Lisbon will welcome one of the most prominent events in the international fiscal calendar this autumn, as the 77th Congress of the International Fiscal Association (IFA) takes place in the city from 5–9 October 2025.

The gathering will unite leading voices in taxation, finance, technology, investment, and public policy.

For Portugal, the event represents a milestone of major importance, highlighting Lisbon’s credentials as a host for world-class conferences and strengthening the country’s reputation as a centre for global events spanning technology, investment, and healthcare.

Portugal also stands out in Europe for its exceptional growth in the luxury real estate sector.

Steve Philp, Director at Portugal Pathways, which supports private wealth coming to Portugal and investing in the Golden Visa programme, says:

“We are proud to sponsor the Lisbon IFA Congress this year.

“It is a unique chance to showcase Portugal from a lifestyle or investment point of view to so many important figures in private wealth, cross-border tax, and international advisory groups, such as Bloomberg Tax and Ernst & Young (EY).

“International lawyers, tax advisors, and strategic consultants from across the globe will be here enjoying everything that Portugal has to offer while they debate cross-border tax and other international investment mechanisms in Portugal.

“Many of these conversations related to residency and tax domicile have already opened up many opportunities for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme, and the potential to channel this interest into funds and other sectors is substantial. The effect on foreign direct investment could be transformative.”

Founded in 1938, the IFA is globally recognised for promoting dialogue and comparative research on both international and domestic tax issues. Its annual congress is a landmark in the fiscal world, drawing thousands of participants, including senior policymakers, academics, investors, and advisors.

Rogério Fernandes Ferreira, President of IFA Portugal, says:

“The congress will offer sessions covering a wide range of topics from the latest developments in international tax law to emerging trends, along with residency of legal entities for corporate income taxation.”

Portugal continues to establish itself as a global leader in finance, technology, media, healthcare, and international events. The country recently received an upgraded A+ economic rating from S&P and has been ranked as Europe’s top relocation destination for private wealth seeking a second passport through the Portugal Golden Visa programme.

This success story is underpinned by a flexible visa system. Options include the D2 visa for entrepreneurs, the D7 for passive income earners and retirees, and the D8 for digital nomads—all requiring at least 183 days in Portugal per year and tax residency. In contrast, the Golden Visa demands a minimum stay of just seven days annually.

Since its inception, the Golden Visa has generated over €8 billion for Portugal’s economy. Reforms have shifted its focus away from property, directing investment instead into alternative investment funds that back Portugal’s private equity market and long-term growth.

Applicants can qualify by investing at least €500,000 in eligible funds regulated by the Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM). The programme also supports family reunification for spouses, dependent children, and parents who meet the criteria.

Paul Sheedy, special advisor at the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund eligible for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme, says:

“We expect close to 2,000 delegates in Lisbon, and the value this brings to Portugal goes far beyond the week of the event.

“It will raise awareness of Portugal as a place to invest and live. That visibility can translate into long-term commitments in funds, infrastructure, technology, healthcare and renewables.

“It is an opportunity for Portugal to convert interest into real economic value.”

The Golden Visa requires investors to maintain their commitment for at least five years, during which residence permits must be periodically renewed.

After this period, residents may apply for permanent dual EU citizenship and a passport, subject to requirements such as a clean legal record and basic Portuguese language proficiency, often achieved through a short online course.

The long-term impact of the IFA Congress in Lisbon is expected to be substantial, deepening international awareness of Portugal’s investment climate, regulatory framework, and residency opportunities.

Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of the Portugal Investment Owners Club, comments:

“We are so glad that Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club were able to sponsor this prestigious event in Lisbon.

“It is the first time that the event has come to Portugal in almost 60 years.”

For many delegates, the congress will provide an introduction to opportunities such as the Golden Visa, luxury real estate, entrepreneurial ventures, and the IFICI (NHR 2.0) tax regime. IFICI rewards value creators who bring companies or subsidiaries to Portugal with a 10-year tax benefit.

Beyond fiscal matters, the event positions Portugal as a vital participant in global debates on taxation and investment. In a world of shifting tax regimes, evolving investment flows, and geopolitical realignments, Portugal’s presence at the heart of these conversations signals its growing influence and ability to adapt to international financial change.

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About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.

About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.

About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.

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