The value of the euro has reached a record low in the last few days and is now equal to the U.S. dollar (USD). This fall in the value of the EU’s main currency will undoubtedly have important ramifications for the global economy, but at the same time, it offers a unique opportunity for migrant investors, especially those operating in currencies other than the euro. In this way, and thanks to this currency parity, the residency and citizenship by investment programs offered by some EU countries have just become much more interesting and affordable.
The Spanish, Portuguese and Greek Golden Visas have all set their investment requirements in Euro. Investors who maintain their funds in US Dollars or any currency pegged to the US Dollar like the United Arab Emirates, Saudia Arabia and other countries in the Middle East, can save an average of 17% on their investment. Investors are currently getting great value for their Spain, Portugal and Greece Golden Visa.
The requirement amounts have not changed and remain the same. The Portuguese Golden Visa requires a €280,000 investment in real estate that was equal to US$ 333,200 a year ago. Today, the same investment is equivalent to US$280,000. This represents a 16% savings on the investment. In Spain, the minimum investment is €500,000 in real estate. A year ago the equivalent was US$595,000. With the Euro and USD at parity, it is now US$500,000. This is a 19% savings on the investment. The Greek Golden Visa requires a €250,000 investment on real estate. A year ago, the equivalent was US$300,000. Today, it is US$250,000, and represents a 16% savings.
By the time the investment holding period of at least five years is over, the Euro will have recovered and the investor would have received a good return on his investment.
However, this is not a permanent situation. The European Union will definitely take measures to improve the value of the Euro. Investors must take advantage of this time-sensitive situation while the window of opportunity is still open.