Currently, the number of Chinese investment immigrants is increasing, and with traditional immigration country programs becoming increasingly stringent, European property investment immigration programs have become the mainstream in the immigration market. Taking Portugal, the currently most popular Western European country, as an example, its property investment immigration program has successfully gained the favor of many Chinese investors since its launch in February 2013.
According to the latest data released by Portuguese media, out of the total 226 “Golden Visas” issued to date, 168 have been issued to Chinese citizens, placing Chinese citizens at the top of the list for the number of “Golden Visas” issued by Portugal. Based on the current popularity of the Portuguese program, it can be expected that the number of Chinese investors obtaining visas will continue to grow in the future.
The Portuguese “Golden Visa” policy is simple and efficient. Citizens of non-EU countries who purchase one or more properties (residential or commercial) with a total value of at least 500,000 euros can obtain residency rights. After 5 years, they can transition to permanent residency, and after 6 years, they can apply for naturalization to become Portuguese citizens. Upon obtaining Portuguese citizenship, individuals can freely reside, work, study, conduct business, and live in any Schengen country, and their children can enjoy 12 years of free compulsory education in Portugal. In addition, Portugal's generous social welfare and sound medical security are also key factors considered by immigration applicants. As a traditional European power, Portugal can meet the diverse needs of immigration applicants.
