The Golden Visa scheme has been an unqualified success and proof of that success is demonstrated by the increasing number of investors seeking to take advantage of this scheme by coming to Portugal.

Just like the Golden Visa (residence permit for investment - ARI), the D7 Visa (visa for holders of their own or retired income) allows its holder to reside in Portugal, apply for family reunification and, after 5 years, apply for Portuguese citizenship. In addition, both can perfectly fit those who wish to invest in the real estate market in Portugal.

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has signed off on a new housing law which aims to protect locals against gentrification as house prices have skyrocketed. The new law, which was passed by parliament in early July, seeks to curb runaway gentrification in Lisbon and other key cities and prioritise affordable housing and prevent evictions. Under the new law the Portuguese government is now responsible for ensuring adequate housing for all citizens as the ‘guarantor of the right to housing.’

About 18,000 British citizens living in Portugal have already applied online for a new residence permit under the Withdrawal Agreement, through the Brexit Portal, reported the Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF).

When you find your dream property in Portugal, what should you expect and should you prepare for the purchase of your property? The first step should be clarifying the aspects of the purchase, regarding the price and what’s included in the deal, as well as require all legal documents to proceed from the vendor. Before buying a property in Portugal, each grantor needs to have a Portuguese fiscal number which is a tax identification number issued by the Portuguese tax authorities. If you’re married, your spouse also needs to issue that number whichever is the assets condition. Also note that this number will always identify you as a tax payer.