Portugal’s Golden Visa has long been a beacon for investors seeking EU access. But since October 2023, real estate no longer qualifies. The program now favors regulated, fund-based investments. Here's why this matters:

🎯 Clearer Regulation, Smarter Diversification

Golden Visa fund investments require €500,000 into CMVM-approved Portuguese or EU alternative investment funds. Managed by regulated professionals, these funds typically invest in growth-oriented sectors like technology, healthcare, agriculture, and hospitality.

📊 Why the Fund Route Outshines Property

• Diversified risk across multiple asset types and sectors
• Professional fund management, reducing the need for hands-on oversight
• Liquidity or structured exits, compared to long-term property lock-ins

💼 Alignment with Investment-Grade Strategy

This route aligns with institutional-level analysis:

• Minimal bureaucracy compared to property acquisition
• Enhanced due diligence via professional fund structures
• Portfolios tailored to ESG, innovation, and operational yield

✅ What Investors Should Know

Factor	Insight
Minimum investment	€500,000 — across one or more CMVM-approved funds
Maturity requirement	Funds typically have 5+ year terms aligned with the Golden Visa residency cycle
Sector focus	Often includes renewables, tech, logistics, and self storage
Exit options	Structured redemption windows or income distributions, depending on fund

🌐 Broader Benefits Beyond Residency

• EU travel freedom – Schengen access with minimal stay (7 days in the first year, 14 every two years)
• Family inclusion – spouse, children, and dependents included
• Tax efficiency – often compatible with Portugal’s NHR regime
• Path to citizenship – eligibility after 5 years of legal residence

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At Pedras Capital, we advise about fund- based Golden Visa opportunities focused on operational real estate like self storage. If you're looking to learn more about the best paths to Golden Visas, get in touch today.