A rich culture with pristine beaches, beautiful food, exquisite wine and fantastic year round weather in one of the world's most peaceful countries. This has been the way of life for centuries in the Algarve, southern Portugal. Here quality of life has never been a fad or trend but a deeply ingrained aspect of the fabric, culture and people. Family, friends, quality food, heritage preservation and time well spent to enjoy life, are all well understood, respected and strongly protected values. 

Until recently this simplistic lifestyle was enjoyed primarily by locals and a handful of foreigners who prioritised the same, and appreciated location and authenticity of place. Having kept firmly to its roots Portugal and Algarve today are recognised, by discerning buyers and investors, as one of the world's best destinations for holiday homes, relocation and those looking to retire.

Recognising the growing interest and demand for both real estate and business opportunities, the Portuguese government has reformed its policies to create a number of inward immigration and investment opportunities, such as the new Golden Visa Program. A program providing not only Portuguese citizenship, but also gateways to the lucrative European Economic Community, Schengen Area, Brazil, Africa and Asia - all rapidly developing economies. 

With an investment minimum of €500,000 ($570,000USD approx) for a Portuguese property, an investor can gain immediate access to the European Single Market and Portugal's additional trading partnerships, as well as possibility of permanent residency after 5 years. A program proving successful with total foreign investment into Portugal in excess of €3B, as of May 1st, 2017, with more than €2.5B of which was real estate. 

The Portuguese Golden Visa program not only grants eligibility to foreigners who are holders of the Schengen Visas, or exempt, but also those who visit the country regularly. Holders of a Portuguese Golden Visa essentially have a Portuguese Visa Permit which allows access to the Europe Schengen area without requiring additional visas, thus allowing long term residency in Portugal, until eligible for permanent residency. 

Golden Visa application requirements:

• Acquire real-estate over €500K(additionally, show proof of purchase)
• Invest in urban rehabilitation in excess of €350K
• Capital transfer over €1M
• Create minimum of 10 jobs
• Support artistic production, recovery and maintenance of cultural heritage in excess of €250K
• Fund scientific and technological activities in excess of €350K
• Proof of stay in Portugal for a minimum of  7 days, consecutive or nonconsecutive, in the first year and 14 days for the following two years.

A Golden Visa is issued for a period of one year after which there is a requirement to renew for a consecutive duration of two years, so long as the requirements of the investment activity as well as the minimum periods in Portugal are maintained.

Portugal's treatment of capital gains and inheritance tax are also important considerations worth noting when investing and buying property aboard and add to the countries competitiveness. As are its Non Habitual Residency, and Sephardic Jewish Heritage Programs. 

If all of the above wasn't convincing enough Portugal's has a very attractive cost of living, one that equates to roughly 30% less than the US and UK. Robust investments in infrastructure have provided for modern roadways, train systems and air travel throughout the country. Advanced telecommunications and mobile technologies, medical facilities, banking services, sport, culture and recreation facilities, to name a few, also add to every modern convenience one could need. 

Those unfamiliar with Portugal's culture and modern advancements may have overlooked the country previously, this looks to be changing as word spreads of it being one of the world's best place to live and retire, as well as government actively looking support development and inward investment for both property and business.

Still not convinced and prefer to see it to believe it?  Then we invite you to the Algarve, come talk to our qualified team of experts and professionals and discover why savvy buyers and expert investors trust us with their property purchases. Let us show you the Algarve first hand, and help you make an informed financial decision about a life of quality like no other. We look forward to meeting you!