Golden Visa: Is it necessary to move to the host country?

A common question for investors and people interested in the Golden Visa is whether it is necessary to move to the country they are applying to once they obtain the visa. 

And while it may sound paradoxical, many of those willing to invest in one of these programs aren't necessarily looking to move to another country. Although some do go abroad, most seek the convenience of having an option available to them.

If you are also interested in having a plan B to cope with the ups and downs of the economy And country risk, in this text we will break down the requirements for the “golden visa” in Spain, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus and Malta, so that you can make an informed decision.

Spain

Thanks to its climate, culture, and lifestyle, this country is one of the most popular destinations. To obtain the Spanish Golden Visa, you need to invest at least €500.000 in real estate. But do you have to move? Not necessarily. The law doesn't require you to reside permanently in the country, only an annual visit to Spain during each visa renewal process, which is initially for three years and then every five years.

Portugal

One of Europe's most attractive Golden Visa programs, Portugal requires a minimum investment of €500.000 in investment funds or a contribution of €200.000 to artistic and cultural projects. The good news is that you don't need to relocate. To maintain the visa, you only need to spend a minimum of 7 days per year in the country for the first two years, and 14 days for each subsequent two-year period. 

Greece

Greece's Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of €250.000 in real estate, one of the most affordable in Europe, although the amount may vary depending on the property's location. Similar to Spain and Portugal, you don't need to relocate to Greece. In fact, there are no minimum residency requirements, meaning you can maintain the visa simply by visiting the country occasionally. 

Cyprus

Cyprus has a Golden Visa program that requires a minimum investment of €300.000. To maintain permanent residency, you need to visit Cyprus at least once every two years. There is no minimum annual stay requirement, meaning you can live in another country and only travel to Cyprus when necessary. This is ideal for those seeking a European base without needing to relocate immediately.

Malta

Malta offers a Golden Visa with a minimum investment of €700.000 in real estate or €600.000 in donations to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF), plus other costs. For those seeking permanent residency, the minimum stay requirement is two weeks per year. This provides the flexibility to live and travel elsewhere while maintaining residency status in Malta.

Conclusion: 

In summary, applying to a Golden Visa In Spain, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, or Malta, you are not required to move permanently to the host country. Each of these countries offers flexibility in its residency requirements, allowing holders of this visa to enjoy its benefits without needing to relocate completely. 

If you're considering this option for your peace of mind and that of your family, schedule a meeting with our team. We are experts in international mobility, have offices in Europe, and offer top-tier Golden Visa advice for the countries mentioned.