Comparing the US “Gold Card” with European Golden Visas

The recent proposal of the “Gold Card” in the United States has generated comparisons with the “Golden Visa” programs existing in several European countries. 

The following is a detailed comparison between the US “Gold Card” and the “Golden Visas” of Portugal, Greece, Malta and Cyprus, focusing on investment requirements, benefits and key considerations.

United States Gold Card

Announced by President Donald Trump in February 2025, the “Gold Card” is a residency by investment program that allows foreigners to obtain permanent residency in the U.S. in exchange for a $5 million investment. 

This program is designed to replace the current EB-5 program, requiring less investment and job creation. Unlike the EB-5, the “Gold Card” is based solely on a financial contribution directly to the US government. 

Golden Visa programs in Europe

Several European countries offer residency through investment programs, seeking to attract foreign capital. The programs in Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Cyprus are detailed below:

• PortugalIt requires a minimum investment of €500.000 in investment funds or venture capital, or €250.000 in cultural projects. The program allows for residency and, after five years, the possibility of applying for Portuguese citizenship. Furthermore, it is among the highest-rated programs on the continent.
  
• GreeceIt offers the residence in exchange for a minimum investment of €250.000 in commercial properties to be converted into residential properties, maintaining the investment for at least 5 years. If you want to buy real estate for other purposesThe investment starts at €400.000, and the property must have a minimum size of 120 square meters. This program is known for its fast approval process and does not require physical residency in the country.
  
• MaltaIt provides residency through the purchase of a property for €375.000 (or rent of €14.000 per year for five years). A contribution of €30.000 is also required if purchasing a property, or €60.000 if renting, along with a €2.000 donation to an NGO. Furthermore, it offers the possibility of obtaining citizenship through a separate process that involves additional contributions.
  
• CyprusIt offers permanent residency through a minimum investment of €300.000 in real estate. The process is quick, with approvals in approximately two months, and allows family members to be included in the application.
  

Gold Card vs Golden Visa: Comparison and Considerations

• Investment amountThe American “Gold Card” requires a significantly larger investment ($5 million). compared with the European “Golden Visas”, whose amounts range between 250.000 and 500.000 euros.
  
• Additional benefitsWhile the "Gold Card" offers permanent residency and a path to U.S. citizenship, European "Golden Visas" not only provide residency but also access to the Schengen Area, allowing free travel throughout most European countries. Furthermore, some European programs offer the possibility of obtaining citizenship after a certain number of years of residency.
  
• Flexibility and RequirementsEuropean programs typically offer greater flexibility in investment options and, in some cases, do not require physical residency in the country. For example, Greece does not require investors to reside in the country to maintain their residency status.
  
• Tax and Legal ConsiderationsIt is essential to evaluate the tax and legal implications of each program. The US “Gold Card” could have different tax implications compared to European “Golden Visas,” depending on the jurisdiction and applicable tax laws.
  

AIM Global helps you choose between Gold Card and Golden Visa

The choice between this new US gold card and European residency by investment programs will depend on your personal and financial goals.

While the “Gold Card” offers a path to US residency and citizenship with a considerable investment, European “Golden Visas” present more accessible options with additional benefits, as in the case of Portugal, whose passport allows visa-free entry to 190 countries.

That's why it's advisable to consult with advisors specializing in global mobility and investments, such as the AIM Global team. 

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