The new Portuguese government has announced plans to broaden the categories of investments that allow foreigners to obtain residence permits, commonly referred to as Golden Visas. According to the government, the new rules aim to transform the scope of Residence Permits for Investments (Golden Visas) into Residence Permits for Social Investment, thereby incorporating additional investment options.

The Residence Permits for Social Investment will be issued to foreigners who invest in reception facilities, infrastructure, and immigrant integration projects, alongside the existing categories. With this change, the Portuguese government intends to encourage more foreign investors seeking residence permits to invest in projects directly related to immigrants. This change is part of the new Action Plan for Migration, through which the country intends to overhaul its current migration and integration policies.

To facilitate investment by those holding Residence Permits for Social Investment and to help them benefit from Portuguese residency, the government emphasized that it is considering intermediation and accreditation as part of its plan. If approved, this will expedite the accreditation process for foreign investors, allowing them to obtain Residence Permits for Social Investment more quickly. Details on the required investment amount and other specifics have not been disclosed.

Although many nationalities seek Portugal's Golden Visa, recent data indicates particularly high interest from Brazilians and North Americans. Despite the removal of real estate investments from the scheme, these two nationalities are leading in investments in exchange for Golden Visas in Portugal.

Interest remains strong among other nationalities as well. Since January, consultations for the Golden Visa Program have quadrupled compared to the same period in 2023. When applying for the Golden Visa, foreign nationals must meet several requirements, with the investment requirement being the most crucial.