Portugal’s Media & Events Sector Continues to Attract Golden Visa Investors

Portugal has firmly established itself as a global hub for media and events, making it an attractive prospect for investors.

With a thriving economy, a dynamic events sector, and a renowned Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme, Portugal offers a compelling opportunity for those looking to take advantage of its continued growth.

Let's examine the performance of the media and events sectors and explore the benefits of Portugal's Golden Visa offering.

Thriving Media & Events Sector

The resilience of Portugal’s media and events sector has been evident, particularly in its strong recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. The country’s Convention & Trade Fair Planning industry has demonstrated significant growth, with forecasts indicating that the sector will generate €484.8 million in revenue by 2025. According to IBIS World, 2,368 businesses are currently operating in this space, reinforcing Portugal’s position as a leader in the industry.

Chris Marson, CEO of RTi Family Office, highlights Portugal’s rise as a key destination for global events:

“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.

“Lisbon was named one of the top three worldwide destinations last year for congresses and conventions by the International Congress and Convention Association.

“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.”

In addition to media and events, other key industries—including fintech, digital assets, healthcare, and hospitality—have contributed to Portugal’s impressive GDP growth over the past five years.

Paul Stannard, an international entrepreneur and media expert, as well as Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club, echoes this sentiment:

“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 to Co-Host FIFA World Cup 2030

As Portugal prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, investment opportunities are set to surge in the lead-up to the tournament. Experts predict that this event will serve as a major catalyst for economic development, further bolstering sectors such as tourism, infrastructure, and hospitality.

Paul Sheedy, an international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa residency-by-investment in Portugal, underscores the impact of this event:

“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.”

Portugal’s Economic and Investment Outlook

Portugal’s economic trajectory remains strong, outpacing both the Eurozone and the UK in terms of GDP growth.

According to the European Commission, Portugal’s GDP is forecast to rise from 2.0% in 2024 to 2.3% in 2025, compared to the Eurozone’s projected growth of 0.8% and 1.3% over the same period.

The UK’s expected growth lags behind at 1.0% in 2024 and 1.2% in 2025.

Inflation in Portugal is projected to decline from 2.3% in 2024 to 1.9% in 2025, making it more attractive for investors and expats alike.

Adding to its appeal, Portugal’s new tax regime—the Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI), also known as NHR 2.0—aims to attract global talent through favourable tax policies. With a flat 20% tax rate on employment and self-employment income from eligible activities and 0% tax on non-Portuguese income (excluding pensions), the regime further strengthens Portugal’s competitive investment environment.

Golden Visa Residency-by-Investment Benefits

Portugal’s Golden Visa programme continues to be an attractive route for investors seeking EU residency. By investing a minimum of €500,000 in approved funds focused on international media and events, investors can secure dual residency and, ultimately, Portuguese citizenship and an EU passport.

This programme offers significant flexibility, requiring just seven days of residence per year. After five years, investors and their families can apply for permanent citizenship, granting them unrestricted access to the EU Schengen Zone.

Portugal’s alternative investment funds, approved for Golden Visa residency, not only provide exposure to high-growth ventures but also offer a strategic pathway to relocation, combining financial opportunity with an enhanced quality of life. Investors and their families benefit from the country’s outstanding healthcare, education system, and cultural richness, all while enjoying a lower cost of living.

‍

Learn more about how you can benefit from Portugal's Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme when relocating or investing in Portugal here.

‍

About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has assisted hundreds of investors in securing Golden Visa residency-by-investment. Through its expert network, the company provides guidance on luxury property, wealth management, tax optimisation—including post-NHR planning—private healthcare, IFICI tax incentives, money transfers, and bespoke relocation solutions.

About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in high-growth sectors to drive economic innovation. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it provides investors with an exclusive opportunity to participate in Portugal’s ongoing development.

About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club) is an exclusive membership community for discerning investors, families, and organisations seeking to capitalise on Portugal’s economic opportunities while enjoying unparalleled lifestyle experiences and exclusive events.

‍

‍

‍

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.