In today’s interconnected world, global mobility has become a priority for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals. More people are seeking opportunities to expand their horizons, explore new cultures, protect their wealth, and secure long-term stability for their families.
Among the best Golden Visa programs, European residency-by-investment options provide a strategic pathway for individuals seeking greater global mobility, financial security, lifestyle flexibility, and potential citizenship. By making a qualifying investment, applicants can obtain legal residency in a European country—often with benefits such as visa-free Schengen travel, access to high-quality healthcare and education, and favorable tax environments.
With multiple European countries offering structured Golden Visa schemes, investors have a unique opportunity to obtain residence status in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. These programs are called “Golden” because they unlock long-term opportunities for individuals and families, including visa-free travel across Europe and a future path to citizenship.
What is a Golden Visa Program?
A Golden Visa program is a residency-by-investment scheme that allows foreign nationals—and their families—to obtain legal residence in another country by making a qualifying financial investment.
Golden Visa programs are most commonly offered by European countries and may eventually lead to permanent residency or citizenship, depending on the country and compliance with residency and legal requirements.
How Golden Visa Programs Work
- The investor selects an eligible investment route (real estate, funds, business, or donation).
- A residency application is submitted under the main applicant.
- Upon approval, the applicant receives a renewable residence permit.
- After meeting time and compliance requirements, permanent residency or citizenship may be obtained.
Common Investment Options
- Residential or commercial real estate
- Private equity or investment funds
- Business investment and job creation
- Government-approved donations or bonds
Almost all Golden Visa programs allow family inclusion, enabling spouses, dependent children, and in some cases parents and grandparents to benefit from the same residency rights.
Benefits of European Golden Visa Programs
European Golden Visas provide a wide range of personal, financial, and lifestyle benefits.
Visa-Free Travel in Europe
Golden Visa holders enjoy visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, covering 27 European countries without internal border controls.
Legal Residency & Lifestyle Flexibility
Investors gain the legal right to live in the host country, with access to work or study in certain jurisdictions. Many programs do not require full-time relocation, offering maximum flexibility.
Access to Education & Healthcare
Golden Visa holders and their families often gain access to public education systems and national healthcare, making these programs particularly attractive for families.
Business & Investment Opportunities
Residency allows investors to establish or expand businesses within the EU, access European markets, and benefit from stable regulatory frameworks.
Real Estate Investment Potential
Many Golden Visa programs allow property investment, offering:
- Asset diversification
- Potential capital appreciation
- Rental income opportunities
Family Security & Long-Term Planning
Most programs extend benefits to spouses and children, while some allow parents and grandparents. Golden Visas also serve as a retirement and succession planning tool.
Pathway to Citizenship
Several programs provide a clear route to permanent residency and naturalization, allowing full integration into European society over time.
5 Most Popular European Golden Visa Programs in 2026 (At a Glance)
| Country | Minimum Investment | Stay Requirement | Citizenship Timeline | Family Inclusion | Best For |
| €200k–€500k | ~7 days/year | 5 years | Extended family | Flexibility | |
| Spain | €500k+ | None | 10 years | Parents included | Real estate |
| €600k+ | 1 year | 1–3 years | Extended family | Fast citizenship | |
| €250k+ | None | 7 years | Parents included | Affordable entry | |
| €300k+ | Minimal | 7 years | Spouse & children | Business lifestyle |
We will explore the top 5 European Golden visas in more detail in 2025. All five of these residency and citizenship-by-investment programmes offer special features, investment opportunities, and benefits, making them popular picks with international investors and would-be settlers.
1. Portugal Golden Visa Program
Launched in 2012, the Portugal Golden Visa remains one of Europe’s most popular residency-by-investment programs for non-EU nationals.
Minimum Investment Options
- €200,000 (cultural or scientific patronage)
- €500,000 (private equity or investment funds)
- Creation of at least 10 permanent jobs
Residency & Travel Benefits
- Legal residency in Portugal
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone
Path to Citizenship
- Eligible after 5 years
- Portuguese language requirement applies
Family Inclusion
- Spouse, dependent children
- Dependent parents and parents-in-law
Key Advantage
One of Europe’s lowest physical stay requirements, averaging just 7 days per year.
2. Spain Golden Visa Program
Spain’s Golden Visa program combines real estate investment with access to one of Europe’s most vibrant lifestyles.
Minimum Investment
- €500,000 in real estate
- €1,000,000 in Spanish government bonds or bank deposits
- €2,000,000 in Spanish stocks
Residency & Travel Benefits
- Temporary residency in Spain
- Visa-free Schengen travel
Path to Citizenship
- Permanent residency after 5 years of physical residence
- Citizenship possible after 10 years
Family Inclusion
- Spouse, children, and parents
Stay Requirement
No minimum stay requirement under the Golden Visa.
3. Malta Citizenship by Investment
Malta offers one of Europe’s most prestigious Malta residence-by-investment routes through naturalization.
This program is known for its strict due diligence, fast processing, and strong EU passport access.
Minimum Investment
- €600,000 contribution to the National Development and Social Fund
- Property purchase (€700,000) or lease (€16,000/year)
Residency & Travel Benefits
- Maltese residence
- Visa-free travel to over 160 countries
- Right to live and work anywhere in the EU
Citizenship Timeline
- Legal residency for at least 1 year before application
Family Inclusion
- Spouse, children, parents, and grandparents
Language Advantage
English is an official language, making Malta highly attractive to anglophone families.
4. Greece Golden Visa Program
The Greece Golden Visa is one of Europe’s most affordable residency-by-investment options.
Minimum Investment
- €250,000 in real estate
- €400,000 in government securities
(Note: Greece announced plans to increase minimum thresholds in select regions as of February 2024.)
Residency & Travel Benefits
- Permanent residency
- Visa-free Schengen travel
Path to Citizenship
- Eligible after 7 years of physical residence
- Language and cultural knowledge required
Family Inclusion
- Spouse, children, and parents
Stay Requirement
No minimum stay requirement.
5. Cyprus Golden Visa Program
Cyprus offers a business-friendly Golden Visa program with a Mediterranean lifestyle.
Minimum Investment
- €300,000 in real estate plus applicable taxes
Residency & Travel Benefits
- Residency in Cyprus
- Schengen travel access upon approval
Path to Citizenship
- Permanent residency after 5 years
- Citizenship eligibility after 7 years
Family Inclusion
- Spouse and dependent children
Key Advantage
No language proficiency requirement and a favorable business environment.
Eligibility Requirements for European Golden Visa Programs
While requirements vary by country, most European Golden Visas require:
- Investment funds from a lawful source
- Maintenance of investment for a set period
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of financial self-sufficiency
- Compliance with country-specific regulations
How to Choose the Right Golden Visa Program
When selecting a Golden Visa, consider:
- Your investment budget
- Desired citizenship timeline
- Physical relocation plans
- Family size and inclusion needs
- Tax and business objectives
- Lifestyle preferences
Key Takeaways
- Golden Visa programs allow residency through investment, offering visa-free travel and family inclusion.
- Portugal offers flexibility and a 5-year citizenship pathway.
- Spain focuses on real estate investment with no stay requirement.
- Malta provides direct EU citizenship with strong global mobility.
- Greece offers affordability, while Cyprus supports business-oriented investors.
As you explore the best Golden Visa programs in Europe for 2026, choosing the right residency or citizenship-by-investment program is a strategic decision that can shape your global future. Partnering with experienced advisors like Passport Legacy ensures your journey is secure, compliant, and aligned with your long-term goals.
FAQs
Which European country is the easiest to get a golden visa?
Portugal’s Golden Visa is considered one of the easiest options in Europe mainly for advantages like minimal stay requirement and investment options.
Which countries in Europe offer citizenship by investment?
The best countries which offer European citizenship by investment are Portugal, Spain, Malta, Greece and Cyprus.
Which European country gives citizenship fastest?
Malta offers the fastest citizenship in Europe with citizenship by Investment Program with a typical processing time of 14 to 18 months.
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