Portugal has undergone a striking economic transformation since the global financial crisis of 2007, marked by renewed investor confidence and strengthened international economic ratings.
In February 2025, the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) raised Portugal’s sovereign risk rating from 'A' to 'A+', maintaining a 'Stable' outlook. This recognition highlights Portugal’s diversified economy, structural reforms, and fiscal discipline, reinforcing its ability to withstand external economic pressures.
While these developments are encouraging, future economic conditions will continue to shape the country’s investment appeal.
Portugal's Rising Investor Confidence
Investor sentiment mirrors Portugal’s economic progress. The EY Attractiveness Survey Portugal 2024 indicates that 84% of investors intend to establish or expand operations in the country—surpassing the Eurozone average of 72%. Furthermore, 77% of global executives anticipate an improvement in Portugal’s investment climate over the next three years, outpacing projections for the broader Eurozone (67%) and the UK (59%).
Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, commented:
"Portugal is uniquely positioned as a safe and stable investment destination with its vibrant culture and growing international reputation for investment and relocation. For HNWIs, affluent families, and institutional investors, the combination of economic stability, tax incentives, and market growth projections in key sectors of its economy make Portugal a compelling proposition."
"There has been a clear uptick in interest in the past year for Portugal’s Golden Visa and the new Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI), also known as NHR 2.0 tax regime, which was launched at the beginning of 2025."
International Investment and Golden Visa Residency-By-Investment Programme
Portugal continues to attract global investors through its residency-by-investment initiative. The Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme remains a preferred route for non-EU citizens seeking Portuguese residency through qualifying investments.
By committing a minimum of €500,000 to Golden Visa-approved alternative investment funds, investors—and their eligible family members—can apply for residency, with the potential to obtain Portuguese citizenship after five years, provided they meet legal requirements.
Golden Visa holders gain the right to live, work, and study in Portugal while enjoying visa-free travel across 29 Schengen countries. Maintaining residency requires a minimum stay of seven days per year in Portugal.
Paul Sheedy, international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, observed:
"We’ve seen an uptick in investors turning their interests to Portugal. The Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme continues to attract HNWIs looking to relocate to Portugal while also potentially benefitting from a €500,000 investment in one or more of the regulated and approved alternative investment funds for Golden Visa."
"Portugal offers not only stability but a high quality of life, a relatively low cost of living, and the opportunity to benefit from and contribute to the country’s economic growth."
A Strategic Investment Destination
Portugal’s strong economic foundations, investment-friendly policies, and attractive residency programmes continue to draw interest from investors worldwide.
As the country builds on its progress, opportunities for investment remain abundant across various high-growth sectors, including technology, healthcare, tourism, and renewable energy.
Those considering investment in Portugal are encouraged to explore their options carefully and seek professional advice to make informed decisions.
With an increasingly dynamic economy and a welcoming environment for international investors, Portugal is cementing its reputation as one of Europe’s most promising destinations for business and residency alike.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.
About Portugal Future Fund
The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.
About Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.
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