The recent election results in Portugal have sparked interest and concerns among wealthy expats and investors, particularly those residing in the Algarve, regarding the approach of the country's new government towards international investments and expatriate taxation.
Over the years, wealthy expats and investors have significantly contributed to the Algarve's economy, leveraging avenues such as the Golden Visa scheme, real estate ventures, business establishments, and job creation. This trend has been particularly evident since the introduction of the Non-Habitual Residency Tax regime (NHR) in 2009, attracting individuals seeking favourable tax incentives.
The victorious centre-right Democratic Alliance has shown initial signs of fostering a conducive environment for investment in the Algarve region. It is anticipated that they will uphold programs such as the Golden Visa, D2 'Entrepreneur' Visa, and D8 'Digital Nomad' Visa, while also ensuring that NHR tax holders in the Algarve are protected for the long term.
However, uncertainties surrounding the formulation of a new tax regime that’s likely to follow on after NHR tax regime, may pose potential challenges for expats and investors, prompting them to reassess their strategies and commitments in the Algarve. The impending replacement of the NHR tax regime, coupled with the lack of clarity, has raised concerns among existing NHR tax holders who risk facing progressive tax rates of up to 48% if they don’t seek immediate professional advice and proactive measures.
While alternatives such as the passive income benefits offered by regional governments like Madeira and Azores, may exist under tax rules in those island regions, the lack of clarity and limitations hinder decision-making processes for expats and investors in the Algarve.
The Golden Visa scheme, which offers residency through investment, remains an attractive option, having undergone recent simplifications and updates, facilitating dual residency within the European Schengen region.
Steve Philp, director at Portugal Pathways, an organisation assisting wealthy expats and investors in the region, emphasised the need for clarity from the new administration. He stated, “The lack of clarity in the past has led to unintended consequences, such as sudden policy changes affecting the NHR tax regime and Golden Visa property investments. We hope the new government will provide a clear direction for expats and investors in the Algarve."
Expats under the NHR tax regime are advised to plan ahead to avoid potential tax liabilities, as exemplified by recent cases such as a Swedish couple facing substantial tax bills upon the expiration of their NHR status. Early planning and professional guidance can mitigate such financial shocks.
Property Market-Index , an international platform aligned to inward investment in real estate, emphasised the positive impact of the NHR tax regime and the Golden Visa program on the region, urging their continuation under the newly elected government administration.
Amanda Collinson from Property Market-Index remarked, “The Algarve has long welcomed affluent expats through programs like the NHR tax regime and Golden Visa, benefiting both the region and the country. It's imperative that these initiatives are preserved under any new regulations."
While the new government is still taking shape, experts advise expats and investors not to delay in seeking professional advice. Steve Philp at Portugal Pathways stressed, “Prompt professional advice is crucial in navigating potential changes. While the government's stance on foreign investment remains uncertain, there may be new incentives introduced. Expats under the NHR tax regime must act swiftly and talk to one of our experts to optimise their tax position through early and effective planning of their income and assets so that they are correctly structured for the future in terms of tax management."
Despite the current uncertainties, the Algarve continues to attract international investors, boasting a desirable lifestyle, abundant sunshine, and a welcoming culture. The Golden Visa, along with the NHR tax regime, has injected billions into the local economy, enhancing the region's reputation. The new government must act swiftly to ensure continued growth, job creation, and security for the Algarve's residents and investors.
