Portugal Remains the Top Destination According to Wealthy Expats in Portugal Survey Report 2025

Portugal has long been a sought-after location for expats and investors, and the latest Wealthy Expats in Portugal Survey Report 2025 confirms that this trend continues to strengthen.

The independent report, conducted by World Digital Foundation Research, provides in-depth insights into the experiences, motivations, and financial strategies of affluent expats who have chosen to relocate to Portugal. It examines crucial factors such as quality of life, taxation, property trends, and investment opportunities, reinforcing Portugal’s status as a premier destination for wealth migration.

Among the report’s standout findings, 91% of respondents regard Portugal’s real estate market as highly appealing, while 83% highlight its favourable tax and investment environment as a key attraction. Additionally, 88% express a high level of satisfaction with their move, significantly exceeding the global relocation average of 72%.

These figures demonstrate that beyond financial advantages, Portugal offers an exceptional lifestyle and cost of living that continue to draw affluent international individuals and families.

Evolving Tax Landscape and Financial Planning

2025 has ushered in notable changes to Portugal’s tax policies, with the conclusion of the widely utilised Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax regime for new entrants at the end of 2024. In its place, the new Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI), also known as the NHR 2.0 tax regime, aims to attract highly skilled professionals in key industries.

Under the IFICI (NHR 2.0) tax regime, eligible professionals in sectors such as science, technology, healthcare, and engineering benefit from a 20% flat tax rate. Additionally, the 0% tax rate on non-Portuguese sourced dividends and capital gains remains intact, reinforcing Portugal’s appeal as a hub for wealth preservation and tax-efficient investment.

Despite these regulatory shifts, the report reveals that only 29% of wealthy expats in Portugal have structured their tax and financial planning beyond the initial 10-year NHR tax period. This highlights a critical need for proactive wealth management and estate planning to optimise long-term financial stability, making expert guidance increasingly essential.

Portugal’s Real Estate and Lifestyle Appeal

The Wealthy Expats in Portugal Survey Report reaffirms the ongoing strength of Portugal’s property market, which remains a key driver for investment despite the removal of direct property purchases for Golden Visa eligibility.

Luxury apartments in Lisbon, exclusive villas in the Algarve, and historic properties in Porto continue to attract high-net-worth individuals. Alternative investment options, such as government-regulated CMVM-regulated investment funds that qualify for Golden Visa residency, provide investors with dual residency benefits and access to the 29 EU Schengen region countries while diversifying their portfolios.

Beyond financial incentives, Portugal’s lifestyle remains a defining factor in its attractiveness. Expats consistently rate the country’s Mediterranean climate, cultural heritage, safety, and affordability among the best globally. An impressive 81% of survey participants rate Portugal’s overall quality of life as exceptional, underpinned by its welcoming and friendly communities.

Compared to other popular expat destinations such as Mexico, Malaysia, Costa Rica, and Panama, Portugal stands out as a stable and desirable location for those seeking an enhanced work-life balance.

Portugal’s Future Investment Outlook

As global investors and expats continue to gravitate towards Portugal, its standing as a leading relocation destination remains unchallenged.

Portugal’s combination of a robust luxury real estate market, tax-efficient investment opportunities, and an outstanding quality of life ensures its enduring appeal.

The research highlights the continued growth of Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme. According to the Portugal Pathways Golden Visa Investment Fund Index 2025, there are now over 40 CMVM-regulated investment funds spanning industries such as media, international events, tourism and hospitality, renewable energy, technology, and healthcare. These sectors contribute to Portugal’s strong A+ economic rating.

Economic forecasts also indicate that Portugal is set to outperform both the Eurozone and the UK in GDP growth in 2025. Inflation in the first quarter of 2025 has decreased from 3.0% to 2.5% in Portugal, contrasting with rising rates in North America, Europe, and the UK over the same period.

Paul Sheedy, special advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa in Portugal, commented:

“We’ve seen an uptick in investors turning their interests to Portugal. The Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme continues to attract HNWIs looking to relocate to Portugal while also potentially benefitting from a €500,000 investment in one or more of the regulated and approved alternative investment funds for Golden Visa.

“Portugal offers not only stability but a high quality of life, low cost of living, and the opportunity to benefit from and contribute to the country’s economic growth.”

For investors and expats seeking deeper engagement with Portugal’s evolving economic landscape, exclusive investment networks provide valuable opportunities. Groups such as the Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club) offer members unique access to high-value investment opportunities, private events, and expert financial and legal insights.

By connecting with like-minded individuals and leveraging insider knowledge, expats can make informed decisions about wealth management, real estate acquisitions, and business ventures in Portugal’s thriving market.

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About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Future Fund website and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Portugal Future Fund operates under CMVM regulations but is not directly endorsed by the CMVM or any governmental entity.

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