Invest in Europe’s West Coast – Portugal

PORTUGALThis endless fascinating country is easy to reach from many destinations in Europe and offers huge diversity from North to South. With an amazing history and ancient charm, unique architecture and modern infrastructures are hand in hand. With a temperate climate and sun usually shining from May to October, the country has an impressive coastline blended in rural countryside, endless beaches and high standard golf courses.

Life is still gloriously simple in Portugal and its food a reflection of it: simple and delicious cooking. A starter consisting of some olives, cheese and freshly baked bread followed by a fresh fish grilled or boiled is a treat. The welcoming Portuguese people are always ready to sit down for a good meal and enjoy a high quality wine. The country is continually producing great tasting wines adding to the already worldwide famous Porto wines.

In our monthly edition, we offer you a variety of beautiful properties located throughout Portugal which is becoming a sought-after market for luxury properties.

INVEST IN PORTUGAL - The Golden Visa ProgrammeThe Golden Visa Programme launched by the Portuguese Authorities in October 2012 is a fast track for foreign investors from non-EU countries to obtain a fully valid residency permit in Portugal.

Under the Golden Visa programme, non-EU citizens simply need to carry out one of the investments set out in the law to qualify to obtain a residency permit in Portugal. This residency permit will allow the investor to enter and/or live in Portugal and to travel freely within the vast majority of European countries (Schengen space).

One type of investment that qualify for the Golden Visa Programme is the acquisition of property in the amount of or above € 500,000.

In order to prove compliance with the minimum requirements associated with this type of investment activity, the Golden Visa applicant must present a document that proves the purchase or promise to purchase the real estate, and an up to date land registry certificate.

Once issued, the Golden Visa will be valid for an initial period of 1 year and then will be renewed for subsequent periods of 2 years.

The simplicity of the Golden Visa Programme implies an extremely reduced amount of requirements being asked from the investor.

In general, all investors have to comply with the following requirements:

Keep the investment for a minimum period of 5 years;

Funds for investment should come from abroad;

Minimum stay in Portugal of 7 days during the first year and 14 days during each subsequent period of 2 years.

The Golden Visa Programme will provide investors the following advantages:

No more need to obtain a visa to enter Portugal or travel in Europe (Schengen area)

Living and working in Portugal, even with residency in a different country

Residency extended to family members

Low minimum stay periods

No need to live in the property, which can be rented out to obtain income.

Permanent Residency after 5 years

Citizenship after 6 years

If the holder of the golden visa does not stay in Portugal for more than 183 consecutive days, he/she will not be required to pay taxes for income generated outside of Portugal. Aimed at attracting foreign investment to Portugal, the Golden Visa is a very straightforward and flexible programme, with simple and clear legal requirements. With extremely reduced minimum stay requirements, the Golden Visa is clearly one of the most attractive residency programs for investors in the world.

LISBONThe city of the seven hills, says the popular legend is the capital and biggest city in Portugal. This impressive and lively city is currently ranked as the friendliest city in Europe and has unique atmosphere and history. The highest hill of the seven is the hill of São Jorge , also designated as “Castle de São Jorge” .The majestic Tejo river acts like a giant mirror and reflects the magical light to the city, hence the reason why it is often called the city of light.

The city is known for its café culture and Fado music, charming ancient neighborhoods and centuries of culture. With subtropical Mediterranean weather, the city vibrates all year round. Lisbon offers a lively night life and a variety of traditional and trendy restaurants. A walk alongside the river Tejo, is an invitation for a traditional seafood dish or fresh fish in one of the many restaurants available.

Local specialties such as the “Pasteis de nata” are found in a local bakery in Belem district and no trip to Lisbon is complete without tasting one. This bakery has been selling these for 150 years.

Lisbon is a wonderful city to live, with over 100 parks, gardens and its proximity to the Atlantic with its fantastic beaches. Don't miss on the opportunity to see our property recommendations for the Lisbon area.

For more information, please contactJodene Boshoff on 071 365 8031 or SMS EV GV to 33282.* (SMS cost R1,50. Free sms’s does not apply.)