Golden Visa is Portugal's program, launched in 2012, is the most well-known in Europe, though the real estate route was closed in October 2023. Greece and Malta offer similar programs. Spain repealed its Golden Visa on 3 April 2025 and no longer accepts new applications (a transitional regime covers only pre-existing holders).
Key Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment (Portugal) | EUR 500,000 in qualifying investment funds, EUR 500,000 in company capitalization, or EUR 250,000 in arts/culture |
| Investment (Greece) | EUR 250,000-800,000 in real estate depending on location |
| Investment (Spain) | Repealed 3 April 2025 — no new applications accepted. The EUR 500,000 real estate route only remains open to renewals for pre-existing holders under the transitional regime. |
| Clean Record | No criminal record in home country or country of investment |
| Health Insurance | Valid health insurance covering the country of residence |
Which Countries Offer This?
- Portugal Immigration Guide
- Greece Immigration Guide
- Spain Immigration Guide — Golden Visa repealed 3 April 2025, no new applications
- Malta Immigration Guide
Processing Time & Cost
Processing Time: Portugal: 6-12 months. Greece: 2-3 months. Spain: not applicable — repealed 3 April 2025, no new applications accepted.
Cost: Government fees vary: Portugal EUR 5,000-6,000 for processing + investment amount. Legal fees typically 1-3% of investment.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
Is Portugal's Golden Visa still available?
Yes, but the real estate route was closed in October 2023. Qualifying investments now include funds, company capitalization, research, and cultural donations starting at EUR 250,000.
Do I need to live in the country?
Portugal requires only 7 days per year of physical presence. Greece requires no minimum stay. Spain's Golden Visa is repealed (no new applications since 3 April 2025); its old rule of at least one visit per year only applies to pre-existing holders under the transitional regime.
Can I get citizenship through a Golden Visa?
Portugal allows citizenship after 10 years (7 for CPLP and EU nationals) under its 2026 nationality reform. Greece requires 7 years. Spain's Golden Visa is repealed (no new applications since 3 April 2025); its old 10-year citizenship path only applies to pre-existing holders under the transitional regime.
Which Golden Visa program is cheapest?
Greece offers the lowest entry point at EUR 250,000 (in certain regions). Portugal's non-real-estate options start at EUR 250,000 for cultural/research contributions.
Can my family be included?
Yes. Spouse, dependent children, and in many programs dependent parents can be included in the application.