prosecutor office within the Supreme Court of Justice pursuant to the law. This investigation pertains to the lithium and green hydrogen business sector.

The resulting political instability has raised questions about the progress of the state budget law for 2024, which includes a proposal to end the non-habitual residents (NHR) tax regime .

When the Portuguese Prime Minister resigns it is possible to have multiple outcomes. To be more precise, two potential outcomes can ensue:

The first scenario involves the Portuguese President opting to invite the ruling party, Partido Socialista (PS), to form a new government, headed by a new PM. In this case, the state budget law for 2024 will likely proceed, impacting the NHR tax regime, as previously discussed in this article.

The second scenario involves the Portuguese President dissolving the parliament and calling for an anticipated general election. In this event, the Portuguese proposed state budget law for 2024 will expire and the interim government can only manage day-to-day management matters until the outcome of the election and the formation of a new government that will come out of it. In this scenario, the NHR tax regime will not be immediately affected and will thus continue to be in force.

On Thursday, November 9, 2023, the President will address the nation following a council of state meeting and announce his decision.

Plans for Rental Housing Updates in 2024

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:47:49 GMT

The Portuguese government, on October 30th, announced its decision not to impose restrictions on rental housing in 2024. Landlords are now permitted to increase rents by up to 6.94%, in line with the inflation index and the official index for rent updates established by INE (Instituto Nacional de Estatística), as outlined in Aviso n.º 20980-A/2023 . These regulations also apply to existing lease agreements.

However, tenants facing a burden rate exceeding 35% are entitled to direct government support. This government assistance will also see a 4.94% increase. For families already benefiting from this support, the updates will be automatic. Families whose burden rate is projected to reach 35% in 2024 will need to apply for this assistance. Eligibility for this support requires a total annual household up to level 6 of the tax income bracket (€ 38,632 in 2023).

Additionally, there is an increase in the tax deduction ceiling to €550 (formerly €502) in the IRS (Imposto sobre o Rendimento das Pessoas Singulares).

This decision may come as a surprise, as the government had previously imposed a maximum increase limit of 2% last year. This measure prevented the rental market from following the inflation rate and the norms of NRAU (Novo Regime de Arrendamento Urbano).

These lease updates are not mandatory. The landlord can choose not to implement them or schedule them for a different month in 2024 with a one-month notice.

If you need any help with renting, contracts, or other related issues, please contact us , we will be delighted to assist you.

Facilitating Post-Brexit Mobility: The Portugal-UK Driving Licence Pact

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:43:38 GMT

The Portugal-UK Driving Licence Agreement has been signed, which is great news for UK licence holders who live in Portugal. The agreement allows them to use their UK licence for its entire validity period, and if needed, exchange it for a Portuguese licence without taking any driving or theory tests. The agreement also applies to Gibraltar licences.

To benefit from the agreement, UK and Gibraltar residents need to register their Portuguese address with the licensing authority. Although the agreement is still in the ratification stage, it is expected to take effect from the beginning of 2024.

It's worth noting that the agreement is reciprocal. Portuguese residents in the UK or Gibraltar with a Portuguese driving licence can use it in the UK and Gibraltar.

Another positive development is the launch of a new mobile app by the Portuguese government, which allows drivers to renew their driving licences automatically. However, this feature is only available for drivers up to 50 years old.

The app is an innovative solution aimed at simplifying, automating, and reinforcing the proximity between citizens and public services. In Portugal, drivers already benefit from an information system capable of sending reminders via SMS, such as the IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) reminding drivers to renew their driving licences.

Update : Legislative notice N0. 6, 2024

By higher order, it is hereby made public that on the 30 ^th of November 2023, and the 1 ^st of December 2023, notifications were received, respectively, by the Embassy of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in Lisbon and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Portuguese Republic. It is communicated that the internal requirements necessary for the entry into force of the Agreement between the Portuguese Republic and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on Mutual Recognition for Driving Purposes and Exchange of Driving Licenses, signed in London on the 13 ^th of October 2023, have been fulfilled.

If you have any questions or need assistance with this issue or any other related matter, don't hesitate to reach out to us for more information and support.

SEF is Now AIMA - What are the Differences

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:55:03 GMT

On October 29, 2023, the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) officially began its functions, taking over the responsibilities that were previously under the purview of the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF). The Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN) will now be responsible for issuing all types of passports and for accepting requests for the renewal of temporary residence permits. However, the ultimate decision-making authority continues to rest with AIMA.

AIMA will process and decide on the renewal of residence permits in special cases, such as for victims of human trafficking and individuals seeking permits for investment purposes (also known as Golden Visas ). AIMA will also handle the granting of extensions of stay, residence permits (the Passive Income Visa is one of the options available), renewals of residence permits, residence cards, and permanent residence cards for family members of third-country nationals who are nationals of a European Union member state. Additionally, AIMA will manage permanent residence certificates for European Union citizens and residence permits for British nationals covered by the Agreement on the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community.

Furthermore, AIMA will issue travel documents for foreign citizens within the national territory and oversee compliance with administrative responsibilities outlined in legislation governing the entry, stay, departure, and removal of foreigners from the national territory. The agency will provide support at border crossing points for visa issuance and assess family reunification rights. It will also issue opinions on consular visa applications and participate in processes related to Portuguese nationality.

Ultimately, AIMA will initiate, process, and decide on asylum, subsidiary protection, and temporary protection procedures. This includes determining the acceptance of asylum applications, conducting the necessary procedural steps for determining the state responsible for processing the respective applications, and facilitating the transfer of applicants between European Union Member States.

It's important to note that AIMA and IRN can delegate their powers to the organs and services of the autonomous regions and other public administration bodies for the renewal of Temporary Residence Permits.

If you have any further inquiries or require assistance regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to get in touch . We are here to offer our support and guidance.

Portugal Ranks on 2023 Time Out’s “40 Coolest Neighborhoods in the World”

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 09:10:24 GMT

Every year, Time Out magazine compiles a list of the 40 most fascinating neighbourhoods across the globe. In the 2023 edition of this prestigious ranking, Portugal has earned a noteworthy mention for one of its own neighbourhoods. Specifically, Costa da Caparica, a charming town secured the 18th position on this distinguished list. Located in close proximity to the capital city of Lisbon, accessing this picturesque town is as simple as crossing the iconic 25th of April Bridge.

Upon arriving in Costa da Caparica, visitors are instantaneously captivated by its unique charm. Nestled along the coast, this town is renowned for its beautiful beaches, exceptional culinary offerings, and ideal conditions for surfers and beach lovers. Costa's expansive sandy shores, pleasant climate, and delectable seafood options make it an appealing destination for enthusiasts of fish dishes.

This represents an exceptional opportunity to immerse oneself in a safe and welcoming European culture. The lifestyle along this slice of Portugal's coast could arguably be described as paradise.

Therefore, this destination has been increasingly sought after as a residence by people from various parts of the globe, from digital nomads to retirees , also encouraged by the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime that offers tax benefits by exempting or reducing income tax on certain income categories for 10 years.

Please note that the Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) tax regime will be discontinued by the end of 2023 . However, eligible individuals can still apply until December 31, 2023, including those with a valid residence visa at that time, as long as the registration process is submitted by March 31, 2024.

Time Out's ranking is based on the input of thousands of urban residents and insights from ranked experts. To ensure accuracy and reliability, Time Out meticulously selected 12,000 respondents to weigh in on these inquiries. Subsequently, they refined their selections with the insights of city editors and local experts. This diligent process culminated in the compilation of the "40 Coolest Neighborhoods in the World" list, highlighting the most remarkable places across the globe.

If you have any further inquiries or require assistance regarding Portuguese residence, please do not hesitate to get in touch . We are here to offer our support and guidance.

Portugal's Tax Landscape Shifts: NHR Regime Ends, New Incentives Emerge

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:24:04 GMT

The proposal for the Portuguese State Budget of 2024, unveiled in the parliamentary session on 10th of October, signifies the termination of the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime , a decision previously communicated by the Prime Minister of Portugal during a televised interview.

The Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) regime, implemented in Portugal in 2009, essentially grants tax residency in Portugal, consequently offering tax benefits by exempting or reducing income tax on certain income categories for 10 years.

Commencing from 1st of January 2024, this regime will be discontinued. Nevertheless, it will continue to apply to the following groups:

Individuals already registered as NHR when the State Budget Law takes effect;
Those who meet the access conditions for the regime until 31st of December 2023 and holders of a valid residence visa at that time, provided they submit the registration process by 31st of March 2024.

For individuals already benefiting from the NHR regime, the existing tax conditions will remain unaltered for the remaining period of their 10-year program.

Simultaneously, the proposal encompasses the establishment of a new special tax incentive regime dedicated to Scientific Research and Innovation. This new regime will apply to individuals who become tax residents and have not resided in Portugal during the preceding five years. Eligible categories include:

Academic and scientific research roles, including roles in entities, institutions, and networks dedicated to the generation, dissemination, and transmission of knowledge, integrated within the national science and technology framework;
Specialized positions within the framework of contractual incentives for productive investments, as outlined in Chapter II of the Fiscal Investment Code;
Roles in research and development, primarily targeted at individuals holding a Ph.D. qualification. The associated costs are eligible for incentives within the fiscal framework for business research and development, as defined in Article 37, number 1, b) of the Fiscal Investment Code.

Moreover, individuals seeking to avail themselves of these benefits are required to register with the Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia, I.P., the Agência para o Investimento e Comércio Externo de Portugal, E.P.E., and the Agência Nacional de Inovação, S.A., as applicable. Further particulars on how we report this information to the Tax Authority will be communicated within the year.

The new regime incorporates the following elements:

Taxation at a special personal income tax rate of 20% on earnings from employment and self-employment within these specified fields. This favourable rate applies for a continuous duration of 10 years, commencing from the year of becoming a resident in Portuguese territory;
An exemption from tax on foreign-sourced income stemming from employment, self-employment, investment, rentals, and capital gains from selling real estate. The tax exemption is calculated progressively, meaning that the exempt income is combined with other taxable income to determine the applicable tax rate.

It is crucial to note that this regime is accessible to an individual only once, and those who have benefited before from the Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) regime or have chosen income taxation under the 'Former Residents' regime are ineligible for this new scheme.

Additionally, there will be minor adjustments to the "Programa Regressar" , introduced in 2019 to support emigrants in returning to Portugal through financial aid and tax incentives. Eligibility criteria comprise:

Have resided in a foreign country for at least 12 months, which qualifies them as emigrants;
Have begun or start a professional activity (as an employee or self-employed) between the 1st of January 2019 and 2026 in mainland Portugal;
Have been absent from Portugal for at least three years (from the start of their professional activity in Portugal).
Have regularized their social security and tax status;
Are not in breach of any obligations if they have received financial support from the Institute of Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP);
Family members (remaining in Portugal) of emigrants who left the country at least three years ago can also apply for support;
The exemption of 50% applicable can`t be higher than €125.000,00 euros.

Given these modifications, Individuals impacted by the end of the NHR regime and those considering the new tax incentive scheme should take action to secure eligibility and navigate the evolving fiscal landscape in Portugal.

If further inquiries arise concerning this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us . We are available to provide support and guidance.

The Countdown Begins: Portugal's NHR Tax Regime Will Terminate

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 16:24:49 GMT

In an official announcement, it has been confirmed that the Portuguese NHR (Non-habitual Resident) tax regime will be terminated. The proposal for the Budget Law was presented in the Portuguese Parliament yesterday, indicating that new applications to the NHR tax regime will cease to exist on 31 ^st December 2023 , effectively marking the conclusion of the current year.

In light of these developments, it is recommended the following actions :

Individuals already residing in Portugal (non-EU citizens with a residence permit, Ukrainian nationals under temporary protection, and EU citizens) should apply for Portuguese tax resident status and the NHR tax regime before the end of this year.

Those planning to move to Portugal (EU citizens or non-EU citizens with a visa appointment at their local embassy) should reconsider their plans and ensure they can complete all necessary steps before the year's end. This proactive approach will help mitigate any uncertainty regarding eligibility for the NHR status.

Given the significance of this policy change, we strongly encourage all those who may be affected to take prompt action to secure their eligibility for NHR status .

If you have any further inquiries or require assistance regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to get in touch . We are here to offer our support and guidance.

Alterations to Portugal's Golden Visa Programme Confirmed by Parliament

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 09:58:59 GMT

One month after the President's veto on the "Mais Habitação" bill, the Portuguese Parliament has once again given its approval to the changes in Portugal's Golden Visa programme. These changes are set to take effect in October 2023.

With only two weeks remaining to submit applications for the real estate golden visa, it is crucial to understand that after the new law comes into effect, there will still be other options available for consideration:

Creation of at least 10 job positions;
A transfer of capital for research activities carried out by public or private scientific institutions that are part of the national scientific and technological system must be €500,000 or greater;
Capital transfers of €250,000 or more can be made to support the investment or artistic production, recovery, and maintenance of national cultural heritage through public institutes and central or peripheral direct administration services, entities in the public business sector, public foundations, private foundations with public utility status, inter-municipal entities, entities in the local business sector, municipal associative entities and public cultural associations, which develop projects related to artistic production or the recovery and maintenance of the national cultural heritage;
Capital transfers in the amount equal to or greater than €500,000, intended for acquiring participation units in investment funds (non-real estate collective investment entities) or venture capital funds focused on the capitalisation of companies, constituted under the Portuguese legislation, with maturity, at the time of the investment, of at least five years and at least 60%. of the value of the investment is made in commercial companies based in national territory;
Capital transfers in the amount equal or superior to €500,000, destined to the incorporation of a commercial company with headquarters in the national territory, combined with the creation of five permanent jobs, or to increase the share capital of a commercial company with headquarters in the national territory, already existing, with the creation of five permanent jobs or maintenance of 10 permanent jobs, for a minimum period of three years.

On the contrary, it will no longer be possible to invest through:

Capital transfers in the amount of 1.5 million euros or more;
Acquisition of real estate, with a value equal to or greater than €500,000;
Acquisition of real estate, whose construction has been concluded at least 30 years ago or located in an area of urban rehabilitation and execution of rehabilitation works of the acquired real estate, in the total amount equal or superior to €350,000.

Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge the following:

The new law will not have a retroactive effect;
Portuguese funds that are directly or indirectly related to Real estate investments will no longer be eligible for GV investment purposes;
This legislative amendment will not prejudice the possibility of renewing residence permits for investment activity granted under the current legal regime.
The new law will also not affect applications for the granting or renewal of residence permits for family reunification;
These changes will also not affect citizens holding a residence permit for investment activity and their family members who, fulfilling the legal requirements, wish to apply for a residence permit for investment activity.
Future renewals will be converted into regular residence permit for Entrepreneurs, also known as D2, without the minimum stay requirement of approximately 183 days per year, keeping the same minimum requirement of the Golden Visa programme, namely a minimum period of stay of seven days, consecutive or interpolated, in the first year and 14 days, consecutive or interpolated, in the following two-year periods. subsequent two-year periods;
It is also determined that applications for the granting and renewal of residence permits for investment activity through real estate investment that are awaiting a decision from the competent entities on the date of entry into force of the new law remain valid, as well as for applications that are pending prior control procedures in the municipal councils. These applications will also be converted into regular residence permit for Entrepreneurs (D2).

The revisions made to the Golden Visa programme are expected to have a significant impact. Previously, the real estate investment option was the most popular and preferred choice among applicants. However, as with any changes, the market will need to adapt. It is not only about providing alternative offerings but also about introducing innovative and refined projects in various sectors where the country is in need of investment, such as the environment, technology, culture, and education.

Should you have any further inquiries regarding this matter, please don't hesitate to reach out . We are more than happy to provide our assistance and support.

Portugal's Extraordinary Increase in Foreign Direct Investment Projects

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 09:15:23 GMT

According to a recent study conducted by EY, Portugal experienced an unprecedented surge in foreign investment projects in 2022, solidifying its position as an attractive destination for global business ventures. With a remarkable 24% increase compared to the previous year, Portugal secured a record-breaking 248 Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) projects, opening up potential employment opportunities for nearly 22,000 individuals.

Earning the sixth spot in Europe's FDI project ranking, Portugal climbed two positions since 2021, reflecting its growing prominence on the international investment landscape. Moreover, among European Union (EU) member countries, Portugal witnessed the third-highest growth in foreign investments.

The EY Attractiveness Survey Portugal sheds light on various factors that contributed to Portugal's enticing investment environment. Quality of life, social stability, and robust telecommunications infrastructure were repeatedly highlighted by surveyed international business decision-makers as major draws for investors. Additionally, the report emphasised the significance of these social and infrastructure-related aspects in attracting foreign investment.

Although the survey did not explicitly address wage costs, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential threat to Portugal's competitiveness posed by emerging countries such as Turkey and Poland, which offer lower wage costs and contribute to a shifting investment landscape.

The notable findings from the EY Attractiveness Survey Portugal demonstrate the country's success in fostering a highly appealing investment climate. Through favourable conditions and continuous efforts to attract foreign businesses, Portugal has positioned itself as a compelling destination for those seeking lucrative investment opportunities.

Portugal's rise in the information technology landscape can be attributed to the restructuring of value chains and its continuous progress in recent years. Out of the 248 investments, a significant portion (99) were made in the software and IT services sector, solidifying it as a highly sought-after area for investment in the country.

It's worth highlighting that a striking 76% of these projects involve companies venturing into Portugal for the first time, while the remaining projects signify expansions of existing operations. The IT sector, which experienced an impressive growth rate of 52% in 2022, has seen a significant surge. In fact, during the period between 2020 and 2022, Portugal secured its spot as the fourth most acclaimed destination for IT companies, only trailing behind Germany, the United Kingdom, and France in terms of project numbers.

Moreover, the financial sector has witnessed a staggering triple-digit growth, specifically an astounding 200% increase in 2022. When it comes to the origins of these investments, Germany takes the lead with 36 projects, surpassing the United States, which had 35 projects the previous year. France and the United Kingdom trail closely with 25 and 24 projects respectively.

What's intriguing is that several countries, which previously may not have regarded Portugal as a top investment destination, are now displaying a keen interest. For example, the Netherlands has witnessed a remarkable rise from four to 14 projects between 2021 and 2022, while Denmark has bolstered its investments from two to eight.

These recent developments undoubtedly illustrate Portugal's growing prominence and appeal as a tech and business innovation hub.

Source: Expresso

USA applicants lead the requests for Portugal’s Golden Visa

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:50:34 GMT

The Golden Visa Programme in Portugal continues to thrive, despite impending changes in the law. Interestingly, citizens of the USA have been the primary beneficiaries, securing the most visas in the month of July.

According to SEF data, a total of €57.2 million was raised through the Golden Visa programme in July. This amount reflects a 30% increase compared to the previous year, although it is 27% less than the €79.8 million recorded in June.

In terms of nationalities, the USA took the lead, with 16 permits granted in Portugal during the month of July. Following closely behind were citizens from the Philippines with 13 permits, the United Kingdom with 10 permits, and Brazil and South Africa with nine each.

It is worth noting that out of the 61 Portugal’s Golden Visas granted in July, 41 million euros were attributed to real estate acquisitions. Interestingly, 7.8 million euros were invested in urban rehabilitation projects.

On an important note, requests for the granting and renewal of residence permits for investment activities will remain unaffected by the upcoming changes in the law. Additionally, the limitation does not apply to the granting or renewal of residence permits for family reunification.

Applicants interested in obtaining a Portugal’s Golden Visa through the old rules, such as real estate investment, must submit their applications prior to the anticipated implementation of the new law.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us if further clarification is required.

Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs: Regime for Startups

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:54:40 GMT

In recent years, the startup ecosystem has become an integral and thriving component of the global economy. It serves as a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and overall economic growth. Recognising the significance of startups, governments worldwide have acknowledged the importance of establishing a supportive environment through strategic policies and regulatory frameworks.

Consequently, several startup policy regimes have emerged, designed to enrich the entrepreneurial ecosystem and unlock boundless opportunities for business innovation. These comprehensive policies encompass a wide array of legal, financial, and institutional support measures. Their primary objectives are to facilitate startups' access to capital, talent, and expertise, enabling them to flourish.

Embracing this global trend, the Portuguese Government has recently nurtured the implementation of a groundbreaking Startup Law (Law no. 21/2023), which came into effect on May 26, 2023. This law introduces a broad range of tax incentives specifically tailored for micro, small, and medium-sized entities, as well as small or mid-cap entities engaged in innovative fields.

The new legal regime directly targets startups that showcase innovative business models or possess a strong focus on technology-based activities, with substantial potential for rapid growth. Furthermore, it paves the way for an extensive range of tax incentives aimed at fostering investment and propelling the development of the Portuguese startup landscape.

Under this regime, stock options taxation undergoes a progressive transformation, offering entrepreneurs exciting possibilities. Additionally, corporate tax incentives are made available, crowdfunding emerges as a viable and dynamic financing option, and numerous other forms of government-backed financial support are defined.

The Startups Law has introduced a range of important tax measures, which are outlined below:

To qualify for specific tax incentives, entities looking for startup recognition must communicate in advance to Startup Portugal through the convenient public services one-stop shop.
With regards to personal income tax, gains arising from option plans, subscription plans, allocation plans, or similar plans granted to employees or directors will be subject to taxation on only 50% of their value. Additionally, they will be taxed at a flat rate of 28%.
In terms of corporate income tax, the expenses related to Research and Development (R&D) activities that are deductible have been increased from 110% to 120%. Furthermore, the reporting period for expenses that were not initially deducted due to insufficient taxable income has been extended from 8 to 12 years.

In general, the startup regime plays a critical role in fostering the innovation ecosystem. It demands ongoing evaluation and enhancement to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness. Portugal, through the implementation of this new legal regime, holds a privileged position as a proponent of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.

Should you have any further inquiries regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to reach out . We are delighted to offer our assistance and support.

Portugal: Number One Choice for Retirees in Europe

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:02:00 GMT

Moving to Spain, a relocation company, has compiled a comprehensive list of the top retirement destinations in Europe. Utilising a variety of factors including population, life expectancy, cost of living, home prices, visas, safety, beaches, and healthcare, they have determined that Portugal reigns as the number one choice for retirees in Europe.

Portugal boasts an exceptional quality of life at an affordable cost, making it one of the most appealing European countries for retirement. According to SmartAsset, the average cost of living, excluding rent, is nearly 29% lower than in the United States.

It is undeniable that the allure of Portugal has captured the attention of individuals from around the world, leading to a surge in relocation requests. With its enticing lifestyle, advantageous tax benefits, and the possibility for non-EU citizens to attain Portuguese citizenship in a relatively short timeframe, it's no wonder residency applications are increasing annually.

Among the various visa options available, the Passive Income Visa stands out as a popular choice for retirees seeking to settle in Portugal. This particular visa is ideal for those who intend to reside in the country and can demonstrate a regular passive income that is deemed sufficient to support themselves and their family in Portugal. Passive income may include dividends, real estate income, capital gains, pensions, royalties, business profits, intellectual property, or other financial investments.

Portugal has gained widespread popularity among expats, appealing to a diverse range of individuals including young families, digital nomads, retirees, entrepreneurs, investors, and students. It's hard to find anyone who wouldn't be captivated by Portugal's warm climate, affordable cost of living, picturesque cities, and exceptional quality of life with access to top-notch healthcare.

With its multitude of advantages, Portugal undoubtedly ranks as the ultimate retirement destination in Europe. Should you have any further inquiries regarding your relocation to Portugal, please do not hesitate to reach out . We are delighted to offer our assistance and support.

Neighbourhoods in Lisbon

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 10:21:48 GMT

To welcome the wonderful month of September, we will be delving into the premier destinations for expats to reside in Lisbon and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Portugal's bustling capital.

A plethora of options await if you seek to dwell in close proximity to the city's renowned landmarks or prefer a more serene place outside the urban centre. Whether you favour bustling commercial and entertainment districts or tranquil residential areas boasting scenic coastal vistas, you are guaranteed to find a home that perfectly complements your lifestyle.

Central Lisbon

Baixa

Baixa is a popular neighbourhood in Lisbon that is highly sought after by property investors. It is located in the heart of the city and is known for its many shops, eateries, and beautiful plazas: Restauradores Square, Praça do Comércio, and Rossio Square. Keep in mind that the area can get crowded during the daytime due to these attractions, but if you are looking for a truly bustling Lisbon experience, Baixa is a great choice.

Bairro Alto

The district in the upper-town is renowned for its excellent nightlife, attracting both locals and foreign partygoers. Furthermore, the district is well-known for its beautiful architecture, charming narrow streets, and inexpensive eateries known as "tascas". Additionally, you can easily access the Elevador da Glória, which is a restored, old-fashioned tram made of wood that connects Baixa to Bairro Alto within this area.

When you get to the top, you can see an amazing view of the city from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, which is a pretty garden with a famous observation point in Lisbon. Since there is live music played loudly until late at night, this vibrant area may not be the best choice for light sleepers. Additionally, people drinking on the streets can sometimes cause a messy scene the following morning.

Príncipe Real

The neighbourhood of Príncipe Real, which translates to Royal Prince, is considered to be one of the trendiest areas in Lisbon. This is because it boasts popular restaurants, bars, art galleries, and unique shops, making it highly desirable for residents. The diverse population in the district offers a variety of international cuisine options at local restaurants. Plus, it is conveniently located within walking distance to the city centre, making it appealing to expats. However, keep in mind that housing may be pricey due to the popularity of the neighbourhood.

North Lisbon

Avenidas Novas and Alvalade

Avenidas Novas district has spacious apartments that are popular among middle and upper-middle-class workers, although they are relatively expensive. The area also houses multiple universities, so many students and young professionals reside there. The architecture in the local area is mostly modern, and it includes some uninteresting office buildings. This means that the area may not be very attractive from an aesthetic point of view. However, there are still some great restaurants to try out and popular shopping malls to visit. If you are looking for a lively social scene, this may not be the best option.

The neighbourhood of Alvalade is green and residential and has Parisian-style boulevards along with charming restaurants and cafes. It is located 20 minutes away from the city centre by metro and is a great option for families who want a quieter lifestyle.

Saldanha and São Sebastião

Saldanha is a chic locality in close proximity to the city centre, offering a blend of contemporary and traditional architecture. The area has a charming atmosphere with leafy streets and adorable boutiques, with the central point being the roundabout Praça Duque de Saldanha. You can find many restaurants and cafés there, including the famous Pastelaria Versailles, catering to tourists, professionals, and locals alike. Saldanha is also becoming increasingly popular among startups and digital nomads.

The neighbourhood of São Sebastião is located near the city centre and features a blend of old and modern architecture. It is an upscale area. El Corte Inglès department store is situated in this area. Parque Eduardo VII is located nearby, providing a vast green area within the city with well-maintained gardens and stunning views of the Tagus River. The Gulbenkian Foundation is conveniently situated in the neighbourhood and offers contemporary art exhibitions, musical performances, and beautiful gardens.

Arroios

Although it is within walking distance of Saldanha, Arroios has a distinct character of its own. Avenida Almirante Reis, which passes through the heart of the neighbourhood, used to be one of Lisbon's most notorious streets. It has since undergone significant improvement and is now a lively, multicultural area popular with students and expats seeking more affordable living options in Lisbon. This area has local markets, unique stores, excellent transportation links to the rest of the city, and an authentic atmosphere. Additionally, there are a handful of green spaces to enjoy. It takes roughly 30 minutes to reach Praça do Comércio on foot. While some side streets may not be safe, staying to the main road is a safe choice.

Northeast Lisbon

Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações is a lively and contemporary neighbourhood situated a bit further away from the city centre. It is one of the newest and trendy parts of the city, which was constructed in 1998 for the World Exhibition. The area is equipped with upscale restaurants, rooftop bars, and hosts significant events like international fairs and concerts. Families looking to enjoy modern amenities while also escaping the busy city centre often visit this flat neighbourhood with lots of green spaces, urban art, and cycle lanes.

Although Parque das Nações has good transport connections to the city centre, it may not be the best fit for expats seeking a close-knit community atmosphere.

South Lisbon

Alfama and Graça

Alfama, which is Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, is renowned for hosting the iconic 11th-century São Jorge Castle. Its charming alleys are filled with cafes and traditional craft shops. The district is home to both young professionals and long-established families. In the past, Alfama was known for being a low-income and unclean area but now it's become popular among both locals and expats. If you plan on living here and need a mode of transportation, be aware that narrow streets make having a car impractical. Additionally, while there are good deals to be had, many buildings in the area require significant renovation.

In the historic district of Graça, located on the opposite side of the castle, there are spectacular views and old-town charm, but limited parking and green space. So, if you are planning to have your own transport, it might be an issue.

West Lisbon

Belém and Restelo

Although located close together, Belém and other areas in Lisbon are vastly different. Belém is a charming district known for its iconic tourist attractions, including the 16th-century Torre de Belém. Unlike other areas, it offers green parks, open spaces, and stunning views along the Tejo Estuary, which can be attractive for expats who want to live outside the centre.

Restelo is an upscale area that has many luxurious villas surrounding the Estádio do Restelo, an oval-shaped football stadium. Living here requires a significant financial investment, but if you are looking for an affluent lifestyle, then this area could be your ideal destination.

Campo de Ourique

Campo de Ourique is a residential neighbourhood that is well-liked by middle-class families who enjoy a mix of traditional and modern elements. The area features a grid pattern and includes both 19th-century buildings and contemporary architecture. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, from traditional shops to modern brands and a large food market. Jardim da Parada is a small central park that attracts people of all ages, especially families. While it is a delightful and tranquil neighbourhood to reside in, property prices can be a little pricey. The absence of metro stations can also make transportation to the city centre a bit inconvenient, but it is accessible through nearby highways and several bus routes.

Santos and Lapa

Santos is a neighbourhood in Lisbon that is both old and expensive. It is liked by the local middle-class people, young adults, and teenagers who enjoy the party scene. The area is home to IADE, where numerous design students pursue their studies. During the day, tourists visit the old churches and museums, giving the district a lively ambiance. However, in the evenings, it turns into a party destination with numerous bars and nightclubs that attract many visitors.

The hilly neighbourhood of Lapa is known for its impressive palaces and embassies. It is a popular spot for upscale retirees who prefer to settle in spacious mansions. However, the lack of metro stations in the area could be a hindrance to traveling around easily. So, if you decide to reside here, you will have to use trams and buses as your means of transportation.

Alcântara

Alcântara is located to the west of Santos and has a variety of local restaurants, shops, and cafés to explore. Although it was previously known as one of the more industrial neighbourhoods in the city, significant efforts were made to revitalize the area. As a result, Alcântara has become a desirable place to live in Lisbon. Currently, this area of the city is housing start-ups, trendy restaurants, and casual nightlife. However, not many tourists tend to visit this specific part of the city, except if they plan on going to LX Factory or one of the museums in the vicinity.

Lisbon stands out as one of the most desirable places to reside worldwide due to its excellent safety record, breath-taking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, cost-effectiveness, and high standard of living. It is worth noting, however, that there might be distinctions in the living experience between expatriates and native Portuguese residents.

To facilitate your transition to Lisbon, acquiring knowledge about the city and its customs is of paramount importance. Take the opportunity to acquaint yourself with the local language and immerse yourself in the cultural fabric. By adopting an open mindset, maintaining a positive outlook, and embracing the spirit of exploration, you can swiftly adapt to your newfound local lifestyle.

Portugal proves to be an ideal destination for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote workers, digital nomads, and retirees. The relocation process to this thriving nation is remarkably hassle-free, thanks to its streamlined procedures and wide array of residence permit options. Moreover, upon completing a five-year tenure as a legal permanent resident, you may potentially qualify for Portuguese citizenship through the residency program.

Should you have any further inquiries regarding your move to Lisbon, please do not hesitate to reach out . We are delighted to offer our assistance and support.

President's Veto Slow Down Changes to Portugal's Golden Visa

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:33:49 GMT

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of the Portuguese Republic, recently rejected the "Mais Habitação" ("More Housing") bill proposed by the government. This decision stems from political considerations rather than technical or constitutional concerns. Consequently, the bill will require amendments in Parliament before it can be enacted, a process that is likely to take at least another month. As a result, Portugal’s Golden Visa programme will remain unchanged until then.

Within his letter to Parliament, the President outlined eight specific risks and criticisms of the bill, none of which included the Golden Visa programme. While the President had the option to refer the bill to the Constitutional Court for review, he found no constitutional concerns within any part of the bill.

Once Parliament reconvenes in mid-September, a second vote on the bill will likely occur, confirming it without significant alterations. Subsequently, the President will be obliged to approve it. Following final approval from Parliament, the new rules for Portugal’s Golden Visa programme will come into effect. The remaining options for eligible Golden Visa investments are as follows:

Capital transfers of at least €500,000.00 for the acquisition of non-real estate collective investment assets, incorporated under Portuguese law, with a minimum maturity of five years and at least 60% of the investment dedicated to commercial companies domiciled in Portugal.
Creation of 10 or more jobs*.
Capital transfer of €500,000.00 or more for the establishment of a Portuguese company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs, or investment in an existing company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs or maintenance of ten jobs, for a minimum duration of three years.
Transfer of capital equal to or greater than €500,000.00 for investment in research activities carried out by public or private scientific research institutions engaged in the national scientific or technological system*.
Capital transfer equal to or greater than €250,000.00 for investment in artistic production or support for the arts, for the restoration or renovation of national heritage, through local and central authorities, public institutions, or eligible private organisations*.

*The minimum investment amount is reduced by 20% for investments in low-density areas.

Under no circumstances can investments be made directly or indirectly in real estate.

Applicants interested in obtaining a Portuguese Golden Visa through the old rules, such as real estate investment, must submit their applications prior to the anticipated September implementation of the new law.

If further clarification is required, please do not hesitate to reach out to us .

Portuguese Universities Strengthen Position in the Top 500 Worldwide

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:57:11 GMT

The prestigious Shanghai Ranking, a renowned global list that evaluates the top 1000 universities in the world, has showcased the remarkable performance of Portuguese higher education institutions. Six esteemed universities from Portugal have consistently maintained their presence on this illustrious list.

The renowned Universities of Lisbon, Porto, Minho, Aveiro, Coimbra, and the Nova University of Lisbon have demonstrated unwavering excellence in academia. Notably, within the top 500 universities, we find the Universities of Lisbon, Porto, Minho, and Aveiro, all maintaining their positions from the previous year. The recent addition to this group is the University of Coimbra, which has successfully climbed the ranks and secured its position among these distinguished institutions. In the 2022 edition, Coimbra was ranked between the 501st and 600th positions.

It is worth mentioning that Portugal's presence within the top 500 has been steadily increasing since 2021. Initially, there were three Portuguese universities featured: Lisbon, Porto, and Minho, whereas Aveiro joined the rankings in 2022.

In the current rankings, the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto share the same prestigious position, both being placed within the top 300 higher education institutions worldwide. Following closely are Minho, Coimbra, and Aveiro, all securing positions in the esteemed range of the top 401 to 500 universities globally.

Moreover, the Nova University of Lisbon has also made its mark, joining the ranks of the top 1000 universities. Previously featured within the top 500 in the 2019 edition, this year it has been classified within the respected range of the 601st to 700th positions.

Published in China by the esteemed independent company Shanghai Ranking Consultancy, this year's ranking encompassed an evaluation of a staggering 2500 universities worldwide. The expanded ranking, which now includes the top 1000 institutions, takes into account six key indicators, such as the number of distinguished postgraduate students and professors awarded the Nobel Prize and Fields Medal, the presence of highly cited researchers in academic papers within their respective fields of expertise, and the number of articles published in esteemed journals like Science and Nature.

If you have plans to pursue your higher education in Portugal , please do not hesitate to contact us . Our team is ready to provide you with the assistance you need.

Navigating Health Insurance Requirements for Moving to Portugal

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 09:30:00 GMT

If you are considering a move to Portugal, you may have come across terms like visa insurance, expat insurance, and Schengen travel insurance. Understanding these terms can be confusing, but worry not! This post will shed light on what they mean and why they matter.

When planning your relocation to Portugal, be prepared for a substantial amount of paperwork. Among the many requirements, health insurance often causes the most confusion. In this post, we will explore the distinction between health insurance for visa purposes (commonly referred to as "visa insurance") and typical travel insurance.

But first, let us answer a crucial question:

What is the purpose of "visa insurance"?

When applying for a visa to move to Portugal, you must demonstrate that you possess medical insurance that meets the Schengen Area's requirements. This policy, known as visa insurance, is valid throughout the Schengen Area but specifically tailored to your relocation to Portugal.

It is important to note that visa insurance is not the same as regular travel insurance. Therefore, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days in Portugal or any other Schengen Area country, you will need a visa. While some visitors can enjoy a visa-free stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, for longer stays, a visa is required, and having the appropriate insurance is one of the essential documents.

Who does this requirement apply to? The visa insurance requirement concerns expatriates who intend to retire, reside, work, study, or travel within Portugal for more than 90 days.

When should you start making arrangements for your visa insurance? Let us walk through a timeline that will guide you:

Once you have made the decision to relocate to Portugal and begin preparing your visa application, it is crucial to do some research and obtain visa insurance tailored specifically for Portugal.
When applying for a special residence visa issued by a Portuguese Consulate (also known as a 4-month visa) to establish residency before leaving your home country, you must provide proof of insurance.
After entering Portugal with your 4-month visa, it is time to become a resident. This is when your visa insurance becomes active.
Once you have attended your AIMA (Immigration and Borders Service) appointment in Portugal and obtained your residence permit, you will qualify to apply for insurance within Portugal. Depending on your circumstances, you may choose the national healthcare system (SNS – Sistema Nacional de Saúde), a private Portuguese insurer, or a combination of both. More details can be found in our post about Private Health Insurance in Portugal .

To clarify the distinction between visa insurance and travel insurance: Visa insurance specifically addresses the transition from being a resident of one country to becoming a resident of another. On the other hand, travel insurance is primarily designed for shorter trips, such as holidays, and typically does not cover healthcare expenses unless in an emergency.

What should your visa insurance include? When applying for the Portugal D7 Visa or any other D-category Visa for Portugal, your insurance must meet the following requirements:

Minimum medical coverage of €30,000
Coverage in the Schengen Area
Explicit acknowledgment of coverage in Portugal
Policy duration of at least four months to one year
Repatriation coverage
Emergency evacuation coverage

Factors such as age and pre-existing conditions can significantly impact the cost and availability of your visa insurance. While certain insurers may approach providing coverage to applicants aged 65 or older or those with pre-existing conditions with caution, viable policies tailored to your needs can be found. It is crucial to explore multiple options and pose relevant questions to potential insurers in order to ensure your policy offers comprehensive coverage.

Keep in mind that the expense of your visa insurance may fluctuate based on your individual circumstances. If your policy appears costly initially, bear in mind that once you arrive in Portugal, you can enrol in the public healthcare system or acquire alternative private medical insurance, or even opt for a combination of both, to suit your specific requirements.

Understanding the visa insurance prerequisites for Portugal is pivotal for a seamless relocation process. Ultimately, possessing the appropriate insurance coverage grants peace of mind and affords you the opportunity to fully savour all that Portugal has to offer.

Pope Francis to Land in Portugal for World Youth Day Lisbon 2023

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:29:01 GMT

Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Portugal, commencing tomorrow, for the highly anticipated World Youth Day Lisbon 2023. This significant occasion will witness the presence of His Holiness in the vibrant city of Lisbon from August 2nd to August 6th.

A noteworthy highlight of the Pope's visit will be a pilgrimage to the renowned Shrine of Fátima on Saturday, August 5th. Pope Francis, accompanied by young individuals who are unwell, will lead the prayer of the Rosary at the esteemed Chapel of the Apparitions.

During his 5-day visit to Portugal, which marks the second of his pontificate, Pope Francis will engage in interactive dialogues with students from the Universidade Católica Portuguesa. Furthermore, he will have the opportunity to meet young participants associated with Scholas Occurrentes, an initiative established by the pontiff himself in 2013, now operating in 190 countries, including Portugal.

In line with his customary practices during international trips, Pope Francis will dedicate time to a private meeting with members of the esteemed Society of Jesus. On Saturday evening, His Holiness will preside over a prayer vigil at the majestic Tejo Park. The event will culminate in a momentous Solemn Mass on the morning of Sunday, August 6th. During this occasion, Pope Francis is expected to unveil both the dates and venue for the forthcoming edition of World Youth Day.

On Sunday afternoon, Pope Francis will meet young volunteers who have dedicated themselves to the success of the event before returning to his residence in Rome.

The international edition of World Youth Day is held every three years and stands as the largest youth gathering in the world. The initiative was inaugurated during the pontificate of Saint John Paul II in 1984 and has since been continued by both popes Benedict XVI and Francis.

Notably, Lisbon will proudly serve as the 13th city to host this inspiring and deeply significant event.

The Official Schedule for the Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Pope Francis to Portugal on the occasion of the World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 will be as follows:

Wednesday, 2nd of August: Rome – Lisbon

07:50 - Departure by airplane from Rome/Fiumicino International Airport to Lisbon
10:00 - Arrival at Figo Maduro Air Base in Lisbon
10:00 - Official Welcome
10:45 - Welcome Ceremony at the main entrance of “Palácio Nacional de Belém”
11:15 - Courtesy Visit to the President of the Republic at “Palácio Nacional de Belém”
12:15 - Meeting with the Authorities, Civil Society and the Diplomatic Corps in the Cultural Centre of Belém
16:45 - Meeting with the Prime Minister at the Apostolic Nunciature
17:30 - Vespers with Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Consecrated Persons, Seminarians and Pastoral Workers in “Mosteiro dos Jerónimos” (Lisbon).

Thursday, 3rd of August: Lisbon – Cascais – Lisbon

09:00 - Meeting with University Students at “Universidade Católica Portuguesa”
10:40 - Meeting with Young People of Scholas Occurrentes in the Scholas Occurrentes Headquarters in Cascais
17:45 - Welcome Ceremony in “Colina do Encontro” (Parque Eduardo VII)

Friday, 4th of August: Lisbon

09:00 - The Holy Father Celebrates the Sacrament of Reconciliation with some Young People at “Praça do Império”
09:45 - Meeting with Representatives of some AID and CHARITY Centres at“Centro Paroquial de Serafina”
12:00 - Lunch with Young People at the Apostolic Nunciature
18:00 - Stations of the Cross with Young People in “Colina do Encontro” (Parque Eduardo VII)

Saturday, 5th of August: Lisbon – Fatima – Lisbon

08:00 - Departure by helicopter from Figo Maduro Air Base in Lisbon to Fatima
08:50 - Arrival at Fatima Stadium
09:30 - Recitation of the Holy Rosary with Sick Young People at the Chapel of Apparitions of the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima
11:00 - Departure by helicopter from Fatima Stadium to Lisbon
11:50 - Arrival at Figo Maduro Air Base in Lisbon
18:00 - Private Meeting with Members of the Society of Jesus at “Colégio de S. João de Brito”
20:45 - Vigil with Young People at “Campo da Graça” (Parque Tejo)

Sunday, 6th of August: Lisbon – Rome

09:00 - Holy Mass for World Youth Day at “Campo da Graça” (Parque Tejo)
16:30 - Meeting with the Volunteers of WYD at “Passeio marítimo” in Algés
17:50 - Farewell Ceremony at Figo Maduro Air Base in Lisbon
18:15 - Departure by airplane from Figo Maduro Air Base in Lisbon to Rome
22:15 - Arrival at Rome/Fiumicino International Airport

Source: Lisbon WYD 2023

New Updates to Portugal's Golden Visa Programme

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 11:28:21 GMT

The Portugal Golden Visa programme has been officially approved in its final draft. It will soon be implemented, although the exact start date has not yet been announced. The programme has undergone restructuring, with five investment options now available. However, it is important to note that real estate investments will no longer be eligible under the revised scheme.

Last week, the Portuguese Parliament approved amendments to the Golden Visa programme as part of a housing package. Contrary to initial proposals, the program will continue to exist. The new legislation will only impose restrictions on real estate investment categories.

As a result, it will no longer be possible to apply for a Golden Visa based on capital transfers to Portugal or any form of real estate investment, whether direct or indirect, through eligible channels.

The remaining options for eligible Golden Visa investments are as follows:

Capital transfers of at least €500,000.00 for the acquisition of non-real estate collective investment assets under Portuguese law. These assets must have a minimum maturity of five years, and at least 60% of the investment must be dedicated to commercial companies domiciled in Portugal.

Creation of 10 or more jobs.

Capital transfer of €500,000.00 or more for the establishment of a Portuguese company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs. Alternatively, investment in an existing company combined with the creation of five permanent jobs or the maintenance of ten jobs for a minimum duration of three years.

Transfer of capital equal to or greater than €500,000.00 for investment in research activities carried out by public or private scientific research institutions engaged in the national scientific or technological system.

Capital transfer equal to or greater than €250,000.00 for investment in artistic production or support for the arts. This can include the restoration or renovation of national heritage through local and central authorities, public institutions, or eligible private organisations.

Please note that in low-density areas, the minimum investment amount is reduced by 20% for all types of investments.

The Golden Visa programme remains active and continues to be the only program that offers shorter minimum stay requirements and a path to Portuguese citizenship after a period of 5 years.

If you need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us .

Expat Life Thrives in Portugal

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 10:12:51 GMT

The highly anticipated 10th annual Expat Insider Survey , conducted by the renowned organisation InterNations, has unveiled its ranking of 53 countries across five key indicators. This comprehensive analysis aims to pinpoint the ultimate havens for expats, taking into account factors such as quality of life, ease of settling in, working abroad, personal finance, and the all-important Expats Essentials Index, which encompasses housing, administration, language, and digital life.

Sailing its way into an impressive 10th place out of the extensive pool of destinations, Portugal emerges as a top contender, garnering the admiration of expats around the globe. With an enviable climate, abundant recreational opportunities, and a reputation for safety, it is no wonder that expats find themselves easily adapting to the country's charms, despite occasional hurdles with local bureaucracy and the job market. In fact, a staggering 85 percent of expats express their contentment with living in Portugal, surpassing the global average of 72 percent.

When it comes to quality of life, Portugal confidently secures its spot among the global elite, ranking an impressive 7th worldwide in this year's survey. With its delightful climate and weather placing it in the top 10, and its pristine air quality securing the 9th spot, Portugal proves to be an enchanting destination for those seeking a superior environment and climate, securing a remarkable 5th place ranking worldwide.

With its welcoming culture and friendly population, Portugal has earned a notable reputation for creating a comfortable home for expats. Rated 8th in terms of hospitality, Portugal's Ease of Settling in Index places it at an impressive 13th. Astonishingly, 78% of expats feel at ease and welcome in this delightful country, compared to the global average of 62%. It comes as no surprise that 71% of expats have established a personal support network, surpassing the global rate of 58%. Notably, 80% of individuals find the local population exceptionally cordial towards foreign residents, exceeding the global average by 15%. Furthermore, 76% of expats find it effortless to adapt to the vibrant local culture, while only 62% can claim the same globally.

In terms of safety and freedom to express one's identity and opinions, Portugal emerges as an exemplary haven. An outstanding 94% of expats feel secure in Portugal's tranquil embrace, while the international average stands at 83%. Astoundingly, 83% of individuals find themselves liberated to express their identities and opinions, a staggering difference of 18% from the global average. Additionally, 85% of expats revel in the choices of recreational sports offered, compared to the global figure of 75%. Moreover, 74% of expats joyfully immerse themselves in the captivating culture and vibrant nightlife, surpassing the global average by 6%.

Despite its many charms, Portugal presents challenges for expats as well. A significant number of expatriates (over half) have found themselves grappling with local bureaucracy, surpassing the global average of 38%. Furthermore, 25% express dissatisfaction with the government's online services, compared to the global average of 21%. Interestingly, while over half of expats consider Portuguese as a challenging language to learn, 68% confidently declare that living in Portugal without knowing the local language is entirely feasible, surpassing the global average of 50%.

Portugal may not be the ideal choice for work seekers, as 36 percent of expats express dissatisfaction with the job market (26 percent globally). However, it ranks 17th globally for work-life balance, surpassing the average, and a notable 78 percent of expats believe their income is sufficient for a comfortable life. Despite a low 42nd ranking for fair pay, there is a silver lining. The country shines in the Personal Finance Index, securing an impressive 12th position. With 63 percent of expats content with the cost of living, Portugal stands out compared to a worldwide average of only 44 percent.

In the Expat Insider 2023 survey, the top spots were claimed by Mexico, Spain, and Panama, with Malaysia, Taiwan, Costa Rica, the Philippines, and Bahrain following suit. Portugal secured a respectable 10th place. These countries showed promising results in the Personal Finance Index and performed moderately in the Working Abroad Index.

If you would like more information about relocating to Portugal, please contact us . We will be happy to assist you.

Global Peace Index: Portugal Shines as the 7th Most Peaceful Country

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:58:07 GMT

According to the latest Global Peace Index 2023 , Portugal has been ranked as the 7th most peaceful country in the world. However, it is disheartening to note that Portugal has witnessed a decline in its position for the third consecutive year, reaching its lowest rank since 2015.

The annual report by the Sydney-based Institute for Economics and Peace reveals that the overall global level of peace experienced a decline of 0.42% based on 2022 data, and Portugal has not been immune to this trend. In fact, Portugal's own performance has worsened, as indicated by Lusa.

On the Peace Index scale, ranging from 1 (very peaceful) to 5 (not at all peaceful), Portugal's score has increased from 1.301 to 1.333 within a single year. This has caused Portugal to descend from the 6th to the 7th position. Iceland has consistently topped the index since 2008, but this year Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, and Singapore have climbed higher, with Singapore surpassing Portugal by three places.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, countries such as Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo experience significant challenges in maintaining peace.

Spanning 17 editions, the Global Peace Index provides valuable insights into peace trends, the economic value of peace, and how to foster peaceful societies. It assesses peace using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators across three domains: security and social protection, domestic and international conflict, and militarisation.

One noteworthy aspect is Portugal's commendable rise from the 8th to the 4th position in the domain of militarisation, though Iceland, Malaysia, and Hungary remain ahead. It is worth noting that overall militarisation has declined globally since 2008 in all regions.

Covering 99.7% of the world's population, the Global Peace Index reveals that 84 countries have experienced improvements in peace while 79 countries have witnessed deterioration in 2022. Over the past 15 years, global peace has declined, with countries experiencing an average score decrease of 5%. These findings underscore the importance of addressing global peace issues and working towards creating a more peaceful world for all.

Latest Developments on Portugal's Golden Visa

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:22:02 GMT

Earlier this week on 20th June, on an unexpected turnaround of events, the political party that supports the Government and holds absolute majority in the Parliament submitted a proposal to amend the housing bill, “Mais Habitação”. They proposed to remove certain investment options in order to reverse the termination of the Golden Visa programme.

The residency programme will remain active through investment as per the approved legislation. The available investment options will be as follows:

Creation of at least 10 job positions;
A transfer of capital for research activities carried out by public or private scientific institutions that are part of the national scientific and technological system must be €500,000 or greater;
Capital transfers of €250,000 or more can be made to support the investment or artistic production, recovery, and maintenance of national cultural heritage through public institutes and central or peripheral direct administration services, entities in the public business sector, public foundations, private foundations with public utility status, inter-municipal entities, entities in the local business sector, municipal associative entities and public cultural associations, which develop projects related to artistic production or the recovery and maintenance of the national cultural heritage;
Capital transfers in the amount equal to or greater than €500,000, intended for acquiring participation units in investment funds or venture capital funds focused on the capitalisation of companies, constituted under the Portuguese legislation, with maturity, at the time of the investment, of at least five years and at least 60%. of the value of the investment is made in commercial companies based in national territory;
Capital transfers in the amount equal or superior to €500,000, destined to the incorporation of a commercial company with headquarters in the national territory, combined with the creation of five permanent jobs, or to increase the share capital of a commercial company with headquarters in the national territory, already existing, with the creation or maintenance of jobs, with a minimum of five permanent jobs, and for a minimum period of three years.

However, investing via the following routes will no longer be feasible:

Capital transfers in the amount of 1.5 million euros or more;
Acquisition of immovable property with a value equal to or greater than €500,000;
Acquisition of real estate, whose construction has been concluded at least 30 years ago or located in an area of urban rehabilitation and execution of rehabilitation works of the acquired real estate, in the total amount equal or superior to €350,000.

We will closely monitor the situation and keep our Clients and Partners informed of any significant updates. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns, and we will be happy to provide support and clarifications.

650 years of the Portuguese-British Alliance

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:21:54 GMT

The 650th anniversary of the Portuguese-British Alliance was solemnly celebrated this Thursday in London. The President of the Portuguese Republic and King Charles III attended a religious ceremony with military pomp and great symbolism.

Received by the British monarch at Buckingham Palace, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa decorated his host with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Tower and Sword of Valor, Loyalty and Merit. The same decoration had been awarded 30 years earlier to Queen Elizabeth II, the mother and predecessor of the head of state of the United Kingdom.

At the official residence of Charles III, both the King and the President reviewed a military Guard of Honour. The Portuguese side was composed of a platoon with 18 soldiers from the three branches, an army officer as national standard-bearer and a navy officer as force commander. The British force, of identical size, included a platoon from the Nijmegen company of the Grenadier Guards. The national anthems were performed by the Welsh Guards Military Band.

The Anglican Thanksgiving service took place in the Queen's Chapel in Saint James's Palace, once frequented by Queen Catherine of Bragança, married to the English King Charles II, who attended Catholic celebrations there when the country had already become Protestant. Her coat of arms, united with that of Charles II in carved woodwork, remains prominently above the altar and in the gallery, representing the close ties between the British royal family and Portugal.

The ceremony included readings in English and Portuguese and music by authors from both countries, with pieces by William Byrd, Thomas Tomkins, Vicente Lusitano, Diogo Dias Melgás and Manuel Rodrigues Coelho. Vocal compositions were performed by the choirs of Queen's College, Oxford University and the Chapel Royal.

This event was the culmination of the Portugal-UK 650 programme of activities, an unofficial, non-profit initiative to celebrate 650 years of the Portuguese-British Alliance, sponsored by the two heads of state.

Upon leaving, the King and the President observed the original of the Treaty of London of 1373, usually kept in the British National Archive.

The Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Alliance, signed on 16 June 1373, by Edward III of England and King Ferdinand I of Portugal formalised the rapprochement between the two countries brought about by the Treaty of Tagilde, which had been concluded between King Ferdinand I and the emissaries of the Duke of Lancaster, John of Gaunt, son of Edward III.

In addition to a declaration of "true, faithful, constant, mutual and perpetual friendship", the text states that neither party shall befriend or favour and aid enemies or rivals and must assist allies if any of the territories of either king were invaded. The alliance was renewed in the Treaty of Windsor of 1386 and by others over the centuries.

This Sunday, the celebration continues in Lisbon, with a joint performance by the illustrious Red Arrows, from the United Kingdom, and the Portuguese Air Force. The Portuguese Red Arrows and F16 will cross in formation the Tagus River, Avenida da Liberdade and Parque Eduardo VII, to illustrate the bilateral relationship between Portugal and the United Kingdom on this 650th anniversary of the Portuguese-British Alliance.

Source: Lusa, Expresso and Público

Lisbon awarded with the Bloomberg Initiative for Cycling Infrastructure

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 11:50:07 GMT

Lisbon was selected as one of the 10 cities globally to receive The Bloomberg Initiative for Cycling Infrastructure (BICI) award. The award was presented on 3rd of June, World Bike Day, in New York by Bloomberg Philanthropies for the first time.

Lisbon has received a sum of $400,000 to improve its cycling infrastructure and promote sustainable options for its residents and visitors.

The purpose of the BICI is to assist Lisbon in increasing the cycling rate and promoting community well-being by developing bicycle lanes that make cycling easier. The award also involves the expertise of the Global Designing Cities Initiative (GDCI), which specialises in project development, designing cycling frameworks, gathering data, and conducting resident research.

The stunning architecture in Lisbon has its benefits, but it also poses challenges for cyclists due to the narrow and steep cobbled streets. This makes it difficult for both commuters and tourists exploring the city on bicycle. To overcome this, the GDCI's assistance will be necessary to create bicycle lanes that are accessible to everyone.

Skye Duncan, Executive Director of GDCI, declared in a press release that the construction of secure and interconnected bicycle routes is a requirement that has advantages not only for the environment and economy but also for people's physical health, mental health, and well-being.

Research has indicated that a city that prioritises the development of cycling infrastructure can result in social and environmental advantages, leading to a happier and healthier lifestyle for the community.

From 26th to 29th of June to June, Bloomberg Philanthropies and GDCI will hold a meeting in London with representatives from Lisbon and nine other cities to initiate the planning process and exchange ideas among the ten destinations. In a press release, founder of Bloomberg LP Michael R. Bloomberg suggested that in order to make cycling safer and more accessible, significant technical assistance will be required. He added that the efforts made by these ten cities to promote cycling will have the added benefits of improving air quality, protecting the environment, and boosting economic growth.

According to a press release, the competition, which was launched in October at the CityLab summit in Amsterdam, has received more than 275 applications from six continents and 66 countries. Bloomberg Philanthropies, the philanthropic organisation of Bloomberg LP founder and majority owner Michael Bloomberg, is behind the competition that is affiliated with Bloomberg CityLab.

The other nine winners of the awards represent a collective population of 15 million people from around the world. Fortaleza in Brazil will create 180 km of new protected bicycle lanes and improve the safety of 100 intersections. It also aims to better connect bicycle lanes throughout the inner city to encourage children, women, and less-skilled riders to travel by bicycle. Ethiopia's capital city, Addis Ababa, plans to double the quantity of protected lanes in order to achieve the nation's largest cycling network. Mombasa in Kenya will connect a cycle network along major corridors with high cycling volumes, while Mozambique's Quelimane will target the creation of new protected cycling lanes, pedestrian areas, and cycling loading zones to reduce traffic congestion.

As Lisbon, Milan aims to build new bicycle lanes that will connect dozens of schools across their cities, creating safe cycling access for children. Bogota will focus on its younger residents, involving them in the design of new infrastructure that will help revitalize a low-income neighbourhood. Pimpri-Chinchwad in India will create a neighbourhood model of the 15-minute city centred around cycling. The other winning cities are Tirana in Albania, which will use safe intersection design to create an all-ages cycling network, and Wellington in New Zealand, which will seek input from indigenous communities to increase the number of bicycle lanes by 160%.

Lisbon has embraced the challenge of creating a modern, cycling-friendly city, as shown by their selection for Bloomberg Philanthropies’ BICI grant. With an incredible $400,000 awarded to help make the city a more cycle-friendly place, it is evident that there is much potential that lies ahead.

The effort to improve cycling infrastructure and promote sustainable transportation options can be seen not just in Lisbon but cities around the world striving to build greener communities. It is important to support projects like this and encourage strides towards improving global climate change efforts. These grants will help these 10 cities take decisive action towards making a better tomorrow.

Best wine destinations revealed: Alentejo makes Top 15

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 09:05:16 GMT

According to a recent study, Portugal's Alentejo region has been ranked as the 12th best wine destination in the world, and we are thrilled to share this news with you.

Luxury travel brand CV Villas has released a report revealing the world's best wine destinations for oenophiles, based on wine ratings from Vivino, the world's largest wine marketplace and review website. The analysis explores wine tourism, an industry that has gained traction with a 72% jump in Google searches for wine holidays and vineyard tours in just a year.

Champagne, France tops the list as the best destination for wine lovers to indulge in sparkling wine, with the highest-rated bottles worldwide produced in this region. However, the study reveals there are many other locations with great quality tipples and stunning scenery, such as Portugal's Alentejo, which earned the 12th spot in the rankings. South Africa's Boschendal wins the title as the most beautiful vineyard in the world, as per Instagram data.

CV Villas' General Manager, Pete Brudenell, stated: “We wanted to show people how many other locations around the world are also producing great quality tipples whilst offering stunning scenery, too. If you are looking to take yourself on a wine holiday or want to book a vineyard tour for your next trip, be sure to look at the likes of Portugal, Spain and Greece, too."

Portugal has a rich wine tradition, and its wines are highly acclaimed around the globe, having won many awards and distinctions in international competitions. To truly appreciate and understand the origins of wine, there's no better way than to visit the regions where it is produced. Exploring these areas allows you to discover more than just the wine, including the beautiful landscapes, rich heritage, diverse cultures, and the locals who call these places home. To begin, consider exploring the captivating region of Alentejo while delving into its rich history of producing wine.

Time is Running Out: Last Call for Portugal’s Golden Visa

Fri, 19 May 2023 15:09:05 GMT

Regarded as one of the prominent residency by investment programmes in Europe and across the globe, Portugal's Golden Visa programme has acquired immense popularity. Since its inception in October 2012, the programme has attracted an impressive number of applicants, with over 11,500 individuals having successfully obtained their coveted Golden Visas. This remarkable milestone stands as a testament to the programme's allure and the significant impact it has made on facilitating prosperous opportunities for those seeking residency in Portugal.

Time is of essence for Portugal's Golden Visa Programme, as it approaches its imminent termination at an undetermined point before the end of 2023. Although the precise timeline remains uncertain, recent clarifications indicate that the new law will not be applied retroactively. Until the law is officially published, applications will continue to be accepted, and pending applications and renewals will transition to the D2 Entrepreneur's Residence Permit, retaining the prerequisite of a 7-day annual stay.

We strongly recommend investors who are able to proceed, to take prompt action to secure your position within the programme, recognising the urgency to capitalize on this opportunity before it dissipates.

The allure of the Portugal Golden Visa stems from its remarkable features, which can be summarised as follows:

Diverse and Affordable Investment Options: The Portuguese Golden Visa offers a wide range of investment opportunities at relatively affordable levels, allowing you to obtain your residence permit through options tailored to your preferences.
Minimal Stay Requirement: With the Portugal Golden Visa, you are only obligated to spend a minimum of seven days in Portugal per year, providing flexibility and freedom to manage your time and commitments.
Visa-Free Access to the Schengen Area: The programme grants you visa-free access to the Schengen states, enabling seamless travel and exploration across the 26 European countries within the Schengen Area.
Path to Portuguese Citizenship: By acquiring the Portugal Golden Visa, you open a pathway towards Portuguese citizenship, which can be achieved within a timeframe of five to six years, offering long-term benefits and opportunities.
Safe, Secure, and Affordable Environment: Portugal is renowned for its safety, security, and affordable living. The country boasts a high quality of life, robust infrastructure, a delightful climate, and well-established health and education systems, making it an appealing destination for individuals and families alike.

Introduced in October 2012, the residence permit for investment activity (ARI), widely known as the Portugal’s Golden Visa programme, was crafted with the primary objective of attracting international capital to stimulate the country's economy, which had experienced the repercussions of the 2008 financial crisis. Since its inception, the programme has proven to be an astounding success, amassing over €6 billion in investment funds.

Portugal’s Golden Visa grants you a significant advantage by registering you in the central system of the Schengen Area. Consequently, you gain the freedom to travel effortlessly throughout Europe without the need for additional visas. This seamless access to the Schengen Area allows you to explore the diverse cultures, landscapes, and treasures of over 26 European countries without hindrance.

Moreover, after the completion of a five-year period, should you choose to pursue Portuguese citizenship , a Portuguese passport becomes your key to a world of possibilities. Holding a Portuguese passport empowers you to travel visa-free to an impressive 187 countries across the globe. This invaluable travel document eliminates the need for visa applications and streamlines your journey, enabling you to navigate international borders with ease and embrace new horizons without bureaucratic barriers.

Portugal’s Golden Visa opens the doors to a world of opportunities, granting you the privilege to reside, work, and pursue education in the country.

If you choose to make Portugal your full-time home with the Portuguese Golden Visa, it is essential to have medical insurance . However, as a Golden Visa holder, you enjoy unrestricted access to all public services, including healthcare and education, ensuring comprehensive support and resources for your well-being and educational needs.

Portugal offers a range of educational options . State schools adhere to the Portuguese curriculum, while private British and American international schools provide alternative educational paths, catering to diverse cultural backgrounds and preferences.

The Portuguese Golden Visa programme recognises the importance of family unity and provides the opportunity for the main applicant to extend the benefits to their eligible family members, via Family Reunification . The application process for both the main applicant and dependents can be completed simultaneously, streamlining the procedure: Spouse or life partner of the main applicant, children under the age of 18, dependent children under the age of 26 and parents of the main application

The Portugal Golden Visa Programme ensures that you will not bear any tax obligations unless you spend more than 183 days per year within the country. If this threshold is surpassed, you will be deemed a tax resident of Portugal.

Portugal presents a highly advantageous tax regime designed to attract and benefit foreign individuals considering relocation and becoming tax residents. Through the non-habitual residence (NHR) regime , the country offers a range of exemptions from income tax for the initial 10 years of residence. This regime provides a unique opportunity to optimize your tax position and enjoy significant tax advantages during your early years as a Portuguese resident.

By taking advantage of the Portugal Golden Visa Programme and subsequently obtaining non-habitual resident status, you can navigate a tax system that favours foreigners, offering substantial benefits and exemptions that can greatly enhance your financial well-being and overall quality of life.

The Golden Visa programme underwent a significant revision of investment rules that became effective on the 1 ^st of January 2022. Notably, the minimum investment amount has been increased from €350,000.00 to €500,000.00.

Consequently, the current investment options available under the programme are as follows:

1. The transfer of at least €1.5 million to Portugal, which may have one of the following investment sub-types:

A bank deposit.
The purchase of a shareholding in a Portuguese company or the incorporation of a single-member private limited company having a paid-up share capital of at least €1.5 million, such company being free to invest wherever and in whatever it wants.
The purchase of Portugal sovereign debt bonds.
The purchase of any securities issued by Portugal-based entities.

2. A Real Estate Investment or Real Estate Investment and its rehabilitation for Non-residential Purposes of at least €500,000.00 (reduced to €400,000.00 if located in a "low density area"), or €350,000.00 (reduced to €280,000.00 if located in a "low density area").

3. A Real Estate Investment and the Real Estate Investment and its rehabilitation for Residential Purposes is limited to properties located in the inland territories of Portugal identified in the addendum to Ordinance no. 208/2017 of 13th of July, and in the islands of Madeira and Azores, and keeps the same investment minimum amount: €500,000.00 (reduced to €400,000.00 if located in a "low density area"), or €350,000.00 (reduced to €280,000.00 if located in a "low density area").

4. An investment of at least €500,000.00 in scientific research conducted by accredited institutions that are part of the national scientific and technological system (reduced to >€400,000.00 if located in a "low density area").

5. Capital transfer with a value equal to or above 250 thousand Euros for investing in artistic output or supporting the arts, for reconstruction or refurbishment of the national heritage, through the local and central authorities, public institutions, public corporate sector, public foundations, private foundations of public interest, networked local authorities, local corporate sector organisations, local associations and public cultural associations, pursuing activities of artistic output, and reconstruction or maintenance of the national heritage.

6. Investing at least €500,000.00 in units of Portugal-regulated funds dedicated to the capitalisation of companies, provided that the fund invests at least 60% in Portugal-registered businesses, and that the maturity of said units is no less than 5 years from the date they are bought.

7. Investing at least €500,000.00 in setting up a Portuguese company that creates and keeps 5 new permanent jobs or increasing the share capital of an existing Portuguese company that creates or keeps at least 5 permanent jobs for a minimum period or 3 years.

8. A business, in the format of a single-member private limited company (no minimum investment required), that creates and keeps at least 10 new permanent jobs in Portugal (reduced to >8 if located in a "low density area").

The initial stages of the Portugal Golden Visa application process encompass the following key steps:

Acquiring a Portugal Tax Identification Number (NIF): This essential document is mandatory for all applicants.
Establishing a Bank Account in Portugal: As part of the application process, it is necessary to open a bank account in Portugal and transfer the required funds to this account.
Selecting an Investment Path: A crucial decision lies in choosing the most suitable investment route for your Golden Visa application.

Portugal's Golden Visa programme celebrated its 10th anniversary in October of last year, having successfully captivated significant investments from non-European Union countries. According to data released by SEF - The Immigration and Border Service, in early January 2023, the programme recorded an impressive revenue of €654.2 million in 2022, showcasing a notable increase of 41.9% compared to the previous year.

Based on SEF data, the number of Residence Permits for Investment (ARI) granted last year amounted to 1,281. The distribution across the months was as follows: 94 in January, 94 in February, 73 in March, 121 in April, 112 in May, 155 in June, 80 in July, 77 in August, 120 in September, 83 in October, 121 in November, and 151 in December. Additionally, family members of ARI holders received 1,533 residence permits in total, with 192 issued in December alone.

To date, a total of 11,535 ARIs have been granted, distributed as follows: two in 2012, 494 in 2013, 1,526 in 2014, 766 in 2015, 1,414 in 2016, 1,351 in 2017, 1,409 in 2018, 1,245 in 2019, 1,182 in 2020, 865 in 2021, and 1,281 in 2022.

Regarding property investment, a significant number of 10,593 permits have been granted, accounting for a total investment of €6.041 billion. Within this figure, €534.1 million corresponds to purchases for urban rehabilitation, amounting to 1,485 permits.

Furthermore, 920 permits have been granted under the capital transfer criterion, with a total deposited amount of €712 million. As for the job creation criterion, which requires a minimum of 10 jobs, 22 Golden Visas have been issued.

The cumulative investment in the programme since October 2012 to December 2022 stands at €6.754 billion. In terms of nationality, China leads with 5,247 nationals receiving ARIs, followed by Brazil (1,168), Turkey (546), the US (537), and South Africa (507). Alongside the ARIs, a total of 18,808 residence permits have been issued to family members of ARI holders since the programme's inception.

This substantial growth and success are a testament to the programme’s enduring appeal and the confidence it instilled in international investors seeking opportunities within Portugal.

In essence, Portugal's Golden Visa provides a myriad of advantages to non-EU citizens seeking to establish residency in the country:

Expedited residency process : The Golden Visa programme offers a streamline pathway to gaining a residency permit in Portugal, with the opportunity to seek permanent residency or citizenship after a specified period of time.

Opportunities for investment : To qualify for the Golden Visa, applicants must undertake a suitable investment in Portugal, which can encompass property acquisition, business expansion, or capital transfer.

Freedom of movement : Possessing a residency permit in Portugal allows Golden Visa holders to travel within the Schengen area and visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 187 destinations worldwide.

Family Reunion : The programme facilitates family reunification, allowing spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents to request residency in Portugal.

This is a final reminder to non-EU citizens contemplating residency by investment in Portugal . Portugal’s Golden Visa programme offers unparalleled benefits and opportunities. We strongly encourage you to contact our team without delay to navigate the application process.

Stay informed: IMI first instalment is due in May!

Fri, 12 May 2023 14:12:45 GMT

Owners of real estate property located in Portugal are liable for the annual payment of the Local Property Tax (Imposto Municipal sobre Imóveis – IMI), which is determined based on the taxable value of urban, rural and commercial properties in Portugal.

The IMI rates for urban properties are calculated based on a range between 0.30% and 0.45% of the tax value, while the rate of 0,8% is applied to rural properties. Additionally, properties owned by residents in blacklisted jurisdictions are subject to a special aggravated rate of 7.5%.

The payment schedule for IMI is as follows:

In one instalment, in the month of May, when the amount is equal to or less than €100,00
In two instalments, in the months of May and November, when the amount exceeds €100,00 and €500,00 or less;
In three instalments, in the months of May, August and November, when the amount is over €500,00

Exemptions apply to urban properties that are considered a permanent place of residence, namely, if the property's tax value is under €125.000,00 and the total gross income of the household in the previous year is below €153.300,00, IMI is exempt for a maximum period of three years from the date of acquisition.

Beyond the Golden Visa: Alternative Routes to Residency in Portugal

Thu, 04 May 2023 09:00:11 GMT

Portugal's reputation as a popular destination for expats is largely due to the success of its Golden Visa programme. However, Portugal offers a variety of attractive options for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote workers, digital nomads, and retirees. For these individuals, relocating to Portugal is a streamlined process, and non-EU citizens can live and work in the country through various residence permit programmes. After 5 years of being a legal permanent resident, you may be eligible for citizenship in the country, as part of Portugal residency programme.

Therefore, if you are looking to invest in Portugal or moving to the country, there are many viable options available. We invite you to explore some of these alternatives together. Non-EU nationals interested in relocating to Portugal can apply for a "D" visa, which is specifically designed for residency purposes. This type of visa can be obtained for a variety of reasons, including:

D1 Visa: Subordinate work activity

Foreigners who have received a job offer in Portugal must provide proof of their employment, such as a work contract or a letter of intent. If the profession is regulated in Portugal, the candidate must also present a professional certificate to ensure compliance with local regulations.

D2 Visa: Independent work activity or migrant entrepreneur

The Portuguese immigration regime offers a programme category for independent professionals, entrepreneurs, and Startups. To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Independent professionals must present a contract or a written proposal for liberal professions (such as lawyers).

2. Entrepreneurs must provide evidence of investment operations in Portugal, or at least demonstrate their intention to invest in the country.

3. Startups must participate in the Startup Visa Programme and obtain an incubation contract with a certified incubator in Portugal.

D3 Visa: Teaching, highly qualified and cultural activity

Foreigners may use this type of visa to enter Portugal for various purposes, including employment under a work contract, enrolment in a higher education institution with an invitation letter, or participation in a cultural activity sponsored by a relevant organisation in the country. If the individual is coming to Portugal to engage in highly skilled subordinate work, they must not only provide proof of employment, but their work contract must reflect a salary of at least 1.5 times the annual gross salary.

D4 Visa: Research, study, student exchange, internship and volunteer work

To qualify for this type of visa, individuals must meet the same criteria as other visa types, which include providing evidence of an established relationship with the host entity. For example, researchers must provide a work contract or a letter of acceptance from a research centre, while minors participating in exchange programs must not only provide admission documentation, but also authorisation from their legal guardians. In the case of internships, only certified host institutions can offer this opportunity to foreign citizens. Lastly, for individuals seeking volunteer opportunities in Portugal, the host entity must provide civil liability insurance for the volunteers, which is a key requirement for acceptance by the Immigration Authorities.

D5 Visa: College or University studies

Although this visa is currently included in the D4 category, it is designed specifically for higher education students who wish to continue their studies in Portugal. To qualify, applicants must provide proof of admission to an educational institution in the country.

D6 Visa: Family Reunification

Family reunification is a right afforded not only to Portuguese citizens, but also to non-Portuguese citizens who hold a valid residence permit in Portugal. As long as the primary resident's legal residency is in order, their spouse, dependent children, and first-degree ascendants are eligible to move to Portugal under the family reunification visa. Additionally, the family reunification visa may be granted to legally recognised non-marital partners of the resident.

D7 Visa: Retirement, passive income or religious purposes

Since changes were made to the Golden Visa programme last year, the D7 visa has become the most well-known and widely used type of visa. In order to clarify some previously undefined concepts, the visa is now applicable to those who can demonstrate personal revenue from sources such as movable and immovable property, intellectual or financial assets (including dividends and investment portfolios). Individuals seeking to retire in Portugal must provide documentation certifying their retirement amount, such as a pension letter, pension statements, or tax returns with pension information. Those moving to Portugal for religious purposes must obtain certification from their church or religious community indicating their status as a minister of worship or a member of an institute of consecrated life.

D8 Visa: Remote work

Following the latest changes to Portuguese law, digital nomads are now encouraged to come to Portugal and work remotely while enjoying the country's many attractions. In order to qualify as a digital nomad, applicants must provide their work or service contract, as well as proof of an average monthly income earned over the last three months that equates to at least four times the guaranteed minimum monthly salary (€760x4= €3.040,00).

In addition to the options mentioned above, non-EU citizens may also apply for a temporary residence permit to accompany a family member who has applied for a residence visa, seek employment opportunities, or make investments in Portugal.

It is important to note that all of the visas mentioned serve as the initial step in applying for a residence permit. After the application is processed at the Portuguese Consulate or Embassy, applicants will need to attend an in-person appointment at the SEF – The Immigration and Border Service in Portugal to provide biometric data such as fingerprints, a photograph, and signature. However, it is worth noting that certain visas, such as the D2, allow individuals to apply for their residence permit directly in Portugal, bypassing the initial step of visa application.

In order to obtain a residence permit in Portugal, individuals must first obtain a Portuguese Tax Identification Number (NIF), open a bank account, and secure long-term accommodation. These requirements are in place to ensure that residence permit holders comply with the stay requirements, which stipulate that individuals cannot be absent from Portugal for more than six consecutive months or a total of eight months during the first two years of the permit's validity. However, exceptions to these requirements can be made with proper justification.

Portugal is a country that has much to offer expats looking for a new home. With its mild climate, stunning natural landscapes, and low cost of living, Portugal consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for quality of life. The Portuguese people are renowned for their warm and welcoming nature, and the country is consistently ranked as one of the safest in the world. From its rich history and culture to its world-renowned food and wine, Portugal has something to offer everyone. Although changes are being made to the Golden Visa programme looking to its termination, Portugal still offers a variety of options for those looking to relocate. Whether you are seeking a new adventure, a high quality of life, or a fresh start, Portugal could be the perfect destination for you.

Lisbon’s Coworking Spaces: Discover Your Next Workspace

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:15:02 GMT

The sunny capital of Portugal presents a multitude of advantages for remote workers, whether you plan to establish a long-term base or just want to experience a workation in the city. With a robust transportation network, relatively affordable cost of living for western Europe, dependable internet connectivity, and an overall safe environment, the city is an attractive destination for remote work.

It is no wonder that coworking culture has flourished in Lisbon, with a plethora of coworking spaces found throughout the city, offering a range of sizes, shapes, and amenities. Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa offers foreign citizens the opportunity to experience Lisbon’s rich cultural heritage with a wealth of historic landmarks and breath-taking architecture.

Coworking spaces in Lisbon are becoming increasingly flexible, with most offering day rates, short-term packages, or flexible arrangements. Whether you prefer a quiet spot to work or want to embrace the social dynamics of communal working, you can find a coworking space in Lisbon that meets your preferences.

To help you get started, we have searched throughout Lisbon, to bring you a curated list of prime coworking spaces available.

Coworking Spaces in Alcântara

Nestled along the picturesque Tagus River, Alcântara is a charming neighbourhood that offers a multitude of attractions for visitors to explore. Highlights include the vibrant Docas de Santo Amaro, a bustling promenade filled with restaurants and bars, and the hip LX Factory, a cultural hub featuring trendy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.

1. As the first-ever coworking space in Lisbon, CoWork Lisboa has established itself as one of the most fashionable offices in the city, thanks to its prime location in the heart of LX Factory. The space is a popular hangout for creatives, including designers, artists, programmers, and more, which creates a stimulating and dynamic atmosphere ideal for working.

2. Village Underground is another hub for the city's artistic and creative communities, offering 14 refurbished metal shipping containers that you can use to share or create your own studio space.

3. SCAPE is a coworking space designed with a laid-back ambiance, focused on creating an excellent work environment and promoting an extraordinary lifestyle.

Coworking Spaces in Cais do Sodré

Located adjacent to the beautiful River Tagus, Cais do Sodré offers breathtaking views and is conveniently situated within walking distance to several delectable food options, including the Time Out Market and Mercado da Ribeira, the city’s primary food courts. Additionally, a brief stroll away, you will find several other top-rated restaurants and bars to suit all palates.

4. Second Home is situated in a historic 19th-century building, located just above the Time Out market. With a breathtaking and light-filled open space adorned with an enchanting jungle of flowers and plants, this coworking space provides an idyllic setting for creative individuals.

5. Located in the bustling heart of the city, Outside is a chic and modern coworking space adorned with lush plants, evoking a cozy coffee shop atmosphere. In addition to providing lightning-fast WiFi, Outsite hosts weekly events and offers several amenities, including meeting rooms, complimentary coffee, and printing services.

6. Time to Work provides an optimal environment to boost productivity. Whether you need to make a quick reminder call in one of the private phone booths, conduct a private call in the Skype room, or host meetings in the spacious meeting room, Time to Work has got you covered. When it's time to take a break or engage in a brainstorming session, the inviting lounge area offers the perfect retreat.

Coworking Spaces in Saldanha

Located in the heart of contemporary Lisbon, this area is frequented by more business professionals than any other part of the city. You will find an abundance of exceptional restaurants and shops nearby, making it an ideal location to combine work and leisure.

7. Avila Spaces - Atrium Saldanha located inside a shopping complex aims to offer an integrated set of services in a single space: technology stores, stationery stores, bookstores, clothing stores and a restaurant space. It is a new concept of workspaces in Lisbon, a real 'miniature city' - the Avila Work City.

8. Avila Spaces - Av. da República is just across the road from the Atrium Saldanha place and it is the original Avila Spaces coworking space, set across two floors of a building overlooking Avenida da República. This site shares many similarities with the previous one, but in a slightly more classic layout.

9. IDEA Spaces Saldanha - IDEA Spaces has three distinct coworking locations throughout Lisbon, all featuring bold and striking branding with vibrant colours. However, the workspaces are tastefully and subtly balanced with white walls, muted soft furnishings, and abundant green plants throughout. Of the three locations, IDEA Spaces Saldanha stands out with its highly imaginative facilities and decorative touches. On the lower level, you will find a spacious communal area with unique nooks, crannies, and quirky features built around the perimeter.

10. IDEA Spaces Palácio Sotto Mayor - Located in the basement level of the stunning Sotto Mayor Palace, a former 19th-century residence of a Portuguese aristocrat, the space boasts a spacious and well-organised layout that caters to both quiet, studious spaces and ample communal areas for connecting with other remote workers. Despite its location on the lower floor, the open coworking area receives plenty of natural light, and the tall potted and hanging plants add a refreshing touch of greenery to the surroundings.

Coworking Spaces in Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações, a contemporary district in Lisbon that houses the Oriente train station and Oceanário de Lisboa, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars. The riverside boardwalk is breathtakingly beautiful and perfect for taking long walks or going for a run.

11. Rocket Hub provides top-of-the-line amenities that include private hubs, communal workspaces, lounge areas, meeting rooms, and even stunning rooftop locations.

12. IDEA Spaces Parque das Nações - Established in 2014, it was one of the first coworking spaces in Portugal and the first among IDEA Spaces' locations in Lisbon. This verdant neighborhood offers a serene and peaceful environment for remote work, with its ample parks, gardens, and scenic waterside walks. The coworking space is conveniently situated within walking distance of the Oriente station, providing easy access to downtown, and just a short ride away from the airport.

Coworking Spaces in other neighbourhoods of Lisbon

13. Lisbon WorkHub is a prime example of the revitalisation happening in the Marvila district, where an abandoned factory warehouse has been transformed into a vibrant coworking space. The space's legacy factory features have been carefully preserved, resulting in an ambiance that seamlessly blends nostalgia with contemporary elements. You will find old industrial-style light strips hanging above the spacious work desks, while the high ceiling is lined with ventilation tubing and adorned with large metallic domed lights, creating a striking and unique environment for remote work.

14. Heden , an acronym for "Hidden and Eden," is a creative center catering to the needs of both locals and travellers seeking exceptional workspace solutions. Located in several spots in Lisbon: Rossio, Chiado, Graça e Santa Apolónia, the coworking spaces provide reliable and high-speed internet, as well as a friendly and accommodating staff that adheres to the organisation’s motto: "Inspiring, Comfortable, Sustainable."

15. Tucked away on a tranquil side street in Campo de Ourique, Resvés Cowork Space is a true hidden gem within Lisbon's vibrant coworking scene. Its discreet location offers a peaceful and private setting, yet it is just a short stroll from the verdant parks of Estrela and the trendy outlets of Príncipe Real. The walls are adorned with stunning artworks created by talented Lisbon-based artists, showcasing Resvés' commitment to supporting local talent.

Lisbon's rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture have made it a hub for coworking culture. With a diverse range of coworking spaces available in various sizes and with different amenities, Lisbon has something to offer to everyone seeking a productive and inspiring workspace in the city.

Golden Visa Programme: The Latest News and Updates

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 16:25:18 GMT

The Golden Visa programme in Portugal will continue to accept new applications until the final legal diploma is published, as stated in a new draft law released by the Portuguese Government. It is anticipated that this termination law will not be published for at least another 60 days.

In brief, the proposal can be summarised by the following key points:

The new law will not apply retroactively.
Any new applications or renewals filed before the new legislation is published will be accepted.
Pending applications and future renewals will be converted into a regular residence permit for Entrepreneurs, also known as D2, without the minimum stay requirement of approximately 183 days per year. Instead, applicants need only fulfil the 7-day requirement of the Golden Visa programme.
It will still be possible for applicants to invest in artistic production, recovery, or maintenance of cultural heritage in the country, and residence permits will continue to be granted.
The programme will be terminated once the law is discussed and voted on by the Portuguese Parliament in two levels of discussion, validated by the President of the Republic, and finally published.

The current approach marks a significant departure from the previous stance taken by the Government and signals a willingness to be responsive to market pressures and suggestions.

Based on the current wording of the proposal, we strongly recommend that investors who are able to proceed take swift action in order to take advantage of the regime. Since no transitional period has been specified, time is of the essence.

With the Portuguese Parliament's current agenda in mind, we expect that discussions regarding the proposal will not begin until 10th May at the earliest. Based on our understanding of the legislative process, we estimate that it will take a minimum of 45 days for a decision to be reached, assuming there are no unexpected delays. It's important to note that political parties may engage in discussions and suggest amendments during this period, and they may be influenced by market pressure - potentially leading to the establishment of a grace period.

On our part, we are dedicated to closely tracking the situation and will ensure that our Clients and Partners are kept up to date on any significant developments. If you have any questions or concerns, we are available to offer the necessary clarifications and support.

Cascais and Estoril referred as the upscale seaside destinations

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 14:41:32 GMT

The Estoril Coast and Cascais in Portugal have recently caught the attention of the UK's Telegraph, being referred the "new Hamptons" that are attracting a new wave of European A-listers.

The Telegraph article highlights the region's glamorous past as a playground for Portuguese aristocracy and exiled European monarchs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The article describes the region as "the perfect getaway for those who seek luxury and relaxation in equal measure", noting its pristine beaches, elegant buildings, and picturesque landscapes.

The article delves into the region's rich history, mentioning the Palacio Estoril Hotel's glamorous party scene in the 1930s, spying during the war in the 1940s, and its inspiration for Ian Fleming's Casino Royale after the nearby Estoril Casino opened in 1931. The article notes the foreign royalty who lived in the area from the 1940s to the 1970s, including the Duke of Windsor and King Umberto II of Italy, and mentions that Juan Carlos of Spain grew up in the vicinity.

The British newspaper also mentions Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa's daily swims and meetings in the area, highlighting the region's appeal to high-profile individuals. This coastal area is also becoming increasingly popular among celebrities, with French architect Philippe Starck being a resident and English increasingly being heard alongside Portuguese as chic crowds flock to the area's buzzy, contemporary restaurants and bars.

In summary, the article concludes that the Estoril Coast and Cascais have not lost their pulling power despite being over 150 years old, with their glamorous past and current popularity among high-profile individuals and celebrities cementing their status as a luxury destination that continues to attract chic crowds from around the world.

Investors in Portugal's Golden Visa seek government intervention

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 16:30:14 GMT

Over the weekend, a WhatsApp group comprising more than 400 professionals in the Portuguese Golden Visa industry was formed within a few hours.

This group, which included some of the country's most prominent lawyers, developers, and real estate agents, was created to evaluate the government's proposal to change the residency permit regime for Golden Visa investors to that of "entrepreneurial immigrants".

To dispute the new legislation, a public petition entitled " Defending Portugal's Image and Reputation Among International Investors " was launched by PAIIR - Portuguese Association of Immigration, Investment, and Relocation, a small association that was quickly joined by other legal professionals. The petition seeks to participate in the parliamentary debate and influence the ongoing legislative process related to the proposed changes to the Golden Visa program. The document has already been signed by over 3,000 individuals and will be later submitted to Parliament.

The proposed changes, which were introduced by the government after receiving approximately 2,700 submissions during the public consultation on the Executive's package, involve converting all Golden Visas into a residence permit for entrepreneurial immigrants. This change will affect all pending and renewal requests and will be evaluated based on economic, scientific, or cultural value. Many investors are outraged by this sudden change, which will have a retroactive effect and affect previously established rights.

The petitioners argue that laws should be for the future and not retroactive, and that changing the rules midway through the game is unfair. They also highlight that the image and international reputation of the country are at stake, and that Portugal is at serious risk of being perceived as an unstable country where investment is risky.

Should this issue go to court, it is anticipated that a significant lawsuit will ensue. This is due to the fact that 11,758 investors have been granted residency permits under the Golden Visa regime since 2012, with nearly 2,000 applications still awaiting approval. These figures suggest that a large number of investors have a significant stake in the outcome of the ongoing discussions about proposed changes to Portugal’s Golden Visa.

If you would like to sign up for the Public Petition , simply follow this link and enter your name, email address, and identification information such as your residence card or passport number. After submitting your information, you will receive an email with a confirmation link. Please be sure to check your spam folder in case it gets filtered there.

An Overview of Portugal's Golden Visa Amendments of March 30th 2023

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 16:05:28 GMT

The Portuguese Government announced the Habitation legislative package measures yesterday, which have been developed with the involvement and feedback of both private and public entities during a public hearing period.

While the precise wording of the law endorsed by the Council of Ministers has yet to be made public, the Prime Minister stated the following during the press conference on the Golden Visa program:

“Since 2012, the special regime for the Golden Visa has granted a total of 11,758 residence permits in our country. However, our experience over the past 11 years has revealed that this regime is unjustified, primarily due to the fact that 89% of the investment made under the program has been in real estate, resulting in the creation of only 22 jobs out of the 11,758 permits issued. As a result, there is no valid reason for this type of residence permit to continue being granted under a special regime, and it should instead be governed by the general law.

In order to ensure the security of those who have already been granted visas and their subsequent renewals, we have made the decision to convert their residence permit into a regular permit, similar to that of any other foreign national living in our country, at the time of renewal, provided that they meet the existing renewal criteria.

Pending examination processes will be handled in accordance with the general law, which includes provisions for the granting of residence permits for business investment purposes, as well as cultural or scientific research activities. These processes will continue to be subject to the same guidelines and regulations as before.

Consequently, all pending processes will be scrutinised in compliance with the applicable regulations and will require endorsement from entities like AICEP, Banco de Fomento, IAPMEI, the National Innovation Agency, or the Ministry of Culture to attest their economic, scientific, or cultural significance.

This results in a general regime where everyone is treated equally under the general law, ensuring that legal security is not compromised”.

According to the summary released, the document outlines the following point: “termination of the special regime for granting Golden Visas, while maintaining the eligibility for residency permits for investment under the general regime”.

If passed, the new policy will operate as follows:

Starting from February 16th, 2023, new Golden Visas will no longer be granted
For those who have applied for Golden Visa but haven't received them yet, their pending applications will be processed under the residency permit system for immigrant entrepreneurs, regardless of whether they are pending with SEF or undergoing prior control procedures in municipalities.
For those who have already received Golden Visa and are due for renewal every two years, their permits will be converted to immigrant entrepreneur permits, subject to fulfilling all requirements, and after thorough evaluation by the competent authorities to confirm the progress of their entrepreneurial projects.

The statements mentioned above suggest several conclusions:

Firstly, the current situation appears to be largely unchanged since the Prime Minister's initial announcement on 16th February, as although a proposal has been submitted, it has yet to be ratified or implemented, and the Immigration Office is still accepting the submissions of new applications.

Secondly, the government plans to eliminate Portugal's Golden Visa special regime, but will still welcome foreign investors through other channels that prioritise the economic, scientific, or cultural value of their investments.

Thirdly, no specific provisions for the renewal of permits based on real estate investment were mentioned this time.

Fourthly, the government seems to be considering converting existing Golden Visas into resident permits for entrepreneurs (D2), while emphasising the retroactive impact of the upcoming legislation.

And lastly, when asked about the timeline for the new regulations to take effect, the Prime Minister deferred the matter to Parliament.

At present, the entire industry is eagerly awaiting the exact phrasing of the legislation, which will be submitted to the Portuguese Parliament for consideration and possible amendments, most likely after the Easter break. Following this, the bill must be forwarded to the President of the Republic.

It is expected that deliberations among the political parties in Parliament will lead to some revisions, including the details of the conversion process of Golden Visas into other immigration programs, as well as the alternative investment schemes that will allow individuals to acquire a residence permit.

We will remain attentive and keep a close eye on the situation to ensure that our Clients and Partners are kept up-to-date on any future developments.

Foreign families drives demand for private schools in Portugal

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 10:53:44 GMT

The profile of foreign individuals purchasing homes in Portugal has undergone a significant shift in recent years. Previously, the primary motivation for Chinese investors was to obtain the Golden Visa and utilize their property for the tourist market, while senior French buyers were attracted to the tax benefits offered by the Non-Habitual Residents program. However, a new influx of buyers from Brazil and the United States is now seeking to settle permanently in Portugal with their families. As a result, there has been an increase in demand for international private schools in the Lisbon region, with families prioritising education options in their search for a new home.

The relationship between real estate and education is more complex than commonly perceived, and involves an interdependence between neighbourhood development or renovation, real estate investment, and the emergence of new schools. The existence of schools and good transportation networks are essential to boosting a specific area's appeal and consolidating it as a residential destination.

The attractiveness of Portugal to foreign families has been steadily increasing for several years, and this trend has been accentuated by the post-Covid phase. The number of international schools in Europe has grown by 32% in the past decade, with Lisbon experiencing a 93% increase in the past five years alone. Alongside traditional British, American, French, and German schools, there has been a rise in progressive and alternative schools to support the cosmopolitan communities in the region.

This shift in the market has also resulted in changes in the real estate landscape, with new developments attracting families and generating potential investment in schools. The emergence of schools and good transport links play a key role in the consolidation of certain areas as desirable residential destinations. However, the demand for international schools has outpaced the supply in many areas, limiting settlement opportunities for more residents and stalling property development.

Despite this, there are still areas outside of Lisbon that remain attractive to foreign buyers, particularly those looking for lower-priced homes. The shortage of international schools in these areas presents a challenge to settlement and development, with developers and property consultants exploring solutions to meet the needs of buyers seeking education options for their families.

Source: Visão

Lisbon: European Tech Hub and Remote Work Haven

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 13:20:57 GMT

Lisbon's tech scene is rapidly gaining traction and becoming a highly sought-after destination for tech startups, with impressive growth rates and increasing global recognition.

Despite being relatively new, the startup ecosystem in Lisbon has experienced exceptional growth, with a consistent 30% increase in investment annually since 2016. This growth rate is twice the average seen across the rest of Europe, indicating the promising potential of the city's startup scene.

As of 2022, startups based in Lisbon have seen an incredible 26-fold increase in value, now totalling an impressive €21 billion. What's more, Portugal has outpaced Spain, Italy, and Greece combined in terms of launching unicorns - boasting a growing number of startups that have reached a valuation of $1 billion or more.

An innovative and optimised digital ecosystem

Lisbon's tech ecosystem is fuelled by several key factors that set it apart from other cities. For one, the city offers an exceptional quality of life, with a vibrant cultural scene, affordable cost of living, and a mild climate with 300 days of sunshine each year. The government has also implemented residency programmes and incentives to attract foreign entrepreneurs, making it easier for startups to set up in the city.

Another crucial ingredient in Lisbon's success is its highly skilled engineering talent pool. With around 90,000 engineering graduates each year, Portugal has the second-highest rate of engineering graduates in the European Union, according to Eurostat. The cost of this talent is also competitive, making it an attractive option for startups looking to scale their operations.

Lisbon's strategic location also provides easy air links to other large tech hubs, making it an ideal base for companies with global ambitions. Portugal's fibre optic network coverage ranks 11th in the world, providing a reliable and high-speed internet connection for businesses.

It is no wonder, then, that Lisbon has become a hub for digital nomads, with the largest community of remote workers in the world. All of these factors combine to make Lisbon a truly unique and efficient tech ecosystem, with plenty of opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs to thrive.

Vibrant and engaged coworking System

Lisbon's thriving tech community is fostered by an active coworking scene, creating a collaborative environment that brings together entrepreneurs, founders, freelancers, and tech talent. The city is also a hub for tech events and meet-ups, with hundreds of gatherings taking place each year, including the Web Summit, the world's largest event of its kind. This vibrant ecosystem of innovation and collaboration provides fertile ground for new startups to emerge and potentially become the next unicorn.

Speaking of unicorns, Portugal has already created an impressive seven to date, including Farfetch, Talkdesk, Feedzai, Remote, Sword Health, Anchorage Digital, and Outsystems, which is the world's first market-leading, low-code software development system, currently valued at €8.9 billion.

Portugal's unicorn count is almost double that of neighbouring Spain, which has four, and triple that of Italy, which has only two. In fact, Portugal is one of the top five countries in the world for unicorns per capita, a testament to the country's commitment to fostering a strong and supportive tech ecosystem.

Full speed ahead

Lisbon's tech ecosystem shows no signs of slowing down, as evidenced by the launch of the start-up accelerator Unicorn Factory Lisboa in October 2022. As an umbrella brand for Startup Lisboa, which has already supported over 460 start-ups that have collectively raised €410 million and created more than 5,000 jobs, Unicorn Factory Lisboa is uniquely focused on helping scale-ups or established start-ups that already have a product or service in operation and a team in place, but need additional support to reach the next level.

At the official launch event during the opening night of Web Summit 2022, Carlos Moedas, mayor of the city of Lisbon, emphasised that innovation is not just an idea, but a process. With Unicorn Factory Lisboa, the city is doubling down on its commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the tech sector, positioning Lisbon as a prime destination for ambitious entrepreneurs and start-ups looking to scale their businesses.

Low-cost and high-value business location

Recent data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has revealed that Portugal is now the most cost-effective country in Europe for businesses to operate in. This, coupled with Portugal's skilled pool of tech talent and attractive tax incentives for multinational corporations, has made Lisbon area an increasingly popular location for some of the world's biggest companies to establish their tech hubs.

Among these global giants are Google, Siemens, IKEA, Cisco, Unilever, Nestle, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz. These corporations have recognised the numerous benefits of establishing themselves in Portugal, including access to high-quality talent, favourable business conditions, and a thriving start-up ecosystem.

With these factors working together, it is no surprise that Lisbon is fast becoming a leading destination for businesses looking to gain a competitive edge in the tech industry.

Source: Euronews

What Makes Portugal the Perfect Home for Expats?

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 16:05:37 GMT

In recent years, Portugal has become increasingly popular among expatriates seeking a better life abroad. Whether one is drawn to the bustling city life of Lisbon or Porto, the tranquil scenery of the Azores, the stunning coastline of the Algarve, or the peaceful countryside further inland, this country's diverse landscape offers something for everyone.

Safety

Portugal is ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. The Institute for Economics and Peace, a non-profit organisation based in Australia, just released its anual Global Peace Index for 2022 , ranking Portugal as the 6th most peaceful country out of the 163 studied.

Portuguese people are friendly and law-abiding, with great attitude towards guests and immigrants and are always ready to help.

Captivating Residency Permits

Portugal is one of the best places to meet new people and to start a new life, offering captivating residency programs , which cover expats who wish to invest, work, and live in the country.

Healthcare System

In general, the public healthcare system in Portugal is excellent: patients can expect comprehensive care from high-quality hospitals. However, like in many other countries, waiting times in Portugal are a common source of complaint.

Many Portuguese and Expats choose to sign up for private health insurance cumulatively with SNS. Health Insurance in Portugal is affordable and averages somewhere between €40 and €100 per month, depending on multiple factors like age and pre-existing conditions.

Excellent quality of life

The country offers a high quality of life ranking 28th in the Prosperity Index and 22nd in terms of quality of life by Numbeo . It was also recognised as the best country in the world for foreign retirees by the International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index 2023 .

The cost of living in Portugal is generally lower than many other European countries, which makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a comfortable lifestyle.

Climate

The country is situated in the southwestern region of the continent, benefiting from ample warmth and sunshine throughout the year. Even during the winter months, temperatures rarely drop below zero degrees Celsius, and the area enjoys around 300 sunny days annually.

Portugal is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on two sides, which creates a diverse range of climatic zones throughout the country. With this in mind, residents can choose a location with ease that suits their individual preferences and needs.

Towards the southern regions, the climate becomes notably milder and more sunny. Moving inland from the coast brings with it hotter summers and colder winters, but snow is a rare occurrence, usually only found in mountainous areas during winter.

Natural Beauty

Portugal is a country of stunning natural beauty, with a diverse landscape that includes sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and lush forests. The country's coastline stretches for over 1,000 miles, offering a variety of landscapes from the rocky shores of the north to the golden sands of the Algarve. Inland, the Serra da Estrela mountain range boasts breathtaking vistas, while the Douro Valley, famous for its wine production, offers stunning views of terraced vineyards. The Azores islands, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, are a haven of unspoiled nature, with lush vegetation, crystal-clear lakes, and hot springs. Whether you're a beach lover, hiker, or nature enthusiast, Portugal's natural beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Gastronomy

Portugal's gastronomy is a reflection of the country's rich history and diverse culture. From fresh seafood dishes to hearty meat stews, Portuguese cuisine is known for its bold flavours and simple yet delicious preparations.

Portugal is also famous for its pastry tradition, with specialties such as Pastel de Nata, which is considered one of the best pastries in the world by Taste Atlas .

Wine production is a significant part of the country's culinary heritage, with the Douro Valley region producing some of the world's finest Port wines.

With the combination of traditional recipes and modern twists, Portugal's gastronomy has something to offer for every taste bud.

English is commonly spoken

Portugal is a country that is very accommodating to English speakers, particularly in its major cities and Algarve. While it is always recommended to try and learn basic Portuguese, expats can feel confident that they will be able to navigate daily life and communicate with locals in English. This welcoming attitude towards English speakers has made Portugal a popular destination for those seeking to move or just visit the country.

Altogether, Portugal is a wonderful place to live for anyone looking for a new home.

Lisbon and Porto ranked in the top 2 positions for remote workers

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 09:54:22 GMT

One of the Internet’s largest holiday rental metasearch engine, HomeToGo, has compiled a ranking of the best places for remote working in Europe . The list ranks more than 150 cities across Europe and takes into account important criteria such as internet speed, tourist attractions, hours of daylight, holiday accommodation prices, and the number of coworking spaces available.

Lisbon and Porto ranked in the top 2 positions of Europe’s Top Destinations for Remote Workers in 2023 and according to Travel Off Path , “It’s no surprise to see not one but two cities from Portugal on this list, as the country became one of the most popular destinations of 2022.”

Lisbon tops the list for many reasons, being some of them the “high number of tourist attractions, numerous co-working spaces at various price points, and is the sunniest capital city in mainland Europe, with over 2,800 yearly hours of sunshine”.

Portugal’s second-largest city comes in second place on the list and Travel Off Path post points out that “Porto is a favourite for remote workers for its high internet speed. Porto is not only a clean and walkable city, but there are a relatively high number of English speakers living here as well, making remote workers from English-speaking countries, such as the U.S., Canada, and The U.K., feel more at home than other cities”.

Portugal has increasingly become an attractive destination for remote workers:

Affordable cost of living: Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, with lower costs for accommodation, food, and transportation than other European countries. This makes it an attractive option for remote workers who want to stretch their budget further.
Great weather: Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it an ideal destination for those who want to escape cold and harsh winters.
High-quality infrastructure: Portugal has invested heavily in its infrastructure in recent years, particularly in its internet connectivity. This means that remote workers can enjoy fast and reliable internet access throughout the country, which is crucial for remote work.
English-speaking population: Portugal has a high level of English proficiency, which makes it easy for remote workers to communicate with locals and integrate into the local community.
Cultural and recreational opportunities: Portugal is a country with a rich culture and history, with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring its cities and towns. This makes it an attractive destination for remote workers who want to balance work with leisure.

Portugal has the ideal combination of affordability, quality of life, natural beauty, and culture, making it an idyllic destination for remote workers looking for a new place to live and work.

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa , which came into effect on 30th October 2022, provides an additional incentive for remote workers to choose Portugal as their destination.

Portugal’s Golden Visa: Elimination of the programme remains unconfirmed

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 15:11:42 GMT

On 16th February, the Portuguese government made a public declaration outlining a range of measures intended to tackle the country's housing problem.

In close relation to these measures, the Prime Minister disclosed that changes will be made to P ortugal's Golden Visa programme , including its potential elimination for new applicants and the imposition of specific conditions for the renewal of existing residence permits.

After one week of the announcement, there is a prevailing sense of astonishment and ambiguity caused by the conflicting and factually inaccurate statements regarding the topic. It is crucial to carefully analyse the objective data and sources of information, so as to ensure that one is making informed decisions based on accurate information.

Portugal typically avoids sudden and disruptive changes. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise patience and wait for final approval of the proposed changes to the Golden Visa program. The most recent modification to the program was announced in December 2020 and only took effect on 1st January 2022, allowing investors a reasonable amount of time to adjust to the new rules. New applicants must take into account the potential risks of the unknown while still basing their decisions on the current law to benefit from legal protection.

Those who are further along in the Golden Visa process may wish to expedite their submission, while investors who are still negotiating should consider extending them until they have a better understanding of the upcoming amendments. Those who are in the early stages of the process should prepare accordingly and be ready to act as soon as concrete details and timelines are available.

We will be keeping a watchful eye on the situation and will provide timely updates to clients and partners as new information becomes available.

A Comparison of the D7 Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 12:44:03 GMT

In recent years, Portugal has been striving to keep up with the evolving migrations trends and to align its migration policies with the rapidly changing world. The implementation of the Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa has been a much-anticipated development.

Many remote workers and freelancers have already obtained their visas and residency permits before the establishment of the Digital Nomad Visa. In the past, remote workers and freelancers have found success in obtaining the D7 Visa , however, this program was originally intended for retirees and individuals who could support themselves with passive income, rather than for nomads.

Until recently, the D7 Visa was the favoured option for digital nomads, as it required proof of a steady income sufficient to support one's life in Portugal. Although not specifically designed for remote work, it was widely used by remote workers as it did not mandate a service agreement or employment contract in Portugal and allowed them to demonstrate their source of income, even without ties to a Portuguese company.

Recognizing the growing appeal of Portugal to remote workers, the government has established the new Digital Nomad Visa to cater to these cases. In this article, we will highlight the key differences between these two visa types, to help clarify which one is best suited to each individual situation.

The D7 Visa

The D7 Visa was originally created as a Residence Visa for retirees, those associated with religious organizations, and individuals relying on passive income sources such as pensions, dividends, rental income, or capital gains. Ideal applicants for the D7 Visa are those seeking Portuguese residency, who plan to live in the country for the majority of the year and make it their primary home, and become a tax resident of Portugal.

The Residence Permit granted to successful D7 Visa applicants is valid for 2 years and can be renewed for an additional three years. Another significant benefit is that after legally residing in Portugal for 5 years under the D7 Visa, the applicant becomes eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, a desired outcome for many non-EU citizens.

The Digital Nomad Visa

Contrarily, the Digital Nomad Visa is specifically tailored to meet the needs of:

foreign workers, self-employed professionals, or entrepreneurs,
those whose professional activities permit remote work, and
individuals or legal entities based or headquartered outside of Portugal.

The legislation provides digital nomads with two options:

a Temporary Stay Visa or
a Visa that leads to a Residence Permit.

The distinction between these two options is based on the length of time the applicant plans to reside in Portugal.

The Digital Nomad Temporary Stay Visa is suitable for remote workers who want to carry out their work in Portugal for a limited time. These are the true nomads, individuals who move from place to place instead of residing in a single location. This Temporary Stay Visa, which is valid for a maximum of one year, enables the holder to live and work in Portugal for that brief time frame without having to establish residency, which was a requirement for remote workers applying through the D7 Visa.

The Portugal government has created a Residence Visa option for digital nomads who are looking to reside in the country for an extended period of time. This type of Visa requires an application to be submitted at a Portuguese Consulate near the applicant's current place of residence. Once approved, the Visa will allow for two entries into Portugal and a stay of up to 120 days. During this time, the applicant can arrange a meeting with the SEF - Immigration and Border Service to convert their Visa into a Digital Nomad Residence Permit. This option is ideal for those who want to make Portugal their home in the future.

The Residence Permit for Digital Nomads will have a validity of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 3 years. Similarly to the D7 Visa, to maintain the Residence Permit, the holder must fulfil certain minimum residency requirements, such as spending a minimum of 16 months in Portugal during the initial 2-year period, and at least 28 months in each subsequent 3-year renewal period, as long as no absence exceeds 6 consecutive months.

While the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa in two forms represents a significant step forward in modernizing migration policies and laws, it's important to note that the process of applying for and being granted these visas is still awaiting further regulation and clarification.

As one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads, we firmly believe that the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa will greatly simplify the immigration process for remote and self-employed workers to Portugal. This new visa will also be a valuable opportunity for foreign workers who want to maintain their connection with international companies while enjoying Portugal's sunny weather, cultural heritage, stunning beaches, protected natural parks, safe environment, and overall high quality of life at a reasonable cost that Portugal has to offer.

Experience the best of both worlds with Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 15:38:40 GMT

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Portugal has seen a significant influx of digital nomads since 30 ^th October 2022, issuing roughly 200 Visas and Residence Permits for remote workers. The majority of these come from the United States, United Kingdom, and Brazil, showcasing the growing trend of individuals seeking flexibility and mobility in their careers.

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa offers foreign citizens the opportunity to experience the country’s stunning coastline, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural beauty, all while working remotely or running your own business. It is the perfect opportunity to escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most charming and vibrant countries.

The idea of remote work was familiar prior to COVID-19, but the pandemic caused a shift in attitude towards it. The traditional view of work as something that must be done in an office environment has given way to a more flexible and diverse approach. In many instances, employees are now able to work from home, or from other remote locations.

A Digital Nomad is a special type of remote worker who leverages technology to work from anywhere in the world. They are individuals with jobs that are 100% remote, allowing them to move freely from one country to another, living in different places while continuing to work. The freedom and flexibility that this lifestyle offers is a key aspect of the appeal of being a Digital Nomad.

Portugal is highly regarded as an ideal destination for Digital Nomads due to its many appealing qualities:

Firstly, the country is considered one of the safest places in the world, offering peace of mind for individuals who will be living and working in a foreign land.
Secondly, Portugal has stunning landscapes and is renowned for its magnificent natural beauty, from its rolling hills and stunning coastline to its historic cities and quaint towns.
Lastly, the cost of living in Portugal is reasonably low when compared to other Western European countries, making it an affordable destination for those who wish to pursue the Digital Nomad lifestyle.

Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa, which came into effect on 30 ^th October 2022, provides an additional incentive for Digital Nomads to choose Portugal as their destination. The Visa allows individuals to live and work in the country, thereby enabling them to experience all that Portugal has to offer while pursuing their careers. The Portuguese Digital Nomad Visa is a great example of how countries are embracing the growing trend of remote work and the digital nomad lifestyle.

Portugal has two options for Digital Nomad Visas, differentiated by the duration of stay:

1. Temporary Stay Visa for Digital Nomads

The Temporary Stay Visa is suitable for Digital Nomads looking to stay briefly in Portugal. It is valid for up to one year and permits remote work as a self-employed freelancer or online business owner. This Visa must be obtained through the Portuguese Consulate serving the applicant’s current place of legal residence.

2. Residence Visa + Residence Permit for Digital Nomads

For Digital Nomads seeking a longer stay in Portugal (over one year), the Residence Permit is the ideal choice. The application process begins with obtaining a special Residence Visa for Digital Nomads, available at the Portuguese Consulate in the applicant’s current place of legal residency. Upon arrival in Portugal, the applicant must then apply for the Residence Permit for Digital Nomads.

This Visa allows for two entries and stay of up to 4 months. Additionally, the Visa enables the issuance of Residence Permits for immediate family members through family reunification .

For either the Temporary Stay Visa or the Residence Permit, applicants must present documentation demonstrating their average monthly income over the preceding three months, which must meet a minimum requirement equal to four minimum wages. Additionally, they must provide evidence of their employment status, such as a contract of employment or proof of self-employment as a freelancer or service provider. Lastly the applicant must present a document detailing their tax residency.

One of the significant benefits of becoming a resident in Portugal is the opportunity to apply for the Portuguese Citizenship after legally living in the country for 5 years. In addition, being a resident in Portugal opens the possibility of benefiting from the country’s Non-Habitual Resident Tax Regime , designed to attract highly qualified professionals and entrepreneurs to the country.

Thinking of opening a business in Portugal? What you Need to Know

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:22:27 GMT

Portugal is considered one of the top destinations for those looking to relocate, offering a desirable lifestyle characterized by charming surroundings, pleasant weather, safety, and welcoming hospitality.

It's no surprise that the number of foreigners interested in moving to Portugal is on the rise. The relaxed way of life, tax advantages, and the opportunity for non-EU citizens to quickly obtain Portuguese citizenship are all contributing factors to the growing number of residency applications each year .

The D2 Visa , also referred to as the entrepreneur's residence visa, is an excellent choice for individuals from non-EU countries who wish to establish a business or practice a liberal profession in Portugal.

According to a study by Forbes, Portugal is considered the best country in the European Union for foreign investors. The tax incentives in Portugal are the main reason for this high ranking, as well as the fact that the country has a strategy in place to combat the issue of an aging population in order to ensure economic stability.

The D2 Visa is targeted towards obtaining a residence permit in Portugal for non-EU Citizens from who are:

Self-employed - individuals who plan to work in Portugal and already have a job offer or employment contract within a liberal profession;
Investors (entrepreneurs) - business persons who wish to start or invest in a venture within the country.

The applicant must first obtain a Visa in order to be able to enter Portuguese territory. Once the Visa is granted, the applicant can then apply for the corresponding residence permit. Additionally, the applicant may simultaneously apply for a residence visa for their family members, under the residence permit for family reunion . This means that the applicant's spouse and children can also obtain a residence permit in Portugal.

The D2 Visa is a great opportunity for those who are looking to start their own business in Portugal or work as a liberal professional in the country. The residence permit allows for flexibility in terms of work and travel, and the tax incentives make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs and investors. Furthermore, the option to apply for a residence visa for family members makes it a good option for those who wish to move to Portugal with their family.

Portugal’s Golden visa brought in €654.2M in 2022

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 11:15:09 GMT

Portugal’s Golden Visa programme , which marked its 10th anniversary in October and attracted major investors from non-European Union countries, brought in €654.2 million last year, an increase of 41.9% over the previous year, based on data released by SEF – The Immigration and Border Service.

According to data from the SEF, last year 1,281 Residence Permits for Investment (ARI) – as they are officially known – were granted: 94 in January, 94 in February, 73 in March, 121 in April, 112 in May, 155 in June, 80 in July, 77 in August, 120 in September, 83 in October, 121 in November and 151 in December.

Last year, there were also 1,533 residence permits issued to family members of people who had already received an ARI, with 192 of these issued in December.

Since the 2021 creation of the golden visas scheme – whose future the government is currently reviewing – a total of 11,535 have been granted: two in 2012, 494 in 2013, 1,526 in 2014, 766 in 2015, 1,414 in 2016, 1,351 in 2017, 1,409 in 2018, 1,245 in 2019, 1,182 in 2020, 865 in 2021, and 1,281 in 2022.

In return for investment in property, there have been 10,593 permits granted so far, for an investment of €6.041 billion, of which €534.1 million corresponds to purchase for urban rehabilitation (1,485 permits).

Regarding the capital transfer criterion, 920 permits have been granted to date, for a total amount deposited of €712 million.

The job creation criterion (a minimum of 10 jobs) has seen 22 golden visas issued.

The total cumulative investment in the programme, from October 2012 to December 2022, is €6.754 billion.

By nationality, China leads the way in terms of nationals who have received ARIs, with 5,247, followed by Brazil (1,168), Turkey (546), the US (537), and South Africa (507).

Since the beginning of the programme, a total of 18,808 residence permits have also been issued to family members of people with ARIs.

Source: Lusa / Eco

Portugal: the best country in the world for foreign retirees

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 13:00:36 GMT

The International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index 2023 recognised Portugal as the best country in the world for foreign retirees. According to this Index, the country obtained an average score of 87.43 based on factors such as housing, cost of living, visas/benefits, affinity rating, development/governance, climate and healthcare.

Portugal ranked first, followed by Mexico on second, and Panama on third. Spain was sixth, followed by Greece, France, and Italy. Some of the areas in which Portugal scored highest were healthcare (92), development/governance (94), and visas/benefits (90). On the other hand, housing was the area where Portugal scored the lowest (74).

In her assessment, Terry Coles of International Living wrote, “despite its compact size, Portugal always offers something for everyone from country to city and from traditional to contemporary.” She also stated that “people in Portugal are some of the kindest and most genuine in the world”, pointing out that “since English is taught in schools, the younger generation have a good command of the language”. She further continues “with over 500,000 foreigners from around the world living in Portugal, it’s easy to fit in and often impossible to tell the expats from the locals”.

Terry Coles pointed out as well that “Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked 6th by the Global Peace Index so expats never need to worry about crime. Healthcare in Portugal is both affordable and excellent, ranked 12th by the World Health Organization”.

One of the most popular routes for retirees looking to settle in Portugal is the D7 Visa , which is the ideal option for those who intend to live in the country and are able to show evidence of having a regular passive income that is deemed sufficient to support his or her family aggregate in Portugal. Passive income can be from dividends, real estate income, capital gains, State and occupational pensions, royalties, business profits, intellectual property, or other financial investments.

Portugal is widely popular with Expats. It is a great home for retirees, young families, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, investors, and students. In fact, it is difficult to imagine any group that would not love Portugal’s warm climate, affordable cost of living, beautiful cities, and overall high quality of life and healthcare.

Portuguese Tax Authorities advise to appoint a tax representative

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 10:36:13 GMT

The tax authorities are alerting Portuguese taxpayers residing outside the European Union, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein that they must adhere to the electronic notifications (Via CTT) site or appoint a tax representative if they have a tax relationship with Portugal.

An official source from the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority (AT) said that “alert messages will be sent to taxpayers resident in third countries”, informing them of the “need to designate a tax representative or, alternatively, join the ‘electronic notifications’ whenever they are covered by the mandatory regime”.

On 8th July 2022, the Portuguese government approved the Decree-Law no. 44/2022, which changed the article 19 of the General Tax Law (Decree-Law No. 398/98), thus allowing taxpayers who reside outside the European Union and/or European Economic Area to waive the obligation to appoint a tax representative in Portugal, within certain conditions.

Before this changes to the General Tax Law, taxable persons (excluding taxpayers residing in EU and EEA) residing abroad and those who, although resident in Portugal, were absent for a period exceeding six months, were obliged to appoint a representative for tax purposes, who was resident in Portuguese territory.

With the changes made by Decree-Law no. 44/2022, taxpayers can now waive the above-mentioned obligation if they choose to be notified by the Portuguese Tax Authority through the tax authority website (e.g. Portal das Finanças) or through an official electronic mailbox (e.g.via CTT).

Also, and according to the administrative ruling “Ofício Circulado” no. 90057, dated from 2022/07/20, issued by the Portuguese Tax Authority, the appointment of a tax representative – and, thus, the choice to be notified by the Portuguese Tax Authority through the tax authority website (e.g. Portal das Finanças) or through an official electronic mailbox (e.g.via CTT) - will only be deemed necessary for those who maintain a legal relationship with the Portuguese tax authority, which may occur, for example, in the case of owning property in Portugal, namely a house, a car or carrying out investments or other assets; if you have an employment contract in the Portuguese territory; or if you perform a self-employed activity in the country.

On a conclusion note, the waiver of the obligation of tax representation should be carefully considered as the non-resident taxpayers have to be fully informed and conscious of what such decision will entail in terms of complying with their tax obligations in Portugal.

How to bring your beloved Pet to Portugal

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 14:51:36 GMT

Your adorable dog or cute cat is part of your family and therefore you worry about the process of relocating them into the country. Well, worry not! You absolutely can bring your furry friend to your new home in Portugal.

As part of the European Union, the laws and regulations for moving pets to Portugal are governed by the common framework, under which your pet must have:

A valid European pet passport, when travelling to another EU country or an EU animal health certificate, when travelling from a non-EU country.
A microchip, which will allow authorities to identify your pets and link them to the corresponding passports. The system will make traveling with your pets easier and will speed up the process of veterinary check-ups in your new country.
A valid Rabies Vaccination – Pets need to be at least 12 weeks old to be given a rabies vaccination and you will have to wait 21 days before you take your pet to Portugal. Please note that when travelling from a country at risk of rabies, further rules apply.
Received treatment against the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, where necessary
In southern Europe, diseases such as leishmaniasis are common, being recommendable the suitable vaccine.

The European pet passport is a document, which follows an EU standard model and is essential for travelling between EU countries. It contains a description and details of your pet, including the microchip or tattoo code as well as the rabies vaccination record and contact details of the owner and the vet who issued the passport. You can get a European pet passport for your dog, cat or ferret from any authorized vet.

The EU animal health certificate is another type of document, which contains specific information about your pet - identity, health, rabies vaccinations - and is based on an EU standard model. If you are travelling from a non-EU country or territory, your pet must have an EU animal health certificate endorsed by an official state vet in the country of departure not more than 10 days before your pet arrives in the EU.

Additionally, you should also attach a written declaration to your pets EU animal health certificate stating that its relocation is for non-commercial reasons. This declaration is also required if your pet is travelling under the responsibility of a person authorized by you. In this case, your pet must be reunited with you within 5 days of your relocation.

For long distance relocations, it is advisable for you to find a Pet Transport Specialist, who is an experienced animal handler and therefore will ensure your pets are comfortable, safe, and stress-free. You should ensure you are comfortable with the company you choose, by obtaining comparable quotes from several companies and carefully checking all the levels of service and cost. If you are able to, try to verify the reputation of the companies you receive quotes from and make sure you understand what is included in each quote and what will be your of own responsibility.

Pets are normally transported as “live animal” cargo and therefore, your pet will be carried in the specialist cargo hold of the plane which is heated and pressurized, and this will normally need to be booked by a specialist pet shipping company.

Pets can also be shipped to some destinations with airlines that accept them as “accompanied baggage”, but only if you travel on the same flight as your pet. This should be booked directly with the airlines, and it is usually charged as excess baggage. It is advisable to always check with the airline, if there are any conditions or restrictions applicable to your pet.

The transportation of your pet should be arranged well in advance and all travel documentation, vaccination and permit requirements should be fully researched to prevent last minute unpleasant surprises.

Moving your pet to Portugal shouldn’t bring you stress or concern if you plan ahead like every aspect of your own relocation to this country. In case you won’t be able to handle the matter yourself, there are companies that render personal services, which focus on the well-being of your beloved pets, whilst taking care of all the paperwork and keeping them safe too.

So, wherever your life sends you, take your best friend with you.

Step-by-step guide for payment of your post-Brexit new resident card

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:35:46 GMT

After having initial issues in setting up appointments at SEF – The Immigration and Border Office, British residents in Portugal are finally able to get their new residency cards. However, some of them are having trouble in generating the payment information, which is needed before they are sent the physical card.

We will take you through each step of the process and help you generate your payment references for a smooth and easy experience.

After your appointment at SEF, you will then be asked to log on the SEF Brexit Portal to go forward with the payment of your card, which will be sent to the address you provided at your appointment. It won’t be much of challenge if you follow the steps described below:

1. Once on the site, click on the yellow box “Apply Now”, on the right side of the screen.

2. Click on the box “Authentication”, on the left side of the screen. You will then need to enter the email address associated with the process and the password you created for it. In case, you have trouble remembering your password, you can choose to “Recover Password” and a new one will be sent to your email.

3. Once on your account page, at the top left of the page, you will find a series of yellow buttons. You will have to click on the € sign to be able to generate the payment details.

4. Then your name will appear on screen. You should click on the date highlighted in blue. If you have family members or dependant applicants, their names will appear as well. And you will have to click on each one to generate the payment details individually.

5. Scroll further down in order to find more details about your process. Next to the payment document number, there will be a yellow box with a printer icon: click on it.

6. A pop-up window will appear on your screen with an important warning: once the document is generated, you need to wait 48 hours before you can pay. Click on the yellow button with a disk icon.

7. You can scroll down again to find a pdf document with the payment details for the payment of your new card. You can either print this document or save it for orientation. This document will provide the reference payment, the due amount, and the deadline to pay. Please remember you will have to wait 48 hours before the references are active.

The most comfortable way for proceeding with the payment would be via online home banking or through an ATM Machine and, the steps are basically the same either way:

Pagamentos e outros serviços
Estado e Sector Público
Pagamentos ao Estado

All you need to do is, enter the reference number and the amount to pay given to you on the pdf document.

After this, you will soon be receiving your residence card at the address you have given at your appointment in SEF.

If you have further questions regarding this matter, get in touch with us and we will be delighted to assist you.

Startups in Lisbon raised €333 million in 2022

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 16:22:00 GMT

There are still a few weeks until the end of 2022, and the startup ecosystem in Lisbon has already raised €333 million this year, a figure substantially above the €96.8 million raised in 2021, according to the study “The State of Lisbon’s Startup Ecosystem 2022”, made by the Dealroom for Lisbon City Council. In the overall, the ecosystem is worth €21.4 billion.

Despite the cooling in the capital market, the startup ecosystem in Lisbon has already raised €333 million. The study points out that the figure is “3.2 times more than in 2021 and represents a record of investment by funds in Lisbon-based startups.”

The Lisbon startup ecosystem is comprised of over 1,400 startups founded, headquartered or with a presence in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. Therefore, the spike is happening mainly because some startups have raised their first rounds above Series C. According to Dealroom, Power Dot alone has raised €150 million and FRVR has raised €69 million in funding. Up until now, it has reached €114 million, a figure above the €97 million raised in 2021.

Impact startups in Lisbon also raised a record amount this year: €7.8 million, 3.1 times more than in 2020. In this movement, international investment funds have played a significant role in the ecosystem, accounting for over 80% of total investment and more than half (70%) of total rounds this year. However, Dealroom also pointed out that “local investors – such as Shilling, Indico, Maze, Faber, Alpac, Armilar – have been gaining relevance, having already raised 77 million in new funds this year”.

Portugal offers several captivating routes for those looking to relocate to the country. The Startup Visa is a residence visa which aims to attract investment, talent and innovation capacity to Portugal. The programme focuses on entrepreneurs from outside the European Union, both those already owning or considering launching a startup but aiming to set it up and grow it in Portugal.

The programme was created by Agência para a Competitividade e Inovação (IAPMEI) and regulated by the Ministry of Economy and Internal Affairs of Portugal and includes the National Network of Incubators within the whole territory.

Applicants can apply through the online platform and the Incubators will receive the projects that are considered relevant in their evaluation and criteria. The procedure will be supervised by the IAPMEI, and the application's final decision will take a maximum period of 30 working days from its submission.

Lisbon ranked 4th in the best cities for Expatriates

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:57:34 GMT

The Portuguese capital came in 4th place, among the best cities for expatriates in a ranking made by InterNations, concerning the quality of life, ease of adaptation and personal finances.

The warm and sunny weather, welcoming local gentry, culture, and nightlife are some of the main reasons expats enjoy living in Lisbon. Career prospects, however, are seen by foreigners in a negative way: 28% of the foreigners who came to the city consider that moving to Lisbon has not improved their career prospects (compared to 18% globally). In addition, more than a quarter of expats in Lisbon feel that, based on industry, qualifications, and role, they are not paid fairly for their work (compared to 20% globally).

In the overall rankings, Lisbon is fourth out of the 50 cities across the globe and is also in fifth place in three out of the five indices featured in the survey: Quality of Life, Personal Finance, and Ease of Settling In.

The survey revealed that Lisbon is one of the cities where expats feel happiest with their life abroad. It is also one of the best-rated cities on the Quality of Life Index, coming in 5 ^th place. Almost all expats are happy with the climate and weather, ranking the city first in this regard.

The culture and nightlife are also highly appreciated as well as the opportunities for recreational sports. Most importantly, more than nine out of ten feel safe in Lisbon and find it easy to get around on foot and by bicycle.

Lisbon also ranks fifth in the Ease of Settling In Index, with particularly great results in the Local Friendliness (4 ^th place) and Culture (2 ^nd place) Subcategories. According to the survey, expats describe local residents as generally friendly, finding it easy to get used to the local culture and are generally happy with their social life in Lisbon.

The Expat Insider 2022 report analysed 50 expat destinations around the world and ranked them according to the quality of life for expats.

The survey asked expats to evaluate the ease of settling in, working abroad and personal finances in the city where they lived. The ranking also includes an Expat Essentials index, which looks at digital life, admin topics, housing, and language.

This year, four European cities made it into the top ten and Valencia was considered number one, then Lisbon in forth, followed by Madrid in fifth and Basel in the seventh position of the overall ranking.

PS Can't Put An End to the Golden Visa Programme

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:19:54 GMT

The Socialist Party (PS) rejected the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) proposal to terminate the Residence Permit through Investment (ARI) programme despite the Prime Minister, António Costa having stated that the government is evaluating the possibility of abolishing the Golden Visa program because it seems to have “fulfilled its function”.

The PCP’s proposal to end Portugal’s Golden Visa was rejected in the State Budget 2023 with the votes against of PS, Social Democratic Party (PSD) and Chega; the abstention of Iniciativa Liberal and the votes in favour of the remaining parties. The Socialists, as well as the other parties, did not justify their vote because in the afternoon sessions there is no debate, only voting.

It is not the first time that the end of the Golden Visa has been voted down in the Portuguese Parliament, however this time it happened only a few weeks after the Prime Minister revealed that his government was reassessing the popular, yet controversial scheme. “There are programs that we are currently re-evaluating and one of them is the golden visa which has probably, already fulfilled its purpose and which, at this moment, we believe to be obsolete,” said the Prime Minister on 2 ^nd November without giving any further information or timetable for the mentioned reassessment.

The Golden Visa is a residency program through investment, in which holders can obtain a temporary residence permit without requiring a Visa to enter Portugal, the EU or the Schengen Area, enjoying free movement in 26 countries.

Portugal has risen notably in 2012, when the Portuguese Government launched Portugal´s Golden Vis a and since then, it is Europe's most successful residency-by-investment programme targeted at non-EU citizens and investment through this captivating programme keeps rising as per the latest data released by the SEF – The Immigration and Border Service.

Moving to Portugal: all the possible paths to residency

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 14:55:02 GMT

Portugal is widely popular with Expats. It is a great home for young families, digital nomads, retirees, entrepreneurs, investors and students. In fact, it is difficult to imagine any group that would not love Portugal’s warm climate, affordable cost of living, beautiful cities, and overall high quality of life and healthcare.

It is undeniable the increased number of foreigners interested in relocating to the country. The cool lifestyle, tax benefits and the possibility for non-EU citizens to acquire Portuguese citizenship in a short period of time is a key factor for the number of residency requests that increases every year. According to SEF – The Immigration and Border Service, the number of foreign citizens living in Portugal is about 7% of the population in 2021.

Portugal is one of the best places to meet new people and to start a new life, offering captivating residency programs , which cover expats who wish to invest, work, and live in a country with 850 kilometres of cost line, stunning vistas and an average of 300 days of sunny weather.

The country has risen notably in October 2012, when the Portuguese Government launched Portugal´s Golden Visa Programme, a residency by investment designated for non-EU citizens and since then, it is Europe's most successful residency-by-investment programme targeted at non-EU citizens. 11.180 applicants have received their Portugal Golden Visas, making it one of the most popular residency by investment programs in Europe and in the world.

However, Portugal is not only attractive for investors interested in the Golden Visa programme. There is a whole new wave of successful expats, such as digital and executive nomads, entrepreneurs, and retirees settling in Portugal and the country offers specific residency possibilities to them, taking into consideration each case in particular to meet their needs.

Up until now, one of the most popular routes was the Portugal Passive Income Visa , which is the ideal option for those who intend to actually live in Portugal and are able to show evidence of having a net regular or passive income that is deemed sufficient to support his or her family aggregate in Portugal. Passive income can be from dividends, real estate income, capital gains, State and occupational pensions, royalties, business and self-employment profits, intellectual property, or other financial investments.

The new Digital Nomad Visa came into force on 30 ^th October and will allow the holder to legally work remotely from Portugal. It is presented in two different types, depending on how long you plan to stay in Portugal: temporary stay and Residence Visa, which are extended to professionals who carry out their subordinate or independent professional activity remotely, or for those who are entrepreneurs.

This new Visa encompasses both remote workers who wish to temporarily stay in the country up to one year and digital nomads looking for a residency permit in Portugal. To qualify for either temporary stay or residency permit, remote workers need to prove that they earn an income at least four times of the minimum salary (currently €705) and, have a work contract or a proof of self-employment. The aim of this requirement is to show that the applicant is financially able to pay the living expenses, accommodation and other needs that may arise during the validation of the visa.

The Portugal D2 Visa is designed for people who want to open a new business in Portugal, set up a Portuguese branch of an existing business, or move to Portugal to run an already exhisting business. The D2 Visa is divided into two subtypes:

Freelancer´s
Entrepreneur´s

For a freelancer's residence permit, the applicant´s must have:

At least one signed contract for the provision of services to a client for fees that ensure reasonable financial means for you to live in Portugal (a minimum of, say, €12,000.00 per year, plus 50% of this value for the spouse and 30% for each dependent child);
If applicable, documentary evidence of having the professional qualifications needed to perform the intended professional activity in Portugal.

For an entrepreneur's residence permit the applicants must prove that EITHER made or are making an investment in Portugal, OR you have sufficient funds available in Portugal (including finance) with which to make an investment, in accordance with a business plan describing at least the following aspects of your investment:

Identification;
Generic description;
Nature;
Amount
Intended duration;
Economic, social, scientific, technological or cultural relevance of the investment.

The D3 Visa constitutes a very good option for highly qualified professionals, which under the Portuguese Law on Foreigners, highly qualified work implies “the exercise of an activity that requires specialised technical skills of an exceptional nature or an adequate qualification for the respective exercise of the function”. Therefore, the applicant must provide:

Contract for services; or
An employment contract of at least one year’s duration, corresponding to an annual remuneration of at least 1,5 times the national average gross annual salary (1,752.52 euros/month) or three times the index value of social support – IAS (1.316,43 euros/month). This option is for highly qualified activity performed by subordinate worker.

The Start-up Visa is another alternative for entrepreneurs which aims to attract investment, talent and innovation capacity to Portugal. This Visa was specifically designed by IAPMEI - Agência para a Competitividade e Inovação to develop the innovation ecosystem and to affirm Portugal’s position as a country open to entrepreneurship and all those who possess knowledge and innovation capacity.

The most captivating aspect of moving to Portugal is that it is relatively easy no matter the chosen path and it is followed by many other benefits as follows:

Free entry and circulation within the Schengen Area, comprised of 26 European countries, without a Visa.
The possibility of Family Reunification in Portugal: The family (including partners, children, parents, or siblings dependent on either partner) of the holder of a Portuguese residence permit can also live in the country.
Qualification for permanent residence or citizenship in Portugal : After 5 years of being a legal permanent resident, you may be eligible for permanent citizenship in the country, as part of Portugal residency program. Please note that citizenship is subject to a basic Portuguese language
The option to apply for Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime, which is open to anyone who has the right to reside in Portugal (an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen or a holder of a residence permit) and has not been a tax resident of the country in the previous 5 years.
Portuguese residency rights, including education and health care: As a Portuguese resident you and your family will have access to the Public Healthcare System and your children to the Public Education System.

Belion provides a one-stop shop for all your needs in connection with your relocation to Portugal, including your residence permit, tax affairs, property search and settling-in support. Having assisted hundreds of clients with a 100% success rate, we are at ease with meeting a great variety of disparate requirements. Have a question? Contact us

New live in Portugal: an overview of the Lisbon Web Summit 2022

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 16:52:55 GMT

Lisbon hosted, from 1 ^st to 4 ^th of November, the Web Summit, considered the largest technology and innovation convention on the planet, with over 70,000 participants and 900 speakers from around the world.

According to Forbes, it is “the best technology conference on the planet” that has grown to become the biggest European technology conference and the largest tech innovation global marketplace in the world. It is, however, about much more than technology alone: from business and politics to marketing, migration to climate change, media and entertainment, offering the opportunity to discuss solutions to most pressing challenges of the world today.

The 2022 edition was an event full of conferences, side-conferences and network, which allowed all participants to meet key people, investors, potential employers or future partners. It was again a great opportunity to again put Lisbon and Portugal on the spotlight as one of the favourite relocation spots for expats.

A lot of novelties unveiled around the Web Summit, this year. One of which was the launch of the Lisbon Unicorn Factory, which was inaugurated by the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, just a few days before the opening of the Web Summit. The Lisbon Unicorn Factory project follows the model of Paris’ Station F and it will help build up and develop Lisbon’s ecosystem of start-ups. The Mayor of Lisbon vehemently defended that it is of the utmost importance to “bring innovation to cities. Innovation stimulates employment, which promotes well-being.”

The Portuguese Prime Minister found an opportunity during his visit to the event, to point out the importance of the Digital Nomad Visa, stating that these new Residency Programs aim at attracting investment and young international staff. António Costa said, “We have to know how to welcome and to cherish everyone who wishes to live, work or invest in Portugal.”

Portugal has always been largely known as the ideal destination to retire, over the years. However, Portugal turned out to be a most attractive destination for millennials who are initiating their lives and careers. The truth is, Portugal is one of the best choices to simply start or restart regardless of how old you are.

There is a new wave of expats, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, high net-worth individuals settling in Portugal in search of a better quality of life and there are plenty of good reasons for choosing to live in the country, including the excellent climate, friendly people, superb food, delightful cities, and beautiful countryside, not to mention the quality of life, public safety and great services in general. According to SEF - The Immigration and Border Service, the number of foreign citizens living in Portugal is about 7% of the population in 2021.

Portugal is becoming increasingly known for its start-up scene and the increasing success of the Web Summit has been showing that in every edition. Funding to tech start-ups headquarter in the country grew over €180 million in 2021, up from about €1.2 million in 2016, according to the 2021 Portugal Start-up Outlook, which also reports that 1/3 of the founders who established start-ups in Portugal the previous years were foreign citizens.

The most common visa for someone intending to start a new life in Portugal, till this day, was the Portugal Passive Income Visa , which has proven to be the ideal option for those who wish to live in Portugal, showing evidence of having a net regular income that is deemed sufficient to support themselves and their family aggregate in Portugal.

However, Portugal offers other routes if you are looking to relocate to the country. The D3 Visa is the perfect option for highly qualified professionals. There is also the D2 Visa , fit for freelancers and entrepreneurs. The Start-up Visa is a residence visa for entrepreneurs which aims to attract investment, talent and innovation capacity to Portugal.

And the most recent Digital Nomad Visa will allow the holder to legally work remotely from Portugal and, it is presented in two different types, depending on how long the applicant plans to stay in Portugal: Temporary Stay Visa and Residence Visa.

Foreigner citizens don’t struggle to adjust, they just feel as if they´re home in Portugal. It certainly helps that most of the Portuguese population speaks perfect English and are welcoming to expats. After moving to the country, you can apply for tax benefits for up to 10 years and after 5 years of legal residency, you can apply for a European Passport .

Portugal: A charming lifestyle for High-Net-Worth Individuals

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 13:48:25 GMT

Portugal is ranked as one of the best places to live as it offers a highly attractive and charming lifestyle, excellent weather, security, and hospitality.

It is of the utmost importance to highlight that Portugal is not only attractive for investors interested in the Golden Visa programme. There is a wave of successful expats, such as digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and retirees settling in Portugal and the country offers specific residency options to them, taking into consideration each particular case to meet their needs.

The most popular route these days is the Portugal Passive Income Visa , which is the ideal option for those who intend to live in Portugal and are able to show evidence of having a net regular or passive income that is deemed sufficient to support his or her family aggregate in Portugal (around €12,000.00 per year, plus 50% of this amount for the spouse and 30% for each dependent child).

Another possibility that is also becoming more notable is the D2 Visa , which is divided into two subtypes:

Freelancer´s
Entrepreneur´s

For a freelancer's residence permit , the applicant´s must have:

At least one signed contract for the provision of services to a client for fees that ensure reasonable financial means for you to live in Portugal (a minimum of, say, €12,000.00 per year, plus 50% of this value for the spouse and 30% for each dependent child);
If applicable, documentary evidence of having the professional qualifications needed to perform the intended professional activity in Portugal.

For an entrepreneur's residence permit the applicants must prove that either made or are making an investment in Portugal, OR you have sufficient funds available in Portugal (including finance) with which to make an investment, in accordance with a business plan describing at least the following aspects of your investment:

Identification;
Generic description;
Nature;
Amount
Intended duration;
Economic, social, scientific, technological or cultural relevance of the investment.

There is also the D3 Visa , which is a very good option for highly qualified professionals.

According to the Portuguese law, to request the D3 Resident permit for highly qualified activity, the applicant must provide:

Contract for services; or
An employment contract of at least one year’s duration, corresponding to an annual remuneration of at least 1,5 times the national average gross annual salary (1,752.52 euros/month) or three times the index value of social support – IAS (1.316,43 euros/month). This option is for highly qualified activity performed by subordinate worker.

And last but not least, the most recent Digital Nomad Visa that came into force on 30 ^th October, which will allow the holder to legally work remotely from Portugal and, it is presented in two different types, depending on how long you plan to stay in Portugal: Temporary stay Visa and Residence Visa .

This new Visa encompasses both remote workers who wish to temporarily stay in the country up to one year and digital nomads looking for a residency permit in Portugal.

To qualify for either short stay or residency permit, remote workers need to prove that they earn an income at least four times of the minimum salary (currently €705) and, have a work contract or a proof of self-employment. The aim of this requirement is to show that the applicant is financially able to pay the living expenses, accommodation and other needs that may arise during the validation of the visa.

For someone intending to move to Portugal, the visa options outline above constitutes a good alternative to the Golden Visa: no investment is required, the application processing is faster, and the Government fees are comparatively insignificant (for a family of 3, for example, the savings in Government fees will be around €30,000.00).

Another captivating aspect is that moving to Portugal is relatively easy no matter the chosen path and it is followed by many other benefits like acquiring citizenship after 5 years of legal residency and apply for tax benefits on most of your foreign income for 10 years through the NHR tax regime .

Investment through Portugal Golden Visa keeps rising

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 11:15:06 GMT

Portugal is ranked as one of the best places to live as it offers a highly attractive and charming lifestyle, great weather, security and hospitality.

It is undeniable the increase of foreigners interested in relocating to the country. The calm lifestyle, tax benefits and the possibility for non-EU citizens to acquire Portuguese citizenship in a short period of time is a key factor for the number of residency requests that increases every year.

Portugal has risen notably in 2012, when the Portuguese Government launched Portugal´s Golden Visa Programme and since then, it is Europe's most successful residency-by-investment programme targeted at non-EU citizens.

In the latest data released by SEF – The Immigration and Border Service, Golden Visa approvals are increasing once again. 120 applications were granted in September, 100 of which were for Real Estate acquisition (44 for urban rehabilitation) and 20 for capital transfers.

From January to September 2022, a total of 926 main investors have been approved: 94 in January, 94 in February, 73 in March, 121 in April, 112 in May, 155 in June, 80 in July, 77 in August and 120 in September. A sign that the programme is still growing, despite SEF’s temporary closure and the processing delays seen earlier in the year.

In the month of September, 26 golden visas were granted in China, 17 in the USA, 16 in the UK, 14 in Brazil and 7 in India. Investment in the purchase of real estate amounted 57 million euros last month, of which 15.4 million euros were in rehabilitation against only 10.3 million in capital transfer.

The program started in October 2012 and since then 11.180 applicants have received their Golden Visas.

Portugal’s Golden Visa program is one of the most popular residency by investment programs in Europe and in the world. The current eligible investment options are as follows:

1. The transfer of at least €1.5 million to Portugal, which may have one of the following investment sub-types:

A bank deposit;
The purchase of a shareholding in a Portuguese company or the incorporation of a single-member private limited company having a paid-up share capital of at least €1 million, such company being free to invest wherever and in whatever it wants;
The purchase of Portugal sovereign debt instruments;
The purchase of any securities issued by Portugal-based entities.

2. The Real Estate Investment and Real Estate Investment and its rehabilitation for Non-residential Purposes of at least €500,000.00 (reduced to €400,000.00 if located in a "low density area"), or €350,000.00 (reduced to €280,000.00 if located in a "low density area").

3. The Real Estate Investment and the Real Estate Investment and its rehabilitation for Residential Purposes will be limited to properties located in the interior territories of Portugal, identified in the Annex to Ministerial Order no. 208/20017 of 13th July, and in the islands of Madeira and Azores, and will keep the same investment minimum amount: €500,000.00 (reduced to €400,000.00 if located in a "low density area"), or €350,000.00 (reduced to €280,000.00 if located in a "low density area").

4. An investment of at least €500,000.00 in scientific research that is conducted by accredited institutions that are part of the national scientific and technological system (reduced to >€400,000.00 if located in a "low density area"), but please note that there do not seem to currently exist any such projects open to private investors.

5. Investing at least €500,000.00 in units of Portugal-regulated funds dedicated to the capitalisation of companies, provided that the fund invests at least 60% in Portugal-registered businesses, and that the maturity of said units is no less than 5 years from the date they are bought.

6. Investing at least €500,000.00 in setting up a Portuguese company that creates and keeps 5 new permanent jobs, or in increasing the share capital of an existing Portuguese company that creates or keeps at least 5 permanent jobs for a minimum period or 3 years.

7. A business, in the format of a single-member private limited company (no minimum investment is required), that creates and keeps at least 10 new permanent jobs in Portugal (reduced to >8 if located in a "low density area").

Becoming Portuguese: an overview of citizenship in Portugal

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 14:27:40 GMT

The Portuguese passport is one of the most sought-after documents across the globe because of the many benefits associated to it, such as the right to travel, live, work and study within the Schengen area and visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 187 destinations worldwide. The Portuguese passport was ranked the sixth most powerful in the world among 187 countries, according to the Henley Passport Index.

The acquisition of Portuguese citizenship is regulated by the Nationality Law as amended and regulated, and the application for citizenship is to be submitted to a civil registry office in Portugal. However, once the citizenship is acquired, passport applications are handled by the AIMA – The Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum, although the application may be submitted at a Citizen's Shop (Loja do Cidadão) or a Portuguese Consulate.

Under Portuguese law, there are several ways to acquire citizenship, among which we would like to highlight the following:

Portuguese Ancestry

Portuguese citizenship may be acquired if someone is born abroad and has a Portuguese parent or grandparent who did not lose his or her Portuguese nationality. This is one of the most popular paths to get a Portuguese passport.

Residency in Portugal

Another prominent path to acquire Portuguese citizenship by naturalisation, is provided that the person is holder of a valid residence title in Portugal for 5 years. In order to obtain Portuguese citizenship, you will need to pass the A2 Portuguese language test.

Portuguese citizenship may also be acquired by naturalisation if someone was born abroad and has a Portuguese child, provided that the applicant has been living in Portugal for the 5 years prior to the request, independently if holder or not of a valid residence title.

Marriage or Non-Marital

Another possibility is it may also be acquired by the spouse or life partner of a Portuguese citizen of at least 3 years, provided that the applicant is not at the service of a third country as a non-conscript military or as a non-technical civil servant, and if the applicant is able to provide evidence of having regular contacts and effective ties to Portugal

Portuguese Sephardic Jews

Portuguese citizenship may also be acquired by naturalisation, provided that the applicant is a descendant of Portuguese Sephardic Jews and belongs to a Sephardic community of Portuguese origin.

Former Portuguese Territories

The Decree-Law 308-A/75 of 24th June rules the possibility of citizenship for individuals born in former Portuguese territories: Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Portuguese India, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Macao and São Tomé and Príncipe or those whose parents were born in these countries under Portuguese rule. This is the ideal option for those who despite being born in one of these countries, have maintained strong ties and connection with Portugal by being long-term residents in the country.

Once the Portuguese nationality is acquired, the parents may request the Portuguese citizenship for their underage child(ren) or their adult child(ren) lacking capacity, provided that one of the parents has the Portuguese citizenship.

When considering a second passport, Portugal recognizes dual citizenship, being another of the many advantages, since it is not required to relinquish your previous passport.

Portugal: the perfect destination for retirement

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 11:33:55 GMT

Portugal is one of the best places in the world to retire, according to the recently released International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index . If retirement in Europe is your golden dream, then Portugal should definitely be on your list of possible new homes. With a low cost of living and tax incentives, retirees come from all over the world to settle down in this country and make use of the NHR regime, a quality healthcare system, and a high standard of living. Portugal is also one of the safest countries in the EU, according to the Global Peace Index 2022 .

Portuguese life allows retirees to have a slow-paced life, relax and enjoy every day without worry. With over 300 days of sun, warm summers and moderate winters, the country has a combination of cosmopolitan cities and isolated towns with stunning nature views, perfect for those who want a little bit of everything. From the vibrant culture in Lisbon to the cool way of life in Algarve, no matter the lifestyle there is something fitting for everyone looking to find their home in Portugal.

With a rich cultural heritage, this country has some of the most iconic architecture, art, and music in Europe. Portugal also has breath-taking vistas, stunning beaches, whimsical country landscapes and high-quality cuisine, featuring Portuguese dishes such as seafood and meat dishes at affordable prices. In fact, all aspects of everyday life are affordable in Portugal, from rent to the price of groceries.

The Portuguese people themselves are kind, rules-oriented and vehemently compassionate, and will definitely assist you if you need help. Portugal is also one of the safest counties in the world to live and the local crime rate is very low. Therefore, you will feel safe roaming around the cobblestoned streets or on your morning walks to buy the newspaper.

While it is not essential to learn the Portuguese language to live in Portugal, it will help you understand the country, the culture and better experience how kind and gentle the local people are.

Portugal is in one of the top ranks in the world health statistics. It has a good public healthcare system, and the private health insurance path is affordable and averages somewhere between €40 and €100 per month, depending on multiple factors like age and pre-existing conditions.

Portugal has several excellent residency visa options designed to make immigration fairly captivating for retirees.

Portugal’s Golden Visa programme is Europe’s most successful residency-by-investment programme targeted at non-EU citizens, one of the reasons for this being the low stay requirements (14 days, consecutive or non-consecutive, for each 2-year period). However, for those who intend to actually move to Portugal and live in this country, there may be more efficient and cost-effective solutions. For someone intending to move to Portugal, the D7 constitutes a good alternative to the Golden Visa: no investment is required, the application processing is faster, and the Government fees are significantly lower (for a family of 3, the savings in Government fees will be around €30,000.00).

Portugal has a special charisma for everyone looking to relocate, especially those looking for their golden days of sunset: cobblestoned streets, pastel-painted buildings, dazzlingly blue skies, dry, sunny climate, moderately priced wine, excellent gastronomy, beautiful landscapes – Portugal’s lifestyle attractions were, and remain, charmingly picturesque. And the unique combination of accessible residency pathways, enticing destinations and climate, affordable cost of living, and fast timeline to citizenship make Portugal an appealing choice for those looking to spend their retirement abroad.

CIPLE: the A2 Portuguese Language Test

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 14:14:59 GMT

The CIPLE (Certificado Inicial de Português Língua Estrangeira) language certificate refers to the Portuguese language and is aimed at beginners: A2 Level. This test was designed by the Department of Portuguese Language and Culture at the University of Lisbon in collaboration with the Portuguese Ministry of Culture.

This language certificate is part of a system of different language certificates with which foreign language learners can prove and verify their knowledge of the Portuguese language and it is a mandatory proficiency exam for those who are looking to get Portuguese citizenship.

What does it mean to get an A2 level? The levels have three main branches. Each branch also divides into two. Therefore, level A is for beginners, level B is for intermediate learners, and level C is for advanced learners. Their sub-branches are namely A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2.

The A2 Portuguese language test is about 2 hours long and comprised of three different sections:

First, oral comprehension.
Second, reading and writing.
Third, oral expression.

Oral comprehension takes 30 minutes and accounts for 30% of the overall score. In this part, the applicants need to demonstrate their ability to understand simple short sentences and basic daily conversations.

Reading and writing takes an hour and a half and accounts for 40% of the score. Applicants have to read and understand simple texts, usually in the form of informative texts, news or a short story, and answer questions related to these texts to demonstrate their comprehension. In the writing part applicants need to compose a short text with common phrases and frequently used expressions. It can be easier if you write about yourself or about people you know well.

Lastly, a short 10–15-minute speaking test, which requires applicants to use simple everyday phrases with basic structures, as well as interact based on given topics and images.

Although the language test is relatively simple, it would be a good idea to prepare well for the test to build your confidence and familiarize yourself with Portuguese. If you receive a mark of 55% or higher you will have a passing grade and will have earned your certification.

Learning a new language can be overwhelming. However, there are several language institutes and schools that offer multiple class formats: either you prefer online or presential, group or private classes, you will find one that fits your needs and learning speed. There are also many websites and apps to get you started. One of the most useful is the website from Instituto Camões , which promotes the learning of the Portuguese language internationally.

The CIPLE is officiated by the CAPLE - Centro de Avaliação e Certificação de Português Língua Estrangeira and can be taken in different language testing centres across the world. Internationally, the CIPLE exam takes place in May, July, and November. In Portugal, you can take this exam in March, June, September, or October. You can find the next exam date through CAPLE website.

You must bring your passport, ID card or residence permit to the exam. It will cost you €72, which must be paid at least 24 hours before taking the exam. And you will have to wait at least 2 weeks to know the results.

This simple A2 Portuguese test ensures that those who become a Portuguese national have a basic understanding of the language. Everyone who’s eligible for the Portuguese nationality will need to take the CIPLE exam.

Take your time to practice. You can start little by little, daily, building up your confidence and working on your pronunciation. When the time for your exam arrives, you will be completely ready for the Portuguese proficiency test.

Private Health Insurance in Portugal

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 15:33:51 GMT

Portugal is widely popular with Expats. It is a great home for young families, digital nomads, retirees, and students. In fact, it is difficult to imagine any group that would not love Portugal’s warm climate, affordable cost of living, beautiful cities, and overall high quality of life and healthcare.

To visit a private Doctor in Portugal, you would typically pay around €50 to €100 per appointment. With insurance you can pay only a fraction of that. The benefit of using a private system is that you will see a doctor faster and in turn you will get referred to a specialist more rapidly. Private hospitals can be more modern and more importantly for Expats is the language factor: most doctors, nurses and attending personnel speak English (and other languages). In some private hospital chains, you can even select the Doctor based on the languages they speak.

If you purchase insurance, you will most likely use private hospitals for the majority of your needs, but it is important to realise that you will probably still use the public system from time to time. The private system is much smaller than the public system and if you need intensive treatment, you will possibly be referred to a doctor on the public system. Therefore, if you plan to stay in Portugal for a long period of time, it is always a smart decision to apply to the country’s public health care system.

To enjoy your right to health public service, you must first register with the local council (Junta de Freguesia), where you must also ask for the proof of address, which you will need for your registration with the local healthcare centre (Centro de Saúde). You should bring your residency card (Cartão de Residência) and your visa as well.

A few things to consider when deciding which insurance product is the right one for you:

International cover: if you plan to travel or spend a lot of time outside of Portugal, or plan to move within the next few years, you may want to consider a provider that has an international approach.
Local hospitals and clinics – it would definitely be a good idea to check which insurances are accepted at the hospitals, dentists and other healthcare services you expect to visit.
Age restrictions: many insurers will have age restrictions and will not insure those over 70. Therefore, you will need to start your policy before then or it would be advisable to search for an insurance that will.
Pre-existing conditions: A health insurer cannot deny you coverage or raise rates for plans if you have a medical condition at the time of enrolment. However, there may be able to find health plans that are a better fit for you than others if you have a chronic, or pre-existing medical condition.
Dental: Dental care is not usually covered on the public healthcare system and a visit to a dentist can be costly in Portugal. Health Insurance can significantly cut down the expenses to small co-pay.
Pregnancy: pre-natal and birth care are free using the public system but many residents choose private hospitals where there is more privacy and they are likely to be more looked after.

Choosing and purchasing health insurance can be overwhelming, particularly if it is something you haven’t done before, and it can be difficult to know where to start. Banks in Portugal usually offer a discounted health insurance product and many expats even choose their bank based on this factor. Whilst this sounds like the easiest solution, it would be a good idea to browse around and see which other options you have available. A broker who can access the best options based on your needs might be useful or you can request individual quotes yourself.

The private healthcare system in Portugal offers a high level of care, with many of the comforts that expats would expect. While it can be a pricier option, it comes with the assurance that expats will be able to avoid some of the long queues and waiting lists associated with the public system.

Portugal feels like home

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 14:58:18 GMT

Being Europe’s westernmost country with a sliver of coastline and an interior of whimsical landscapes, Portugal is one of the best places to meet new people and to start a new life, offering captivating residency programs, which cover expats who wish to invest, work, and live in a country with 850 kilometres of cost line, stunning vistas and an average of 300 days of sunny weather.

There are multiple reasons as to why Portugal is considered one of the best countries to live in around the World. We could talk about the rich and varied gastronomy and the extensive history. Perhaps the most appreciated social cohesion or the fantastic climate throughout the year. It could be because Portugal is in one of the top ranks in the world health statistics, offering access to quality health care at affordable prices.

However, we would be talking about everything that you already know about Portugal. So, what else has this small country situated at the most extreme west of Europe next to the Atlantic Ocean got that makes it so special? The friendliness of the local people.

Portuguese people are welcoming, easy-going, friendly and love to talk. They are also proud of their country, its history and culture. English and other languages are widely spoken in Portugal; therefore, it is very easy for expats to feel at home once they arrive in Portugal

Portugal stands out consecutively each year on the Expat Insider 2022 survey , having ranked 4 ^th this year, out of 52 destinations, as the world’s best country for Expats who mainly «enjoy the high quality of life, find it easy to settle in, and are happy with their personal finances in Portugal».

According to the same survey, Portugal also appears in 4 ^th position in the Quality of Life Index. Therefore, Expats move to Portugal looking for a better quality of life and that is the most common reason for relocating here. Other factors are the climate and the good weather, the air quality, good leisure option and opportunities for recreational sports.

The Expat Insider 2022 also highlights that Expats find the country «easy and safe to get around on foot and/or by bicycle», they also «feel that they can openly express themselves and their opinions» and when asked “what they like most about life in Portugal, they mention the good environment, the mild climate and the peaceful life.

Portuguese people welcome Expats with open arms and are referred to as kind and friendly to the international community that has settled in this country, making them feel at home only a short time after their arrival. According to his survey, Expats also «find it easy to make local friends and are happy with their social life» in Portugal.

Perhaps this is the main reason as to why Portugal feels like home.

Belion Partners Rebranding

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 12:05:40 GMT

We are pleased and thrilled to unveil our refreshed brand identity. This update shows the growth and evolution of our company since its founding in 2013. While this is a significant transformation, our mission has not changed.

Over the last few months, we have dedicated our minds and hearts into creating a new image that would accurately portray who we are, what we do and our core principles and values as a company, comprised of a team of determined professionals who will continue to assist foreign individuals, families, businesses and institutions with investments and/or residence in Portugal, from the planning phase down to day-to-day operations, delivering to each of them the one stop shop solution that best meets their requirements.

In the spirit of rebranding, we will continue to commit to our clients, providing the same level of professionalism they are used to and strive daily to meet their expectations. We would also like to take the opportunity to thank our clients for your trust and our business partners for your dependability and friendship in business.

As you notice changes in our branding, website and social media, we would certainly love to connect with you. Feel free to reach out with any thoughts, requests, or compliments, and if you enjoy social media please connect with us.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact us anytime and let us know how Belion can assist you with your Portuguese residency or with you tax affairs or even with a tour in your new neighbourhood. Our mission is to provide daily assistance with everything that you may need in Portugal, from initial relocation to successfully settle here.

Positive economic projection for 2021-23

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 09:34:00 GMT

According to the Economic Bulletin from Banco de Portugal from Banco de Portugal (Bank of Portugal), issued in June 2021, the Portuguese economy is expected to have a positive scenario for the next two years. Please find below a few highlights:

GDP is projected to grow by 4.8% in 2021, 5.6% in 2022 and 2.4% in 2023;
The economy will return to its 2019 level in the first half of 2022;
Inflation will rise marginally over the horizon, to 0.7% in 2021, 0.9% in 2022 and 1.0% in 2023;
Private consumption will grow by 3.3% in 2021 and recover more markedly in 2022 (4.9%);
Investment will grow, on average, by 7% in 2021-23;
Exports will grow by around 14% in 2021-22;
The current and capital account will post a surplus of 0.9% of GDP in 2021 and of close to 2% of GDP in 2022-23 due to the recovery in tourism and the inflow of European funds;
Employment is projected to rise by 1% in annual average terms in 2021-23.

These projections bring an optimistic scenario for the Portuguese economy, where important indicators will, sooner or later, be back to pre-Covid figures and bring some confidence to businesses.

Portugal Ranks 4th in the Global Peace Index 2021

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 09:29:00 GMT

The Institute for Economics & Peace launched in June the new edition of the Global Peace Index 2021 “which ranks 163 independent states and territories according to their level of peacefulness”.

Following Iceland, New Zealand and Denmark, Portugal has a “Very High” mark in the safety category, ranking 4th in the Index, followed by Slovenia. In fact, Europe holds the largest number of countries in the top ten.

The Global Peace Index (GPI) “measures more than just the presence or absence of war. It captures the absence of violence or the fear of violence across three domains: Safety and Security, Ongoing Conflict, and Militarisation.”

Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world and, according to the Minister of Home Affairs, Mr. Eduardo Cabrita, "in 2020, Portugal registered the lowest crime rates since the current registration model was implemented, more than 30 years ago. And it is important to recall that this was attained during a year as difficult as this, with the pandemic, which in many countries led to a rise in conflict and the rise in some types of crime".

Portugal has been in the top 5 countries for the past five years and will hopefully retain its high position in the years to come.

Municipal Property Tax due by the end of May

Mon, 17 May 2021 13:03:00 GMT

All property owners should have received by now correspondence from the Portuguese Tax Authority (AT) concerning the Municipal Property Tax (Imposto Municipal sobre Imóveis – IMI). This notification was either sent by post or through Via CTT (the Tax Authority Electronic Notification system).

This Municipal Property Tax can be paid all at once, or in installments, and it is due by the end of May.

If you need assistance with such matters and you want to stay on top of your Tax Authority notifications, Belion Portugal provides the following services:

Tax Authority Notices Control service
Activation of the Tax Authority Electronic Notification system (Via CTT)
Assistance with making payments in Portugal
Property Management

For more information, please contact us at info@belionportugal.com

Mandatory Tax Representation for UK citizens postponed

Thu, 13 May 2021 11:23:00 GMT

Under the General Tax Law (Decree Law no. 398/98), Article 19, no. 6, taxable persons resident abroad, as well as those who, although resident in Portugal, are absent for a period exceeding six months, as well as collective persons and other entities legally equivalent to them that ceased their activity, must appoint for tax purposes a representative residing in national territory.

For this reason, with Brexit, United Kingdom citizens living in Portugal and with a British address, had until June 2021 to appoint a tax representative in the country.

Nevertheless, a new Order (SEAAF no. 150/2021-XXII, of 30/04) has been issued which postpones the deadline for UK nationals and companies to appoint a tax representative until the 30th of June 2022, without any penalty.

New registrations and changes of address to the UK will require, nonetheless, such appointment of tax representative.

Belion Portugal acts as a tax representative in Portugal of non-resident individuals and businesses and assists them complying with Portuguese tax regulations.

For more information, please contact us at info@belionportugal.com

Lisbon as one of the 21 Places of the Future

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:51:00 GMT

According to a study by the American company Cognizant: “Lisbon was chosen from more than 150 cities around the world, as one of the 21 places of the future”, positioning itself as one of the three European cities that make up the final list.

The evaluation concluded that Lisbon is a “sophisticated city”, which stands out for the quality of its universities, infrastructure and security, for its access to private capital, for having a stable local government / administration and for being a sustainable city.

The Portuguese capital was highlighted for “being a place where it is easy to work”, for its cultural and entertainment offer and one for being home to a ‘pool’ of talents, as well as for presenting a good standard and cost of living.

We identified Lisbon as a focus for global innovation and new ideas, which will certainly create and drive the future of work. The fourth industrial revolution and the pandemic are transforming the economy on a global scale and new talents, new skills and new attitudes are needed,” said Manuel Ávalos, Cognizant general director for southern Europe.

As the company explained, ‘21 places of the future’ is a roadmap “that allows businesses, governments and businesses to learn from the success of other expanding places”.

To carry out this study, Cognizant, “using the metaphor of an atom”, analysed the nuclei and electrons of each place, creating an “atom of success” for each of the cities and places. “In the centre are three well-defined elements that are considered essential for the success of each city: local government, quality of schools and universities and access to private capital. However, each nucleus needs electrons around it. In the study, electrons are made up of eight components: physical infrastructure, environment (sustainability), lifestyle (diversity and inclusion), culture and entertainment, “bricks” (architecture), “clicks” (digital infrastructure), talent groups and accessibility”, he said.

Sources: AICEP and Cognizant – Places of the Future

Portugal as the Top European Option for Residency and Citizenship

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 17:19:00 GMT

Portugal is not only known as a tourist destination, but also as a superb option for residency and citizenship. The country provides one of the top investment programmes in the world – the Golden Visa, as well as a highly attractive tax regime for foreigners – the Non-Habitual Resident regime.

According to the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) the number of foreigners living in Portugal increased 22.9% from 2018 to 2019, totalling almost 600,000 people in a 10-million population.

The Golden Visa is aimed at non-EU citizens and it is Europe's most successful residency-by-investment programme, one of the reasons for this being the low stay requirements: 14 full days, consecutive or nonconsecutive, for each 2-year period.

Among the many routes for investment, it is possible to obtain a Golden Visa by purchasing a property of at least € 500,000.00 (reduced to €400,000.00 if located in a "low density area") or, by purchasing a property that was built at least 30 years ago, and its purchase price plus the ex-VAT value of the rehabilitation works contract is at least €350,000.0, bringing the cost down to >€280,000 if located in a "low density area".

After having held legal Portugal residency for 5 years and, subject to passing a "basic Portuguese" language test, one is entitled to permanent residency or citizenship.

Since it is a relatively simple, fast and the most economic route to obtain residence and citizenship in the EU, there is no wonder why it is a top choice for those seeking residency in a European country.

The Non-Habitual Resident regime (NHR) is considered one of the top alternatives for any foreign citizens who want their taxes to be (next to) zero while living abroad. It allows them to enjoy a 10-year tax exemption on most non-Portugal-sourced types of income. By applying to this tax-friendly status, EU or non-EU citizens, entrepreneurs, professionals, pensioners or high-net-worth individuals can benefit from tax free benefits.

Although the individual must be deemed a resident of Portugal upon submitting the application, there is no minimum stay requirement afterwards and it is even possible to stop being a Portuguese tax resident for one or more years without losing non-habitual resident status.

These two interesting programmes definitely make Portugal a gem for residency and citizenship and Belion Partners’ professionals have plenty of expertise to help you navigate through the process.

Portugal is gradually getting back to “normality”

Wed, 13 May 2020 07:53:00 GMT

Portugal has been a worldwide example on dealing effectively with Covid 19 pandemic. The state of emergency was declared on March 18 when the country had 642 confirmed coronavirus cases and 2 deaths. Before that, street shops, restaurants, cafés, shopping centres and many other businesses decided to close doors, contributing very positively to limit contamination.

Nearly two months later, the country counts 1,163 deaths, one of the lowest numbers per million inhabitants compared with other countries.

The country started to ease lockdown measures on May 4 with a 3-phase plan.

The first phase includes the reopening of hairdressers, small street shops, bookshops and libraries, although with significant restrictions such as the limit on the number of people inside a shop and the mandatory use of protection masks.

The second phase, starting on May 18, will include medium size shops, restaurants, cafés and terraces, museums, palaces and monuments and childcare centres. Grade 11 and 12 secondary school students will also be able to return to schools and prepare for exams.

The final phase, from June 1, will include larger shops and shopping centres, preschools, cinemas, theatres and religious services. Football leagues may return to competition without spectators and beaches should reopen with a system for crowd control that is still to be finalised.

The Prime Minister stated that “as long as there is Covid, there will be no normal life”. Nevertheless, there is room for optimism considering the country's and national health system's (SNS) effectiveness in dealing with the pandemic.

Portugal pointed #1 country to live and retire after the Covid-19 pandemic

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 17:01:00 GMT

Ultimately, the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic crisis will fade away. By then, this whole experience we are all living will change our priorities on what matters most in life.

Looking beyond this global crisis, where in the world will offer the best options for repositioning yourself abroad?

According to a recent article published by Forbes, Portugal and its south region Algarve rank #1 in the best places to live and retire. See the full article here - Living And Retiring Overseas Post The Coronavirus—Three Top Options New Paragraph

Pending cases for residence have validity extended to June 30, 2020

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 10:48:00 GMT

Portuguese government determined that all residence requests pending in the Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) are considered valid until the end of June 2020.

The decree-law that came into force on March 27 establishes March 19, the date of declaration of the State of Emergency, as the starting date for the validity prorogation of all residence requests already submitted as well as residence permit renovations scheduled to a date from March 19.

According to these "freshly" enacted rules, the scheduling document issued by SEF or proof of request receipt is now valid - and can be used as a kind of permit - in all public services providers, namely to request the social security number, to obtain access to the public health system and social care mechanisms, to sign lease agreements and utilities contracts and to open bank accounts.

All appointment requests submitted in SEF’s pre-scheduling system or any other system used by SEF are now postponed to a later date starting on July 1. In order to guarantee equal treatment for all foreign citizens, the appointments will be rescheduled in chronological order from that date.

Covid 19 Exceptional Measures – Document Validity Extension

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 10:24:00 GMT

Covid 19 Exceptional Measures – Document Validity Extension. Documents are subject to renewal.

No changes to Portugal Golden Visa until the end of the 2020

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 12:37:00 GMT

The restriction to invest in real estate in the areas of Greater Lisbon, Porto and coastal regions will not be implemented in the residency by investment programme, commonly known as Golden Visa, until the end of 2020, according to Tiago Antunes, Secretary of State for the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.

Tiago Antunes stated his opinion in a local broadcast radio that the changes approved by the parliament, “which are perfectly justifiable and make total sense”, should only be implemented at the start of 2021 in order to prevent any ongoing business transactions and residency applications under the Golden Visa scheme.

“We need to explain to the market that there isn’t any kind of disturbance that justifies the cancelling of any ongoing business”, he said.

From 2021, real estate investment as an option to obtain a Golden Visa will be limited to the interior and autonomous regions of Madeira and Azores. So far, it is not fully clear which areas will be subjected to the announced restriction. The other eligible investment routes are not to suffer any changes.

Portugal - Excelente oportunidad para las Pymes

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 14:58:00 GMT

Se habla hace mucho que Portugal es un paraíso fiscal para las personas físicas pero ofrece también excelentes oportunidades para las empresas.

A) Sociedad con personalidad jurídica propia
Existen dos tipos principales de sociedades en Portugal, la Sociedad Limitada (Lda.) y la Sociedad Anónima (S.A.).

La Sociedad Limitada (Lda.) (Sociedade por Quotas) es la forma societaria utilizada por inversores particulares o sociedades y puede ser unipersonal. Se caracteriza por:

Nombre comercial: nombre escogido + referencia al ámbito de actividad + Lda. («sociedad limitada»). En el caso de unipersonal, después del ámbito de actividad se hará referencia a este aspecto (Unipessoal).
Capital social mínimo 2 EUR (1 EUR si es unipersonal), sólo se permiten aportaciones de capital (en metálico o en especie). Las aportaciones en metálico pueden diferirse por un periodo máximo de 5 años salvo en el caso de sociedades unipersonales que solo se puede diferir el 50% de las aportaciones.
Mínimo 2 socios (1 en caso de unipersonal).
Responsabilidad de los accionistas: limitada al capital suscrito, si bien los socios son responsables solidarios de todas las aportaciones previstas en los estatutos (y podrían ser de aplicación obligaciones adicionales para el socio en caso de que se trate de una empresa con participación mayoritaria).
Tiempo medio en la constitución de 1 semana.

La Sociedad Anónima (S.A.) es la otra forma mercantil utilizada por inversores particulares o sociedades. Se caracteriza por:

Nombre comercial: nombre escogido + referencia al ámbito de actividad + S.A. («sociedad anónima»).
Capital social mínimo: 50.000 EUR, sólo se permiten aportaciones de capital (en metálico o en especie). El 70% de las aportaciones en metálico puede diferirse por un periodo máximo de 5 años. La prima de emisión (de haberla) no puede diferirse.
Mínimo 5 socios (o uno, si la constituye una persona jurídica).
Estructuras alternativas de administración:
(i) Consejo de administración (o administrador único, si el capital social no excede de los 200.000 EUR) + Consejo de auditoría (o auditor único);o
(ii) Consejo de administración (incluida una Comisión de auditoría) + Auditor; o
(iii) Consejo ejecutivo (o administrador único, si el capital social no excede de los 200.000 EUR) + Consejo general y de supervisión + Auditor.
Responsabilidad de los accionistas: limitada al capital suscrito (aunque podrían ser de aplicación obligaciones adicionales para el socio en caso de que se trate de una empresa con participación mayoritaria).
Tiempo medio en la constitución de 2 semanas.

El Programa de Simplificação Administrativa e Legislativa, «Simplex», que permite la constitución inmediata de sociedades en menos de una hora y a través de Internet está disponible para las sociedades de responsabilidad limitada y las sociedades anónimas.

B) Sucursal

Entidad sin personalidad jurídica propia y sin límite a la responsabilidad de la compañía matriz. Se requiere que el nombre comercial sea el del inversor + Sucursal en Portugal («sucursal en Portugal»).

C) Otros tipos de sociedades con personalidad jurídica: Sociedad Europea (SE), Agrupación de Empresas (ACE) .

Tipo de gravamen : el tipo general del IRC (impuesto sobre las empresas) es del 21%, al que hay que añadir un recargo municipal (“derrama municipal”) que puede ser de hasta un 1,5% de los beneficios imponibles (dependiendo del municipio donde se desarrollen las actividades).

No obstante, existe un tipo especial reducido del IRC para PYMES. Para estas sociedades, los beneficios imponibles hasta 15.000 € (se discute que con el presupuesto para 2020 el beneficio puede subir hasta 25.000 €) están sujetos a un tipo reducido de tan solo para 17%. El resto de los beneficios imponibles que sobrepasen ese umbral están sujetos al tipo general del IRC.

Dividendos y ganancias de capital : los dividendos de origen nacional y extranjero obtenidos por una sociedad residente están exentos si se cumplen las siguientes condiciones: (i) participación mínima del 10% en la sociedad que distribuye los dividendos; (ii) 1 año de tenencia (que pueden cumplirse una vez obtenidos los dividendos); (iii) el origen de los dividendos no tiene limitación geográfica (salvo por los dividendos recibidos de jurisdicciones de la lista negra); (iv) la sociedad que distribuye los dividendos está sujeta y no exenta a un impuesto comparable al IRC portugués a un tipo no inferior al 60% del tipo del IRC portugués (es decir, 12,6%) (si no se cumple esta última condición, pueden aplicarse otros requisitos alternativos).

Los dividendos pagados por una sociedad portuguesa a sus accionistas están exentos si las sociedades beneficiarias cumplen las condiciones anteriores pero siempre que los accionistas sean residentes en Estados miembro de la UE, el EEE (sin contar los que no intercambian información fiscal con Portugal) o las jurisdicciones con las que Portugal ha firmado un CDI con mecanismo de intercambio de información.

Intereses y cánones : los intereses y cánones pagados por una sociedad portuguesa a sus accionistas están exentos si se cumplen los requisitos de la Directiva de intereses y cánones (participación mínima del 25%, 2 años de tenencia, forma jurídica determinada, sujeción y no exención a impuesto sobre beneficios y residencia del accionista en UE).

Hay todavía una excelente oportunidad para pequeños negocios para se ubican en Portugal. Empresas cuyo montante de ingresos no sea superior a 200.000 € o con un balance no superior a 500.000 € pues pueden determinar su resultado a través de la aplicación del sistema de Régimen Simplificado. En este sistema la renta tributable es el resultado de aplicar un coeficiente de tan solo 4% sobre la cifra de ventas y actividades hoteleras y similares y un 75% para el resto de las actividades comerciales, con excepción de las actividades de alojamiento local que tributan por 35% de su resultado. Es un excelente vehículo de inversión en el territorio luso.

Regímenes especiales para los expatriados

Un contribuyente que haya sido residente fiscal en Portugal durante un año y que no haya tributado como residente durante los cinco años anteriores puede solicitar el régimen tributario especial para residentes fiscales no habituales. En términos generales, los residentes no habituales tributan a un tipo fijo del 20% sobre la renta del trabajo (categoría A) y los ingresos como trabajador autónomo (categoría B) derivados de actividades científicas, artísticas o técnicas y exentos de la mayoría de los ingresos mundiales.

Contacten con nosotros para más informaciones!

TRUSTS – TAX RULES APPLICABLE IN PORTUGAL

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 09:25:00 GMT

Under the Portuguese Income Tax Code rules, the amounts paid or made available to tax residents in Portugal by trusts will be deemed as investment income and subject to taxation at a 28% tax rate, or 35% if the income derives from territories listed as clearly more favourable tax regime territories, know as tax heavens.

Personal Income Tax - Tax Return Filing Period in Portugal

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 15:21:00 GMT

Resident individuals, irrespectively of whether or not they hold non-habitual resident (NHR) status, are liable to income tax on their worldwide income and non-residents on their Portugal-sourced income only.

We will be able to assist you with the required guidance on the relevant documentation and information about all categories of income and your tax-deductible expenses, double tax agreement rules, filling and submitting tax returns.

Please consider the key date dates in respect of income tax matters this year are as follows:

25th February

Validate on the Tax Authority (AT) portal the 2019 tax-deductible expenses that have been invoiced against you;

Inform AT of any relevant changes to your circumstances occurred during 2019, such as marriage, divorce, new children, etc.

31st March

Between 15th and 31st March you should verify your eligible tax deductions on the AT portal and, in the event there are any relevant errors or omissions, your claim has to be filed no later than 31st March.

In the event you wish us to prepare and file your tax return, March 31st is also the latest date for us to receive from you all the relevant information to this effect.

30th June

The annual tax return in respect of the tax/calendar year 2019 must be filed between 1st April and 30th June 2020.

31st August

This is the deadline for the payment of your income tax, if any, in respect of 2019.

PORTUGUESE (NHR) TAX REGIME - IMMINENT CHANGES

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 09:45:00 GMT

Non-habitual resident tax regime will change as of the 1st of March, 2020

The Portuguese Socialist Party (that backs the Government in parliament) following the presentation of the national budget for 2020 has announced a proposal that will change the non-habitual resident tax regime as of the 1st of March, 2020. This Proposal in its broader terms was already endorsed by the Portuguese government so with a certain degree of certainty this changes will soon be materialized into law.

As such new tax residents in Portugal (those who registered as such from the 1st of March, 2020) will start paying 10% tax on his foreign pensions whereas now there is an exemption on said income. Those who are already tax residents in Portugal and those who will register as such until the 29th February, 2020, will keep the exemption until the end of the 10 year tax break given by the NHR regime.

The exemption is maintained for those who already have it, but it will likely be reduced for those who arrive in Portugal from the 1st of March, 2020.

No other significant changes are foreseen for the NHR regime, so the current tax exemption on foreign dividends, interest, rents, salaries and capital gains from immovable property will continue as it is, making the Portuguese NHR regime still one of the most competitive and advantageous tax regimes in Europe for individuals.

Social Security numbers issued to 18,000 foreigners in 2020

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 09:53:00 GMT

Over 18,000 citizens of other countries have already been issued a Social Security Identification Number (NISS).

Portuguese passport among the most powerful passports in the world

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 15:14:00 GMT

The Henley Passport Index, which periodically measures the world's most travel-friendly passports, has released its first report of the new decade.

The Portuguese passport is the seventh most powerful of 2020, which means that citizens who have it can enter 185 countries without a visa. Switzerland, Netherlands, Ireland and Austria share Portugal's position in the ranking and Japan holds the first position with access to 191 countries.

CHANGES TO PORTUGAL'S NATIONALITY LAW

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 10:15:00 GMT

Portugal's Parliament has recently changed the Nationality Law, making it easier in some respects for a foreigner to become a Portuguese citizen. The changes came into force yesterday, although they still await the necessary changes to the corresponding regulations in order to become fully effective. The main changes are as follows:

- A foreigner who has held legal Portuguese residency for 5 years (formerly 6) may apply for Portuguese citizenship provided the other legal requirements are met.

- For the application for citizenship by someone married to, or living as a life partner of, a Portuguese citizen, it is no longer required to show an effective connection of the applicant to Portugal in the event the couple has a child who is a Portuguese citizen.

- An individual born in Portugal to foreign parents shall be deemed an originary Portuguese citizen provided that on the date of the birth one of the parents has been a Portugal legal resident for at least 2 years (down from the 5 years that were formerly required).

NEW CHANGE TO PORTUGAL'S GOLDEN VISA APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 09:13:00 GMT

SEF, Portugal's foreigners and border agency, which processes the Golden Visa applications, has just announced another change to the application procedure. From now on, copies of all of the required documents must be filed online on their portal and approved, and the Government application fee must be paid, before the initial interview and biometrics-collection session may be booked.

Once the copy documents are approved, the applicant will be given online access to SEF's schedule of available time slots and may then make the necessary appointment. The original documents must be submitted at the interview, but their validity is to be calculated as at the time of the online filing date.

POST-BREXIT RIGHTS OF EU AND UK CITIZENS

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 10:38:00 GMT

The EU and the UK have released a joint report outlining the post-Brexit rights of EU citizens in the UK and vice-versa. The main principles agreed on are as follows:

Portugal's Tax Haven Blacklist: The Inclusion of Isle of Man & Uruguay

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 04:31:00 GMT

Jersey (Channel Islands), the Isle of Man and Uruguay, which were white-listed by the Portuguese Government during 2017, were blacklisted again under the 2018 State Budget approved by Parliament.

PORTUGAL’S GOLDEN VISA APPLICATION PROCEDURES CHANGE IN JANUARY 2017

Tue, 07 Feb 2017 09:46:00 GMT

SEF, Portugal’s Foreigners and Borders Service, the Government agency that processes the applications for the residency-by-investment permit known as the “Golden Visa”, has adopted new procedures, the main impact of which will be felt in the initial application of a real estate investor.

The Good News: Faster Processing of the Applications

The good news is that the new rule book, which was released internally on January 9th 2017, is expected to streamline the processing of applications and thereby reduce the processing time frame to within the maximum limits allowed for under applicable law, namely 90 days for the initial application and 60 for the renewal applications. Such limits have been systematically disrespected since the beginning of 2015, in the aftermath of the corruption scandal that involved the head of SEF in November of the previous year, and due to several ensuing changes, many of which aimed at preventing new occurrences of similar cases.

The Bad News: No Longer Possible to Buy a Property and File the Application During a Single Trip

The bad news is that, under the new rules, Golden Visa applications may only be filed together with all the required paperwork, including the documentary evidence that the minimum required investment has been made. Now, whilst this does not raise any special difficulty in the case of an investment in financial assets, it may do so in case the applicant chooses to invest in real estate. This is because it ceases to be possible to deal with the initial application during a single short trip to Portugal, as it used to be the case. In fact, given the need for the physical presence of the main applicant to initiate the procedure, it is simply not feasible to view properties, choose and purchase one, and have the required purchase and registration paperwork ready for submission in less than at least 5 weeks.

Solutions: Take 2 Trips, Buy Without Viewing or Invest in Financial Assets

The obvious solution is for the main applicant (or a trusted relative or friend) to initially travel to Portugal for viewing properties and make a choice. The property can then be purchased by the applicant’s lawyer on his/her behalf, and once all the paperwork is in order the main applicant can then travel to Portugal to initiate the application procedure. His family members may accompany him and attend the biometrics-taking session at SEF, or else they may do this once the application gets approved and before the residence permit cards can be issued.

A second solution is for the property to be chosen without a prior viewing, in which case the investor may want to previously order an independent valuation by an accredited surveyor.

Further solutions involve setting up a Portuguese company and Belion Partners will be happy to discuss them with you.

Portuguese Government To Speed Up Golden Visa Application Process

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 19:41:00 GMT

Up until November 2014 Golden Visa applications took on average 2 months to be processed, whether initial or renewal applications. Then an embezzlement scandal at SEF, the border agency, broke up and this was followed by a full audit of their procedures and then by a full rewriting of their procedures manual. This naturally disrupted the normal functioning of the institution. In the Summer of 2015, the law governing the Golden Visa programme underwent some changes, including the opening up of additional investment options, but it took a couple of months for the new regulatory framework to be approved, which resulted in a temporary suspension of the processing of applications. Finally, SEF workers' union, unhappy with all these disruptions to their service, conducted some zeal strikes during this same Summer.

The accumulation of such circumstances resulted in severe delays and in a considerable backlog in the processing of Golden Visa new and renewal applications. So, although the law provides for a maximum of 3 months for the processing of initial applications and of 2 months for renewals, these time frames have not been complied with for some time now.

In order to quickly clear the backlog and phase out the current delays, the Portuguese Government has now announced the formation of a special task force, whose aim is to help SEF with the processing of pending applications and get the ship back to a normal speed, as provided for under the law. It is therefore hoped that this will now not take long to happen.

PORTUGAL'S GOLDEN VISA STAY REQUIREMENTS: UPDATE

Wed, 02 Apr 2014 16:04:00 GMT

This is a piece of good news to Golden Visa applicants and holders.

SEF, the Portuguese border agency, has clarified that the minimum stays in Portugal required from Golden Visa holders are as follows:

The way the statutes had been written led most people to interpret them as requiring a 14-day stay per year during years 2 to 5. However, the wording was ambiguous and the SEF's interpretation is a welcome clarification.

URBAN REHABILITATION INCENTIVES PROGRAMME IN PORTUGAL

Fri, 15 Nov 2013 15:02:00 GMT

There are various government and municipal incentives in Portugal aimed at the rehabilitation of urban areas, buildings and even apartments that are either located in designated neighbourhoods or else have been built more than 30 years ago and are in need of rehabilitation work. Such rehabilitation is encouraged in Portugal by a legal framework which, among other measures, provides for the following:

Simplified and quick planning permission procedures;
Simplified and quick eviction of long term tenants who would otherwise have a right to extend their tenancy rights indefinitely;
Various tax breaks;
Special financing schemes.

This paper briefly describes these official incentives, particularly from the point of view of prospective real estate investors in Portugal. This is a description of a general nature and cannot preclude specialised technical advice in connection with specific situations.

Eligibility

Buildings and apartments that are eligible to benefit from the rehabilitation incentives programmes are essentially those located in neighbourhoods specifically designated by the relevant municipality or else that have been built more than 30 years ago and are in need of rehabilitation work.

Regardless of whether or not the same property use is kept, the benefits are granted on the condition that the rehabilitation work results in a property preservation condition that is at least “two levels” above that existing before the work, as certified by the local municipality before and upon the conclusion of the rehabilitation work.

In order to qualify, the rehabilitation work has to comply with the following main requirements:

The building façades, as well as any architectural and structural elements deemed of heritage value, have to be preserved;
The number of floors above and below ground level, plus the roofing configuration, cannot be changed;
The structural resistance of the building cannot be negatively affected.

Each municipality has its own rehabilitation specific programmes and special procedures, but in general it can be said that they have all enthusiastically embraced the urban renovation opportunities afforded by the national programme. The municipality of Lisbon, for example, designated almost all of the city’s neighbourhoods as urban rehabilitation areas eligible to benefit from the tax incentives.

Planning Permission

Under a law passed in 2012, rehabilitation works benefit from a simplified and quick planning permission procedure based on a system of prior communication by the developer to a single body appointed by the municipality to oversee rehabilitation works. Under this system, the developer’s technical expert (qualified architect and/or engineer) assumes responsibility for the conformity of the planned works to existing regulations, and planning permission is automatically granted within 20 days of the communication, unless the municipality decides to oppose the plan within this time frame, which it can only do on certain specific grounds. Likewise, upon conclusion of the works, the property usability and, if applicable, its division into separately-owned apartments, will be speedily licensed by the municipality on the basis of a communication by the expert who took responsibility for the works.

Old Tenancy Rights

With a view to encourage rehabilitation works in rented properties, a law was passed in 2012 that provides for some fundamental changes to the rights of long term tenants, notably the following:

There has been a drastic reduction of exceptional tenants’ benefits regimes;
A tenant can be evicted on the grounds that the landlord has requested from the municipality planning permission to do rehabilitation work;
A court order ceased to be necessary for the eviction of a tenant, it being enough for the landlord to give a six-month formal notice to the tenant;
Where a tenant is entitled to compensation, its maximum amount will be that of one year’s rent or 1/15 of the official value of the property.

Tax Incentives

The most relevant tax incentives to property rehabilitation are shown in the following table.

* - Materials that exceed 20% of the total contract value will not benefit from the reduced VAT rate.

** - The taxpayer may choose to renounce this special rate and to include the income/gains in his/her overall taxable income.

Finance

There are several programmes aimed at financing rehabilitation works. As an example, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, a State-owned bank, offers the following.

Term – up to 15 years.

Amount – up to 90% of the value of the rehabilitation works, excluding planning costs, subject to a minimum project value of €40,000 and a minimum loan amount of €20,000.

Reimbursement:

Option 1 – Equal instalments of capital and interest.
Option 2 – at least 70% of the loan + interest on up to 30% of the loan in equal instalments, the remaining capital and interest being payable at the end of the term.

Interest rate – either a variable rate indexed to the 6-month Euribor rate or a fixed 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30-year rate, in either case with an added spread of at least 3.5 percentage points. This spread may be reduced for customers who subscribe to certain other products offered by the bank.

THE TRUE COST OF A PORTUGAL GOLDEN VISA

Fri, 30 Aug 2013 14:54:00 GMT

The real estate investment route to a Portugal Golden Visa may involve high hidden costs, in terms of both taxes and property overpricing. In this article we reveal what such costs may amount to and compare this route to the securities investment route in terms of all associated costs.

The real estate investment route – caveat emptor!

The real estate investment route to a Portugal Golden Visa is the most popular, because the minimum investment amount required per family is only €500,000.

However, be careful. Many investors choose to use the services of emigration agents, emigration consultants or real estate agents in or from their country or region of origin. What they don’t know is that many such agents have commission agreements with Portuguese real estate agents, under which they get paid commission which often reaches 20% of the property purchase price and such commission is in addition to that of the Portuguese real estate agent. Now, to be clear, normal estate agents’ commission rates in Portugal only very rarely exceed a maximum of 6%, most commonly varying between 3% and 5%.

Such commissions (i.e. the foreign agent’s plus the Portuguese real estate agent’s), often totalling 30% of the property purchase price, are added by the property seller to the intended sale price, because, being billed by the estate agent, they are tax deductible by the seller.

In addition to this rather scandalous situation, many sellers of properties in the sub-€500,000 price range are putting their asking price up, so that it reaches the €500,000 mark, in the hope of selling them to a Golden Visa applicant. This will typically be the case of someone wanting to sell a property that is worth, say, €450,000. Try and find properties in Portugal that are likely to be appealing to Golden Visa applicants and are priced between €450,000 and €499,000. They are very difficult to find, of course.

So the sad truth is that many Golden Visa applicants are buying properties that may be overpriced by 30 or 40%, and will consequently have a bad surprise when they decide to resell their property or swap it for a better one.

In addition to this overpricing situation, the investor must take into account the taxes payable on the property purchase (and on property income, if the property is for rental). The following one-off property transfer taxes are payable by the buyer on the purchase price or on the tax office valuation of the property, whichever the greater:

In sum, if you are making a €500,000 or so investment in Portuguese real estate you may well be paying some 40% over the market price, and then adding 8.8% in taxes to this ridiculously high purchase price.

The securities investment route

If you opt for investing in Portuguese securities as your route to a Golden Visa, you must invest a minimum of €1 million. This is not a bad route, since there are several good opportunities of making a reasonably good and relatively safe investment under current market conditions.

Portuguese bonds bought in the secondary market at a discount are a good example. Take a Portugal Telecom (PT) 5, 6 or 7-year bond maturing in 5 years, for instance. PT is a very solid company and one of Portugal’s biggest. You can buy such bonds in the secondary market at 94% of their face value and they yield an interest of 4.6% per year, which you may receive net (free of tax) if your bank books the transaction offshore. If you bought at 94%, the effective yield is 4.89%. Then at maturity you receive the face value of your investment, making an additional 6%. And there are no taxes on the purchase, on the income or on the sale – it’s all net.

So under this conservative approach you stand to make 30.45% net over a 5 year period with a risk tending to zero. And this can, naturally, be considerably higher if you are prepared to take higher risks.

To match this performance with a real estate investment you have to buy at a good price and expect market prices to increase over the next 5 years (which seems probable). It is feasible, of course, but the risks are very high if your purchase is overpriced.

Conclusion – your options

The first decision you have to make is on your choice of route. As things stand, investing in securities is probably a safer investment, but the investment amount must be considerably higher. If you choose the real estate route, we would advise as follows:

In any case, you are welcome to use Belion Partners’ Property Search service . This will allow you to determine the type, size and location of properties, if any, that meet your requirements and your budget.

DO YOU NEED A TAXPAYER ID NUMBER AND A TAX REPRESENTATIVE IN PORTUGAL?

Wed, 28 Aug 2013 23:00:00 GMT

In practice, no legal act may be performed in Portugal, including the opening of a simple bank account, without all the intervening parties producing a taxpayer identification number. Obtaining this number is therefore the first step to be taken by someone intending to invest, carry on a business, buy an asset that is subject to registration (e.g. a car) or just establish a presence in this country.

The bureaucratic process for obtaining a taxpayer number differs according to whether the applicant is an individual or a corporate body. In either case, the number will be obtained in no time, provided the paperwork is in order.

An individual’s tax identification number may be obtained by the individual from any tax office or from a “Citizen’s Shop” (Loja do Cidadão) upon presentation of an original passport (or national identity card if an EU citizen); or it may be obtained by an individual’s representative, who will need a legalised copy of the represented person’s passport (or national identity card if an EU citizen), plus a legalised power of attorney.

In respect of incorporated business entities, the tax identification number in Portugal is simultaneously the corporation tax reference number, the VAT registration number and the company registration number. The number is granted upon incorporating a new company or registering a permanent establishment of a foreign entity; and in all other cases it can be obtained either in person or by mail from the National Company Registry office (Registo Nacional de Pessoas Colectivas or RNPC), or online, through the “Company Portal” (Portal da Empresa). One needs to submit legal evidence that the company exists (e.g. a certificate of good standing) and that one is empowered to apply for the number in its name (e.g. legalised board minutes granting such power). Otherwise, the number may be obtained by a representative, under power of attorney.

Documents are acceptable in Portuguese, Spanish, French or English; but documents in other languages must be accompanied by a translation into Portuguese, which must be certified by either a Portuguese consulate, or by a notary public and the apostille of the Hague Convention if in a country that is a signatory of said convention, or else by a Portuguese lawyer. In the event copies of documents are submitted in lieu of the originals, such copies must also be legalised in one of the said manners.

The appointment of a resident tax representative is mandatory for an individual or a business entity that is not a resident of either an EU member country or of an EEA country that has agreed to EU-type tax co-operation with Portugal, and intends to own property in, or derive income from, Portugal. Only through their tax representative are such individuals legally entitled to dispute the tax authorities’ decisions made in their respect. The tax representative may, or may not, have management powers in connection with the represented person’s property or business. The representative who does have such powers shall share any liabilities of the represented individual or entity in connection with Portuguese tax, so the representative will not usually accept any such powers.

Belion Partners assist clients with legalising documents, obtaining Portuguese tax identification numbers and appointing a Portuguese tax representative. Please check our Company Services in case you require any such service.

How To Obtain EU-resident Status For An Investment In Portugal

Sat, 02 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The holder of a Portuguese residence permit enjoys free circulation in the Schengen Space, composed, in addition to Portugal, of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and The Netherlands.

A non-EU national may obtain resident status in Portugal without having to obtain a prior residence visa if he/she, whether privately or through a company, makes an investment in Portugal under one of the following conditions: the invested amount is of at least EUR 1m, unless it is in real estate, in which case this amount is reduced to EUR 0.5m; or the investment leads to the creation of at least 10 permanent new jobs. This condition must have been met before the residence application is submitted and the investment must be kept during at least 5 years. In the event the investment is made through a company, the relevant investment amount will be the paid-in share in a Portuguese company or else the pro rata of the capital allocated to the Portuguese permanent establishment of an EU company.

The application should be submitted within 90 days of entering Portugal for the first time and the residence permit shall be initially granted for 1 year, subsequently renewable for successive 2-year periods. During the first year the permit holder is supposed to stay in Portugal for at least 7 days (not necessarily consecutive) and this number of days is increased to 14 during the following years.

The investor may also become a tax resident of Portugal enjoying the "non-habitual resident" status, in which case he/she may manage to pay little or no tax, as described in the previous article.

After 6 years of being a resident, the investor may also apply for a Portuguese passport.

Move To Sunny Portugal And You May Pay Little Or No Tax?

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In order to qualify as a “non-habitual resident”, a Portuguese national or a foreign individual must become a tax resident of Portugal..