Prince Harry and Meghan Markle need new citizenship since the UK is no longer part of the European Union. The couple is reportedly eyeing Portugal’s “Golden Visa” after their recent real estate purchase.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex must apply for Portuguese citizenship to enjoy unrestricted travel through the Schengen area. However, the pair must pass a language test to travel freely between the EU’s 29 countries. Portugal’s “Golden Visa” application tests interested candidates on their ability to use and understand everyday language.
The process also included the understanding of expressions and basic phrases. Learning a new language might be fine for Meghan, who can speak Spanish and French fluently. But the same cannot be said about her husband, who once admitted he could not speak a second language. Prince Harry might have to buckle up and start studying, given the benefits of Portugal’s sought-after visa.
The Sussexes were also offered various options in their Portuguese citizenship application. The list included five years of uninterrupted residency or having ancestors from the country. They could also invest $540,000 through investment funds, scientific research, local companies, and/or businesses.
While it’s unclear why the couple chose to buy a home in Portugal, the country boasts several benefits. The list includes its beautiful beaches and its status as one of the safest European countries. However, Prince Harry and Meghan might have chosen the area for its privacy, per The New York Post.
Portugal Residents Were Displeased by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Move
To the dismay of locals, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex purchased a slot in Mike Meldman’s Comporta resort. These Portugal residents slammed the couple for joining the list of wealthy people encroaching on their once-accessible beaches.
“Worst thing to happen to the Portuguese coast, typical greed situation. Taking land and property from locals who have been enjoying it for years,” a Comporta resident, Bradley McGuiness, said. Another local, Andre Andrade, lamented:
“I am very upset by this massive piece of Portuguese land destroyed for the rich, removed from the average local that had been creating memories in this place for generations and generations.”
The cries of wealthy invaders continued, with local Diana Queiroz recalling what the coastline was like before the resort. We reported she said, “I have been going to this place for years. Camped there several times and, because of this company, this is no longer possible.”
If Prince Harry and Meghan Markle obtain Portuguese citizenship, will they have a rocky relationship with the locals?
