For those seeking residency or a pathway to citizenship through investment, Golden Visa programs offer an excellent opportunity. These programs provide investors and their families with residence permits—and in some cases, eventual citizenship—through real estate purchases, business investments, or financial contributions.
Each country has different requirements, benefits, and investment thresholds. Below, we explore some of the most sought-after Golden Visa programs available for UK residents considering global investment opportunities.
Golden Visa Spain
Spain’s Golden Visa program allows non-EU investors to gain residency by purchasing real estate worth at least €500,000 or making other significant financial contributions. With this visa, investors and their families can live, work, and study in Spain, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years.
One of the key advantages of Spain’s Golden Visa is the ability to travel freely across the Schengen Zone, making it an attractive option for UK citizens post-Brexit.
Golden Visa Dubai (UAE)
Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), offers a Golden Visa program designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. The 10-year residency visa is granted to individuals who invest at least AED 2 million in real estate, business ventures, or government-backed initiatives.
Unlike European programs, Dubai’s Golden Visa does not lead to citizenship, but it provides a stable, long-term residence in one of the world’s leading business and financial hubs. The UAE has no personal income tax, making it a highly appealing destination for investors.
Portugal Golden Visa
The Portugal Golden Visa program is one of the most popular residency-by-investment schemes in Europe. Until recent changes in 2023, the program allowed investments in real estate. Now, the focus is on venture capital funds, research contributions, and job creation with a minimum investment of €500,000.
This program offers a clear pathway to Portuguese citizenship after five years, with minimal stay requirements, making it a top choice for UK investors looking for EU access.
Greece Golden Visa
Greece offers one of the most affordable Golden Visa programs in Europe, requiring a minimum real estate investment of €250,000. Investors receive a five-year residence permit, which can be renewed indefinitely as long as the property is maintained.
A key advantage of the Greek Golden Visa is no mandatory stay requirement, allowing investors to maintain their UK residence while benefiting from European travel access. However, Greek citizenship requires continuous residence.
Italy Golden Visa
Italy’s Investor Visa for Italy (IVI) provides a two-year residency permit in exchange for significant investments, such as:
- €250,000 in an Italian startup
- €500,000 in an Italian company
- €2 million in Italian government bonds
- €1 million in a philanthropic initiative
While this program doesn’t lead directly to citizenship, investors can apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years of continuous residence.
France Golden Visa
France’s investment-based residency program, known as the “Talent Passport – Business Investor“, grants a four-year renewable residency permit to those investing at least €300,000 in a French business. Unlike other Golden Visas, France’s program requires active business involvement rather than passive real estate investment.
This visa is an excellent option for entrepreneurs and business investors looking for a foothold in the French economy with access to EU residency benefits.
Cyprus Golden Visa
Cyprus offers both permanent residency and citizenship by investment options. The residency program requires a minimum real estate investment of €300,000, while the citizenship route (previously requiring €2 million) has undergone recent revisions.
A major benefit of Cyprus’s program is that it allows investors to gain EU residency quickly, with citizenship available after seven years of residency. Additionally, there are no minimum stay requirements, making it a flexible option for UK investors.
Which Golden Visa is Right for You?
Each Golden Visa program offers unique advantages, from EU residency and travel freedom to tax benefits and long-term security. Choosing the right one depends on your investment goals, timeline, and preferred country for future residence. If you’re considering applying for a Golden Visa, it’s advisable to consult with a legal expert or immigration consultant to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
