Which is the most affordable Golden Visa in Europe?

European Golden Visa programs allow investors and their families to obtain residency rights or citizenship through specific investments in real estate, funds, or local businesses. 

Next, we will explore and compare the programs in Portugal, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, and Malta to identify which Golden Visa option is the most affordable.

1. Portugal

• Investment amount: Starting from €500,000 in investment funds, or a contribution from €200.000.
• Residency requirements: Minimum of 14 days during two years.
• Estimated time to obtain citizenship5 years of residence.
• Advantages:
  • Low minimum stay required.
  • Good opportunities to invest in startups.
• Disadvantages:
  • The real estate option no longer exists.

2. Spain

• Investment amount: From 500,000 EUR in real estate.
• Residency requirements: 6 to 9 months per year to qualify for a passport.
• Estimated time to obtain citizenshipIf you are Latin American, with two years of legal residence, you can apply for it.
• Advantages:
  • Flexibility in the residency requirement.
  • Option to study or work in Spain.
• Disadvantages:
  • The program is on track to be phased out starting in 2025 (Read more here)

3 Greece

• Investment amountFrom €250.000 in two cases: restoring a historic building or property, or converting an industrial or commercial property into housing. Other real estate investments start at €400.000. Option to invest in startups from €250.000 from 2025.
• Residency requirements: at least 6 months a year to qualify for a passport.
• Estimated time to obtain citizenship: 7 years.
• Advantages:
  • Move freely within the Schengen area
  • Flexibility for visa holders and their families.
• Disadvantages:
  • The citizenship process can be complex and lengthy.
  • The minimum amounts for real estate investment increased during 2024.

4. Cyprus

• Investment amount: Starting from 300,000 EUR in properties, investment in companies or in funds.
• Residency requirements: Visit once every two years.
• Estimated time to obtain citizenship5 years of legal residence, with a minimum stay of at least 6 months per year
• Advantages:
  • Low requirements for continued employment.
  • Processing time is only 2 months.
• Disadvantages:
  • High cost of living in major investment areas.

5 malt

• Investment amountDonation from 600.000 euros, plus investment in real estate from 700.000 euros.
• Residency requirements: Requires a minimum residence of 12 months to apply for citizenship (if the donation was 700.000 euros; 36 months if it was 600.000 EUR).
• Estimated time to obtain citizenship: Approximately 1-3 years.
• Advantages:
  • Faster citizenship option compared to other European countries.
  • Direct access to citizenship with permanent residence in the country.
• Disadvantages:
  • High investment requirements.
  • Rigorous evaluation process.

We help you find the most affordable Golden Visa for you

Each residency by investment program in Europe has its advantages and limitations, and the choice will depend on factors such as the amount of investment available, residency requirements, and the objective of obtaining citizenship or not. 

At AIM Global, we can guide you toward the most suitable investment option for your investor profile. We have offices in Europe and an expert team.

Don't delay any longer and Schedule a meeting Get free advice from us. Your new life in Europe can start today.