Lawyer accused of stealing up to €1.2 million from Golden Visa clients

A 58-year-old lawyer has been arrested on suspicion of stealing up to €1.2 million from foreign clients by allegedly transferring money from their bank accounts into his own while handling applications for Portugal‘s Golden Visa residency scheme.

Portugal’s Judicial Police (PJ) said the suspect was detained in Odivelas on Wednesday, July 15 as part of an investigation led by its National Anti-Corruption Unit.

According to investigators, the lawyer gained access to clients’ bank accounts under the pretext of facilitating procedures linked to Authorisations for Residence through Investment, commonly known as Golden Visas.

The alleged scheme is said to have taken place between 2023 and March 2026, during which the suspect allegedly transferred funds into personal accounts.

Police estimate that the total amount misappropriated could reach €1.2 million, adding that the money was allegedly entirely spent on personal expenses.

So far, investigators have identified 33 victims, all foreign nationals, but believe the number of people affected is likely to increase as the investigation progresses.

The lawyer is suspected of aggravated fraud, breach of trust and money laundering.

He is due to appear before an investigating judge for a first court hearing.

The investigation is being led by the Lisbon Public Prosecutor’s Office (DIAP).

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.