Golden Visas: Affordable EU Residence Permit Programs by Investment

The so called “Golden Visa” in European Union countries is another name for resident permit programs that allows foreign citizens to obtain an EU residence permit in exchange for investment. Most often, this involves investments in real estate, investment funds, or government bonds. This mechanism has become one of the most popular ways for investors to legally move to Europe.

Golden Visa programs are suitable for those who are looking for opportunities to move freely within the Schengen area, want to provide their families with access to European education and healthcare, or are considering moving in the future while maintaining flexibility in their choice of residence.

At the same time, the European Commission insists on the gradual closure of such initiatives. The main reasons are the intention to strengthen control over capital movements, reduce the risks of non-transparent financial transactions, and ensure uniform standards for all participants in the European market. That is why many EU countries have already rolled back their programs, leaving only a few options available to investors.

Golden Visas: Affordable EU Residence Permit Programs by Investment

Hungarian Residence Permit by investment in funds

Hungary remains one of the most popular European destinations for obtaining a residence permit among our clients. Real estate investment funds are the most profitable and least risky financial instruments. In addition, the entry threshold in Hungary is lower than in other countries.

Program details in short: investment in government-approved state funds starting at EUR 250,000 with a minimum asset retention period of 5 years

Processing time: 2-3 months

Validity period: 10 years

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Portuguese Residence Permit by investment in funds

Unlike residence permits in Greece and Hungary, a Portuguese residence permit opens the way to obtaining an EU passport without permanent residence in the country, which is why the Portuguese residence permit for investment remains one of the most popular and sought-after among foreign investors even after the closure of the option to purchase real estate.

Program details in short: investment in government-approved state funds from EUR 500,000 with the asset held for at least 5 years.

Processing time: 12 months

Validity period: 2 years with the possibility of multiple renewals if the investment is maintained

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Greek Residence Permit for investment in real estate

The main condition for obtaining a Greek Golden Visa remains investment in residential real estate. Proof of the origin of funds is not required. The minimum investment amount depends on the selected region and type of property:

from EUR 250,000 – real estate in Greece that has been converted from commercial to residential, as well as cultural/historical properties subject to restoration (restoration is a mandatory requirement for residence permit renewal)
from EUR 400,000 – for all regions of Greece, except for Attica, Thessaloniki, the islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with a population of more than 3,100 inhabitants
from EUR 800,000 – for the regions of Attica, as well as Thessaloniki, the islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with a population of more than 3,100 inhabitants, the minimum property value for obtaining a Golden Visa will be €800,000.

Processing time: 3-6 months

Validity period: 5 years with the possibility of renewal if the property remains in ownership

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Oct 1, 2025

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