WorldWay Group has learned that a recent report released by the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service indicates that the foreign population residing in Portugal has seen growth for three consecutive years. In 2018, this figure reached a historic high, marking a year-on-year increase of 13.9% and exceeding 480,000 people.
Among these, the Italian population saw the largest increase at 45.9%, with 18,900 people residing in Portugal. The French population grew by 29.1% to 19,800. In terms of total numbers, Brazilians remain the largest foreign community in Portugal, reaching 105,400, a year-on-year increase of 23.4%, accounting for more than one-fifth of the total foreign population. They are followed by Cape Verdeans (34,700), Romanians (30,900), Ukrainians (29,200), British (26,400), Chinese (25,400), French (19,800), Italians (18,900), Angolans (18,400), and citizens of Guinea-Bissau (16,190).
The report states that among foreigners living in Portugal, young and middle-aged adults aged 25 to 44 account for 81%, while the elderly aged 65 and above and children aged 14 and under account for 9.8% and 9.1% respectively. Nearly half of all foreigners reside in Lisbon.
Regarding the reasons for the increase in the number of foreign immigrants in Portugal, analysts suggest that the current Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax incentive regime is one of the primary drivers. Under Portugal's special tax regime for non-habitual residents, citizens from third countries can enjoy lower tax rates and avoid double taxation on pensions or earned and self-employed income generated from abroad. This favorable tax system has led more foreigners to choose to immigrate to Portugal. Additionally, the mild climate, good social security environment, and lower cost of living are also important factors considered by immigrants.
Currently, through Portugal's Golden Residence Permit Program, investors can apply for Golden Residence status for their entire family of three generations by investing a minimum of €350,000 in real estate. This allows them to enjoy Portugal's superior education, healthcare, and pension benefits, as well as visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. Furthermore, after holding the Golden Residence status for five years and passing a Portuguese language test at the A2 level, individuals are eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship, obtain an EU passport, and enjoy the generous benefits afforded to EU citizens.
According to the latest Global Passport Index, the Portuguese passport is ranked fifth in the world, tied with Austria, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, offering visa-free access to 184 countries and regions. Holding a Portuguese EU passport allows for freedom of movement, employment, and residence across a total of 32 European countries: the 28 EU member states (including the UK, Germany, Austria, Italy, France, Finland, etc.), the 3 member states of the European Economic Area (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein), and Switzerland. 1=32!!!
As a recognized Top 500 Asian Brand and a leading institution in investment migration, WorldWay Group, a pioneer in European investment immigration projects, has consistently remained at the forefront of the industry regarding Portuguese investment migration. In April 2013, WorldWay, in cooperation with the Embassy of Portugal in China, introduced the Portuguese "Golden Residence Permit Program" to China, launching a successful journey for Portuguese investment immigration. As one of the earliest immigration agencies to promote the Portuguese program in China, WorldWay has maintained a strong relationship with the Portuguese government for many years, helping investors easily fulfill their dreams of immigrating to Portugal.
Invest from just €350,000 in real estate to immigrate your three-generation family to Portugal—gain both property and status! For more information, please call: 400-138-2929.
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