Portugal's Growing Reputation for Healthcare Innovation and Investment

Portugal is rapidly establishing itself as a premier destination for high-impact investments and residency opportunities, with its Golden Visa programme playing a pivotal role.

This growth is underpinned by a top-tier healthcare system and a flourishing MedTech and Biotech industry.

According to MacroTrends, life expectancy in Portugal reached an impressive 83 years in 2024, significantly surpassing the Eurozone average of 79.09 years and the United States at 79.25 years. This milestone reflects the country's continuous advancements in healthcare.

A crucial driver of this success is the synergy between the public and private healthcare sectors, ensuring optimal resource allocation and maintaining high standards of care.

Portugal has also emerged as a hub for pioneering MedTech and Biotech start-ups, with many focusing on transformative fields such as AI-driven diagnostics, telemedicine, and health data management.

One standout example is Sword Health, a global leader in digital musculoskeletal therapy that has earned widespread recognition.

Another key player is Biovance Capital, an investment fund dedicated to early-stage biopharma enterprises across southern Europe, including Portugal.

With €51 million in backing from the European Investment Fund and private investors, Biovance is at the forefront of advancing therapeutic solutions.

Biovance Capital was founded by Peter Villax, a seasoned industry expert with over four decades of experience.

Villax, who also serves as President of the Portuguese Family Business Association, is instrumental in shaping Portugal’s growing biotech sector.

Portugal’s position in the biotech arena was further strengthened in 2024 when Partners Group acquired a majority stake in FairJourney Biologics for approximately €900 million.

This acquisition yielded a tenfold return for GHO Capital, which had initially purchased the stake for just over €50 million in 2020, according to PitchBook.

The deal highlights the significant growth potential for investors in Portugal’s biotech and MedTech industries.

Beyond innovation, Portugal is witnessing a surge in health and wellness tourism.

The country has become a sought-after destination for cosmetic surgery, dental care, orthopaedic treatments, and fertility procedures, facilitated by government collaboration with private healthcare providers.

The Golden Visa programme offers an attractive investment pathway, requiring a minimum investment of €500,000 in approved alternative investment funds.

Many of these funds prioritise healthcare-related projects, including medical technology development, healthcare infrastructure expansion, and direct investment in MedTech and Biotech ventures.

For investors seeking a well-rounded portfolio, Portugal’s alternative investment funds often adopt a diversified approach, spanning multiple high-performing sectors such as healthcare, luxury tourism, renewable energy, and technology.

Paul Sheedy, international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund,  emphasised this strategy:

“A blended approach to investment—spanning sectors such as luxury hospitality and tourism, renewable energy, media, healthcare, and technology—not only aligns with Portugal's dynamic economic landscape but also creates a resilient portfolio that thrives across sectors.

“We have seen time and time again that a blended investment approach can protect against underperforming sectors in a portfolio, giving investors more security and downside protection.”

The healthcare sector remains particularly attractive due to its stability and the rising demand driven by Portugal’s ageing population. Currently, more than 20% of the population is aged 65 or older, a figure projected to grow substantially in the coming years.

Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of the Portugal Investment Owners Club and Portugal Pathways, highlighted the sector’s potential:

“Portugal’s healthcare sector represents a vital and stable investment opportunity.

"By investing in Golden Visa-approved alternative investment funds focused on healthcare, investors can achieve residency in Portugal and contribute to the development of a thriving and essential industry.”

Golden Visa investors enjoy the benefits of residency in Portugal and access to the European Schengen Area, which encompasses 29 countries, with a minimum stay requirement of just seven days per year.

After five years, investors can apply for dual Portuguese citizenship and secure an EU passport.

Stannard further elaborated on the broader advantages:

“From expanding elderly care facilities to advancing telemedicine, healthcare investments in Portugal offer strong returns, all while aligning with Portugal’s goals of fostering innovation and improving quality of life.”

As Portugal’s healthcare sector continues to evolve, the country’s commitment to integrating innovation with world-class medical care cements its status as an ideal destination for forward-thinking investors.

With the Golden Visa programme providing a unique avenue to support healthcare advancements, investors have the opportunity to combine financial growth with meaningful contributions to society.

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Discover how the Portugal Future Fund can help support you in making impactful investments through Portugal's Golden Visa residency by investment programme here

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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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