Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent investment in a $4.7 million property in Portugal has reportedly created new challenges for the couple’s aspirations toward European Union citizenship. According to the New York Post, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex acquired one of 300 upcoming residences in the prestigious CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club, a 722-acre luxury development situated roughly 81 miles south of Lisbon.
Their purchase, however, brings with it additional obstacles due to the post-Brexit separation of the UK from the EU. Now, in order to attain Portuguese citizenship, the Sussexes must apply through Portugal’s citizenship program, which includes a language proficiency requirement.
Global Citizen Solutions explained that applicants for the “Golden Visa” must demonstrate the ability to use everyday language and expressions. While Meghan Markle is known for her fluency in both Spanish and French, Prince Harry has admitted to not speaking a second language, which could prove to be a hurdle in their citizenship pursuit.
The couple has a few options to obtain Portuguese citizenship, including maintaining five years of continuous residency, establishing a national lineage, or making an investment of at least $540,000 in Portuguese funds, scientific research, or local businesses.
As they consider their next steps, Harry and Meghan’s Portugal purchase marks both a significant investment and a potential turning point in their journey toward EU residency.
