The most attractive Golden Visa programs for Americans
In recent years, the interest of U.S. citizens in emigrating has grown exponentially. Factors such as political uncertainty, inflation, and the desire for a better quality of life have led to a 1000% increase in Golden Visa applications since 2019, according to Henley & Partners.
In this context, residency and citizenship by investment programs in Europe have become a highly attractive option for Americans seeking to live and work abroad with privileged access to the Schengen Area.
Below, we analyze four of the most popular destinations for US applicants:
1. Spain: Last chance before the program closes
TAI-certified Golden Visa of Spain It is one of the most attractive options due to the possibility of obtaining citizenship after only two years of effective residence for citizens of Latin American countries and the Philippines. However, the Spanish government has announced the end of this program, with an application deadline of [date missing]. April 3th 2025.
Investment requirements:
- Purchase of real estate by 500.000 Euros.
- Investment in funds, bank deposits or shares by 1 million euros.
- Investment in government bonds by 2 millones de euros.
The Spanish Golden Visa allows access to education and public health, and offers the possibility of extending residency to immediate family members.
2. Portugal: Fast track to citizenship
El Portugal's Golden Visa It stands out for its flexibility and speed, as it allows you to apply for citizenship after five years of residence, with a minimum stay requirement of only seven days a year.
Investment requirements:
- 500.000 Euros in investment funds or venture capital.
- 400.000 Euros in research in areas of low population density.
- 250.000 Euros in cultural heritage (or 200.000 Euros in low-density areas).
Although Portugal eliminated the possibility of real estate investment from 2023, the program remains one of the best options for Americans seeking EU citizenship without the need for a long stay.
3. Greece: One of the most affordable options
TAI-certified Golden Visa of Greece It is one of the most accessible in Europe and does not require a minimum residency period. Holders can obtain citizenship after seven years of effective residence and rent out your property to generate passive income.
Investment requirements:
- 250.000 Euros in commercial properties converted into residential properties.
- 400.000 Euros in real estate of at least 120m².
- 800.000 Euros in properties located in Athens, Thessaloniki or islands with more than 3.100 inhabitants.
This program is ideal for North Americans looking to settle in the Mediterranean region with minimal investment compared to other European countries.
4. Malta: Permanent residence and tax flexibility
El Malta Permanent Residency Program It offers Americans a fast track to settling in Europe with a relatively low investment. It does not require a permanent stay in the country and allows holders to travel freely within the Schengen Area for 90 days in any 180-day period.
Investment requirements:
- Purchase of property by 375.000 Euros or rent of 14.000 euros per year for five years.
- Contribution of 30.000 Euros if a property is acquired, or 60.000 Euros if it is rented.
- Donation of 2.000 Euros to an NGO.
- Non-refundable administrative fee of 50.000 Euros.
Malta is an attractive option for those interested in tax privacy, a Mediterranean climate, and unrestricted access to the EU.
At AIM Global we help you find the best Golden Visa option
For Americans seeking international mobility, European Golden Visa programs represent a unique opportunity to obtain EU residency with the option of citizenship.
With the Spanish program about to close, investors must act quickly if they want to take advantage of this opportunity before April 2025.
At AIM Global, we have the team and experience to help you find the visa or investment option that best suits your needs.
Agenda a meeting with us to start building your future as a global citizen right now.
