After the removal of real estate purchases as a route to Portugal’s Golden Visa, investment in funds became the primary way to access the program.
However, there is an alternative route, sometimes overlooked, that this year has garnered renewed interest from investors: the so-called “cultural route.”
This innovative approach seeks to stimulate private support for the country’s arts and cultural heritage, allowing interested individuals to contribute in this area while obtaining the benefits of residency in Portugal.
What does the cultural route to the Golden Visa entail?
As is known, the Golden Visa allows foreign investors to obtain residency through investment — in this case, in cultural activities. There are two main options:
- Cash Donation: Contribute a minimum of €500,000 to the fund for acquiring works of art destined for national museums and palaces.
- Investment in Culture: Make an investment of at least €250,000 in projects related to artistic production, organizing exhibitions, or preserving Portuguese cultural heritage.
These alternatives allow diversification of investment options beyond traditional funds or real estate, contributing directly to the strengthening of culture and art in Portugal.
Art Acquisition Fund
At the beginning of this year, the Portuguese government announced the creation of a new public cultural institution, the Art Acquisition Fund.
This fund’s main objective is to finance the purchase of works to enrich the heritage of national museums and palaces. Its funding sources include:
- State budget allocations.
- Fees, contributions, and taxes allocated to the fund.
- Inheritances, legacies, donations, and private contributions.
The Golden Visa falls precisely under this third category since, as mentioned, a €500,000 donation to this fund qualifies for the program.
Thus, the fund serves as a tool to support cultural heritage, ensuring that investments have a significant impact on society.
Benefits for Portugal and Investors
Portugal’s Golden Visa is part of the country’s broader strategy to attract global talent and investments that boost the economy and the cultural sector.
The benefits of this initiative include:
- Preservation of Heritage: Investments help preserve and enrich the national cultural heritage.
- Economic Growth: The influx of private funds into the cultural sector promotes economic development and job creation.
- Diversified Investments: Offers investors a unique and ethical option to obtain residency in Portugal.
At AIM Global, we advise you on your cultural investment for Portugal’s Golden Visa
The so-called “cultural route” offers an attractive alternative for those seeking residency in Portugal through an investment with a positive and lasting impact.
As a law firm with offices in Santiago and Lisbon, AIM Global is uniquely positioned to help you apply for the Portuguese Golden Visa through this route.
Our team has the expertise to find solid and secure investment opportunities tailored to your profile.
Don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting with us. We are experts in global mobility.
