Portugal’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination continues to soar, creating a compelling opportunity for those considering investment in its thriving tourism and hospitality sectors through the country’s Golden Visa residency by investment programme.
The statistics are striking: in August 2024, Portugal recorded an unprecedented 10.5 million overnight stays, according to the National Institute of Statistics (INE).
With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious hospitality offerings, Portugal has firmly established itself as one of the most desirable destinations globally for Golden Visa investors.
The Importance of Tourism and Hospitality in Portugal’s Economy
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Portugal’s economy, contributing an impressive 17% to the nation’s GDP in 2023, according to research by CaixaBank. This underscores the sector’s increasing significance for both the economy and potential investors.
Looking ahead, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects that by 2034, tourism will account for €66.5 billion—equivalent to 22.4% of Portugal’s total economy.
Destinations such as Lisbon and Porto attract urban adventurers, while the Algarve and Douro Valley cater to luxury and leisure travellers. The Algarve, in particular, has earned international acclaim, being named the ‘World’s Leading Beach Destination’ at the 2024 World Travel Awards.
Portugal’s hotel market reflects the sector’s success, with revenues forecasted to rise from $1.07 billion in 2024 to $1.26 billion by 2029, as per Statista Market Insights. This steady annual growth rate of 3.32% (CAGR) presents a lucrative opportunity for investors.
According to the latest European Hotels Investor Intentions Survey 2025, Portugal ranked among the Top 3 most attractive destinations for hotel investment in Europe.
Golden Visa Investment Opportunities in Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme offers a unique chance to combine financial returns with the benefits of residency in Portugal and eventual EU citizenship after five years. By investing €500,000 in a Portuguese alternative investment fund approved for the Golden Visa, investors can tap into the country’s flourishing tourism and hospitality sectors.
It is important to note, however, that qualifying investments must focus on the hospitality business and operations, as merely owning real estate does not meet the criteria for the Golden Visa programme.
Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of the Portugal Investment Owners Club and Portugal Pathways, highlights the appeal of these funds:
“Portugal’s alternative investment funds approved for Golden Visa applications allow investors and entrepreneurs to benefit from diversified portfolios and the chance to participate in an industry seeing record growth, while also gaining residency in Portugal and the EU.
“Some of these tourism and hospitality funds in Portugal have acquired operations at way below market value, repositioning and rebranding hotels and putting in new management processes and marketing.
“This has also helped to improve the quality and standards in the hospitality industry. Bringing in inward investment and specialist knowledge from these alternative investment funds is great for investors and also the Portuguese economy.”
Why Portugal is an Ideal Investment Destination
Portugal’s economic performance is also on an upward trajectory. In recognition of its economic stability, the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) upgraded Portugal’s sovereign risk rating from ‘A’ to ‘A+’ in 2025. This reflects Portugal’s diversified economy, structural reforms, and sound fiscal management.
In January 2025, consumer price inflation in Portugal fell to 2.5%, down from 3.0% in December 2024, reinforcing confidence in the country’s economic policies.
The Portuguese government has projected GDP growth of 1.8% in 2024 and 2.1% in 2025, further cementing its economic progress.
Stannard adds:
“Portugal’s economic strength gives investors peace of mind when putting their money into the country. As Portugal’s tourism and hospitality industries continue to set new records, it is no wonder that investors are looking to get involved through Golden Visa-approved alternative investment funds.”
In addition to economic advantages, the Golden Visa scheme offers significant lifestyle benefits, including residency in Portugal and access to the Schengen Area, which comprises 29 countries. Investors are required to stay in Portugal for just seven days per year and can apply for permanent citizenship—and an EU passport—after five years.
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Mitigating Risks Through Diversified Investment
Portugal’s alternative investment funds often adopt a blended strategy, diversifying across multiple high-performing sectors such as luxury hospitality, renewable energy, healthcare, technology, and media.
This approach offers greater stability and reduced exposure to risks associated with any single sector.
Paul Sheedy, international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for the Golden Visa residency by investment programme, explains:
“A blended approach to investment—spanning sectors such as luxury hospitality and tourism, renewable energy, media, healthcare, and technology—not only aligns with Portugal's dynamic economic landscape but also creates a resilient portfolio that thrives across sectors.
“We have seen time and time again that a blended investment approach can protect against underperforming sectors in a portfolio, giving investors more security and downside protection.”
Portugal’s Bright Investment Horizon
As Portugal’s tourism and hospitality sectors flourish, they are projected to employ nearly 1.4 million people nationwide. Whether through investments in luxury real estate, high-end hotels, or tourism-focused enterprises, the growth potential is substantial.
For investors, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), and entrepreneurs, there has never been a better time to seize the opportunities presented by Portugal’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industries through the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme.
About 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.
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.
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.
