Golden Visas Are Still a Thing—Here’s Where to Get One ✈️🏡

Several countries have introduced Golden Visa programs—essentially a fast-track residency scheme that grants you the right to live, work, or study in a country in exchange for a real estate investment. In some cases, these programs even offer a pathway to citizenship, giving you a second passport and visa-free access to dozens of countries. Here are some of the most appealing options:

1. Portugal: The End of an Era? 🇵🇹

For years, Portugal’s Golden Visa has been the holy grail of residency-by-investment schemes. The program allowed non-EU citizens to gain residency by purchasing real estate worth at least $540,000 (or about $302,000 in low-density areas). Successful applicants could later apply for citizenship after just five years, all without the need to actually live in Portugal full-time.

However, before you start house-hunting in Lisbon, there’s a catch—the government has phased out the real estate investment option as of October 2023. The good news? Alternative investment routes still exist, such as donating to research and cultural projects or investing in local funds.

➡ How much do you need? $540,000


➡ Citizenship timeline: 5 years


➡ Best for: Those looking for EU residency with flexible living requirements

2. Greece: The Budget-Friendly Alternative 🇬🇷

If Portugal’s real estate rules have tightened, Greece is more than happy to pick up the slack. The country’s Golden Visa program remains one of the most affordable in Europe, granting residency to investors who purchase a property worth at least $270,000.

Not only do you get the right to live in Greece, but you’ll also enjoy visa-free access across the entire Schengen Zone. Plus, compared to Portugal, Greece has no minimum stay requirement, meaning you can invest, secure residency, and never actually move in.

➡ How much do you need? $270,000


➡ Citizenship timeline: 7 years


➡ Best for: Investors looking for a European base with a low entry cost

3. Italy: A Long-Term Path with a Business Twist 🇮🇹

Italy’s Residency by Investment program—often called the "Investor Visa"—offers residency to those who invest at least $270,000 in an Italian startup or $540,000 in an Italian company. Although it doesn't include a real estate option like other programs, it’s a compelling alternative for those interested in Italy's lifestyle and culture.

The visa allows investors and their families to live and work in Italy, and after 10 years of residency, applicants may become eligible for citizenship. Italy does not have a strict residency requirement, but applicants must show a genuine interest in maintaining ties to the country.

➡ How much do you need? $270,000–$540,000 (business investment)

➡ Citizenship timeline: 10 years


➡ Best for: Entrepreneurs and investors seeking long-term residency in Italy

But wait—real estate lovers, don’t scroll away just yet. Italy is also famous for its €1 home programs in charming villages across the country. While these homes aren’t linked to the Golden Visa program, they’re an enticing way to own property in Italy on the cheap. Read more about how to buy a €1 home in Italy here.

4. Malta: The Fastest Route to an EU Passport 🇲🇹

While Portugal and Italy make you wait years for citizenship, Malta offers an accelerated option—citizenship in as little as 12–36 months.

Of course, it doesn’t come cheap. Malta’s “Citizenship by Investment” program requires a minimum donation of $650,000 to the country’s National Development Fund, plus the purchase or rental of property for at least five years.

➡ How much do you need? $650,000+


➡ Citizenship timeline: 1-3 years


➡ Best for: Those who want EU citizenship ASAP

5. The Caribbean: A Second Passport Without the Wait 🌴

If your goal is more about a second passport than European residency, Caribbean nations like St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, and Antigua & Barbuda offer some of the most affordable citizenship programs in the world.

For as little as $100,000, you can secure full citizenship—meaning you get a second passport that provides visa-free access to over 140 countries. Even better? You never need to set foot in the country to qualify.

➡ How much do you need? $100,000+


➡ Citizenship timeline: 3-6 months


➡ Best for: Those looking for a low-cost second passport with minimal residency requirements

Things to Know Before You Invest

While Golden Visa programs sound like a dream come true, there are a few important considerations:

• Many programs have tightened rules or are being phased out—Portugal is one example, and as of April 3, 2025, Spain has officially ended its Golden Visa program after 12 years. If Spain was on your list, you're too late.

• Spain’s decision to end the program was largely driven by rising housing costs in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Since its launch in 2013, the program issued nearly 14,600 visas—95% through real estate.

• Property markets in many countries are heating up, so finding a good deal is harder than it used to be.

• Residency ≠ citizenship—some countries (like Italy) require a decade-long wait before you can get a passport.Governments can change the rules at any time, so acting fast is key if you're serious about investing.

If you’ve got the cash to spare and a long-term vision for international living, Golden Visas can be a strategic way to secure a second home, future-proof your travel options, or even obtain a powerful new passport.

So, if you've ever dreamed of trading in your current life for a Mediterranean villa, a Greek island retreat, or a Caribbean beachfront bungalow—now might just be the perfect time to make your move.

Sources & Further Reading:

• Reuters: Countries That Offer a ‘Golden Visa’ in Exchange for Investments

• The Times: What Are Golden Visas and How Can You Get One?

• Reuters: Why Some Countries Are Scrapping Their Golden Visa Programs