Golden Visas are residency schemes that allow high-net-worth individuals to obtain residency through investment. They provide a fast-tracked route to living in a European nation for those willing to invest, with some affordable options from just €150,000.
What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa grants residency to foreign investors who meet the investment criteria set by a country. Common qualifying investments include purchasing real estate, investing in businesses, making deposits or buying government bonds.
How to Obtain a Golden Visa
The process typically involves three key steps:
1) Choosing an approved investment option and making the minimum qualifying investment
2) Submitting an application along with due diligence documents like proof of funds, clean criminal record, etc.
3) If approved, collecting the residency card in that country
Benefits of a Golden Visa
The key advantages of obtaining a European Golden Visa include:
Residency and right to live in that EU country
Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for 90 days
Potential path to full citizenship after a period of residency
Access to healthcare, education and business opportunities
Stable residency in Europe, often seen as a safe haven
Top 5 Affordable Golden Visas
1. Portugal – €250,000 minimum
Portugal offers multiple investment routes from €200,000 for cultural donations up to €500,000 for qualifying investment funds (real estate is no longer an eligible route). Residency allows visa-free Schengen travel with just 7 days per year stay in Portugal required. Leads to citizenship eligibility after 10 years (7 years for EU/CPLP nationals) under the 2026 Nationality Law reform.
2. Spain – Programme Closed
The Spain Golden Visa officially ended on 3 April 2025 and is no longer accepting new applications. The programme previously required a minimum €500,000 real estate investment or €1,000,000 bank deposit. Existing holders retain their rights and may renew under the original rules, but no new applications are possible.
3. Greece – €400,000 minimum
Since September 2024, a standard residential property purchase requires €400,000 in most of Greece, or €800,000 in high-demand areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Santorini. A lower €250,000 threshold remains only for commercial-to-residential property conversions or listed-building restorations. All residential properties must be a single unit of at least 120 m². Grants a 5-year renewable residency permit with no minimum stay requirement, plus a path to Greek citizenship after 7 years of lawful residence.
4. Italy – €250,000 minimum
The cheapest route is a €250,000 startup investment, with other options like purchasing bonds from €2m. Grants 2+3 year renewable residency initially with citizenship eligibility at 10 years residency.
5. Malta – €150,000 minimum
One of Europe’s most affordable at €150,000 for a 5-year rental. Grants residency for life on the island with Schengen travel and right to apply for a work permit. Higher €350,000+ investment to purchase property.
While investment amounts vary, these five programs stand out as relatively affordable avenues for obtaining legal residency – and potentially citizenship – within the European Union through investment.
