The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have reportedly paid for a property in Portugal's exclusive Comporta region. Buying a home in Portugal have led many to speculate whether the Sussexes may be after EU residency to maintain closer ties with the royal family. More particularly, they may want to bring their children closer to their grandpa, King Charles III.
Following Brexit, the Sussexes, like all British citizens, have lost their automatic right to EU freedom of movement. Their royal status offers no special exemptions under EU immigration rules. But will their new purchase afford them an EU residency courtesy of the Portuguese Golden Visa?
Unfortunately, the answer is no and will explain why.
Buying a home is no sure ticket to a Portugal Golden Visa for the Sussexes
The couple's property acquisition, regardless of its value, will not qualify them for Portugal's Golden Visa programme. In October 2023, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa approved the More Housing bill, which eliminated the real estate investment pathway from the Golden Visa scheme.
This big change removed what was previously the most popular route to Portuguese residency—the €500,000 property investment option. The decision was made to address Portugal's housing crisis and cool the property market, which had become increasingly inaccessible to local residents.
Viable investment options for the Harry & Markle (and other Portugal Golden Visa seekers)
Should the Duke and Duchess pursue Portuguese residency, several investment routes remain available. Investment funds offer perhaps the most straightforward pathway, requiring a minimum investment of €500,000 into qualifying Portuguese funds. These must be registered with the Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM) and invest at least 60% of their capital into Portuguese assets.
Cultural heritage projects present another option. It allows investors to support Portugal's rich culture. Similarly, investments in research can qualify, supporting the country's innovation sector.
Job creation schemes also remain valid, though these require more hands-on involvement in establishing or expanding Portuguese businesses. The investment fund option, in particular, provides a more passive approach that might suit the couple's public profile and existing commitments.
Benefits of Portuguese Golden Visa
Should the Sussexes successfully obtain a Golden Visa through one of these routes, they would gain (or rather regain) major advantages:
Freedom to live and work in Portugal
Visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area
Potential pathway to permanent residency after five years
Option to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years of residency
Ability to include family members in the application
How we can help
International Wealth Ventures offers expert guidance on citizenship by investment, retirement planning, and tax advice for a secure future. Our team can help you navigate the complexities of Golden Visa programmes and identify the most suitable investment pathway for your circumstances.