Golden Visa Comparison: Spain vs Portugal – Unveiling the Advantages | goldenvisareviews.com
As a seasoned blog traveller, I have been fortunate enough to explore various countries and experience different cultures. One of the most exciting parts of my journey as a traveller has been exploring the world of investment opportunities, particularly in Europe. And when it comes to investment, the topic of “golden visas” always comes up. For those unfamiliar, a golden visa is a type of residency permit that allows individuals to live, work, and invest in a country. This unique investment opportunity has taken the world by storm, attracting investors from all corners of the globe.
During my travels, I have personally experienced the benefits of possessing a golden visa in both Spain and Portugal. These two countries are among the most popular destinations for investors looking to secure their future in Europe. But when it comes to choosing between these two popular destinations, the question arises: which one is better?
In this article, we will delve into the world of golden visas and explore the benefits and drawbacks of investing in Spain vs Portugal. I will share my personal experiences in both countries, including the local customs, cultural events, investment opportunities, and the legal aspects of visas and citizenship programs. So, pack your bags and let’s explore the exciting world of golden visas in Spain vs Portugal.
Which country has the best Golden Visa?
Are you considering a move to another country? Perhaps you’re an expat looking to invest in a new venture? Whatever your reasons might be, obtaining residency in a foreign country can be a daunting task. This is where the Golden Visa program comes in – it’s a residency-by-investment program that grants residency to those who make significant investments in the country. Two popular countries with Golden Visa programs are Spain and Portugal, but which one is the best? Let’s take a closer look.
Golden Visa Spain
Spain’s Golden Visa program offers residency to those who invest at least €500,000 in real estate in the country. This program also allows for investment in Spanish companies or government bonds. The process of obtaining the Golden Visa in Spain is relatively straightforward and can take as little as 20 days. Once you have obtained the visa, you will be granted a two-year residency permit that can be renewed every two years thereafter. After five years of residency, you can apply for permanent residency or Spanish citizenship.
Spain has a lot to offer, including a great climate, beautiful beaches, and a rich culture. The country is also known for its world-class healthcare system and excellent education opportunities. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living in Spain can be high, particularly in popular areas such as Madrid and Barcelona.
Golden Visa Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa program has become incredibly popular in recent years, offering residency to those who invest at least €500,000 in property, or €350,000 in urban regeneration projects or alternative investments, such as venture capital or art. The process of obtaining the Golden Visa in Portugal is straightforward and can be completed in a matter of weeks. Once you have obtained the visa, you will be granted a one-year residency permit that can be renewed every two years thereafter. After five years of residency, you can apply for permanent residency or Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal is known for its stunning coastline, delicious food and wine, and friendly locals. The country also has a lower cost of living than many other Western European countries, making it an attractive option for expats and investors on a budget.
So, which one is the best?
Both Spain and Portugal offer Golden Visa programs that are relatively easy to obtain and offer a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship. However, the best program for you will depend on your personal circumstances and preferences.
If you’re looking for a warmer climate and a rich culture, then Spain might be the best option for you. However, keep in mind that the cost of living in Spain can be high, particularly in popular areas. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with stunning natural beauty, delicious food, and friendly locals, then Portugal might be the best option for you. It’s also worth mentioning that Portugal’s Golden Visa program has more investment options than Spain’s, which may be a deciding factor for some.
Ultimately, the decision of which country has the best Golden Visa program is a personal one. It’s important to do your research and consider your personal circumstances before making a decision.
Are you considering obtaining a Golden Visa in Spain or Portugal? We’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
Is it better to move to Spain or Portugal?
Are you considering a move to a new country? Do you find yourself torn between Spain and Portugal? It’s no secret that both countries offer a high quality of life, stunning scenery, and rich cultural experiences. However, when it comes to making a move, it’s important to consider all factors, including the golden visa programs in each country.
What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a program that grants residency to individuals who invest in the country’s economy. In return, investors are given access to all the benefits that come with residency, such as the ability to live and work in the country, access to healthcare, education, and more.
Golden Visa Spain vs Portugal
When it comes to Golden Visa programs, both Spain and Portugal offer enticing options for investors. Let’s break down the key differences between the two programs.
Investment Requirements
In Spain, the minimum investment for a Golden Visa is €500,000 in real estate. In Portugal, the minimum investment is €350,000 for real estate located in urban regeneration areas, or €500,000 for real estate in other areas.
Residency Requirements
In Spain, investors must spend at least 183 days per year in the country to maintain their residency. In Portugal, investors must only spend seven days per year in the country during the first year, and 14 days per year in subsequent years to maintain residency.
Path to Citizenship
In Spain, investors can apply for citizenship after ten years of residency. In Portugal, investors can apply for citizenship after five years of residency.
Personal Experiences and Anecdotes
As an expat who has lived in both Spain and Portugal, I can attest to the fact that both countries offer a high quality of life. Spain is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning beaches. Portugal, on the other hand, offers a slower pace of life and breathtaking natural scenery.
When it comes to Golden Visa programs, I found Portugal’s program to be more streamlined and investor-friendly. The ability to apply for citizenship after just five years of residency is a major advantage. However, I have met many expats who prefer Spain’s Golden Visa program due to the country’s larger size and more diverse economy.
Which passport is better Portugal or Spain?
Are you considering obtaining a golden visa in Portugal or Spain? One important factor to consider is the quality of the passport that comes with it. In this article, we’ll compare the benefits of having a Portuguese and Spanish passport, so you can weigh the pros and cons of each and make an informed decision.
Travel freedom
One of the most significant benefits of having a strong passport is the freedom to travel visa-free to many countries. According to the Henley Passport Index, the Spanish passport ranks 4th globally, providing visa-free access to 191 countries. On the other hand, the Portuguese passport ranks 6th, allowing visa-free travel to 186 countries.
While there is a difference of only five countries, it’s worth noting that the Spanish passport has visa-free access to countries such as China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, which the Portuguese passport does not. If you plan on traveling extensively, a Spanish passport may be the better choice.
Citizenship by descent
If you’re considering obtaining citizenship in the future, it’s worth noting that Spain allows dual citizenship and allows citizenship by descent for anyone with a Spanish parent or grandparent. Portugal, on the other hand, does not allow dual citizenship, and citizenship by descent is only available for those with Portuguese parents.
Language
The official language of Portugal is Portuguese, while the official language of Spain is Spanish. While both languages are Romance languages and share some similarities, they have distinct differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. If you’re not already proficient in one of these languages, it may be easier to learn Spanish due to its widespread use globally.
Investment opportunities
Both Portugal and Spain offer golden visa programs that allow non-EU citizens to obtain residency by investing in the country. Spain requires a minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate, while Portugal requires a minimum investment of €350,000 in real estate or €1 million in capital transfer. While the investment amount is higher in Spain, the country offers a more significant potential return on investment due to its strong tourism industry and higher rental yields in popular cities such as Barcelona and Madrid.
Is Portugal getting rid of Golden Visa?
If you’re considering a move to Europe, you’ve likely heard about the golden visa program. This program offers individuals and families the opportunity to obtain residency in exchange for making a significant investment in the country.
Two of the most popular countries for the golden visa program are Spain and Portugal. While both countries have seen success with this program, there have been recent rumors that Portugal may be getting rid of it altogether. So, what’s the deal?
What is the Golden Visa program?
The golden visa program is a residency-by-investment program that has become increasingly popular over the years. It was first introduced in Portugal in 2012, and has since been adopted by several other countries, including Spain.
The program is designed to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. In exchange for making a significant investment in the country, individuals and families are granted residency permits, which can eventually lead to permanent residency or even citizenship.
What are the investment requirements in Portugal?
To obtain a golden visa in Portugal, individuals must make one of the following investments:
- €500,000 in real estate
- €350,000 in real estate that is more than 30 years old or located in an area of urban regeneration
- €250,000 in research and development or artistic production
- €500,000 in a capital transfer
- €350,000 in a capital transfer that is used to create at least one job in Portugal
While these investments may seem steep, they have the potential to reap significant rewards in the long run. Portugal has a thriving real estate market, and interest rates are currently at an all-time low, making it an attractive time to invest.
Is Portugal getting rid of the Golden Visa program?
Rumors have been circulating that Portugal may be getting rid of the golden visa program altogether. While these rumors have not been confirmed, there have been some changes made to the program in recent years that have made it more difficult to obtain.
For example, in 2020, the government implemented stricter requirements for obtaining a golden visa, including limiting the number of investments in certain areas and raising the minimum investment amount for real estate.
Additionally, there has been some pushback from locals who feel that the program is driving up real estate prices and making it more difficult for Portuguese nationals to find affordable homes.
Should I consider Spain instead?
While Portugal’s golden visa program may be on shaky ground, Spain’s program is alive and well. The program is similar to Portugal’s, with investment options including real estate, business investments, and public debt.
Spain is also an attractive option for those looking to invest in real estate. The country has a diverse range of properties, from bustling cities to tranquil seaside towns, and there are plenty of bargains to be found.
The bottom line
While Portugal’s golden visa program may be facing some uncertainty, it’s important to remember that the program is still in place for now. If you’re considering a move to Europe and are interested in obtaining residency through the golden visa program, Portugal is still a viable option.
That being said, it’s always a good idea to consider multiple options before making a decision. Spain’s golden visa program is a great alternative, and the country has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle, culture, and investment opportunities.
No matter which country you choose, it’s important to do your research and work with a qualified professional who can guide you through the process and help you make the best investment decisions for your situation.
both Spain and Portugal offer fantastic opportunities for those looking to obtain a Golden Visa and become expats in Europe. However, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and circumstances. Spain offers a more diverse range of investment options, while Portugal boasts a faster and more straightforward application process. Both countries also have unique cultural experiences and traditions that make expat life rewarding and enriching. It is crucial to thoroughly research and understand the legal aspects and requirements of each program before making a decision. Overall, obtaining a Golden Visa in either Spain or Portugal can be an excellent investment and a gateway to a new and exciting expat life.
