Compare the top residency-by-investment programs based on investment requirements, processing time, and path to citizenship. This guide is part of our comprehensive Golden Visa comparison.
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, in many cases, a pathway to citizenship. Investors choose Golden Visas for financial flexibility, family security, and global mobility. Below, we compare the top programs based on investment requirements, residency benefits, and long-term opportunities.
Lowest Investment Threshold: Starting at €250,000 for real estate, the most affordable in Europe
No Stay Requirement: No minimum days per year needed, ideal for flexibility
Family Inclusion: Spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents
Fast Processing: Residency granted in 1-2 months
Citizenship Path: Possible after 7 years with B2 Greek proficiency
Additional Benefits: Mediterranean lifestyle, affordable cost of living, access to healthcare
Greece offers the most affordable Golden Visa program in Europe with the added benefit of no minimum stay requirements. The program still includes real estate investment options and provides a clear path to citizenship after 7 years. The 5-year residency permit is renewable, making it an excellent long-term option. Investors gain access to Greece's healthcare system and can benefit from flat tax options for foreign income.
Greece offers the cheapest Golden Visa with no residency obligation, perfect for investors seeking a low-cost entry into the EU while enjoying a vibrant, sunny lifestyle. Its real estate market remains attractive, with properties in Athens or the islands doubling as vacation homes or rentals.
Fast Track to Citizenship: EU passport possible in 5 years, the quickest among programs
Minimal Stay: Only 7 days first year, 14 days per subsequent two-year period
Tax Benefits: Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime offers reduced taxes for 10 years
Investment Options: €500,000 in funds or business investments
Citizenship Path: Requires A2 Portuguese proficiency after 5 years
Additional Benefits: High-quality public healthcare and international schools
Portugal offers the fastest route to EU citizenship among Golden Visa programs, with excellent tax benefits through the NHR regime. While real estate is no longer an option, the program provides diverse investment choices including funds and business investments. The minimal stay requirement makes it convenient for global investors while still offering a path to European citizenship. For complete program details, visit our Portugal Golden Visa guide.
Portugal stands out for its rapid citizenship timeline and tax incentives, making it ideal for those prioritizing a quick EU passport and financial optimization. Its mild climate and English-friendly cities like Lisbon add to its appeal for families and professionals seeking European residency. For application assistance, consider consulting with a specialized lawyer.
Real Estate Investment: €500,000 in property, popular in cities like Barcelona and Madrid
No Stay Requirement: No minimum residency needed, offering maximum flexibility
Family Inclusion: Spouse, children under 18, and dependent parents eligible
Processing Time: Residency issued in 2-3 months
Citizenship Path: Available after 10 years with B1 Spanish proficiency
Additional Benefits: Vibrant culture, top-tier international schools, and healthcare
Spain's Golden Visa program provides an attractive option for real estate investors with its straightforward €500,000 minimum investment threshold. The program appeals to families and professionals seeking residency in one of Europe's most dynamic economies without stringent stay requirements. Spain combines business opportunities with an enviable lifestyle and excellent infrastructure.
Spain's program is perfect for property investors who want EU residency without living requirements. Its dynamic lifestyle, from coastal resorts to urban hubs, makes it a top choice for families and retirees alike. The country's rich cultural heritage, combined with modern amenities and international connectivity, creates an ideal environment for both business and pleasure.
Startup Option: €250,000 in innovative startups, a unique low-entry pathway
Diverse Investments: Options include €500,000 in bonds or €1 million in philanthropy
Tax Benefits: €100,000 flat tax regime for new residents on foreign income
Family Inclusion: Spouse, children, and dependent parents
Citizenship Path: Possible after 10 years with B1 Italian proficiency
Processing Time: Residency granted in 1-2 months
Italy's program stands out for its innovative startup investment option and diverse investment pathways. While the path to citizenship is longer (10 years), the program offers excellent benefits including access to Italy's healthcare system and education. The €100,000 flat tax regime on foreign income makes it particularly attractive for high-net-worth individuals seeking favorable tax treatment.
Italy's innovative startup option and tax perks appeal to entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals. Its rich heritage and lifestyle make it a dream destination for long-term residency. The combination of world-renowned culture, excellent healthcare, and access to prestigious universities creates an ideal environment for families and professionals alike.
Flexible Investment: €300,000 in real estate or €750,000 for a donation-based residency
No Stay Requirement: No minimum residency needed for the investment route
Family Inclusion: Spouse, children under 29, and dependent parents/grandparents
Processing Time: 4-6 months for residency approval
Citizenship Path: Possible after 5 years with no language requirement
Additional Benefits: Favorable tax regime and English-speaking environment
Malta offers a unique combination of European residency benefits with Commonwealth connections, creating enhanced global mobility options. The program features flexible investment routes, either through real estate acquisition or a contribution-based option. With English as an official language, Malta provides a seamless transition for international investors seeking European residency.
Malta's English-friendly environment and flexible residency options make it ideal for families and professionals seeking a straightforward EU base with strong financial incentives. Its strategic Mediterranean location, combined with Commonwealth connections and a robust financial services sector, creates unique advantages for global investors and entrepreneurs.
Real Estate Focus: €300,000 in residential or commercial property
No Stay Requirement: No minimum residency needed, offering flexibility
Family Inclusion: Spouse, children under 28, and dependent parents
Fast Processing: Residency granted in 2-3 months
Citizenship Path: Possible after 7 years with B1 Greek proficiency
Additional Benefits: Strategic location and business-friendly environment
Cyprus offers an attractive Golden Visa program centered on real estate investment, with a reasonable €300,000 entry threshold. The island nation's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it an ideal base for international business. With no minimum stay requirements and comprehensive family inclusion, the program appeals to investors seeking flexibility.
Cyprus combines a low investment threshold with fast processing, appealing to investors who value a business hub with Mediterranean charm and global connectivity. Its favorable tax regime, excellent private healthcare system, and high standard of living make it attractive for families seeking European residency with minimal complications.
| Feature | Greece | Portugal | Spain | Italy | Malta | Cyprus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | €250,000 | €500,000 | €500,000 | €250,000 | €300,000 | €300,000 |
| Stay Requirement | None | 7 days (Year 1) | None | Flexible | None | None |
| Processing Time | 1-2 months | 3-6 months | 2-3 months | 1-2 months | 4-6 months | 2-3 months |
| Path to Citizenship | 7 years | 5 years | 10 years | 10 years | 5 years | 7 years |
| Language Requirement | B2 Greek | A2 Portuguese | B1 Spanish | B1 Italian | None (English) | B1 Greek |
| Investment Options | Real estate | Funds, business | Real estate | Startups, bonds | Real estate, donation | Real estate |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse, kids <21, parents | Spouse, kids <18 | Spouse, kids <18, parents | Spouse, kids, parents | Spouse, kids <29, parents/grandparents | Spouse, kids <28, parents |
| Tax Benefits | Flat tax on foreign income | NHR regime | Standard | €100,000 flat tax | Favorable regime | Business-friendly |
| Visa-Free Travel | Schengen Area | Schengen Area | Schengen Area | Schengen Area | Schengen Area + Commonwealth | Schengen Area |
When selecting a Golden Visa program, consider your primary objectives: Are you seeking the lowest investment threshold (Greece, Italy), the fastest path to citizenship (Portugal, Malta), or specific lifestyle benefits? Each program offers unique advantages, from Greece's affordable real estate options to Portugal's minimal language requirements, Spain's vibrant cities, Italy's startup innovation, Malta's English-speaking environment, and Cyprus's business ecosystem.
Beyond the investment amount, carefully evaluate factors such as processing times, stay requirements, family inclusion policies, and long-term citizenship prospects. Tax implications also vary significantly between programs, with options like Portugal's NHR regime and Italy's flat tax offering substantial benefits for international investors.
Golden Visa programs continue to evolve with changing regulations, so consulting with specialist immigration advisors is recommended before making your investment decision. For the latest application statistics and processing times, check our Golden Visa statistics page. Whichever program you choose, a European Golden Visa opens doors to enhanced global mobility, educational opportunities, healthcare access, and lifestyle flexibility.
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.
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