Why is Portugal an immigration hotspot for international investors?

As global wealth dynamics continue to shift, Portugal is increasingly emerging as a top destination for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking stability, lifestyle, and strategic access to the European Union. A recent global wealth report by Henley & Partners, in collaboration with New World Wealth, confirms this growing trend, with Portugal joining the ranks of traditional wealth hubs such as the United Arab Emirates, Italy, and Singapore. 

In 2024 alone, over 11,000 millionaires left London, driven primarily by post-Brexit tax policy changes and a perceived decline in the UK’s financial influence. As ‘The Portugal News’ states, this marks a continuing trend that has seen the British capital lose its millionaire population in the last decade. 

In contrast, Portugal has positioned itself as a destination of choice, offering a rare combination of political stability, tax efficiency, and an enviable quality of life. For investors and global citizens alike, Portugal is a relocation destination and a strategic base in Europe, as having a Portuguese passport means visa-free travel for 121 countries. 

A Magnet for High-Value Investors

Portugal’s appeal lies in its warm climate and safety (ranked 7th  safest country in the world according to the Global Peace Index 2024), and its residency options, particularly the Golden Visa and D7 Visa programs. Even following recent reforms that excluded direct real estate investment from Golden Visa eligibility, Portugal remains highly competitive thanks to regulated and diversified fund investment routes, as private equity funds. 

By offering a flexible and investor-friendly Golden Visa Program, Portugal stands high for those seeking a blend of lifestyle and opportunity. Its key advantages include: 

• €500,000 investment in regulated private equity funds; 
• only required to stay 7 days per year in Portugal; 
• Clear pathway to EU citizenship after just 5 years of residency; 
• access to EU countries and the Schengen area without a visa. 

A Strategic Destination for the Future

As cities like San Francisco, Singapore, and Dubai gain prominence in wealth generation, Portugal is paving its place as a gateway to Europe, in leisure and retirement, but also for secure, long-term investment migration. 

With Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve already recognized as exceptional destinations, Portugal continues to prove to be an outstanding location for those who seek a peaceful lifestyle, aligned with safety and global mobility. 

At Mercan we secure and compliant investment solutions that support investors in accessing EU residency and citizenship through regulated fund pathways. For more information on how to invest with confidence in Portugal’s Golden Visa program, contact our team.