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Why Americans Are Considering Portugal as Their Safety Haven After the Election

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The aftermath of the U.S. elections often prompts reflection, and for a significant portion of Americans, this includes reevaluating their future. Surveys indicate that nearly 20% of Americans are considering emigration due to political dissatisfaction and concerns over the country’s direction. For those considering Portugal, the time to act is now to get ahead of the queues for critical steps like obtaining a NIF (tax number) and opening a bank account.

One picture to show you why people choose to move now!

| The Golden Portugal

What Are Americans Looking for in a New Country?

Americans seeking a second home often prioritize safety, quality of life, and access to key services. Here’s how Portugal meets their needs:

Safety and Political Stability

Portugal is consistently ranked among the world’s safest countries, holding the 7th position in the Global Peace Index 2024. As a small country snuggle right at the edge of Europe, it offers a low-risk environment, far removed from the turbulence seen in other nations.

Portugal recently held its national election, resulting in a shift in leadership with the Social Democrats now in power. Unlike many Western nations where right-wing movements have gained significant traction in recent years, Portugal’s political climate remains more balanced. The new leadership represents a centrist approach, which suggests that we can expect neutral and moderate policies on key issues such as immigration, business regulation, and taxation. This political stability and pragmatic stance make Portugal an even more appealing destination for those seeking a safe and welcoming environment for relocation or investment.

Healthcare That Balances Affordability and Quality

Portugal boasts a dual healthcare system that combines free public healthcare with affordable private healthcare options.

Public healthcare covers essential services, (even free IVF treatments – we learnt this from one of our colleague whose wife had the treatment in Portugal totally free of charge), and provides a safety net for all residents.

Private healthcare is accessible and health insurance inexpensive compared to U.S. standards. This contrasts sharply with:

  • The U.S.: High-cost private healthcare with no public alternative.
  • Canada: Public healthcare with long wait times and no option for private care.

Retirement Paradise

Ranked 2nd in the 2024 Annual Global Retirement Index, Portugal continues to shine as the top-performing European country in the Index. Its mild climate, stunning coastal landscapes, rich culture, excellent healthcare, and vibrant expat community make it ideal for retirees and expats alike.

And the cost of living here remains competitive, even in popular areas like the Algarve.  According to International Living, expats typically find their expenses in Portugal run about one-third of what they were in the States. 

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Portugal has robust anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, and an inclusive culture, making it one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries globally.

As someone living in Portugal, I’ve personally seen how inclusive and welcoming the country is for the LGBTQ+ community. Over the years, The Golden Portugal has proudly assisted many same-sex couples in achieving their dreams of relocating here. Beyond that, in my own neighborhood, I’ve met numerous same-sex couples from countries like the US and the UK who now call Portugal home. It’s heartening to see how Portugal’s progressive values and vibrant community continue to attract people worldwide.

Other Factors to Consider

Additional draws for Americans include low cost of living, high English proficiency, and Portugal’s cultural richness. 

Portugal is ranked 8th in English proficiency level, only after (the obvious) Netherland, Singapore, Austria, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Belgium.  

For clients who haven’t yet visited Portugal, it might be hard to imagine its unique charm. However, once you experience it firsthand, it becomes clear that Portugal stands apart—even from its well-known neighbors like Spain, France, and Italy.  What truly sets Portugal apart is its exceptionally high level of English proficiency and its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world. These factors make it a standout choice for those seeking a welcoming and secure environment.

Global ranking of the peoples english proficiency (countries with English as their native languages are not included)

| The Golden Portugal

Why Portugal Is the Best Option for a Second Passport

Portugal offers a unique combination of benefits for those pursuing residency or citizenship. Here’s how it compares to other countries:

1.  EU Membership

Becoming a Portuguese citizen grants EU citizenship, providing access to live, work, and study in 27 EU countries. The perks includes free education and healthcare across the EU.

2.  Fast Path to Citizenship

Portugal offers one of the shortest timelines to EU citizenship—just 5 years of residency—compared to 6–10 years in other countries like Spain, Greece or Hungary.

3.  Flexible Visa Programs

Unlike many residency programs with work restrictions, all Portuguese visas (including the D7, D8, and golden visa)allow you to:

  • Work in Portugal or start a business.
  • Access free education and healthcare once you have your first resident card 

4.  Proven Track Record

The Portugal Golden Visa (GV) program, established in 2012, is a tried-and-tested route to residency. Many applicants have already achieved citizenship or permanent residency, proving its reliability.

5.  Investment Opportunities

For investment-based visas like the Golden Visa, Portugal offers a mature and competitive market with a wide range of fund options for clients to choose from.  A more competitive market benefits clients by offering better deals and more favorable terms. This often translates into lower fees, innovative investment opportunities, highly experienced fund managers, and stronger potential returns on investment. In Portugal’s mature investment landscape, clients can take advantage of these factors to maximize their outcomes.

Read more about 20 reasons why Portugal is the ultimate Plan B.

Residency Options: Which Visa Is Right for You?

Portugal offers a variety of visa options designed to fit different lifestyles and goals:

🌟 Golden Visa – For those seeking immigration without the need to live in Portugal via investment in funds.

🏡 D7 Visa – For retirees or those with passive income, offering a peaceful and affordable lifestyle.

💻 D8 Visa – For digital nomads, allowing remote work in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.

🚀 D2 Visa – For entrepreneurs looking to start or invest in a business in Portugal.

We’re here to help you navigate these options and find the one that’s right for you.  Below is a side-by-side comparison for the most popular visas.

| The Golden Portugal

*Note: since the income and saving requirements of D visa is linked to the minimum wage of Portugal.  This will be the new requirements starting from 2025.   

Why Act Now?

Visa programs are evolving, and opportunities are closing quickly:

Spain’s Golden Visa is expected to end by May 2025.

It’s not just Americans seeking a fresh start—British citizens are also flocking to Portugal in growing numbers. Factors like progressive changes to unfavorable tax laws, economic uncertainty, and political instability in the UK are driving this trend. Portugal’s stability, quality of life, and welcoming environment make it a clear choice for those seeking a secure and prosperous future.

Increased interest means longer processing times and the likelihood of policy tightening.  Unlike many countries that rely on a point-based immigration system, Portugal currently does not impose requirements on education, age, work skills, or language proficiency for the visa options mentioned above. However, with evolving immigration policies worldwide, this may not always be the case in the future. 

By submitting your application now, you secure your spot and lock in current rules, ensuring you won’t be affected by future changes.

Start Your Journey to Portugal Today

Portugal offers a compelling mix of safety, quality of life, and opportunity for Americans seeking a Plan B. Whether you’re looking for a second passport or a place to call home, Portugal is ready to welcome you.

Our team at The Golden Portugal would be delighted to assist you on your journey to becoming an EU resident or citizen. Let us help you make your dream a reality.

Contact us Today

We have helped more than 500 families on their Portugal Golden Visa journey. 

We are also the pioneer firm to help clients to invest through funds back from 2020 until now. Come talk with us.

Book a consultation with us
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