Embarking on the journey to secure a Golden Visa is a significant undertaking, demanding thorough research and careful selection of an advisory firm. For individuals seeking expert guidance, firms like Henley & Partners often come to the forefront due to their extensive experience and established reputation in the field of residency and citizenship by investment. Choosing the right partner is crucial, as this decision impacts not only the success of your application but also your peace of mind throughout the process.
In the quest for the ideal advisory firm, many prospective Golden Visa applicants, like myself, engage in a rigorous vetting process. This often involves consultations with numerous advisory firms, investment funds, and legal experts to gain a comprehensive understanding of the landscape. My personal exploration involved discussions with over ten different advisory firms, a similar number of funds, and several law firms. This intensive research phase was essential to make an informed decision regarding a substantial investment.
Henley & Partners stood out during this initial phase due to their undeniable professionalism and vast experience in the investment migration industry. Their long-standing presence and global reach are immediately apparent, instilling a sense of confidence. However, this level of expertise and established brand recognition comes with a premium. The fee structure at Henley & Partners reflected their top-tier positioning, with advisory fees reaching a significant €25,000, in addition to the required investment amount. For some, this higher cost may be justifiable given their reputation and track record. However, for those mindful of budget considerations, it’s important to weigh the cost against the perceived benefits.
Another firm considered was GCS, which also demonstrated considerable knowledge and competence in the Golden Visa domain. Their team presented themselves as well-informed and capable. However, the approach felt somewhat assertive, with a sales-oriented pressure that wasn’t entirely comfortable. A particular point of concern arose regarding the suggestion to utilize their in-house junior lawyer for the application process. This raised questions about potential conflicts of interest and the impartiality of legal representation, which are critical aspects to consider when navigating complex legal procedures.
Amidst these explorations, Get Golden Visa emerged as a compelling alternative. Engaging with their Lisbon office involved initial interactions with several team members, which initially felt slightly disjointed. However, the assignment of a dedicated key account manager streamlined the process significantly. This personalized approach provided step-by-step guidance through both the real estate and fund investment options available for the Golden Visa. They facilitated informative calls with seven or eight different funds, offering a broad spectrum of investment opportunities to consider. Furthermore, demonstrating exceptional client service, they proactively visited properties of interest, capturing photos and videos to compensate for travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Throughout these interactions, there was a distinct absence of pressure or rushed decision-making, fostering a comfortable and trustworthy client-advisor relationship.
Ultimately, the decision was made to proceed with the fund investment option. For investments of this magnitude, in this case €350,000, the importance of having a reliable and responsible professional partner cannot be overstated. The team at Get Golden Visa instilled a sense of security and confidence, proving to be a valuable asset throughout the intricate Golden Visa application journey.
In conclusion, while firms like Henley & Partners offer considerable expertise and experience, potentially justifying a higher fee, it is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence and explore various advisory options. Regardless of the chosen firm, engaging in extensive conversations and asking pertinent questions is paramount. Remember, the selected advisory partner will be a long-term collaborator, potentially for the next 5-6 years of your Golden Visa journey. Careful vetting and a focus on finding a firm that aligns with your individual needs and comfort level are essential for a successful and stress-free experience.
