In a week’s time (17th May) it’s going to be possible to fly to Portugal and not have to quarantine or self-isolate when you return to the UK. Is this ideal opportunity to go and view some properties?
The Portuguese mainland – along with the islands of Madeira and the Azores – are all ‘green’ listed destinations in the first step to open-up international travel again. Whilst you will need to provide a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test to fly out, with Spain, France and Italy on the ‘amber’ list (still requiring self-isolation on return), Portugal has the head start for sun-starved tourists and home-hunters this summer.
Portugal has already said it would welcome Brits back from May 17 – the country hasn’t confirmed entry requirements yet, but as UK holidaymakers make up a big part of its tourism market, it will be likely be showing proof you have been vaccinated, or a negative PCR test result.
With one of the most popular ‘golden visa’ schemes in Europe, a country that’s continually rated as one of the safest and secure, and one with tax benefits for retirees and good-quality healthcare Portugal has been steadily gaining in popularity with home buyers.
Clock ticking on golden opportunities …
To a greater level than is being seen in Spain, British buyers have begun, since Brexit, to apply for golden visas as a vehicle to gain residency, freedom of movement within the Schengen area, or spend unlimited time at their second home there.
Find out full details in our guide, but in many ways it’s easier than applying for other types of visa from the UK based consulates – it’s called a fast-track visa and estate agents work closely with legal experts who process the application.
But, beware there’s a deadline for golden visas in certain areas: after 2021, you will not be able to take advantage of the scheme through the ownership of properties in Lisbon, Porto and high-density coastal areas – which includes some parts of the Algarve.
You’ve got six months to take advantage of that scheme, but if you wish to spend less than €280,000, the lowest threshold for the golden visa, there are still plenty of options, even in hot spots of the Algarve such as Lagos.
If you want to move to Portugal and don’t intend to work whilst you are there, then the D7 visa might be the best option for you.
Online resources
Be prepared. We have a whole wealth of online resources that will be useful. Watch some virtual tours of properties on the Algarve, meet a Portuguese lawyer and find out the key issues of Brexit in our Portuguese webinar section.
Check out our recently updated Guide to buying in Portugal or look at our Area Guides as well as our guide to going on a viewing trip.
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE PORTUGUESE PROPERTY GUIDE HERE
Before you go, talk to a currency broker to discuss how and when you’ll need to transfer funds to Portugal. Also, you may wish to line up a lawyer before you go, or talk about any legal questions you have – find one here.
