Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

What is a Golden Visa and where can you get one?

A Golden Visa is a residence permit issued to individuals who make a significant investment in a country. Investments typically include real estate, government bonds, or local businesses. The main goal is to attract wealthy individuals who can boost the country’s economy.

Reasons why people opt for golden visas

Investment opportunities. Golden visas programs often require investments in real estate, businesses, or government bonds, offering financial returns. These opportunities attract those looking to diversify their global investment portfolios.

Education prospects. Golden visa programs provide access to world-class educational institutions. Families can secure top-tier education for their children without the complexities of student visas or international fees.

Healthcare access. Golden visas offer access to advanced medical systems, ensuring better healthcare options for families. This is especially beneficial in countries known for strong medical infrastructure.

Wealth preservation. In an era of economic uncertainty, golden visas provide a way to preserve wealth. Stable economies and real estate markets appeal to those from financially unstable regions.

Enhanced global status. Holding a golden visa can boost social and professional status. It symbolizes financial success and international mobility.

Climate resilience. Amid climate change concerns, some seek golden visas in countries with favorable climates and strong environmental policies. They aim for a better long-term living environment.

Geopolitical diversification. Golden visas allow high-net-worth individuals to diversify geopolitical risks. Holding residency or citizenship in multiple jurisdictions safeguards against regional instability and offers strategic options during crises.

Access to elite networks. Golden visas often grant entry to exclusive communities of entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals. This opens doors to new business ventures and collaborations.

Cultural enrichment. Golden visas provide opportunities for cultural immersion. They expose individuals and families to diverse cultures, languages, and lifestyles, which can be especially beneficial for children.

Sustainability and green investments. Some golden visa programs now encourage investments in green projects. This appeals to investors who prioritize sustainability while securing residency.

Ease of doing business. Golden visas facilitate business operations by providing easier access to international markets. They offer favorable business environments and streamlined regulatory processes.

Long-term planning and retirement. Golden visas offer a secure retirement path. They provide access to favorable climates, quality healthcare, and stable economies, making them ideal for retirement planning.

Popular Golden Visa programs to join today

UAE Golden Visa

• obtainment time: 2+ months;
• residence permit validity, renewal, and path to citizenship: long-term residency, valid for 10 years, with automatic renewal;
• minimum investment and all investment options: AED 2,000,000+ in real estate or specific industries;
• family inclusion requirements: spouse and children can be included;

UAE Golden Visa benefits include visa-free travel across the UAE and GCC countries; no personal income tax.

Greece Golden Visa

• obtainment time: 4+ months;
• residence permit validity, renewal, and path to citizenship: 5-year renewable permit; citizenship after 7 years;
• minimum investment and all investment options: €250,000+ in real estate;
• family inclusion requirements: spouse, children up to 21, and parents;
• benefits: visa-free travel within the Schengen Area; no stay requirement; favourable tax benefits under the non-domiciled tax regime.

Portugal Golden Visa

• obtainment time: 12+ months;
• residence permit validity, renewal, and path to citizenship: initial permit valid for 2 years, renewable every 2 years; citizenship after 5 years with basic Portuguese proficiency;
• minimum investment and all investment options: opening a company and creating 10 jobs, investing €250,000 in cultural heritage and art support, €500,000 in investment fund units, €500,000 in research support, or €500,000 in a business;
• family inclusion requirements: spouse, children under 26, and dependent parents;
• benefits: access to the Schengen Area; favourable tax benefits.

Italy Golden Visa

• obtainment time: 4+ months;
• residence permit validity, renewal, and path to citizenship: 2-year permit, renewable for 3 years; citizenship after 10 years;
• minimum investment and all investment options: €250,000+ in startups or €500,000+ in other investments;
• family inclusion requirements: spouse and minor children;
• benefits: visa-free travel in the Schengen Area; flat tax of €200,000 on worldwide income for new residents.

Cyprus Golden Visa

• obtainment time: 9+ months;
• residence permit validity, renewal, and path to citizenship: permanent residency for life; citizenship after 7 years;
• minimum investment and all investment options: €300,000+ in real estate;
• family inclusion requirements: spouse, children, and parents;
• benefits: visa-free travel within the EU; favourable tax regime for non-domiciled residents.

Hungary Golden Visa

• obtainment time: 6+ months;
• residence permit validity, renewal, and path to citizenship: 10-year permit, renewable for another 10 years; citizenship after 11 years;
• minimum investment and all investment options: €250,000 in real estate funds, €500,000 in real estate, or a €1,000,000 charitable donation;
• family inclusion requirements: spouse, children under 18, and dependent parents;
• benefits: visa-free travel in the Schengen Area; no residency requirement to maintain the visa; eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after continuous residence.

Application process for Golden visas

While varying depending on the program, application steps have common grounds. A typical process is below.

 

Step 1. Compare Golden Visa programs to find one that aligns with your goals.

 

Step 2. Select investment type. Choose a specific investment (e.g., real estate, government bonds) based on the program’s options and minimum investment amounts.

 

Step 3. Contact a consulting firm. This provides assistance with golden visa application.

 

Step 4. Gather documentation:

• prepare the passport, birth certificate, and proof of residency. Provide evidence of your investment funds (e.g., bank statements);
• obtain a police clearance certificate if required;
• get health insurance.

 

Step 5. Submit application. Fill out and submit the required forms along with the documents and proof of paid fees to the country you are applying to.

 

Step 6. Wait for Due Diligence. The country will run a background check, which can usually take several months.

 

Step 7. Complete investment. If approved, transfer the required funds and obtain the proof of investment, such as a property deed or bank statement.

 

Step 8. Receive a visitor visa and travel to the country. After arriving, applicants apply for residence permit cards and submit biometrics.