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 €250,000 for cultural investments up to €500,000 for real estate or investment funds. Residency allows visa-free Schengen travel with just 7 days per year stay in Portugal required. Leads to citizenship eligibility after 5 years.
2. Spain - €350,000 minimum
Invest €350,000 in Spanish real estate or make a €600,000 bank deposit. The no-residency requirement is appealing, though 183 days per year must be spent in Spain to qualify for tax residency benefits. Citizenship possible after 10 years.
3. Greece - €250,000 minimum
€250,000 gets you a 5-year Greek residency through property purchase, business investment or timeshare purchase. It allows 90/180 day Schengen visits and a path to Greek citizenship after 7 years residency.
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.