Introduction to Portugal’s solidarity visa program
Portugal has introduced an innovative addition to its Golden Visa program, the Solidarity Visa, or the Affordable Housing Golden Visa Program. One of the options to gain residency and citizenship in Portugal, this groundbreaking initiative provides foreign investors the opportunity to obtain immediate Portuguese residency and citizenship after five years. The program is built on a build-to-rent partnership with the Town of Lisbon and the Portuguese Government, focusing on developing affordable rental homes in Lisbon. By directing investments into affordable housing, the Solidarity Visa addresses Portugal’s housing crisis and is particularly appealing to high-net-worth individuals seeking to diversify their assets and gain a foothold in Europe, attracting investors who want to align their financial goals with ethical contributions.
Learn about other available options in Portugal:
Exploring Portugal’s Updated Golden Visa: A Guide to Recent Changes
How the Affordable Housing Program works
The Solidarity Visa program is a collaboration between the Town of Lisbon, the Portuguese Government, and Lindbacks, an expert in build-to-rent developments. The focus is on developing 500 affordable rental homes in Lisbon. The Portuguese government grants a five-year residence permit, allowing investors and their families to live, work, and study in Portugal while enjoying free movement within the Schengen Area. This initiative requires investors to contribute a minimum of €500,000 to purchase a participation unit in the trust responsible for the development. The project aims to counteract the housing crisis by improving access to affordable housing while providing investors with a profitable opportunity. The involvement of the Town of Lisbon and Lindbacks ensures the project maintains affordable rent thresholds for at least 25 years, addressing a significant social issue and providing a sustainable and impactful investment.
Benefits of the Portuguese Golden Visa
The Affordable Housing Golden Visa Program offers numerous benefits for investors. These include visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, the right to live, work, and study in Portugal, and the ability to apply for Portuguese citizenship after five years while retaining other citizenships. The program also supports family reunification, allowing investors to bring their spouse and children (up to 25 years old if they are students) to Portugal. The program requires only a minimal physical presence, with an average stay of seven days per year in Portugal. Additionally, investors have access to quality education and healthcare and can enjoy Portugal’s rich culture, mild climate, safety, and renowned cuisine and wines. These benefits make the Solidarity Visa an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle in Europe while making a meaningful impact.
Financial incentives and market opportunities
Investors in the Solidarity Visa program have the potential to secure guaranteed returns through a put option, exercisable from the fifth year onward. Returns vary based on the timing of the investment, with the first 20 investors receiving a 25% return, the next 20 investors a 20% return, and subsequent investors a 10% return. The affordable housing market in Lisbon presents a unique and untapped investment opportunity, addressing a significant need for affordable housing. Current developers in Lisbon are focused on high-end housing, creating a gap that this program aims to fill. The project involves the construction of 500 two-bedroom, 60-square-meter fully fitted units with a capital expenditure of €48 million. Expected to be fully operational from the beginning of 2026, the project anticipates net income exceeding €5 million in the first full year of operation, with an ROI of over 10%.
Timeline and implementation
The implementation timeline for the Solidarity Visa program is structured to ensure a smooth process for investors.
Q1 2025
In Q1 2025, investors submit a letter of intent.
Q2 2025
By Q2 2025, the project receives the green light with a minimum of 20 investors, and project planning begins, including architecture, engineering, and construction bidding.
Q1 2026
Construction is set to begin in Q1 2026, with completion expected by the end of the year. During this period, investors transfer funds, and Golden Visa applications are submitted. The project becomes operational in Q1 2026, with tenants receiving keys.
Q2 2030
By Q2 2030, investors and their families are granted Portuguese citizenship, with the option to divest and cash in on their investment. This comprehensive timeline ensures that the project aligns with investor expectations, providing a structured path to residency, citizenship, and financial returns.
Become a “First Mover” with Alpen Partners
Investors interested in the Solidarity Visa program have the opportunity to be first movers in this innovative investment initiative (or any of the other investment opportunities available). With the guidance and support of Alpen Partners, along with our local experts, you can initiate the application process smoothly and efficiently. Our team offers comprehensive advisory services, ensuring that your investment aligns with your personal and financial goals while maximizing your potential returns.
By partnering with Alpen Partners, you gain access to expert knowledge and insights, empowering you to make informed decisions and capitalize on this unique opportunity to secure Portuguese residency and citizenship. Let us help you take the first step towards a prosperous future in Portugal while making a positive social impact.
All investments involve certain risks. All investments carry the potential for financial loss, including the loss of the principal amount invested. Past performance should not be viewed as an indicator of future results.
Market conditions and broader economic factors can significantly impact the value of investments. Investments in international markets are subject to additional risks, such as currency exchange fluctuations, political or economic instability, and variations in accounting practices. Alternative investments, including but not limited to hedge funds, private equity, and real estate, may be illiquid, speculative, and are not suitable for all investors.
The above information should be considered before making any investment decisions.
All posts and publications are for your information only and are not intended as an offer, promotion, or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument or perform any other financial transactions. All information and opinions expressed in posts and publications reflect our current views as of the date of the publication and may be liable to change without notice.
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