Which Countries offer Golden Visa

Golden Visa Countries

Around the world, there are numerous options available for acquiring citizenship or residency through investment. Each program has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making the decision process quite challenging. It is important to note that there is no universal solution that fits everyone’s needs. The choice ultimately depends on your specific requirements and personal preferences.

With the increasing popularity of citizenship by investment schemes, new residency by investment programs are constantly emerging. This dynamic market has become highly competitive, offering a wider range of options. In this article, we will delve into the concept of the Golden Visa and explore the countries that offer this particular scheme.

What Is a Golden Visa

The Golden Visa is a permit that grants individuals and their families the opportunity to obtain residency in a foreign country. Nowadays, numerous European countries offer Golden Visa programs to those seeking residency, and potentially even citizenship.

While the required investment amounts may vary, Golden Visa schemes typically revolve around real estate acquisition, investment fund subscription, capital transfer, or donation. Once you have determined the type of investment that suits you, you can initiate the application process as the main applicant.

Most Golden Visa programs allow for family inclusion, meaning you can include your immediate family members. Moreover, some countries even permit the inclusion of grandparents and parents-in-law.

The appeal of the Golden Visa lies in its flexibility, as it does not necessitate relocation to the country in question. If you have business interests in your home country and are considering a Golden Visa as a contingency plan, it’s important to note that maintaining your status requires periodic visits to the country.

Depending on the residency requirements of each country, Golden Visa schemes may eventually lead to citizenship. Some countries have a five-year requirement, while others may require a full-time residency of ten years before eligibility is granted.

The table below provides a concise summary of Golden Visa countries and their respective requirements.

Golden Visa Program Requirements

Countries offering a Golden Visa scheme have their own specific requirements. While these may vary, there are some fundamental criteria that apply across the board:

1. A clean criminal record is essential.
2. It is necessary to demonstrate that your own funds will be used for the investment.
3. The investment must be retained for a specified period of time, which varies depending on the country.
4. It is crucial to prove that the funds have been acquired legally.
5. Certain countries may also require a separate net worth beyond the investment amount.

By meeting these prerequisites, individuals can take advantage of the Golden Visa scheme and its associated benefits.

How To Get a Golden Visa

Before starting your Golden Visa application, the first step is to determine your investment criteria. While real estate acquisition remains the most popular option, capital transfer is gaining significant attention. Additionally, some Golden Visa schemes offer alternatives such as fund investment, job creation, and donation.

Once you have finalized your investment criteria, you can proceed with the application process. The processing time for a Golden Visa typically ranges from two to nine months.

If you are considering a Golden Visa application, it is advisable to consult with professionals before committing any funds or making investments.

Golden Visa Application Process

Each Golden Visa program has a unique application process, although there are common steps across all programs. To help you understand the application process, we have prepared a table outlining these steps:

1. Consultation with advisors: Engage with Golden Visa experts and lawyers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process.
2. Investment selection: Choose the investment type that aligns with your specific needs and criteria.
3. Document submission: Compile all necessary documents and submit them to your lawyer.
4. Due diligence: Authorities will assess your eligibility for the program.
5. Receipt of residence permit card: Once you have provided biometric data, you will receive your initial residence card.
6. Renewal of residence permit: Depending on the program, you may need to apply for renewal after one to five years.
7. Citizenship application: If the program qualifies as a residency by investment scheme, you may become eligible for citizenship after a specified period.

We hope this overview clarifies the application process for you.

Golden Visa Countries

Several European countries now provide Golden Visa programs, attracting significant attention. These programs offer visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, access to the EU market, and access to high-quality education services. As a result, European Golden Visa programs have become immensely popular.

Portugal

Introduced in 2012, Portugal’s Golden Visa program has gained significant popularity as one of Europe’s most sought-after residency by investment programs. Non-European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland citizens can apply for this program by making a qualifying investment in Portugal.

The Qualifying Investments for Portugal Golden Visa

1. To obtain Portuguese residency, there are several investment options available:
2. Minimum investment of €500,000 in any type of real estate property in Portugal (€400,000 if it’s located in a low-density population area).
3. Minimum investment of €350,000 in a property that is at least 30 years old, with a commitment to its rehabilitation (€280,000 if it’s located in a low-density population area).
4. Capital transfer of €1.5 million to Portugal.
5. Create a minimum of 10 full-time jobs in a registered Portuguese company.
6. Minimum investment of €500,000 in a qualifying Portuguese venture capital fund.
7. Investsting €500,000 in scientific or technological research within Portugal.
8. Donation of €250,000 to national heritage, arts, or culture.

These options offer a pathway to residency while contributing to the growth and development of Portugal.

Please note that when considering real estate investments in Lisbon, Porto, or along the coast, your sole option would be commercial properties. Residential properties in these areas do not meet the requirements for Golden Visa eligibility for investors.

Benefits of Portugal Golden Visa

• Obtain the privilege of residing and working in Portugal.
• Enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.
• Attain European citizenship easily if you meet the requirements.
• Include your family members in the program through family reunification.
• You need to Spend seven days per year in Portugal to maintain your Golden Visa status.
• Experience an affordable lifestyle in Portugal.
• Invest in an EU country with incredible potential.
• The process typically takes approximately six months.

Residency by Investment: Yes

Citizenship by Investment: No 

Spain

Introduced 2013, the Golden Visa program in Spain offers an enticing opportunity for relocation. With its vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, sun-kissed beaches, and desirable lifestyle, Spain stands as a top destination. Non-citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland can pursue the Spanish Golden Visa program through a qualifying investment. Embrace this chance to embark on a new chapter in Spain’s embrace.

The Qualifying Investments for Spain Golden Visa

1. A minimum real estate investment of €500,000
2. Transferring Capital of at least €1 million in Spain
3. Investmenting of €1 million in a Spanish company
4. Investing €2 million in Spanish government bonds.

Benefits of Spanish Golden Visa

• Fast Processing
• Visa-free within the Schengen Area
• Live, work, and study in Spain
• Include your family members
• Not required to stay in Spain to keep and renew your Golden Visa

Residence is not mandatory for renewing the residency permit in Spain. The only requirement is for residents to enter the country at least once a year. However, Spanish citizenship does have a residency requirement.

The Golden Visa process in Spain usually takes around one to two months.

Residency by Investment: Yes

Citizenship by Investment: No

Greece

Introduced in July 2013, the Greek Golden Visa program offers a five-year residency visa to non-EU citizens who make an investment in the country. Eligibility requirements include being above 18 years old, having a clean criminal record, and meeting the necessary criteria.

The Qualifying Investments for Greece Golden Visa

1. Invest €250,000 in Greek real estate or €400,000 in Greek government bonds. 
2. Alternatively, consider investing in share or bonds of real estate investment companies in Greece, or bonds and shares of venture funds and private equity firms headquartered in Greece.

Benefits of Greek Golden Visa

• The process is both fast and straightforward
• Grants you the privilege of visa-free travel across all Schengen Area countries. 
• Gain the right to reside in Greece
• Access to public health services and the education system 
• The investment required for this program is comparatively low 
• Include your spouse, children, parents, and parents-in-law in the application
• Not obligated to remain in Greece to maintain the Golden Visa. 
• Initially, a five-year residency visa is granted, renewable every five years as long as the property investment is sustained. 

However, it is important to bear in mind that Greek citizenship can only be obtained after seven years of residing in the country. The application process for the Greece Golden Visa typically takes approximately two to three months

Residency by Investment: Yes

Citizenship by Investment: No

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Cyprus

To obtain European citizenship in the quickest and most reliable manner, applicants are required to invest €2.15 million in real estate in Cyprus. The Cyprus Citizenship by Investment program grants EU citizenship within six months of applying. 

A Cypriot passport allows holders to work, travel, study, and reside anywhere in the EU, with visa-free access to countries such as Germany, France, and the UK. Additionally, the investment amount can be reduced to €500,000 after spending three years in the Cyprus CIP.

Kind be informed that the Cyprus citizenship by investment program has concluded as of end of 2020. It remains uncertain whether there are plans to reinstate the program in the future.

Malta

The Citizenship by Investment Program in Malta is primarily designed for high-net-worth individuals. Referred to as the Malta Individual Investor Programme (MIIP), this program requires a minimum contribution of €600,000 to the government’s national development fund. 

Additionally, applicants are expected to invest €10,000 in government-approved financial instruments and commit to purchasing or renting a property in Malta for a period of five years. For those opting to purchase real estate, the minimum property value must be €700,000. After residing in Malta for one year, applicants are eligible to apply for Maltese citizenship and obtain a European passport. As a Maltese citizen, one enjoys the freedom to live, study, and work anywhere within the EU.

In addition to the Citizenship by Investment Program, Malta also offers a separate residency program. While the investment amount is more affordable, it is important to note that this program does not lead to Maltese citizenship.

The Qualifying Investments for Malta Citizenship by Investment

The requirements for property acquisition in Malta include a minimum holding period of five years and a value of at least €700,000. Additionally, a residential lease agreement for a duration of five years is necessary, with a minimum annual value of €16,000.

Donation Requirement

• Required to contribute €600,000 and reside for 36 months. Additionally, a contribution of €10,000 to an organization approved by the Community Malta Agency is needed.
• Alternatively, the main applicant can contribute €750,000 and reside for 12 months. The same €10,000 contribution to an organization approved by the Community Malta Agency is also required.

Residency by Investment: Yes

Citizenship by Investment: Yes

Kitts and Nevis

Established in 1984, the St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship Program holds the distinction of being the first of its kind. This program offers the opportunity to acquire citizenship through investments in either real estate or donations. To qualify for the program, a minimum donation of $150,000 to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) is required. 

Alternatively, an investment of $400,000 in real estate in St. Kitts and Nevis can also grant eligibility. Once the investment is made, the passport can be obtained within a maximum period of six months.The Qualifying Investments for St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment

Real Estate Option

1. Invest $400,000 in a government-approved real estate development, with a minimum holding period of five years.
2. Invest $200,000 in a government-approved real estate development, with a minimum holding period of seven years.

Donation Option

• Con $150,000 to the Sustainable Growth Fund (SGF) as a donation for a single principal applicant. 
• Alternatively, you may donate $195,000 for the same purpose.

Residency by Investment: No

Citizenship by Investment: Yes

Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda’s citizenship by investment program offers investors an economic passport. There are several options available to benefit from this program. You can choose to make a contribution of $100,000 to the Antigua National Development Fund. Another option is to invest $1.5 million in creating and establishing a business. Another options, is to invest $400,000 in a government-approved real estate project (which can be reduced to $200,000 for connected investors). 

The Antigua and Barbuda passport grants you visa-free travel to over 150 countries, including all of the Schengen area (EU). Additionally, the country only requires a minimum of five days of residence per year. Acquiring Antigua and Barbuda citizenship and a passport can typically be accomplished in approximately six months.

The Qualifying Investments for Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment

Real Estate Option

1. A estate development that has obtained government approval is seeking a $400,000 investment. The property is required to be held for a minimum of five years.

Donation Option

• Contribute a generous amount of $100,000 to the National Development Fund (NDF) in support of their noble cause.

Residency by Investment: No

Citizenship by Investment: Yes

Dominica

Citizenship in Dominica can be obtained through two options. 

• 1. Make an economic contribution (donation) to the country under the government investor visa program. 
• 2. Make a real estate investment of at least $100,000.

The Dominican passport is one of the most affordable choices. After submitting your application, expect to receive your passport within three months.

Before 1993, obtaining Dominican citizenship without residing in the country was not possible. However, the Dominican government has since changed this rule. As a result, Dominica’s citizenship by investment program not only became the most cost-effective option but also one of the most flexible. Holders of Dominican passports enjoy visa-free travel to approximately 140 countries, including the UK and the Schengen zone.

The Qualifying Investments for Dominica Citizenship by Investment

Real Estate Option

1. An investment of $200,000 in a government-approved real estate development is required. The property must be held for a minimum of five years.

Donation Option

• Contribute a generous sum of $100,000 to the Economic Diversification Fund.

Residency by Investment: No

Citizenship by Investment: Yes

Turkey

To obtain citizenship in the Republic of Turkey, investors have several beneficial options. One can invest a minimum of $400,000 in real estate, or invest in a company with a minimum capital of $500,000. Alternatively, depositing $500,000 in State investment instruments or state banks operating in Turkey, while maintaining the investment for three years, is another viable choice. Additionally, creating job opportunities for at least 50 individuals is an alternative path towards acquiring Turkish citizenship through investment.

Typically, the Turkish citizenship by investment process spans from approximately three to six months.

The Qualifying Investments for Turkey Citizenship by Investment

To be eligible for the program, there are several requirements to meet:

1. Property Acquisition: Purchase a property valued at a minimum of $400,000 and hold it for a period of three years.
2. Government Bonds: Invest in government bonds worth at least $500,000 and maintain the investment for a minimum of three years.
3. Business Establishment: Establish a business that generates employment for at least 50 people.
4. Capital Investment: Minimum capital investment of $500,000.
5. Bank Deposit: Deposit $500,000 in banks operating in Turkey and keep it for a minimum of three years.
6. Investment Funds: Invest $500,000 in a venture capital investment fund or real estate investment fund shares and hold it for a minimum of three years.

These criteria ensure that applicants contribute significantly to the economy and demonstrate a long-term commitment to Turkey.

Residency by Investment: Yes

Citizenship by Investment: No

United States

By investing in government-approved projects across the United States of America, individuals can obtain the EB-5 visa, which grants permanent U.S. residency. This visa not only allows for access to education, employment, and retirement opportunities in the USA, but also offers the possibility of recouping the initial investment upon project completion. 

It is important to note that the US government requires visa holders to reside in the country for at least half of each year. While the EB-5 program has a relatively longer processing period, typically ranging from 20 to 26 months, it ultimately leads to the attainment of permanent residency.

The Qualifying Investments for the United States Immigrant Investor Program

• Invest $1.05 million in qualifying commercial enterprise or 
• Invest $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) and commit to creating at least 10 full-time jobs u within 2 years.

Residency by Investment: Yes

Citizenship by Investment: No

FAQ

What country is best for Golden Visa?

Portugal was often regarded as the top choice for individuals seeking residency through investment. After 2022 and the chzanges in the Portuguese Golden Visa (increase in the minimum spend and elimination of certain options), Greece now presents the best and most attractive option due to its low investment threshold of €250,000.

Who can get a Golden Visa?

To qualify for EU Golden visas, individuals must meet certain criteria. Firstly, they need to be non-EU/non-EEA/non-Swiss citizens. Additionally, the main applicants must be at least 18 years old. Other requirements include providing a clean criminal background check and demonstrating the source of funds from abroad, rather than from the country of interest.

Which country gives the fastest citizenship?

If you’re considering applying for citizenship through investment, Turkey presents itself as a favorable choice. Typically, citizenship is granted within a span of three to four months. Alternatively, if you’re prepared to make the qualifying investment, Malta offers the possibility of obtaining citizenship within one year.

Which country gives free citizenship?

Citizenship is granted under specific circumstances, including birth, ancestry, long-term residency, or seeking asylum. For instance, children born within US borders, regardless of their parents’ nationality, receive a US passport. Many countries also offer citizenship to those who choose to reside there for at least five years.

What is the cost of a Golden Visa?

The cost of obtaining a Golden Visa varies depending on the program you select. For instance, in Portugal, the minimum real estate investment amount is €280,000. Additionally, there is an application fee of €5,325 per person, as well as renewal fees for the residence car