Tiago Gali Macedo is the managing partner of Next Lawyers/Gali Macedo & Associados in Portugal.
“As an immigration lawyer, I help people in all the stages regarding their relocation to Portugal, not only concerning the immigration procedure with the authorities but also finding the best investment opportunity,” he said. “People love Portugal, so it is very satisfying to know I had a positive impact on their lives.”
What are some current trends you see in the industry and with Portugal’s program?
The fact that Portugal reacted so well to the pandemic has brought even more attention to the residency by investment program as it has shown people that Portugal is indeed a great country to live in. It is not only a safe and politically stable country; it also has an excellent public health system.
Also, new trends in the way we live and work, such as digital nomads, influence the way people plan their future and see the possibility of investing and moving abroad.
How do you think the pandemic has impacted the global RCBI industry?
I think it had a positive impact that will be seen shortly with an increase in applications. The pandemic was unexpected, and it changed our lives in a way our generation never thought to be possible. This made most people re-evaluate their priorities and even their life choices. I believe most people will want to increase their mobility and access to countries that can be a safe haven for them and their families.
Have there been any recent changes to Portugal’s program?
A Decree-Law amending the legal regime for entry, stay, departure, and removal of foreigners from the national territory was published on Feb. 12. However, the amendments will only be applicable from Jan. 1, 2022.
Contrary to what had been reported by various media, the Portuguese Golden Visa Program is not over, and almost nothing has in fact changed with regard to real estate investment. Put simply, no new investment routes were created; some minimum investment amounts were increased regarding other types of investment.
Regarding real estate investment, neither investment in the cities of Lisbon and Porto nor on the coast of mainland Portugal, in general, has been excluded, nor have the minimum investment values been changed. The only restriction adopted with regard to real estate investment is related to the purpose given to the property. As long as the property is intended for services, such as offices, shops, restaurants, hotels or even local accommodation, there is no restriction or impediment to investment in any part of the country.
What are your thoughts on vaccine passports?
Fear has had a very important role in the way people conducted their lives in the past year. Vaccine passports, in my opinion, can and will have a very important role in returning confidence to people and allowing us to live our lives to the fullest.
Why did you decide to join the Uglobal verified community, and what has it done for your business?
UGlobal is one of the top immigration communities in the world, it is an honor to be part of it and also one of its verified professionals. Being part of this community has given me the opportunity to network with professionals from all over the world and expand my business to new markets.
What is your favorite quote and why?
“If your dreams don’t scare you, they are too small” by Richard Branson.
What is the favorite book you have read recently? Why?
“The official biography of Elon Musk”. I admire his way of looking to existence and business.
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