Golden Visa programs continue to gain momentum in 2025, driven by global investors seeking greater international mobility, long-term stability, and secure legal residency within the European Union. These programs offer a structured pathway to the Schengen Zone, access to high-quality healthcare and education, and the opportunity to diversify and protect wealth through strategic investments.
This guide compares the strongest EU Golden Visa programs in 2025, including Greece, Portugal, Hungary, Cyprus, Malta, and Italy. Each program differs in investment thresholds, processing speed, tax advantages, and residency rules. Understanding these differences helps investors choose the option that best aligns with their financial strategy, lifestyle goals, and long-term plans for citizenship.
Key Takeaways
- Greece offers the strongest overall value, with low thresholds (€250,000–€800,000), diverse investment categories, high rental yields, and full Schengen access.
- Portugal remains popular for long-term planning, minimal stay requirements, and a well-defined citizenship process after 7–10 years.
- Hungary provides one of the fastest pathways to EU residency, with approvals in 3–4 months and the ability to work or operate a business.
- Cyprus and Malta excel in tax optimisation, appealing to investors prioritising fiscal efficiency and long-term stability.
- Italy targets high-net-worth investors seeking prestige assets and EU mobility through flexible investment routes.
- The best program for each investor depends on budget, family size, investment preferences, travel needs, and long-term citizenship goals.
What Is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a residency permit issued to non-EU nationals who make a qualifying economic contribution—typically through real estate purchases, investment funds, business creation, or government securities. These programs support national economic growth while granting investors and their families legal residency rights.
Core Benefits of a Golden Visa
- Legal residency for the investor and eligible family members
- Access to high-quality healthcare and education
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Area
- Ability to manage assets, establish businesses, and live within the EU
- Potential tax efficiencies, depending on the jurisdiction
- Pathways to permanent residency and, in many cases, citizenship
While the core concept is similar across Europe, each country sets its own investment conditions, due diligence standards, and residency or citizenship rules. For many investors, Golden Visas provide a predictable, low-residency-requirement route into Europe.
The Best European Golden Visa Programs in 2025
The most competitive EU residency by investment options in 2025 include Greece, Portugal, Hungary, Cyprus, Malta, and Italy. Below is a detailed breakdown of each program.
Greece
The Greek Golden visa remains one of Europe’s most attractive options due to its affordability, straightforward process, and strong family inclusion. Investors benefit from an accessible property market, Mediterranean lifestyle, and full Schengen mobility.
Real Estate Investment Options
€250,000 – Entry-Level Conversion/Historic Properties
- Includes former commercial buildings converted to residential use.
- Renovations must be completed within five years.
- Available across Greece.
- Often delivered turnkey by reputable developers.
€400,000 – Regional Properties
- Single properties of at least 120 sqm in areas such as Halkidiki and the Peloponnese.
- Strong value proposition for lifestyle buyers.
€800,000 – Premium Locations
- Attica, central Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and larger islands.
- Minimum size: 120 sqm.
- Ideal for prime real estate investors prioritising capital appreciation.
Other Eligible Investments
- Greek investment funds (from €350,000)
- Government bonds (from €500,000)
- Long-term leasing structures (€400,000–€800,000, depending on the region)
Program Advantages
- 5-year renewable residency
- Inclusion of spouse, children under 21, and both parents
- Citizenship eligibility after 7 years
- Typical rental yields of 4–6%
- Optional €100,000 flat-tax regime for international income
Portugal
Portugal remains a top choice for investors seeking long-term predictability and a clear path to citizenship.
Investment Routes
- €250,000 in cultural or heritage projects
- €500,000 in qualifying investment funds
- €500,000 business creation with 5 employees
Program Highlights
- Minimal stay: 7 days per year
- Family coverage up to adult children (26) and dependent parents
- Citizenship available after 7–10 years
- Strong lifestyle, safety, and business environment
Portugal is ideal for investors who prefer fund-based routes over real estate.
Hungary
Relaunched in 2024, Hungary offers one of the fastest EU residency pathways.
Investment Options
- €250,000 in approved real estate funds
- €1,000,000 contribution to accredited universities
Advantages
- 10-year residency permit
- Investors may work or run a business
- Family inclusion
- Fast processing: 3–4 months
- Citizenship after 10 years
Hungary is suitable for cost-conscious investors seeking speed and business flexibility.
Cyprus
Cyprus provides immediate permanent residency — an uncommon benefit among EU programs.
Investment Options
- €300,000 in real estate, company shares, or securities
- Proof of stable foreign income required
Key Features
- Permanent residency granted from the start
- Family inclusion up to age 25
- Citizenship after 8 years
- Visit required once every two years
- Favourable Non-Dom tax system
Cyprus appeals to investors prioritising long-term stability and tax efficiency.
Malta
Malta offers permanent residency, Schengen mobility, and strong lifestyle advantages.
Investment Requirements
- Property purchase: €375,000
- OR rental: €14,000 annually (min. 5 years)
- Contribution of €2,000 + €500,000 in assets
Benefits
- Generous family inclusion (including grandparents)
- No mandatory stay
- Access to top-tier healthcare and education
Malta is ideal for those seeking a long-term EU base with extensive family coverage.
Italy
Italy’s Golden Visa appeals to high-net-worth individuals seeking prestige and European mobility.
Investment Routes
- €500,000 in Italian companies
- €1,000,000 donation
- €2,000,000 in government bonds
Program Highlights
- 2-year residency, renewable
- Citizenship after 10 years
- Family inclusion
- Attractive lifestyle and business environment
Italy suits investors seeking cultural capital, strong markets, and Schengen privileges.
How to Choose the Best EU Golden Visa in 2025
Your ideal Golden Visa depends on:
- Budget: Greece offers the lowest real estate entry point.
- Tax strategy: Malta and Cyprus are favoured for tax optimisation.
- Speed: Hungary provides some of the fastest processing times.
- Lifestyle: Greece and Portugal offer excellent living environments.
- Family needs: Malta provides the broadest inclusion.
- Long-term citizenship: Portugal and Greece have clear, structured pathways.
For most investors, Greece delivers the best balance of affordability, accessibility, and long-term potential.
Conclusion
The EU Golden Visa landscape in 2025 offers diverse, high-value options for investors seeking stability, mobility, and long-term security. Whether your priority is cost, lifestyle, tax planning, or future citizenship, Europe provides a residency pathway suited to your strategy.
By aligning your goals with the strengths of each program, you can build a secure, flexible, and rewarding future for yourself and your family.
