Portugal has solidified its status as a global hub for media and events, experiencing continuous growth each year. This presents a compelling opportunity for investors, including those leveraging the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme.
The Algarve, which boasts excellent transport infrastructure and world-class hospitality options, is set to enjoy the benefits of this growing trend.
Portugal’s Media & Events Sector Thrives
Portugal’s Convention & Trade Fair Planning industry has demonstrated resilience and strong growth. According to IBIS World, the country’s media and international events sectors are projected to generate €484.8 million in revenue by 2025, with 2,368 businesses operating in the industry.
Chris Marson, CEO of RTi Family Office, comments on Portugal’s unique position: “Portugal has seen growth in media and international events such as the Web Summit, Portugal Investment Owners Club investment forums, and the IFA Global Conference 2025 that this year will bring over two thousand of the world's leading advisors in tax and investment to Portugal this year.
“This, in addition to a thriving tourism industry, thanks in part to its strategic location on Europe’s Western edge, gives investors a great opportunity to be a part of Portugal’s continued rise.”
International events, sports, and luxury living have all seen major GDP growth in Portugal over the last five years, alongside healthcare, tourism and hospitality.
The Algarve has been at the forefront of sports and luxury living developments, with a long-standing reputation that has drawn professional sports teams, athletes, and celebrities.
The region is also home to some of the best high-end touristic developments and accommodation, with the region offering world-renowned beaches and a rich cultural heritage.
Paul Stannard, an international entrepreneur and media expert, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “Portugal has created a unique environment for like-minded people to be able to create sustainable investments in key sectors of the country’s economic strength, allowing value creators as well as highly qualified talent to prosper through a combination of tax incentives, quality of life, and investment.
“It’s no surprise that a recent report from Ernst & Young on Portugal’s competitiveness found that investor confidence was at an all-time high compared with the Eurozone and the UK.
“Portugal has created the perfect environment for cultural and international events and media engagement. We believe the new NHR 2.0 tax regime (IFICI) will further enhance its reputation with investors and creative industries.”
Portugal Golden Visa Residency-By-Investment Benefits
Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme presents a compelling opportunity for investors to contribute to and benefit from the country’s growth.
By investing a minimum of €500,000 in approved funds—such as those focused on international media and events—investors can secure permanent Portuguese citizenship and an EU passport.
This programme offers dual residency with minimal stay requirements, requiring just seven days per year in Portugal. After five years, investors and their eligible family members can apply for permanent citizenship and gain unrestricted access to the 29 EU Schengen countries.
Golden Visa-approved Portuguese alternative investment funds provide exposure to high-growth ventures while facilitating relocation to Portugal. Investors and their families can enjoy a high quality of life, a lower cost of living, and access to the country’s excellent healthcare, education, and vibrant cultural scene, all within a thriving economic environment.
Portugal FIFA World Cup Co-Hosts
Portugal will also co-host the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup, which experts predict will see a major boost in investment in the lead-up to the tournament.
Paul Sheedy, international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa residency-by-investment in Portugal, said:
“Portugal has seen a rapid increase in appeal in recent years, with international investors seeing its enormous potential, stable economy and potential for significant growth in key sectors through a blended investment approach.
“The World Cup and other international events will drive significant productivity, create wealth and employment, improve transport infrastructure and deliver investment opportunities, which the Portugal Future Fund aims to take advantage of over the coming years.
“And the Algarve is perfectly positioned to really take advantage of the opportunities presented, especially in the lead-up to the tournament and with training camps for some of the international teams.”
A cornerstone of the Algarve’s appeal is its excellent connectivity. Fans and teams alike can easily travel to Lisbon and Porto thanks to the region’s modern road networks, h
igh-speed rail links, and internal flights.
This seamless accessibility ensures that the Algarve can effectively support the logistical demands of the World Cup, while its world-class hospitality and infrastructure create an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Portugal’s Economic Outlook
Portugal’s GDP growth is projected to increase from 2.0% in 2024 to 2.3% in 2025, according to the European Commission. This growth outpaces the Eurozone’s expected expansion of 0.8% and 1.3% over the same period.
In comparison, the UK’s economy is forecast to grow by 1.0% in 2024 and 1.2% in 2025, highlighting Portugal’s stronger economic trajectory.
Inflation in Portugal is also set to improve, dropping from 2.3% in 2024 to 1.9% in 2025. This trend compares favourably to the Eurozone’s decline from 2.5% to 2.2% and the UK’s reduction from 2.6% to 2.2%. A lower inflation rate underscores Portugal’s effective economic management, reinforcing its attractiveness to both investors and expatriates.
Meanwhile, the country’s Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI), commonly referred to as the NHR 2.0 tax regime, will reshape Portugal’s tax framework in 2025.
Designed to attract highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovation-driven businesses, the IFICI regime offers a 20% flat tax rate on qualifying employment and self-employment income, along with 0% tax for non-Portuguese income (excluding pensions).
This initiative aims to enhance Portugal’s economic competitiveness and global appeal.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.
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.
Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
