The Rise of ‘Golden Visas’: Buying Your Way into a New Country
For decades, people looking for a fresh start, business opportunities, or simply more global mobility have had to go through lengthy and complex immigration processes. But what if there was a way to skip the lines and fast-track your residency or even citizenship—just by making the right investment?
Enter the Golden Visa: a program offered by several countries that allows individuals to obtain residency (and sometimes citizenship) in exchange for a significant financial investment. These programs are booming, but they’re also facing increasing scrutiny. Let’s break down how they work, which countries offer them, and whether they’re really worth it.
What Exactly is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows foreign nationals to secure legal residence (and sometimes citizenship) in a country by investing a substantial amount of money. The investment can take different forms, such as:
Real estate purchases
Direct business investments
Government bonds or donations
Job creation initiatives
In return, successful applicants gain residency rights—and in some cases, a pathway to full citizenship—often with minimal physical presence requirements.
These programs are particularly attractive to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), entrepreneurs, and investors who want global mobility, tax advantages, or access to better education and healthcare systems.
Which Countries Offer Golden Visas?
Many countries around the world have adopted some form of a Golden Visa program. Some of the most sought-after destinations include:
Portugal – The Golden Standard (Until Recently)
Portugal’s Golden Visa was one of the most popular in the world, primarily due to its relatively low investment threshold (previously starting at €280,000 for real estate) and its pathway to citizenship after five years without requiring full-time residency.
Recent Changes: Portugal has now ended real estate investment options, shifting focus toward cultural and economic contributions. Investors must now put money into venture capital funds or job-creating businesses (Portuguese Government).
Spain – Sun, Sea, and Residency
Spain offers a Golden Visa for those who invest at least €500,000 in real estate, along with other options like €1 million in shares of Spanish companies. Residency can lead to citizenship, but only after 10 years of residence (Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
Greece – The Most Affordable Option in Europe
Greece’s Golden Visa has been one of the most accessible, with a €250,000 minimum real estate investment. However, due to increasing demand, the government has raised the minimum in some areas to €500,000 (Greek Ministry of Migration).
Italy – A New Contender
Italy offers an "Investor Visa" requiring at least €250,000 in a startup or €2 million in government bonds. Unlike other programs, it provides a flat tax rate of €100,000 per year on foreign income, attracting high-net-worth individuals (Italian Ministry of Economic Development).
UAE – The 10-Year Golden Visa
The UAE has one of the most business-friendly Golden Visa programs, offering 10-year residency to investors who:
Invest AED 2 million ($545,000) in real estate or businesses
Hold a high-income job in specific industries (tech, medicine, AI, etc.)
This program is highly attractive to professionals and entrepreneurs looking for a tax-free lifestyle (UAE Government).
EB-5 Visa – America’s Version of a Golden Visa
The U.S. does not have a traditional Golden Visa, but the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a Green Card to investors who invest $800,000 - $1.05 million in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 jobs. It’s one of the most expensive and slow-moving investor visa programs (USCIS).
Why Are These Programs So Popular?
Golden Visa programs have surged in popularity for a few key reasons:
Global Mobility – Many Golden Visa countries offer visa-free or easier access to the EU, Schengen Zone, or other international markets.
Plan B Residency – With global instability, economic downturns, and political shifts, having a second residency gives investors security.
Investment Benefits – Many investors use Golden Visas to diversify assets, particularly in real estate, which can generate returns while also granting residency.
Better Opportunities for Families – Access to top-tier healthcare and education is a major motivator for applicants from countries with weaker systems.
The Controversies & Challenges
While Golden Visas offer many benefits, they are not without criticism.
Concerns Over Money Laundering & Corruption – Some countries have faced scrutiny for allegedly selling residency or citizenship to individuals with questionable financial backgrounds. In 2022, the European Parliament urged EU countries to phase out Golden Visa schemes due to security concerns (European Commission).
Longer Processing Times – As these programs become more popular, some have introduced longer wait times and more stringent due diligence checks.
Regulation Changes – Countries like Portugal and Ireland have already scaled back or eliminated parts of their Golden Visa programs.
Is a Golden Visa Right for You?
Golden Visas aren’t just for billionaires—they’re increasingly used by entrepreneurs, remote workers, and families seeking stability. However, before investing, consider:
Does the country fit your long-term goals? Some Golden Visas lead to citizenship, while others only offer temporary residence.
Can you meet the financial & residency requirements? Some programs require you to live in the country for part of the year to maintain your status.
Are there better alternatives? Depending on your needs, a work visa or startup visa might be a more affordable and flexible option.
Are Golden Visas the Future of Immigration?
Golden Visas provide a fast track to residency and global mobility, but they are evolving. Governments are tightening regulations, and some programs may disappear in the coming years. If you’re considering a Golden Visa, it’s crucial to act before rules change—and to get expert legal guidance to ensure you choose the right program.
Need Legal Help with a Golden Visa Application?
At Borderless Counsel, we specialize in immigration strategies for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and professionals. If you’re exploring Golden Visa options, we can guide you through the legal process and help you find the best country for your investment.