Fabrizio LeonardoDo you know you can get a European visa without doing anything there? What if I told you that you don’t even have to work a job or study full-time to settle legally in countries like Spain, Greece, or Portugal? Sounds interesting, right?
Well, that’s where “Golden Visa” programs come in. These programs are special immigration channels for non-EU citizens to get residency rights in a country in exchange for investing a specific amount of money – usually in real estate, a business, or a fund. In some cases, a citizen could even be available down the road.
If you are someone with savings or investable capital and want to experience the rich attraction of living in beautiful European cities, travelling through Schengen countries without the hassle, and enjoy the best healthcare and lifestyle, this could be your doorway. Right now, Golden Visa programs are still some of the most appealing residency options for international investors.
But what exactly are these golden visas? What do they offer? And which countries in Europe still have them? All the answers to these will be covered in this article.
What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is basically a residency-by-investment program. It allows non-EU citizens (like Americans, Asians, Africans, etc.) to legally reside in a European country if they make a qualifying investment. The investment can be in things such as real estate or government bonds; it can even be just a donation to things like public projects or development funds. The person and in some cases their family can attain residency permits in return and benefit from most of the rights residents enjoy (access to schools, health care, ability to live and travel in the Schengen zone, etc.)
Eventually, over time, and after meeting a few conditions, that residency could be permanent residency or full citizenship in that country. Every country is unique and has its own rules for facilitating this pathway, the investment amount, and processing time. The right one to choose will in fact depend on yourself, your goals, and budget.
General Requirements for Golden Visa Programs
While every country has its own set of rules, some general requirements tend to be the same across the board. Below are the basic requirements you’ll most likely need to meet:
- You must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, have a clean criminal record, and show proof of legal funds.
- You also need to make a qualifying investment which can be different because some countries ask for real estate purchases, others prefer business investments or government donations.
- Another common rule is health insurance which you’ll likely need to show that you and your family have valid coverage.
- Most countries also ask you to maintain the investment for a specific period, usually five years, before applying for permanent residency or citizenship.
- Lastly, you will have to fulfill the minimum stay requirements, which are typically quite low or flexible depending on the country (some allow just a few days per year).
And even though some countries don’t force you to live there full-time, they still might require short visits every year.
Golden Visa (Investor Visas) Programs in Europe
Now let’s take a look at the countries still offering Golden Visa programs currently and what makes each one unique.
Portugal Golden Visa
Portugal’s Golden Visa used to be one of the most popular programs, especially because of the low stay requirements and high chance of eventual citizenship. However, now, the program has seen some major changes. Real estate investment is no longer accepted. Now, the focus is more on fund investments, job creation, and scientific research.
You can still apply for this golden visa by investing in qualified funds or donating to research, arts, or cultural projects. The minimum investment starts at around €250,000 depending on the route.
Spain Golden Visa
Spain continues to be a top pick. You can get a Golden Visa by investing at least €500,000 in real estate. Spain also accepts investments in shares of Spanish companies or government bonds.
One of the best parts is that you don’t need to live full-time in Spain to renew your visa. Plus, after five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after ten years, for citizenship.
Greece Golden Visa Program
Greece offers one of the cheapest Golden Visa programs in Europe. You can still apply by investing just €250,000 in real estate, although in popular areas like Athens or Thessaloniki, the minimum has gone up to €500,000. This visa is great for people who want residency without living there permanently.
Greece doesn’t require physical presence for renewals, and the visa is valid for five years, renewable as long as the investment is held.
Italy Resident by Investment Visa
Italy has a bit of a different system. Instead of real estate, the country prefers direct investments in startups, companies, or even government bonds. The minimum investment starts at €250,000 for an innovative startup, and up to €2 million for government bonds.
Italy also launched a digital nomad visa recently, but that’s separate. The investor visa is ideal if you’re into business and want to base yourself in a country known for art, food, and culture.
Malta Permanent Residency Program
Malta offers both citizenship and residency through investment. The residency path is also called the Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP). It requires a mix of real estate investment and government contributions, totaling around €150,000 to €300,000. It’s not the cheapest, but it gives permanent residency from the beginning and access to the Schengen zone.
Ireland Immigrant Investor Program
Ireland’s Immigrant Investor Program was paused in 2023, and there’s still uncertainty in 2025 about whether it will return. Previously, it allowed investors to contribute to public projects or invest in Irish companies for residency. If you’re set on Ireland, keep an eye on updates from their immigration department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, I will answer some recurring questions regarding the Golden Visa programs for investors.
What are the golden visa countries in Europe?
Currently, the main countries offering Golden Visas are Spain, Portugal (with revised rules), Greece, Italy, and Malta. Some programs have changed or closed, like Ireland and Cyprus.
What is the cheapest Golden Visa in Europe 2026?
Greece still holds the record for the cheapest Golden Visa in Europe, starting from €250,000 in real estate. But note that in busy cities or tourist hotspots, the minimum might be higher.
Which EU country has the best Golden Visa?
“Best” depends on your goals. For low investment, Greece is great. For long-term citizenship chances, Portugal is a top choice. If you want a mix of lifestyle, travel, and business, Spain could be your best bet.
Does Portugal have a Golden Visa in 2026?
Yes, but it’s changed. Portugal no longer accepts real estate for Golden Visas. You’ll need to invest in approved funds, research, or cultural support. It’s still a good deal, just with new rules.
Which golden visa is better, Spain or Portugal?
If you want real estate investment, Spain is better. If you’re open to fund-based investments and want eventual citizenship, Portugal might be more appealing. It really depends on your goals and lifestyle preferences.
Which is the fastest golden visa in Europe?
Malta offers permanent residency quite fast compared to others, sometimes in under a year. Spain and Greece also have quick processing times, usually within two to four months.
Conclusion: Why You Should Go for Golden Visa Programs for Investors
Golden Visas are not only a way of living in Europe; they are a smart life decision. If you are planning for retirement, want to travel more freely globally, or are simply looking for a second home base, Golden Visas or investor visas can provide you with a greater opportunity. You can enjoy top tier healthcare, education, lifestyle benefits, and in some cases, EU citizenship eventually, all for making the right investment.
This year offers a variety of opportunities for the Golden Visa even with some of the rules changing from country to country. Just make sure you do the research, know the rules in the country you wish to invest in, and possibly get a good immigration advisor to help you. If you can afford the investment and are willing to go through the process, the Golden Visa may be your golden ticket.
We wish you all the best and hope this article was helpful.
Fabrizio Leonardo
