Client story
Client Background
Where they started
The client approached us with a typical recent request: he had previously planned to obtain a Golden Visa through real estate purchase, but as of 2023 this pathway was removed from the program. A new route to obtain a residence permit was needed, and initially the client perceived this as an unfortunate loss of the familiar option.
Why the standard route did not work
As we reviewed the remaining options, it became clear that the client's mindset was that of an investor, not a rentier. The idea of "buying an apartment and renting it out" appealed to him less than the opportunity to invest capital in something growing. The exclusion of real estate unexpectedly worked in his favor.
What BRIDGES had to solve
The main remaining pathway is a subscription of 500,000 euros minimum into an investment fund regulated by CMVM. Among such funds are venture capital funds: they invest in growing companies and carry greater risk, but also offer return potential that real estate does not promise. For a client with appetite for growth, this aligned better with his philosophy.
Why a standard answer would not do
The client came to BRIDGES to select a fund wisely: regulated, qualifying under the program, and with clear investment logic. The task was straightforward - not to rescue, but to properly allocate capital and secure his status.
I was planning to take an apartment under the golden visa, and they removed it from the program. At first I was upset, but then Dmitry showed me venture funds - and I realized it was actually more interesting. By nature I'm an investor; I prefer investing in something growing rather than renting out real estate. We selected a regulated venture fund, executed the subscription, and I obtained the residence permit. Now my capital isn't sitting in concrete but working with growth potential. Sometimes a closed door leads to something better.
