June 20, 2025: One of the most important decisions in the move to Portugal is choosing the right partner to help with the Golden Visa (PGV) process. Some are excellent. Some are… less so.
“The stakes are high—you’re investing your money, your time, and your future. Getting it right matters, so get help!”
When you start researching the PGV, you’ll quickly run into a range of companies offering to “simplify” or “streamline” the process. These players generally fall into three categories: Third-Party Firms, Investment Funds, and Independent Law Firms.
Let’s break down what we learned about each—along with what ultimately guided us to the right partner.
Third-Party Firms
These firms bundle immigration advisors, lawyers, fund managers, and real estate agents into a single package. In the best cases, they truly act as concierge partners – offering a smooth, end-to-end experience. In the worst cases, they’re glorified sales organizations that pass you off to someone else, collect a commission, and vanish.
Here are some key things to watch for:
- Referral Fees: These firms typically earn a commission from the investment funds they recommend – often 5-15%. While it is an indirect cost to you, it is real. It means your €500,000 investment might be reduced by €50,000 before it ever starts working for you. That’s a deep hole to fill.
- No Fiduciary Duty: Many of these firms are primarily sales or consulting entities, not law firms. That means they have no legal obligation to act in your best interest – and may push investments based on who pays them most, not what’s the best fit for your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Limited Legal Advice: While they know the basics of PGV requirements, they often fall short on key areas like taxation, inheritance law, or estate planning. These are important if you plan to be a resident – so you’ll likely need your own lawyer anyway.
- “Sketch” Factor: A few pitched us on “creative” solutions that raised eyebrows. One offered a fund that included a home purchase (not legal under current PGV rules). Another suggested enrolling our adult child in a one-credit college course so they could qualify as a “dependent.” If it sounds sketchy, trust your gut.
That said, if you’re short on time and want a single point of contact, a high-quality third-party firm may still be worth considering. The most credible ones we found included:
- Global Citizen Solutions – Transparent and responsive, our top pick. Ask for Sean Spencer.
- Others we considered: Immigrant Invest, La Vida, and Portugal Pathways.
Investment Funds Offering PGV Support
Some investment funds offer “free” PGV services using their in-house or affiliated legal teams. In reality, these services are a marketing sales tool – and their costs are built into the fund’s operating expenses.
- You may face lower returns, since part of your investment goes to pay lawyers, salespeople, and marketing costs. The house gets paid first!
- You still face conflicts of interest, as these legal teams work for the fund, not for you.
A well-known example is Mercan Group. We know friends (and other bloggers) who’ve had good experiences with them. But for us, the investment and bundled legal services didn’t match our needs.
Independent Law Firms (Our Choice)
After extensive research, we chose to work directly with an independent Portuguese law firm – Fresh Portugal, with Zeev and Manuella. They specialize in immigration, tax, and investment law.
Why did we go this route?
- Independence = Objectivity: Our lawyers work for us, not for a fund or referral partner. Their advice is clear, candid, and aligned with our goals.
- Clarity and Control: We wanted reliable legal guidance – direct and to the point. They have provided that in spades as we’ve worked through the process.
- Tax Expertise: Understanding Portugal’s tax regime (especially for non-habitual residents) was critical. Our lawyer helped us navigate cross-border tax questions with insight – something no “one-stop” services offered.
Tips for Choosing Your Own PGV Partner
Here are a few lessons from our experience:
- Do your homework – Don’t rely on websites or brochures. Join forums like Nomad Gate, read reviews, and talk to actual clients if possible.
- Ask about fees and commissions – If someone’s getting paid for referrals, you deserve to know. Transparency is non-negotiable.
- Trust your instincts – If something feels overly “salesy,” or too good to be true, it probably is.
- Meet the actual team – Whether you go with a firm or an independent lawyer, talk directly with the people who’ll be handling your case. Chemistry is important.
Don’t forget—this is a legal process – PGV involves real immigration law. Make sure your advisor is licensed, qualified, and experienced.
Final Thought
In the end, this is your future – not just an investment. The process takes time, money, and trust. For us, building a small, independent team (led by a dedicated Portuguese lawyer) gave us confidence and control.
Whatever path you choose, take the time find the right partner. Your second passport – and your peace of mind – are worth it.
Very interesting information. Thank you for sharing.