Residence and Citizenship by Investment
Nuno da Rocha Correia
Managing Director and Head of Business Development Department at Bison Bank
Portugal has emerged as a prime destination for Global Citizens and International Investors, offering a unique blend of economic stability, a secure and welcoming environment, and a strategic location in Europe. This combination becomes even more compelling in today’s climate of global uncertainty, where social peace and legal certainty have become invaluable assets.
Portugal presents a diverse range of investment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as real estate, tourism, technology, and renewable energy. Our privileged location in Europe, coupled with a pleasant climate, rich cultural heritage, and the hospitality of the Portuguese people, further enhances the country’s appeal.
Foreign investment plays a vital role in Portugal’s economic growth, and the immigration flow generated by the investment sector has contributed significantly to this dynamism. Moreover, Portugal has produced streamlined legislation to create an efficient process by which non-EU citizens may obtain a residence permit based on investment – the Non-Habitual Resident regime offers substantial tax advantages for foreign nationals who choose Portugal as their tax residence. Also, programs like the Golden Visa and ARI have attracted investors worldwide, seeking not only financial opportunities but also an enhanced quality of life for themselves and their families.
The legislation offers three qualifying routes of committing funds to obtain residence status under the Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program, which must be maintained for a minimum period of five years. After five years as a resident, the applicant is eligible to apply for Portuguese citizenship.
But challenges remain that must be addressed to ensure the continued success of the immigration led by the investment sector. Simplifying bureaucratic processes, strengthening transparency and legal security, and investing in workforce development are crucial steps to attract and retain foreign investment.
Bison Bank is the leading Bank in Portugal in the non-residents segment, with clients in more than 120 different countries – a strong presence in both European, American and Asian markets – recognizes the significance of foreign investment for the country’s development. Established in 2000, Bison specialized in wealth management and investment, providing tailored solutions for international investors who seek diversify to their portfolios and want to invest in a secure and regulated environment. Furthermore, Bison Digital Assets, our crypto-asset subsidiary, acts as a bridge between traditional finance and the digital asset ecosystem, offering cryptocurrency custody and trading services in a secure and regulated setting.
Portugal has all the ingredients and potential to become a leading international investment hub, and today we feel the Portuguese government commitment in fostering innovation, security, and trust within the population, immigrants and financial sector. We believe that in a near future the country’s economic growth and prosperity is not just possible, as it will become a reality.
