The UAE has introduced “unprecedented” consular-style support for Golden Visa residents abroad. Below, the four changes in plain English - and a comparison with Portugal’s residency pathways for families targeting safety, climate, schools and long-term EU options.
Residency
10-year UAE
New Perks
4 consular services
Support
24/7 hotline
EU Plan B
Portugal D7/GV
Lost or damaged passport while abroad? Golden Visa holders can obtain an electronic return document (valid for a limited period) to re-enter the UAE with Ministry support.
A dedicated around-the-clock hotline for urgent queries and guidance - a safety net for residents who need rapid consular-style support while overseas.
In major incidents (e.g., natural disasters), long-term residents are now explicitly included in evacuation and emergency coordination via UAE missions abroad.
Streamlined procedures for repatriation and burial in the unfortunate event of a death abroad - with coordination and support for families.
Originally focused on outstanding contributors and key sectors, eligibility now spans investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, professionals, top students and additional local categories (varies by emirate).
The UAE’s new benefits strengthen support when you’re abroad - but Portugal offers something different: a runway to EU life and rights. Choose D7 if you can relocate on stable/passive income (no investment required), or opt for the Golden Visa if you need low average presence and prefer regulated fund investments.
| Destination | Model | Investment Needed | Presence | Family Benefit | Long-Term Path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | 10-year Golden Visa | Yes (varies by route) | Residence in UAE | New consular-style support abroad | Long-term UAE residency |
| Portugal | D7 (income) / Golden Visa (funds) | No for D7 / Yes for GV | Relocation (D7) / Low presence (GV) | Schools, healthcare, EU lifestyle | PR ~5 yrs; EU citizenship later* |
Get personalized guidance on the fund process. Our Investor Relations team can clarify the steps, discuss Explorer's fund options, and connect you with trusted legal experts. Schedule your confidential, no-obligation consultation today.
André Bandeira
ab@explorerinvestments.com
Maria Campos Silva
mcs@explorerinvestments.com
Family-focused guide on using the Portugal Golden Visa to move to Portugal: lifestyle, schooling, healthcare and how a €500k CMVM-regulated fund investment can underpin a five-year citizenship strategy.
Step-by-step Portugal Golden Visa checklist for the €500k fund route in 2026: CMVM fund selection, NIF and bank account, documentation, subscription, application filing and common mistakes to avoid.
Canadian interest in the Algarve has surged thanks to direct Toronto–Faro flights, mild winters and lower living costs. This guide explains how Canadians are using the D7 passive income visa, the D2 entrepreneur visa and the €500k Portugal Golden Visa fund route to relocate, invest and secure EU residency.
Get your complete, free guide to the Portuguese Golden Visa. Learn how to invest with confidence through Explorer Investments, the country's largest private equity fund.
André Bandeira
ab@explorerinvestments.comMaria Campos Silva
mcs@explorerinvestments.comCopyright © 2025 Explorer Investments
It is recommended to consult Chapter V of Decree-Law nº 162/2014, of October 31st, published in the Official Gazette, as well as its revision by Law nº 2/2020, of March 31st. The information included here is of a general nature, and therefore each potential investor should seek independent advice (e.g., legal, financial, tax, etc.)