Golden Visa Countries: A Full Guide by Cambridge Currencies
Published: 5 June 2025
Estimated Read Time: 9 Minutes
Golden Visa programs offer a pathway to residency or citizenship by investment, often in real estate or national development funds. At Cambridge Currencies, we specialize in seamless international money transfers—perfect for those planning overseas investments. Here’s everything you need to know about Golden Visas in 2025–2026.
What Is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants foreign nationals the right to live—and sometimes gain citizenship—in a participating country in exchange for financial investment.
Unlike traditional immigration paths, Golden Visas usually don’t require full-time relocation, language proficiency, or lengthy naturalization periods upfront. Investments typically go into real estate, startups, government bonds, or national development funds.
Benefits of a Golden Visa
- Visa-free travel within Schengen or regional zones
- Residency for family members, including spouse and children
- Potential for citizenship after 5–10 years
- Real estate appreciation or return on financial investments
- Access to quality healthcare and education
- Improved lifestyle, weather, safety, and business opportunities
Countries with Golden Visa Programs
Below are some of the top Golden Visa countries and their minimum investment thresholds:
| Country | Residency or Citizenship | Minimum Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Cyprus | Residency | €300,000 |
| Greece | Residency | €250,000 |
| Malta | Residency | €182,000 |
| Italy | Residency | €250,000+ |
| Dominica | Citizenship | $200,000 |
| Turkey | Citizenship | $400,000 |
| Costa Rica | Residency | $150,000 |
| Hungary | Residency | €250,000 |
| Latvia | Residency | $60,000 |
| UAE | Long-term residency | AED 250,000 |
| USA | Residency (EB-5) | $900,000 |
| Canada | Residency | CAD 75,000 |
| St Kitts & Nevis | Citizenship | $250,000 |
| St Lucia | Citizenship | $240,000 |
| Grenada | Citizenship | $235,000 |
| Antigua & Barbuda | Citizenship | $230,000 |
| Serbia | Residency | €250,000 |
| Portugal | Residency | €250,000 (non-real estate) |
Note: Some countries are discontinuing or restricting their Golden Visa programs. Spain ended its program in April 2025, and Portugal no longer allows real estate investments.
Portugal’s Current Golden Visa Investment Options
- €500,000 in approved investment funds
- €250,000 in cultural or artistic projects
- €500,000 in scientific research
- Company creation with 10 jobs (or 8 in low-density areas)
- €500,000 in existing business + 5 jobs
Golden Visa Requirements
Requirements vary by country, but most programs include:
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of legal income or source of funds
- Minimum age (typically 18+)
- Investment in approved assets or funds
- Payment of application and legal fees
- Minimum stay requirements (where applicable)
- Biometric data submission
How to Apply for a Golden Visa: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose a Country
Research programs that fit your budget, timeline, and goals.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
You’ll need a valid passport, birth certificate, background checks, income verification, and more.
Step 3: Make the Investment
Choose the investment route allowed by your selected country.
Step 4: Submit Application
Pay application and legal fees. Work with a licensed immigration advisor for accuracy.
Step 5: Attend Biometrics & Interview
Submit fingerprints and attend interviews if required.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
Processing can take from 2 to 6 months depending on the country.
Step 7: Receive Your Residency or Citizenship
Collect your documentation and enjoy your new status.
Processing Times by Country
| Country | Estimated Approval Time |
| Dominica | 3 months |
| Greece | 3–4 months |
| Malta | 4–6 months |
| Italy | 3–4 months |
| Cyprus | ~2 months |
Tip: Submit complete, error-free documentation to avoid delays. Some countries offer fast-track processing for an additional fee.
Top Golden Visa Countries in 2024
Cyprus
- Investment: €300,000 in real estate
- Family eligible
- Citizenship possible after 5 years
Greece
- €250,000 real estate (or specific commercial-to-residential projects)
- No residence requirement
- EU citizenship after 7 years
Malta
- Total package starts at €182,000
- No need to live in Malta
- Access to EU travel and services
Italy
- €250,000 in startups or €2M in government bonds
- 2-year renewable visa
- No relocation required
Dominica
- $200,000 for real estate or donation
- Full citizenship in ~3 months
- No residency requirement
FAQs About Golden Visa Countries
Which country offers the fastest Golden Visa to citizenship?
Dominica offers full citizenship in approximately 3 months.
What’s the cheapest Golden Visa?
Latvia, with a minimum investment of $60,000.
Are Golden Visas risky?
Yes. Market fluctuations and changing immigration laws can affect your investment.
Has Spain ended its Golden Visa program?
Yes, Spain closed its program in April 2025.
Which EU countries still offer Golden Visas?
Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Italy, Hungary, Latvia, and Portugal (non-real estate routes).
Send Investment Funds Securely with Cambridge Currencies
Investing abroad? Let Cambridge Currencies handle your high-value transfers with precision. We offer:
- Real-time FX rates
- Low, transparent fees
- Expert guidance on large transfers
Whether you’re investing in Greek real estate or contributing to a cultural fund in Portugal, we help you move your money safely and smartly.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Consult a legal or immigration expert before making any decisions.