If you’re interested in obtaining a passport from a European country, you’ve probably already wondered which investment options are compatible with the most popular Golden Visa programs.
Do all countries have the same rules? Can you invest in real estate? Are you allowed to invest in different areas, or are there limitations?
In this article, we explore the investment options compatible with these residency and/or citizenship-by-investment programs, also known as Golden Visas, in Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Cyprus—four of the most attractive destinations for such programs.
1. Portugal
Investment in Funds: This involves investing in private funds, known in Portugal as venture capital funds. However, in common financial language, this refers to an investment starting from €500,000, with 60% allocated to companies established in Portugal. Important fact: These funds offer tax benefits, so investors are exempt from taxes on returns and dividends in these Portuguese funds.
Another way to qualify for the Golden Visa in Portugal is through a contribution to artistic and cultural projects: with an investment starting from €200,000 in a Portuguese foundation established to support an artistic production or to restore or maintain cultural heritage.
To obtain the passport: Once the investment is made and maintained for 5 years, you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship. Note! The most important and attractive aspect of this program is that you don’t need to move permanently to Portugal: it’s enough to visit the country for just 14 days every two years.
2. Malta
Contribution to National Development: This program requires a non-refundable donation starting from €600,000 to the National Development and Social Fund, Malta’s sovereign fund.
Additionally, you must make a Real Estate Investment: You need to purchase a property with a minimum value of €700,000 or rent a property for a minimum of €16,000 annually for five years.
Additional Donation: Besides the above, a donation of €10,000 is required to a non-governmental, sports, cultural, scientific, philanthropic, animal protection, or artistic organization approved by the Maltese Community Agency.
To obtain the passport: 12 months of legal residency is required if the contribution is €700,000; 36 months (3 years) if the contribution is €600,000. Additionally, the rental or purchase of the property mentioned earlier must be maintained for 5 years, and subletting is not allowed. Regardless, it’s the fastest path to a European passport!
3. Greece
This program is undergoing changes. Starting in October of this year, the most attractive real estate investment will be restoring a historic building or property, or converting an industrial or commercial property into residential housing. In that case, the minimum investment is €250,000.
Other real estate investments are available starting from €400,000, depending on the geographic area where the property is located (in certain regions, more touristic, the minimum is €800,000). Moreover, the property can be rented out.
Investors could still qualify with a minimum of €250,000, without geographic limitations, as long as they make a 10% deposit before August 31 of this year and complete the investment by December 31, 2024.
To obtain the passport: You need to reside in the country for at least 6 months a year for 7 years. Additionally, the residence card must be renewed every 5 years.
4. Cyprus
Real Estate Investment: A minimum investment of €300,000 in real estate is required, whether in residential or commercial properties. You can invest in up to 2 properties.
Investment in Companies: A minimum of €300,000 must be invested in the share capital of a physical company, registered and operating in Cyprus, with at least 5 employees.
Investment in Funds: Also a minimum of €300,000, in collective investment units of the Cyprus Investment Funds Association, namely: AIF (Alternative Investment Fund), AIFLNP (Alternative Investment Funds with Limited Number of Persons), and RAIF (Registered Alternative Investment Fund).
To obtain the passport: 5 years of legal residency, with a minimum stay of at least 6 months a year.
In Summary:
The Golden Visa programs in Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Cyprus offer a variety of investment options tailored to different profiles. Additionally, each country has specific requirements for investors, but all share the common goal of attracting foreign capital and fostering economic development.
At AIM Global, we seek the alternatives that best align with your investor profile, your goals, and your financial capacity. Schedule a meeting with us and start realizing your dream of international mobility today.
