Global Citizen Solutions, a firm specializing in residency and citizenship solutions in Europe and the Caribbean, offers a clear and concise explanation of golden visas.
What is a golden visa?
A golden visa, also known as a "residence by investment" program, grants individuals the legal right to live, work, study, and access healthcare in the issuing country. In return, they make a substantial economic contribution to the host nation.
This contribution can take various forms, such as real estate purchases, donations, or investments in government-designated projects. The minimum investment varies by country.
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Many countries worldwide have implemented golden visa programs to attract affluent individuals. Photo: Famproperties |
Many countries worldwide have implemented golden visa programs to attract affluent individuals. Photo: Famproperties
Benefits of a golden visa
Golden visa holders enjoy several benefits, including temporary or permanent residency and potentially citizenship. Most programs also allow for dependent family members to be included. European golden visa programs grant investors and their families free movement within the Schengen Area.
Beyond residency, golden visas offer investment opportunities, from real estate to businesses, with attractive returns. With sufficient capital, investors can secure their family's future, expand business opportunities, and enjoy global mobility.
Golden visas vs. golden passports
Both are investment-based, but a golden passport grants immediate citizenship without a residency requirement. A golden visa grants residency first, with the possibility of citizenship after a specified period.
Countries offering golden visas or similar programs in 2025:
Australia, Austria, Canada, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Panama, Portugal, Singapore, Thailand, UAE, and the US, according to Global Citizen Solutions.
Costs and risks of golden visas
Over 20 countries offer these programs, each with varying costs and requirements. In Europe, a minimum investment of 300,000 EUR is required in Cyprus for permanent residency, or 250,000 EUR in Greek real estate. In Spain, the investment can reach 500,000 USD.
While approval rates often exceed 90%, risks exist, including high maintenance costs, tax obligations, lengthy residency requirements, and the potential for policy changes.
Applicants typically must be 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, and a valid investment. Some countries accept cryptocurrency, but regulations and taxes vary. Selling assets before the mandatory holding period can lead to residency revocation.
Can someone previously denied a visa apply for a golden visa?
Yes. However, prior visa denials may impact the review process, and additional documentation might be required.
Reasons for golden visa denial can include insufficient funds, criminal records, failure to meet legal requirements, incomplete applications, or inaccurate information. Failure to meet or maintain program requirements can result in visa revocation.
Are golden visa holders required to live in the country?
No. Most programs don't mandate continuous residency. Golden visas are typically renewable indefinitely as long as the investment is maintained.
Anh Minh (Investopedia, Global Citizen Solutions)
