As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume the Oval Office for a second term, many Americans are turning to golden visa programmes to find new countries to live, work, and raise their families. With over 72 million votes cast for the outgoing Vice President, it’s clear that not everyone is thrilled about Mr. Trump’s return to power.
But which golden visa destinations offer the best opportunities for Americans looking to relocate? Let’s take a closer look.
What are Golden Visas?
Golden visas provide investors a route to residency or even citizenship in a foreign country in exchange for a sizable financial investment. These programmes have become increasingly popular as a way for expats and high-net-worth individuals to secure an alternative residence or second passport.
Why Americans love Golden Visa countries
Some Americans want to leave for personal and safety reasons. But there are plenty of other reasons Americans prefer countries with golden visas.
Some are after lower costs of living, better climates, and more conducive environments for raising a family. Of course, having a second home and passport brings more sense of security, hassle-free travel, and a cosier lifestyle.
Where to go: 5 best Golden Visas for Americans
So, which golden visa programmes offer the best options for Americans looking to relocate?
Portugal Golden Visa
Portugal’s golden visa programme has long been a popular choice for Americans. After maintaining their Golden Visa for five years, investors and their families can apply for permanent residency in Portugal; note that proposed legislative changes approved by parliament in 2025 would extend the minimum residency required for Portuguese citizenship from five years to ten years for most non-EU nationals, pending final enactment. The investment requirements include purchasing investment fund units worth at least €500,000 or making a minimum €250,000 contribution to supporting arts.
Spain Golden Visa
Spain’s golden visa programme was officially closed on 3 April 2025 and is no longer accepting new applications. Until its closure, it had allowed non-EU citizens to obtain residency by investing a minimum of €500,000 in Spanish real estate. Existing holders may renew their visas under the original conditions. Applicants seeking to move to Spain should now consider the digital nomad visa, which enables remote workers to reside in Spain while employed by a foreign company, or other residency routes such as the Non-Lucrative Visa.
Malta
Malta’s citizenship by investment programme was formally ended in July 2025, following a ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union in April 2025 that the scheme was incompatible with EU law. It has been replaced by a merit-based naturalisation route, under which citizenship may be granted to individuals who demonstrate exceptional contributions to Malta or humanity — not on the basis of a fixed financial investment.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE golden visa programme grants 10-year residency permits to investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. The minimum investment for the 10-year investor Golden Visa is AED 2 million (approximately $550,000) in real estate or a qualifying fund or business. That makes it a more affordable option for some Americans.
Turkey
Turkey’s citizenship by investment scheme offers a relatively affordable route to a second passport. Applicants can obtain citizenship by investing $400,000 in real estate or $500,000 in a Turkish bank account or government bonds.
How we can help
At International Wealth Ventures, we specialise in guiding individuals and families through the complex world of citizenship by investment and financial planning. Get in touch today to learn more about your golden visa options.
