Portugal: An attractive destination for Americans seeking new perspectives

With Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 elections, many Americans, especially those from the states of Washington, Oregon, and Colorado, have been considering relocating to Portugal to seek a new lifestyle and avoid the politically polarized climate in the United States. Reports have shown a rise in online searches for information about immigration to Portugal, a fact that comes as no surprise.

With a high quality of life, pleasant climate, and a welcoming culture, the country offers significant advantages for those looking for a new home, along with a favorable tax climate and relatively simple relocation processes.

Portugal has long been known as a popular destination for expatriates seeking stability, security, a mild climate, and a lower cost of living compared to similar destinations. Furthermore, the country's efforts to make itself attractive to international investors and retirees have played a significant role in its reputation abroad. Flexible residency programs, such as the Golden Visa, and tax incentives have increased the purchasing power of pensioners and highly qualified professionals under the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime.

Despite the end of traditional Golden Visas, Portugal continues to offer a variety of visa options that cater to different immigrant profiles, including retirees, investors, and remote workers. Although new rules apply, the Golden Visa still exists and allows individuals to obtain residency through investment. It remains a viable option for those looking to invest in strategic sectors of the country other than real estate. However, the biggest challenge lies in the current AIMA's processing of such residence permits, which has long ceased to be as swift as initially advertised.

Portugal also benefits from an extensive network of international agreements to prevent double taxation and has introduced tax incentives to attract capital investments to the country.

Beyond tax and immigration advantages, Portugal stands out for its international education offerings, executive education programs, the complementarity between private and public healthcare services, and a rich cultural, tourism, and gastronomy scene. Compared to the cost of living in American cities, many regions of Portugal provide a comfortable and affordable lifestyle, along with safety and stability.

For Americans dissatisfied with the current political and social climate in the U.S., Portugal presents a viable and attractive option for a fresh start. Whether investing, enjoying a peaceful retirement, or simply taking advantage of the high quality of life the country offers, Portugal continues to stand out as an open gateway to Europe.

With Donald Trump's return to the White House in early 2025, Portugal's potential as a destination for Americans has never been more evident. The numbers of foreign direct investment from the U.S. reflect this reality. With a combination of favorable immigration policies, tax incentives, and a high quality of life, Portugal increasingly attracts those seeking a new home where tolerance, security, and democracy prevail—preferably by the seaside.

Joana Neto Mestre | Managing Partner and Lawyer at MATLAW

Published in Jornal Económico