Golden Opportunities: Latvia and Portugal's Residency Programs for Entrepreneurs and Investors

Latvia and Portugal are pioneering more accessible pathways for entrepreneurs and smaller-scale investors to obtain EU residency, with investments starting as low as €50,000.

Golden VisasLatviaPortugalResidency ProgramsInvestorsEntrepreneursEu ResidencyImmigrationReal EstateJun 23, 2024

Golden Opportunities: Latvia and Portugal's Residency Programs for Entrepreneurs and Investors
Real Estate:In an era of global mobility and economic interconnectedness, the concept of residency-by-investment programs, colloquially known as ‘Golden Visas’, has gained significant traction. Traditionally associated with high-net-worth individuals and seasoned investors, these programs have long been the domain of those able to invest millions in foreign real estate or government bonds. However, a seismic shift is occurring in the landscape of European residency options, with countries like Latvia and Portugal pioneering more accessible pathways for entrepreneurs and smaller-scale investors.

Latvia’s Investor Residency Program represents a paradigm shift in the realm of investment migration. With an entry point of just €50,000, it stands as one of the most affordable routes to EU residency. This program is specifically tailored to attract entrepreneurs and startups, aligning with Latvia’s vision of becoming a hub for innovation in the Baltic region. The program requires a minimum investment of €50,000 in the share capital of Latvian companies, a one-time payment of €10,000 to the Latvian government, and a viable business plan. The permit grants rights to work, reside, and travel freely within the Schengen Area, and extends to family members, including spouses and dependent children.

Portugal’s D2 Visa offers a compelling alternative for those seeking EU residency through business investment and entrepreneurship. While there’s no fixed minimum investment, investments typically start around €250,000. Applicants must present a viable business plan for a new or existing Portuguese company, demonstrating potential for job creation in Portugal. The D2 Visa provides a path to permanent residency and citizenship after 5 years, and Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offers significant tax advantages for new residents.

The emergence of affordable Golden Visa alternatives in countries like Latvia and Portugal marks a significant evolution in the realm of investment migration. These programs are democratising access to EU residency, opening doors for entrepreneurs and smaller-scale investors who were previously priced out of traditional Golden Visa schemes. With investments starting as low as €50,000, these new pathways are fostering innovation, job creation, and economic diversification across Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum investment required for Latvia’s Investor Residency Program?

The minimum investment required for Latvia’s Investor Residency Program is €50,000 in the share capital of Latvian companies.

What is the duration of the initial permit for Latvia’s Investor Residency Program?

The initial permit is valid for 5 years, with the possibility of renewal.

What is the typical investment amount for Portugal’s D2 Visa?

While there’s no fixed minimum, investments typically start around €250,000.

What are the tax benefits of Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime?

Portugal’s NHR tax regime offers significant tax advantages for new residents.

What is the predicted growth of the global market for investment migration by 2025?

Experts predict that the global market for investment migration will grow to $100 billion by 2025.

Related News Articles

Private Equity Investment in Indian Real Estate Surges by 93% - A Q3 2024 Snapshot
real estate news

Private Equity Investment in Indian Real Estate Surges by 93% - A Q3 2024 Snapshot

Private equity investments in Indian real estate saw a significant 93% growth in Q3 2024, surpassing the investment volumes of the previous year. According to Savills India, a leading real estate consulting firm, the industrial and logistics sectors led t

October 10, 2024
Read Article
Blackstone Expands in India's Housing Market with Strategic Investments
Real Estate Pune

Blackstone Expands in India's Housing Market with Strategic Investments

Blackstone, a leading global investment firm, is making significant strides in India's housing market by focusing on key cities such as Pune, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. This move is part of the firm's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Indian

March 17, 2025
Read Article
NAREDCO Uttarakhand Chapter to Boost Real Estate Development in the State
real estate news

NAREDCO Uttarakhand Chapter to Boost Real Estate Development in the State

The National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) has launched its Uttarakhand chapter, aiming to foster growth, promote transparency, and advocate for policy reforms in the state's real estate sector.

August 1, 2024
Read Article
Devendra Fadnavis Takes Oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar Sworn-in as Deputy CMs
Real Estate Maharashtra

Devendra Fadnavis Takes Oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar Sworn-in as Deputy CMs

A grand swearing-in ceremony was held in Maharashtra where Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the Chief Minister, while Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar took the oath as Deputy Chief Ministers. The event was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Mo

December 6, 2024
Read Article
Maharashtra Identifies Over 5,000 Pakistani Nationals Amid Security Concerns
Real Estate Maharashtra

Maharashtra Identifies Over 5,000 Pakistani Nationals Amid Security Concerns

Maharashtra has identified over 5,000 Pakistani nationals within its borders, raising significant security concerns and prompting a comprehensive review of their legal status and intentions.

April 27, 2025
Read Article
Bajaj Housing Finance, Swiggy, NTPC Green, RVNL Reclassified as Largecap Stocks
real estate news

Bajaj Housing Finance, Swiggy, NTPC Green, RVNL Reclassified as Largecap Stocks

In a significant move, Bajaj Housing Finance, Swiggy, NTPC Green, and RVNL are set to be reclassified as largecap stocks, marking a major shift in the investment landscape. This reclassification could have far-reaching implications for investors and the c

January 6, 2025
Read Article