Europe has always been synonymous with high welfare and high income, and it is an ideal destination for many immigrants. Each country has different policies, customs, and cultures. Making a choice is the first step in immigration, and suitability is the primary criterion for that choice. So, is Portugal—one of the immigration destinations favored and sought after by many investors—really a good choice?
Portugal has a comfortable and pleasant climate. Lisbon is known as the "snowless capital" of Europe; it is not cold in winter and not hot in summer. Southern Portugal is particularly suitable for vacations, summer retreats, and tourism.
The lowest cost of living in Western Europe. According to a 2015 survey by The Guardian based on Eurostat data regarding "purchasing power of 100 Euros," Portugal was the country with the highest purchasing power for the Euro within the Eurozone, meaning it had the lowest cost of living. 100 Euros in Portugal had the equivalent purchasing power of 122 Euros in Germany.
Ranked 7th in the Global Peace Index. According to the "Global Peace Index" published by the institute, Portugal was ranked as the 11th most peaceful country in the world in 2015, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
One of the seven best countries in the world for retirement. According to a widely recognized survey report by The Sun, the BBC ranked Portugal as one of the seven best countries in the world for retirees. In particular, the Algarve region of Portugal is a destination many European retirees aspire to, as it enjoys a mild climate year-round with an annual average of 3,300 hours of sunshine, making it the sunniest region in Europe. Excellent vacation resources and well-developed infrastructure have made Portugal a "paradise for retirees" in Europe.
Ranked 2nd globally in the Migrant Integration Policy Index. According to the latest research released by MIPEX (Migrant Integration Policy Index), Portugal remains one of the most welcoming countries in the world for immigrants, ranking second globally. The warmth and tolerance of the Portuguese people are renowned throughout Europe and the world. Compared to other European countries, Portugal does not exclude or discriminate against Chinese people. According to official data, more than 2,000 families from mainland China are now living in Portugal as new immigrants, and Portugal maintains a friendly and tolerant attitude toward people from all foreign countries.
Portugal implements 12 years of compulsory education, and all public schools are free. Furthermore, six Portuguese higher education institutions have been rated as the world's best by the EU's "U-Multirank" (a global university ranking).
Portugal's "Golden Residence" rated as the world's best investment immigration policy
In the 2016 Global Investment Immigration Policy Ranking published by the international organization Henley & Partners, Portugal's "Golden Residence" investment immigration policy ranked first. The immigration requirements for Portugal are very simple: one only needs to invest in the purchase of real estate or agricultural property in Portugal valued at 500,000 Euros or more to obtain Golden Residence status for the whole family in one step. This allows them to enjoy the same medical and educational benefits as Portuguese citizens, and their children can enjoy most-favored-nation treatment when applying to universities in various EU countries.
Application Requirements
1. Non-EU citizens aged 18 or older;
2. No criminal record;
3. Meet the statutory investment requirements.
Beneficiaries of family members
1. Unmarried children under 18 of the main applicant, or unmarried children aged 18 or older who are financially dependent on their parents and are currently enrolled in school;
2. Parents of the main applicant and parents of the spouse (dependent on the main applicant and spouse for support).
For more information on immigration to Portugal, please call: 400-138-2929