ortugal and Sweden signed, on 16 May 2019, a Protocol to their existing 2002 double tax treaty. Amongst other changes, an amendment to Article 18 (Pensions) provides that pensions earned in Sweden will be taxable in Sweden if not taxed in Portugal. As a result, Swedish pensioners who are living in Portugal under the non-habitual residents (NHR) regime may lose the double exemption of income tax from which they currently benefit.

The golden visa in Portugal is designed to encourage investment from non-EU/EFTA nationals. The Portuguese golden visa offers a fast-track to obtaining a residency permit in Portugal and other benefits, for non-EU investors who invest a minimum amount as defined by law.

Portugal’s strengthening economy has fueled confidence among the country’s dealmakers that M&A will continue its sure, but steady recovery after years in the wilderness, according to the panel of experts at Mergermarket’s 2nd annual M&A Outlook: Portugal Breakfast Briefing.

In 2018 there will be several high-level bilateral visits between Portugal and China.

Top 5 Announced China Outbound Deals

As one of the European countries receiving most Chinese investment, Portugal already has a track record of openness to Chinese companies. At an individual level, nearly 4,000 golden visas were already issued to Chinese citizens, combining opportunities in the real estate market with access to a residence permit.

Investment in Portugal’s export-oriented sectors doubled last year to hit a record high, underlining the country’s fast shift up the economic value chain, the head of the state agency for promotion of exports and investment said.

Rating agency S&P Global Ratings raised Portugal's credit rating to investment grade on 15th September 2017 and maintained the stable outlook. The country's credit rating was raised by a notch to 'BBB-' from 'BB+', citing strong economic and budgetary performance.