Thinking about a backup plan? You’re not alone.
In a world of economic shifts, political uncertainty, and lifestyle changes, more and more people are looking at Europe’s Golden Visa programs as their “Plan B.” Whether it’s for greater mobility, a safe haven, better quality of life, or long-term investment opportunities, Golden Visas offer a practical and strategic way to secure residency — and eventually even citizenship — in some of Europe’s most attractive countries.
In this guide, we’ll break down the Top 10 European countries offering Golden Visas in 2025, comparing the key benefits, investment options, and what makes each destination stand out.
Let’s find your perfect match.
What is a Golden Visa?
Golden Visas are residency by investment programs that give non-EU citizens the chance to live in a European country by making an eligible investment. In most cases, that means buying property, starting a business, investing in local funds, or contributing to cultural or scientific initiatives.
In return, you get legal residency — and often, a path to citizenship over time. These programs are especially appealing because they usually come with low stay requirements and give you access to travel freely across the Schengen Area.
For many, a Golden Visa is more than just a residency permit. It’s a smart Plan B, a lifestyle upgrade, or a long-term strategy for global mobility, better education, healthcare, or simply peace of mind.
Benefits of a Golden Visa Program
The Golden Visa program comes with a range of advantages that make it an attractive option for investors, families, and global citizens alike.
🌍 Residency in Europe
Gain the right to live in a safe, politically stable, and well-connected EU country. Enjoy access to world-class healthcare, reputable education systems, modern infrastructure, and an overall higher quality of life for you and your family.
✈️ Visa-Free Travel
Golden Visa holders can travel freely across the Schengen Area — 27 European countries with no internal borders. Whether it’s for business, holidays, or family visits, moving around Europe becomes smooth and hassle-free.
🛂 Path to Citizenship
Most programs lead to permanent residency and, eventually, EU citizenship — usually after five to seven years. This means you could qualify for an EU passport, giving you full rights to live, work, and travel across all EU member states.
👨👩👧 Family Included
Your spouse, dependent children, and in some cases even dependent parents can be included in the same application. Everyone receives the same rights, allowing your family to live, study, and benefit from the country’s systems together.
⏱️ Minimal Stay Requirements
Unlike traditional immigration routes, many Golden Visa programs don’t require you to move right away. In some cases, just 7 to 14 days of stay per year is enough to maintain your residency status — ideal for those who want flexibility.
🏠 Smart Investment
Your Golden Visa investment isn’t just a cost — it can also be an asset. Whether you’re buying real estate, contributing to a fund, or launching a business, there’s potential for solid returns or full capital recovery after the minimum holding period.
🛡️ Plan B Security
A second residency offers peace of mind in an unpredictable world. Whether it’s political shifts, economic instability, or personal reasons, having a legal base in Europe provides a stable, secure option — just in case you ever need it.
Top 8 Countries in Europe for Golden Visa in 2025
1. Portugal 🇵🇹
Portugal’s Golden Visa program is one of the most popular in Europe, offering a flexible path to residency and eventual citizenship. Known for its high quality of life, mild climate, and friendly tax policies,
Portugal appeals to families, retirees, and investors looking for stability with lifestyle benefits. While real estate is no longer a qualifying option, alternative investments like job creation, innovation funds, and cultural contributions remain attractive.
Portugal Golden Visa Investment Options
- €500,000: Investment in Portuguese venture capital or private equity funds that support local businesses. Funds must have a minimum maturity of 5 years and invest at least 60% in Portugal-based companies.
- €500,000: Contribution to scientific research or technological development through accredited public or private institutions in Portugal, supporting innovation in health, science, or tech.
- €250,000: Donation to support arts, culture, or heritage preservation in Portugal. This is the most affordable Golden Visa option and ideal for those with philanthropic goals.
- Job Creation: Creation of 10 full-time jobs in Portugal, or 8 full-time jobs in low-density areas. Jobs must be maintained throughout the Golden Visa period.
Portugal Golden Visa Benefits
2. Spain 🇪🇸
Spain’s Golden Visa offers fast-track residency through real estate or capital investment. With its sunny weather, vibrant cities, and excellent healthcare system, Spain is a top pick for those seeking both lifestyle and long-term value. Investors are granted residency with no minimum stay requirement, making it ideal for second-home buyers or those looking for a European Plan B.
Spain Golden Visa Investment Options
- €500,000 in residential or commercial real estate in Spain.
- €2 million in Spanish government bonds (public debt).
- €1 million in stocks or shares of Spanish companies.
- €1 million in Spanish investment funds.
- €1 million in bank deposits within Spanish financial institutions.
Spain Golden Visa Benefits
3. Greece 🇬🇷
Greece offers one of the most affordable Golden Visas in Europe, with property investments starting at just €250,000 in many areas. It’s a favorite for its Mediterranean lifestyle, strategic location, and no physical residency requirement. Whether you’re after a holiday home or a long-term escape, Greece offers an easy and flexible route to European residency.
Greece Golden Visa Investment Options
Real Estate Investment:
- €800,000 Investment Zone: In high-demand areas, including the entire Region of Attica (Athens), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and 32 other islands, the minimum investment is set at €800,000.
- €400,000 Investment Zone: For properties located outside these prime areas, the minimum investment is €400,000.
- €250,000 Special Investment Category: Investments involving the conversion of commercial properties to residential use or the restoration of listed buildings may qualify with a minimum investment of €250,000. These projects are limited and subject to specific conditions.
Financial Investments:
- Government Bonds:Purchase Greek government bonds with a minimum acquisition value of €500,000, held for at least three years.
- Shares or Corporate Bonds: Invest at least €800,000 in shares or corporate bonds of Greek companies traded on regulated markets.
- Bank Deposits: Place a fixed-term deposit of at least €500,000 in a Greek credit institution.
Business Investments:
- Capital Contribution: Invest a minimum of €500,000 in a Greek enterprise, either through share capital increase or purchase of bonds issued by the company, contributing to the Greek economy.
Investment Funds:
- Mutual Funds: Acquire shares or stocks with an acquisition value of at least €350,000 in mutual funds that invest exclusively in Greek assets.
Greece Golden Visa Benefits
4. Malta 🇲🇹
Malta’s Residency by Investment program combines residency rights with access to a stable economy, excellent healthcare, and English-speaking education. With its favorable tax regime and strong financial sector, Malta attracts global investors, retirees, and families alike. The program requires a mix of property leasing or purchase, a government contribution, and a philanthropic donation.
Malta Golden Visa Investment Options
Property Investment:
- Purchase Option: Acquire a property with a minimum value of €375,000.
- Rental Option: Lease a property with a minimum annual rent of €14,000.
Government Contribution:
- With Property Purchase: Contribute €30,000 to the Maltese economy.
- With Property Rental: Contribute €60,000 to the Maltese economy.
Administrative Fees:
- Main Applicant: A non-refundable fee of €50,000.
- Per Dependent: An additional fee of €10,000 per family member included in the application.
Charitable Donation:
- A mandatory donation of €2,000 to a registered non-governmental organization (NGO) in Malta.
Malta Golden Visa Benefits
5. Cyprus 🇨🇾
Cyprus offers a permanent residency option through real estate investment starting from €300,000. Known for its warm climate, English-speaking population, and strategic location between Europe and the Middle East, Cyprus is especially attractive for families and business owners. While its citizenship-by-investment program has ended, the residency program remains active and appealing.
Cyprus Golden Visa Investment Options
- €300,000: Residential Real Estate Investment: Purchase up to two new residential properties from the same developer, totaling at least €300,000 (excluding VAT). These properties must be first-time sales.
- €300,000: Commercial Real Estate Investment: Acquire new or resale commercial properties, such as offices, shops, or hotels, with a combined value of at least €300,000.
- €300,000: Investment in a Cyprus Company: Invest in the share capital of a Cyprus-registered company that has a physical presence and employs at least five people.
€300,000: Investment in Investment Funds: Invest in units of Cyprus Investment Organization of Collective Investments, such as Alternative Investment Funds (AIF), AIF with Limited Number of Persons (AIFLNP), or Registered Alternative Investment Funds (RAIF).
Cyprus Golden Visa Benefits
6. Hungary 🇭🇺
Hungary recently relaunched its Golden Visa program, making it one of the newest options in Europe. With competitive investment thresholds and a fast-track residency process, it appeals to investors who want Schengen access without high entry costs. Hungary offers a central location, low cost of living, and vibrant cities like Budapest — ideal for lifestyle seekers and business-minded individuals alike.
Hungary Golden Visa Investment Options
- €250,000: Investment in Real Estate Fund
Invest in a real estate investment fund approved by the Hungarian National Bank, with a focus on local development and infrastructure. - €500,000: Direct Purchase of Residential Real Estate
Buy residential property in Hungary with a minimum value of €500,000. The property must meet certain legal and location criteria, and it cannot be resold for at least five years. - €1 million: Strategic Donation
Contribute to a public interest foundation that supports education, culture, or science in Hungary. This donation is non-refundable and aimed at supporting national development.
Hungary Golden Visa Benefits
7. Italy 🇮🇹
Italy’s Investor Visa welcomes non-EU nationals with options like investing in innovative startups, local businesses, or government bonds. Known for its rich culture, world-class cuisine, and beautiful regions, Italy offers a gateway to Schengen mobility and potential citizenship after 10 years. The program is especially appealing to entrepreneurs and digital nomads looking to establish a European base.
Italy Golden Visa Investment Options
- €2 million: Government Bonds: Invest in Italian government bonds.
- €500,000: Italian Limited Company: Invest in shares of an Italian limited company (S.p.A or S.r.l) that is actively operating.
- €250,000: Innovative Startup: Invest in an Italian innovative startup recognized under Italian law.
- €1 million: Philanthropic Donation: Make a donation to support a public-interest project in areas such as culture, education, immigration management, scientific research, or preservation of cultural and natural heritage.
Italy Golden Visa Benefits
8. Latvia 🇱🇻
Latvia’s Golden Visa is one of the most budget-friendly in the EU, with options starting from €50,000. Located in the Baltics, it offers quick access to the Schengen Zone and a relatively straightforward application process. It’s ideal for investors seeking a low-cost entry point into Europe with minimal hassle.
Latvia Golden Visa Investment Options
Business Investment:
- €50,000 Investment: Invest in a Latvian company with fewer than 50 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet not exceeding €10 million. The company must pay at least €40,000 in taxes annually. Additionally, a one-time government fee of €10,000 is required.
- €100,000 Investment: Invest in a Latvian company with more than 50 employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet exceeding €10 million.
Real Estate Investment:
- €250,000 Investment: Purchase real estate in Latvia valued at a minimum of €250,000. The property must be held for at least five years. A government fee equivalent to 5% of the property’s purchase price applies.
Government Bonds:
- €250,000 Investment: Purchase special-purpose, non-interest-bearing government bonds. An additional one-time government fee of €38,000 is required
Bank Deposit:
- €280,000 Investment: Make a subordinated deposit in a Latvian bank for a minimum term of five years. This option includes a government fee of €25,000.
Latvia Golden Visa Benefits
Golden Visa Program Requirements
While each country has its specific rules, most European Golden Visa programs follow a similar framework. Below are the typical requirements you’ll need to meet:
- Eligible Nationality: You must be a third-country national — meaning you’re not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland — and not connected to any restricted or sanctioned country.
- Qualifying Investment: You are required to make a qualifying investment (e.g. in real estate, funds, or business) and maintain it for the minimum period specified by the country.
- Proof of Funds & Source: You must prove that the funds were legally acquired and that you personally own the capital you intend to invest — no borrowed or third-party money.
- Maintain Investment: The investment must be held for a set number of years, usually 5 to 7 years, depending on the program, in order to keep or renew your residency.
- Clean Criminal Record: Applicants must submit a valid police clearance certificate showing no criminal background in their country of origin and any country of residence.
- Minimum Stay (if applicable): Some countries require you to spend a minimum number of days in the country per year, while others (like Greece) don’t have physical presence requirements.
Golden Visa Application Process
Applying for a Golden Visa involves a few key steps — while the details vary by country, the general process follows this structure:
1. Choose Your Investment Route
Start by selecting the type of investment that fits your goals and meets the legal requirements — real estate, funds, job creation, or business, depending on the country.
2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare your documentation:
- Valid passport
- Proof of clean criminal record
- Proof of legal income and source of funds
- Health insurance
- Investment-related paperwork
If you’re applying with family, include marriage and birth certificates as needed.
3. Make the Investment
Proceed with the investment before submitting your application. In most cases, the funds must already be transferred or the property purchase completed.
4. Submit Application
File your application with the relevant national immigration authority or through an approved legal representative. This may include biometric appointments or notarized submissions.
5. Wait for Approval
Once submitted, applications are reviewed for compliance. Processing times vary — from a few months to over a year, depending on the country and application volume.
6. Receive Residence Permit
Upon approval, you’ll receive a residence card allowing you and your included family members to legally live in the country.
7. Renewal and Compliance
Keep up with local requirements, like maintaining your investment and minimum stay days (if applicable). Most permits are renewable every 2–3 years until permanent residency or citizenship becomes available.
For more videos about investing or moving to Portugal, explore our YouTube channel here: YouTube Channel Portugal Residency Advisors.
Why Work With Us for Your Golden Visa
Local Expertise
We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.
Holistic Approach
One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your investment and Golden Visa application.
Transparent Service
We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.
Simple Process
Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Top 8 Countries in Europe for Golden Visas
What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants legal residence in a country in exchange for a qualifying investment.
Which countries in Europe offer Golden Visas?
Popular countries include Portugal, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, Italy, Hungary, and Latvia.
What types of investments qualify for a Golden Visa?
Options typically include real estate, business investments, government bonds, or donations to cultural/scientific institutions.
How much do I need to invest for a Golden Visa?
It varies by country — from as low as €50,000 in Latvia to €250,000 in Portugal.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes, most Golden Visa programs allow you to include your spouse, children, and sometimes dependent parents.
Do I need to live in the country full-time holding a Golden Visa?
Usually not. Many programs only require a few days of presence per year (or none at all).
Do I get citizenship with a Golden Visa?
Not immediately. However, most programs offer a path to citizenship after several years of legal residency.
How long does a Golden Visa application process take?
Processing times vary — typically 3 to 18 months, depending on the country and investment route.
Can I work in the country with a Golden Visa?
Some countries allow you to work or run a business; others are more restrictive and may require additional permits.
Is the Golden Visa investment refundable?
It depends on the type. Real estate and business investments can often be sold after a holding period; donations are non-refundable.
Do I need to pay taxes in the country s a Golden Visa holder?
Only if you become a tax resident. Some countries offer favorable tax regimes for new residents.
What happens to my Golden Visa if I sell my investment early?
You may lose your residency status. Most programs require you to maintain the investment for 5 years.
Can I apply for a Golden Visa if I have a criminal record?
A clean criminal record is required. Applicants undergo background checks in all countries involved.
Do I need to speak the local language when applying for the Golden Visa?
Not for the visa, but language requirements may apply if you later apply for citizenship.
Can I travel within the EU with a Golden Visa?
Yes, you can travel freely within the Schengen Area with most Golden Visas.
What is the validity period of the Golden Visa?
Most are valid for 2 to 5 years initially and can be renewed as long as you meet the conditions.
Do I need to hire a lawyer or consultant?
While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended to work with a licensed immigration advisor for a smooth process.
Is there an age limit for Golden Visa applicants?
No, but you must be at least 18 years old and able to make the investment legally.
Can I invest through a company or must it be personal?
In most cases, the investment must be in your personal name. Some structures are allowed in specific countries.
What are the risks of Golden Visa programs?
Risks include changes in legislation, property market fluctuations, or delays in processing — hence the importance of expert guidance.
