Four years after leaving Royal life and moving to the United States, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are headed back to Europe. Sources claim that the couple has purchased property in Portugal. While Portugal might seem like a random place for a member of the British Royal Family to purchase a home, there is some strategy behind the move.
Recently, Portugal has revamped its Gold Visa requirements, a residence by investment program. Non-EU individuals can evidently invest a minimum of €250,000 into the Portuguese economy and gain access to visa-free Europe’s Schengen area. Provided individuals uphold their presence requirements—non-EU residents need to spend a minimum of seven days in the country the first year and 14 days the next two years—they can apply for dual citizenship after five years time. As of the beginning of 2024, Portugal’s Gold Visa has reportedly generated €7.3 billion—or about $8 billion. A great way to support a local economy, gain dual citizenship, and for Prince Harry to be a little closer to home, if that’s what he wants.
Though not much is known about the Sussexes’ new accommodations, we wouldn’t be surprised if they bought property close to another family member with Portuguese ties. The twosome reportedly visited Princess Eugenie at her residence at CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club las year. Located in Melides, which is about 82 miles south of Lisbon, this beachy area offers an intriguing mix of seclusion, serenity, and swag. Whether Harry ad Meghan move somewhere nearby or pick up a plot in the exclusive neighborhood—the gated community will have 146 estates as well as 100 turnkey cottages, villas, and club residences, per its website—it could be just the respite they’re looking for.
And what does this all mean for Meghan and Prince Harry’s stateside real-estate? Is this a hint that they might eventually leave America? Not necessarily. As of now, there are no reports that they’re letting go of their Montecito mansion, which they purchased for $14.65 million back in August 2020. And, even if they did wish to relocate permanently, it will take a few years for them to be eligible for Portuguese citizenship. So don’t worry: If anything changes, we promise you’ll be the first to know.
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