on January 30, 2025

The last months of the Golden Visa in Spain and the safe alternative offered in Portugal

on January 30, 2025

Os últimos meses do Golden Visa na Espanha e a alternativa segura oferecida em Portugal

Featured in Colombian newspaper The Time, Martins Castro analyzed the end of the Spanish program and indicated strategic paths in the European Union.

Foreign investors looking to obtain residency in Spain via the Golden Visa need to act fast. The Spanish government has announced that it will no longer grant visas based on real estate investments. The change will come into effect in April 2025. Until then, it is still possible to apply for the visa under the current rules.

Created in 2013, the Spanish Golden Visa allowed foreigners from outside the European Union to obtain residency by investing at least 500,000 euros in real estate. The program benefited investors and their families by guaranteeing the right to live and work in Spain, as well as facilitating access to other Schengen countries. The Spanish government justified the decision based on the need to curb real estate speculation and make housing more affordable for the local population. However,This change does not impact investors who have already invested or who still have time to benefit. of the program within the established deadline.

“Legal certainty in the European Union allows investors who have already invested or who are still within the deadline to benefit without the risk of sudden changes that harm the process”, highlights Renato Martins, CEO of Martins Castro.

Although the end of the program is final, there is a transition period until April 2025. This means there is still time for interested investors to apply for the visa before it ends.

>>> READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Portugal as an alternative: a sustainable and attractive model

For those looking for another option in the European Union, Portugal stands out as a strategic alternative. The country maintains its Golden Visa, but has adjusted the rules to reduce the impact on the real estate market and direct investments to productive sectors.

Unlike Spain, where the minimum investment was 500,000 euros, Portugal offers options starting from 250,000 euros, depending on the area chosen. Today, the Portuguese program encourages investments in innovation, technology, culture and sustainable tourism. These changes ensure balanced growth and avoid distortions in the real estate sector.

“When well structured, the residence-by-investment programs known as Golden Visa become strategic tools that boost European economies and attract qualified capital to key sectors, such as technology, innovation and culture,” he highlights. Renato Martins.

In addition to the possibility of obtaining Portuguese citizenship after five years of residence, Portugal offers a safe economic environment, modern infrastructure and a high quality of life. The legal and fiscal stability of the European Union is also an essential factor for those seeking asset protection and sustainable growth.

>>> READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Opportunity and strategic planning

The end of the Golden Visa in Spain creates a scenario of urgency for investors who still want to take advantage of the program. At the same time, Portugal is consolidating itself as an accessible and diversified alternative.

To make the best decision, it is essential to have strategic planning and specialized support. Martins Castro advises investors on structuring their investments, ensuring legal security and efficiency in the investment residency process.

Discover how to protect and expand your assets in Europe through Golden Visa, guaranteeing residency and access to one of the most powerful passports in the world. Contact our team and find out about the best opportunities for your profile in martinscastro.pt.

Click here to read the full article published on the El Tiempo newspaper website.