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In a conversation with Christian Nesheim, Founder and Chairman of IMI Daily, Optylon Krea’s chairman Hakan Kodal and CCO Şafak Nervo discussed the growing trend of Americans investing in and relocating to Portugal.
What began as a surprising increase in interest during the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved into a more substantial movement, as Portugal has become a preferred destination for Americans seeking a better quality of life, a foothold in Europe, and even citizenship.
This interview explores the motivations behind this trend, the advantages Portugal offers, and how real-estate firms like Optylon Krea are addressing the needs of these new investors.
The Unexpected Rise of American Investors
Şafak Nervo noted that Americans began to discover Portugal in significant numbers around the time of the pandemic, becoming one of the largest investor groups in the Portuguese Golden Visa program, particularly through fund investments.
The pandemic and the political climate in 2020 played a key role. Travel disruptions and political tensions in the United States led many Americans to seek alternative options, with Portugal’s Golden Visa fund investment offering a practical solution.
A U.S. Cultural Affinity for Funds
Americans’ familiarity with financial instruments like stocks, bonds, and funds made the Portugal’s Golden Visa’s fund investment option particularly appealing, especially during the pandemic when in-person real estate viewings were restricted.
“You can decide on a fund over a Zoom call after doing your due diligence,” Nervo explained, contrasting this with the more involved process of purchasing property.
From the American Dream to the European Plan B
Hakan Kodal observed that the shift was unexpected, considering the historical aspiration of people moving to the United States. By 2020, this flow had reversed, with Americans increasingly seeking opportunities elsewhere.
Key factors driving this change were the pandemic and political polarization. The pandemic underscored the vulnerabilities of the American healthcare system, which relies heavily on private insurance compared to Europe’s public systems.
“The cost of an ambulance in the U.S. can go up to $10,000,” Kodal noted, highlighting the affordability of healthcare in Portugal. Political polarization also contributed, as Americans sought stability and safety.
The Appeal of Portugal’s Golden Visa
Portugal’s Golden Visa program stands out for its flexibility. Unlike programs in Greece, Spain, or Italy, it requires investors to spend an average of only one week per year in Portugal, allowing them to apply for European citizenship after five years.
This minimal residency requirement makes Portugal attractive to investors seeking EU citizenship without a significant lifestyle change.
The Broader Lifestyle Appeal of Portugal
Many Americans who visit Portugal are drawn to its charm and decide to spend more time there or relocate permanently.
Portugal’s affordability—considered among the lowest in Western Europe—is a significant draw. The country also boasts safety, social stability, and a welcoming culture where English is widely spoken.
A Flexible Living Solution: Ando Living
Optylon Krea’s lifestyle hospitality brand, Ando Living, offers a solution for flexible living. It allows investors to purchase an apartment, live in it for a portion of the year, and rent it out the rest of the time, with access to other European locations.
This model combines investment and lifestyle, appealing to Americans seeking a foothold in Europe. The stability and calmness of Portuguese society, and the affordability of international schools, are also attracting American families.
Portugal and Optylon Krea: A Winning Combination
Optylon Krea has been supporting American investors for years, offering fund-based Golden Visa options and comprehensive solutions for both investment and establishing a presence in Europe.
To learn more, contact Optylon Krea through their website.
