7 Best Golden Visas in 2025

With growing global interest in residency-by-investment and citizenship opportunities, Golden Visa programs have become essential tools for high-net-worth individuals seeking mobility, lifestyle upgrades, and tax advantages.

In 2025, several countries stand out for offering efficient, valuable, and legally sound options. This updated guide reviews the 7 best Golden Visa and similar programs in 2025, based on the latest legal changes and investor trends.

1. Greece Golden Visa

Greece remains one of the most attractive and cost-effective Golden Visa options in the EU. As of 2025, the program continues to flourish, offering a relatively fast and flexible path to residency.

Minimum Investment: €250,000–€800,000 (real estate, depending on location)
Processing Time: 2–3 months
Benefits: Visa-free Schengen travel, low physical presence requirement, fast family reunification

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2. Italy Investor Visa

Italy’s Investor Visa offers a prestigious residency route in a G7 country with favourable tax incentives for new residents. It is ideal for entrepreneurs and long-term planners.

Minimum Investment: €250,000 (startups), €500,000 (Italian companies)
Processing Time: ~3–4 months
Benefits: Path to permanent residency and citizenship, high quality of life, tax benefits for new residents

3. Malta Permanent Residency Program

Malta’s MPRP provides long-term EU residency through a structured and vetted process. Though not a direct citizenship route, it grants many of the same travel and living privileges.

Minimum Investment: ~€182,500 (contribution, rent, and fees)
Processing Time: 4–6 months
Benefits: Lifetime residency, Schengen access, English-speaking environment

4. Turkey Citizenship by Investment

Although not a traditional Golden Visa, Turkey’s citizenship-by-investment program serves a similar purpose and remains highly popular in 2025.

Minimum Investment: $400,000 in real estate or $500,000 in bank deposit
Processing Time: 3–6 months
Benefits: Full Turkish citizenship, visa-free access to 110+ countries, fast processing

5. United Arab Emirates (UAE) Golden Visa

The UAE's 10-year Golden Visa continues to be a favourite for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals in 2025. It offers tax-free living and business-friendly policies.

Minimum Investment: AED 2 million (~$545,000) in property or business
Processing Time: 1–2 months
Benefits: No income tax, no minimum stay, access to Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s world-class amenities

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6. Cyprus Permanent Residency Program

Cyprus offers a robust permanent residency route in 2025, attracting investors who want EU access and a Mediterranean lifestyle without high tax exposure.

Minimum Investment: €300,000 (real estate or eligible businesses)
Processing Time: 2–4 months
Benefits: Permanent residency, family inclusion, fast-track route

7. Portugal Golden Visa

While Portugal's real estate route was eliminated in late 2023, its Golden Visa remains available through other investment channels like funds or R&D.

Minimum Investment: €250,000–€500,000 (approved funds, cultural support, or R&D)
Processing Time: Delayed – long backlog since 2023 reforms
Benefits: EU residency, 5-year citizenship path, low stay requirements

Important Note: Real estate is no longer a valid investment route. Expect delays in approval due to high application volumes and processing challenges.

Choosing the Right Golden Visa Program in 2025

When evaluating a Golden Visa in 2025, consider:

Your investment goals (real estate vs. business vs. financial instruments)
Desired residency timeline
Tax implications and lifestyle preferences

From Greece’s affordability to the UAE’s tax-free living, and Italy’s strategic EU access, each program offers unique value. With frequent legal updates, always consult an expert to ensure you're investing under current and compliant terms.