Compare the top residency-by-investment programs based on investment requirements, processing time, and pathway to citizenship
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program offered by several EU countries, granting non-EU citizens residency through qualifying investments like real estate, funds, or business ventures. These programs provide visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, access to world-class healthcare and education, and pathways to citizenship. Below, we compare the top programs based on investment requirements, residency benefits, and long-term opportunities.
Starting at €250,000 for real estate, the most affordable in Europe
Zero minimum days per year needed, maximum flexibility
Spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents included
Residency granted in 1-2 months with minimal documentation
Available after 7 years with B2 Greek language proficiency
Affordable cost of living, excellent climate, rich culture
Greece offers the most affordable Golden Visa program in Europe with unmatched flexibility. The program maintains real estate investment options while requiring no physical presence, making it ideal for investors seeking EU access without relocation commitments. Properties can serve as vacation homes or rental investments, with strong potential returns in popular destinations.
Perfect for investors seeking the lowest entry cost into the EU with zero residency obligations. The Greek real estate market offers excellent opportunities, especially in Athens and island destinations. Combine investment with lifestyle benefits in one of Europe's most beautiful countries.
Currently 5 years to EU passport (proposed change to 10 years pending)
Only 7 days first year, 14 days every subsequent two-year period
€500K in qualifying venture capital or private equity funds
20% flat tax rate for qualifying professionals (strict criteria apply)
Tax-free crypto gains on assets held over 365 days
Current backlog: 7+ years (significant wait times expected)
Portugal traditionally offered the fastest route to EU citizenship, though proposed changes may extend this to 10 years. The program now focuses on fund investments and business creation rather than real estate. While facing processing delays, it remains attractive for tax optimization and eventual EU passport acquisition. The NHR 2.0 program offers tax benefits but with much stricter eligibility criteria than its predecessor.
Ideal for investors prioritizing eventual EU citizenship and tax optimization opportunities. Despite current challenges, Portugal offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and strategic location. Consider professional legal advice given recent program changes and processing delays.
€250,000 in qualifying startups - unique low-cost pathway
Startups, government bonds, or philanthropic contributions
€100,000 annual flat tax on foreign income for new residents
Spouse, children, and dependent parents covered
Available after 10 years with B1 Italian proficiency
Residency typically granted within 1-2 months
Italy's program stands out with its innovative startup investment option, allowing entry at just €250,000 for qualifying technology companies. The diverse investment pathways and generous flat tax regime make it attractive for entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals. While citizenship takes longer, the immediate benefits and lifestyle opportunities are substantial.
Perfect for entrepreneurs and investors interested in Europe's startup ecosystem. The flat tax regime offers significant savings for wealthy individuals, while Italy's cultural heritage, cuisine, and lifestyle provide unmatched quality of life. Ideal for those planning long-term European residence.
No language barrier - English is an official language
€300K real estate or contribution-based pathways
Zero minimum residency obligation for maximum flexibility
Includes children under 29 and dependent parents/grandparents
Available after 5 years with no language requirements
Strong banking sector and favorable business environment
Malta combines European Union membership with Commonwealth connections, offering unique global mobility benefits. The English-speaking environment eliminates language barriers, while the flexible investment structure accommodates different investor preferences. Malta's status as a financial services hub provides additional business opportunities.
Ideal for English-speaking investors seeking EU residency without language challenges. The Mediterranean lifestyle, combined with strong business infrastructure and Commonwealth connections, creates unique opportunities. Perfect for families and professionals prioritizing ease of integration.
€300,000 investment in residential or commercial property
Maximum flexibility with zero minimum stay requirements
Spouse, children under 28, and dependent parents covered
Residency approval typically within 2-3 months
Available after 7 years with B1 Greek language proficiency
Gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa for business
Cyprus offers a straightforward real estate-based Golden Visa with competitive investment thresholds. The island's strategic location makes it an ideal base for international business, while the Mediterranean climate and lifestyle attract families and retirees. The program provides excellent value with quick processing and comprehensive family inclusion.
Excellent choice for real estate investors seeking EU residency in a business-friendly environment. Cyprus offers a perfect blend of European sophistication and Mediterranean relaxation, with growing opportunities in technology and financial services. Ideal for those prioritizing lifestyle and strategic location.
| Feature | 🇬🇷Greece | 🇵🇹Portugal | 🇮🇹Italy | 🇲🇹Malta | 🇨🇾Cyprus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | €250,000 | €500,000 | €250,000 | €300,000 | €300,000 |
| Stay Requirement | None | 7 days (Year 1) | Flexible | None | None |
| Processing Time | 1-2 months | 12+ months (backlog) | 1-2 months | 4-6 months | 2-3 months |
| Path to Citizenship | 7 years | 5 years* | 10 years | 5 years | 7 years |
| Language Requirement | B2 Greek | A2 Portuguese | B1 Italian | None | B1 Greek |
| Investment Options | Real estate | Funds, business | Startups, bonds, philanthropy | Real estate, donation | Real estate |
| Tax Benefits | Flat tax available | NHR 2.0 (qualified) | €100K flat tax | Favorable regime | Business-friendly |
| Special Features | Lowest cost, no stays | Crypto-friendly, fast citizenship* | Startup option | English language | Strategic location |
*Portugal citizenship timeline subject to proposed changes (5→10 years)
When selecting a Golden Visa program, consider your primary objectives: Are you seeking the lowest investment threshold (Greece, Italy), maximum flexibility (Greece, Malta, Cyprus), or specific benefits like fast citizenship (Portugal*, Malta) or tax optimization (Portugal, Italy)?
Each program offers distinct advantages: Greece provides the most affordable entry with zero residency requirements, Portugal offers crypto-friendly policies and potential fast-track citizenship (pending legislative changes), Italy appeals to entrepreneurs with startup investment options, Malta eliminates language barriers with English-speaking environment, and Cyprus provides strategic positioning for international business.
Beyond investment amounts, carefully evaluate processing times, family inclusion policies, long-term citizenship prospects, and tax implications. Consider consulting with specialized immigration advisors to navigate program complexities and recent regulatory changes.
Remember that Golden Visa programs continue evolving - Portugal's recent changes demonstrate the importance of staying informed about regulatory developments. Whichever program you choose, a European Golden Visa opens doors to enhanced global mobility, educational opportunities, healthcare access, and lifestyle flexibility within the world's most integrated economic zone.
Common questions about European Golden Visa programs and their requirements
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows non-EU citizens to obtain residency permits in exchange for significant investments in the host country. These programs typically offer paths to permanent residency and citizenship.
Greece currently offers the most affordable Golden Visa program in Europe, with a minimum investment requirement of €250,000 for real estate. Italy also offers a €250,000 option for startup investments.
Yes, all major Golden Visa programs allow family members to be included in the application. This typically covers spouse, dependent children, and in many cases, dependent parents. Each country has specific criteria for dependent family members.
Portugal offers the fastest route to citizenship among Golden Visa programs, with the possibility to apply after 5 years of residency. This compares favorably to Greece (7 years) and Italy (10 years).
Requirements vary by country. Greece has no minimum stay requirement, Portugal requires 7 days in the first year and 14 days in subsequent 2-year periods, while Italy requires registration within 8 days of arrival but has flexible stay requirements.
Options vary by country but typically include real estate (Greece), investment funds (Portugal), company investments, government bonds, and startup investments (Italy). Some countries offer multiple pathways with different investment thresholds.
Language requirements typically apply only for citizenship, not for the Golden Visa itself. Portugal requires A2 level, Italy B1 level, and Greece B2 level for citizenship. No language skills are needed for initial residency.
Golden Visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The residence permit also allows you to live and work in the country that issued the Golden Visa.
Processing times vary: Greece and Italy typically take 1-2 months, while Portugal takes 3-6 months. These timelines can vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.
Each country has different tax regimes for new residents. Portugal offers the NHR program, Italy has a special tax regime for high-net-worth individuals, and Greece offers tax incentives for foreign investors. Consultation with a tax advisor is recommended.
