Portugal
Spain
Italy
Greece
Grenada Citizenship by Investment
Best Golden Visa Programs in 2026: Quick Answer
Key Takeaways
2026 OVERVIEWPortugal Golden Visa — €500K fund investment, citizenship in 5 years, only 7 days/year stay. (Source: AIMA, verified Feb 2026)
Greece Golden Visa — From €250K (conversions only), zero stay requirement. (Source: Greek Ministry of Migration, verified Feb 2026)
UAE Golden Visa — 1–3 months processing, zero personal income tax. (Source: ICP.gov.ae, verified Feb 2026)
Dominica or St. Lucia — Full citizenship and passport in 3–6 months from $200K donation. (Source: Dominica CBIU, verified Feb 2026)
Malta MPRP — Permanent residency includes 4 generations (grandparents to grandchildren) on a single application. (Source: Residency Malta Agency, verified Feb 2026)
Thailand Privilege — ~$19,000 for 5-year residency visa with VIP airport services. No citizenship path. (Source: Thailand Privilege, verified Feb 2026)
In This Guide
Active Golden Visa Programs by Region (2026)
| Region | Active Programs | Investment Range | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europe | Portugal, Greece, Malta, Italy, Cyprus, Hungary, Latvia | €50K – €2M | Residency → EU Citizenship (5–10 yrs) |
| Caribbean | Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Grenada, Antigua | $200K – $400K | Immediate Citizenship + Passport |
| Middle East & Asia | UAE, Thailand, Malaysia | $19K – $545K | Long-term Residency (no citizenship) |
| Americas | USA (EB-5), Panama, Canada* | $300K – $1.8M | Permanent Residency → Citizenship |
*Canada requires active business involvement — no passive investor route. Spain, Ireland, Australia, and UK golden visa programs are now closed to new applications.
Golden visa programs offer high-net-worth individuals and their families a legitimate pathway to residency — and in most cases, eventual citizenship — through qualifying investments. Whether you're seeking a Plan B, global mobility, tax optimisation, or a better quality of life for your family, these programs provide a structured route to establishing residency in a new country.
This guide covers every active golden visa and citizenship by investment program worldwide, with verified February 2026 investment thresholds, processing timelines, and family inclusion policies. We track program closures in real time so you never waste time researching discontinued options.
Best Golden Visa Countries in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Rank | Country | Min. Investment | Citizenship Timeline | Stay Requirement | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Portugal | €500,000 | 5 years | 7 days/year | EU citizenship, minimal stay |
| 2 | Greece | €250K–€800K | 7 years | None | Real estate investment, zero stay |
| 3 | Malta | €150,000+ | Standard naturalisation | None | 4-generation families, permanent residency |
| 4 | UAE | ~$545,000 | No path to citizenship | None | Zero income tax, fast processing |
| 5 | Dominica | $200,000 | Immediate | None | Fastest, cheapest passport |
| 6 | Grenada | $235,000 | Immediate | None | US E-2 visa access, China visa-free |
| 7 | Italy | €250K–€2M | 5 years | None | Prestige, €100K flat-tax regime |
| 8 | Latvia | €50,000 | 5 years | None | Cheapest Schengen entry point |
Not Sure Which Program Is Right for You?
Speak with a licensed immigration lawyer who specialises in residency-by-investment — not a commission-driven agent.
Book a Free ConsultationEuropean Golden Visa Programs
Europe remains the gold standard for golden visa programs, offering access to the Schengen Area (26 countries), world-class healthcare and education, and pathways to EU citizenship. While some countries have closed their programs due to housing affordability concerns, seven excellent options remain for investors seeking European residency in 2026.
Portugal Golden Visa
Portugal's Golden Visa has earned its reputation as Europe's most attractive residency-by-investment program. Since launching in 2012, it has attracted billions in foreign investment while offering one of the clearest pathways to EU citizenship available anywhere. The program's minimal physical presence requirement — just 7 days per year — makes it particularly appealing to global entrepreneurs and families who aren't ready to relocate full-time but want to secure their European foothold. (Source: AIMA, verified Feb 2026)
The program underwent significant changes in October 2023 when direct real estate purchases were removed as a qualifying investment. Today, investors must choose from fund-based options: €500,000 in qualifying investment funds, €500,000 contribution to scientific research, or €250,000 donation to arts and cultural heritage. Business investment creating 5–10 jobs also qualifies.
What sets Portugal apart is its combination of lifestyle and practicality. The country consistently ranks among Europe's safest nations, boasts 300+ days of sunshine annually, and maintains a cost of living 30–40% lower than Western European counterparts. English is widely spoken, the expat community is thriving, and MovingTo has facilitated over 2,500 successful Portuguese visa applications with a 98% approval rate.
Qualifying investment routes:
- €500,000 in qualifying investment funds (most popular route)
- €500,000 for scientific research activities
- €250,000 donation to arts or cultural heritage preservation
- Business investment creating 5–10 full-time jobs
Spain Golden Visa [CLOSED]
Spain's Golden Visa officially closed on April 3, 2025, ending over a decade of investor residency through real estate. The closure was part of the government's broader housing reform package targeting property prices in Barcelona, Madrid, and coastal regions. Existing holders can continue renewing permits under original terms, and pending applications submitted before the deadline are being processed.
Alternatives for Spain-focused investors:
- Portugal — Similar lifestyle, fund-based investment, faster citizenship (5 years)
- Greece — Real estate still available, lower thresholds outside Athens
- Italy — Zero stay requirement, €100K flat-tax option, but 10-year citizenship timeline
- Malta — English-speaking EU member, permanent residency from day one
Greece Golden Visa
Greece's Golden Visa underwent its most significant transformation in August 2024, introducing a tiered investment system that replaced the flat €250,000 threshold. Despite the higher thresholds in premium locations, Greece remains highly competitive — and uniquely, it still allows direct real estate investment when most European programs have moved to fund-only models. (Source: Greek Ministry of Migration, verified Feb 2026)
One of Greece's standout features is its zero physical presence requirement. Unlike Portugal's 7-day minimum, Greek Golden Visa holders have no obligation to spend any time in the country. The family inclusion is also exceptionally generous, extending not just to spouse and children but to parents and in-laws of both the main applicant and spouse — the broadest in Europe for residency programs.
Investment tiers (since August 2024):
- €800,000 — Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and other high-demand islands
- €400,000 — Other mainland regions (minimum 120 sqm property)
- €250,000 — Commercial-to-residential conversions or historical building restorations only
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
Malta's Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) occupies a unique position in the European golden visa landscape: it's one of the few programs that grants permanent residency from day one, rather than a temporary permit requiring renewals. (Source: Residency Malta Agency, verified Feb 2026)
What truly distinguishes Malta is its four-generation family inclusion — the most comprehensive in Europe. Main applicants can include their spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and in some cases great-grandparents on a single application. Combined with English as an official language, this makes Malta particularly attractive for families from English-speaking countries.
Investment structure:
- Government contribution: €68,000 (with property purchase) or €98,000 (with rental)
- Property: Purchase at €375,000+ OR rent at €14,000+/year (Gozo/South: €350K/€12K)
- Donation: €2,000 to an approved Maltese NGO
- Administration fees: ~€40,000
Ireland Immigrant Investor Programme [CLOSED]
Ireland's Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) closed to new applications in February 2023, ending one of Europe's most substantial investor visa programs. The minimum investment had been €1 million in an approved project or €500,000 to an endowment fund. Existing IIP holders retain their status and can continue renewing.
Alternatives for Ireland-focused investors: Malta (English-speaking, EU, permanent residency) or Portugal (EU citizenship path, large English-speaking expat community).
Italy Investor Visa
Italy's Investor Visa offers something rare in the golden visa world: prestige paired with flexibility. There's no physical presence requirement, processing takes just 3–4 months, and investors gain access to one of the world's most culturally rich nations. Italy's flat-tax regime for new residents allows qualifying individuals to pay a fixed €100,000 annual tax on worldwide income (plus €25,000 per family member), regardless of actual earnings — a major draw for UHNW individuals. (Source: Italian Ministry of Economic Development, verified Feb 2026)
Qualifying investment routes:
- €250,000 in an innovative Italian startup
- €500,000 in an established Italian company
- €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds
- €1,000,000 philanthropic donation to an approved cause
Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment
Cyprus stands out for having one of the fastest processing times in Europe — just 2–3 months from application to approval — combined with permanent residency status from day one. The tax system is another draw: Cyprus has one of Europe's lowest corporate tax rates at 12.5%, no inheritance tax, and a non-domicile regime that exempts qualifying individuals from tax on dividends and interest for 17 years.
Requirements:
- Purchase new residential property worth €300,000+ (from a developer, plus VAT)
- Demonstrate annual income of €50,000+ from abroad (plus €15,000 per spouse, €10,000 per child)
- Maintain a fixed deposit of €30,000 in a Cypriot bank for 3 years
Hungary Guest Investor Program
Hungary relaunched its Guest Investor Program in 2024, creating a fresh opportunity in Central Europe at €250,000 — one of the more affordable entry points for Schengen residency. Budapest has emerged as a vibrant European capital combining Habsburg grandeur with a growing tech and startup scene, and living costs are significantly lower than Western Europe.
Qualifying investment routes:
- €250,000 in a Hungarian real estate investment fund (minimum 5-year hold)
- €1,000,000 donation to a higher education institution maintained by a public trust
Latvia Investor Residence Permit
Latvia offers what no other EU country can match: a golden visa-style residency permit from just €50,000 — by far the most affordable entry point into the Schengen Area. Processing speed of 1–3 months is also among the fastest in Europe. Combined with no physical stay requirements, Latvia is particularly attractive for digital nomads and remote workers who want Schengen freedom at a fraction of the cost of other European programs.
Qualifying investment routes:
- €50,000 in a Latvian company with fewer than 50 employees
- €250,000 in Latvian real estate
Americas: Golden Visa & Investor Visa Programs
United States EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is the only investor pathway to permanent US residency (a Green Card). Unlike most golden visa programs, EB-5 requires genuine economic impact: every approved application must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers. Investment thresholds are $800,000 for Targeted Employment Area (TEA) projects, or $1,050,000 for standard investments. (Source: USCIS, verified Feb 2026)
Qualifying investment routes:
- $800,000 in a TEA project via a USCIS-designated Regional Center (most common)
- $1,050,000 in a standard investment area
- Direct investment requiring hands-on management and 10 job creation
Canada Start-Up Visa [Active Business Required]
Canada's Start-Up Visa program requires securing endorsement from a designated Canadian venture capital fund (minimum $200,000 investment), angel investor group ($75,000 minimum), or business incubator. The business idea must be innovative, scalable, and capable of competing globally.
Available routes:
- Start-Up Visa: Business endorsed by a designated VC ($200K+), angel group ($75K+), or incubator
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Active business ownership in participating provinces
- Self-Employed Program: For individuals with experience in cultural activities or athletics
Panama Investor Visa
Panama offers one of the Western Hemisphere's most efficient investor residency programs. Processing times of 30–90 days make it among the fastest globally. Panama's territorial tax system is a major draw: only income earned within Panama is taxed — foreign-source income is completely tax-free, regardless of how much time you spend in the country.
Qualifying investment routes:
- $300,000 in Panamanian real estate (most popular)
- $500,000 in Panama Stock Exchange securities
- $750,000 fixed-term bank deposit
- Friendly Nations Visa: Citizens of 50+ countries can qualify with just a $5,000 bank deposit and proof of economic ties
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Programs
Dominica Citizenship by Investment
Dominica's CBI program, established in 1993, is the second-oldest in the world and consistently ranks as the most cost-effective pathway to a second passport. (Source: Dominica CBIU, verified Feb 2026)
Investment options: $200,000 donation to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF), or $200,000 in approved real estate with a 3-year holding period.
St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment
St. Lucia offers more investment routes than any other Caribbean CBI program, including a unique government bond option. Family inclusion extends to parents, grandparents, and unmarried siblings under 18.
Investment options: $240,000 donation to the National Economic Fund; $300,000 in approved real estate (5-year hold); $300,000 in government bonds (5-year hold — unique to St. Lucia); or $250,000 enterprise investment creating at least 3 jobs.
St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship by Investment
St. Kitts & Nevis operates the world's oldest CBI program, launched in 1984. Nearly four decades of continuous operation have made it the gold standard for Caribbean citizenship by investment. (Source: St. Kitts CIU, verified Feb 2026)
Investment options: $250,000 donation to the SISC; $325,000 (condo) or $600,000 (single family) in approved real estate with a 7-year holding period.
Grenada Citizenship by Investment
Grenada carries a unique advantage among all Caribbean CBI programs: eligibility for the US E-2 Treaty Investor Visa. Grenadian citizens can apply for E-2 status, allowing them to live and work in the United States by investing in a US-based business. Grenada also offers visa-free travel to China — the only Caribbean CBI nation with this access.
Investment options: $235,000 donation to the National Transformation Fund (NTF); $270,000 shared real estate (plus $50K NTF fee); or $350,000 sole ownership real estate (plus $50K NTF fee).
Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship by Investment
Antigua requires just 5 days of physical presence within the first 5 years — the lightest requirement of any CBI program. Family inclusion is exceptionally broad: spouse, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and unmarried siblings.
Investment options: $230,000 donation to the National Development Fund; $300,000 in approved real estate (5-year hold); or $1.5 million business investment creating at least 3 jobs.
Caribbean CBI: Quick Comparison
| Country | Min. Investment | Processing | US E-2 Access | Visa-Free Countries | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominica | $200,000 | 3–6 months | No | 140+ | Lowest cost |
| St. Lucia | $240,000 | 3–6 months | No | 140+ | Government bond option |
| St. Kitts | $250,000 | 4–6 months | No | 150+ | Oldest, most established |
| Grenada | $235,000 | 3–6 months | Yes | 140+ (+ China) | US E-2 access, China visa-free |
| Antigua | $230,000 | 6–9 months | No | 150+ | Broadest family inclusion |
Our recommendation: Choose Grenada if US E-2 visa access or China travel matters. Choose Dominica for the lowest cost. Choose St. Kitts for the most established, longest-running program. Choose Antigua for the broadest family inclusion. Choose St. Lucia if you want the government bond route.
Middle East & Asia: Golden Visa & Residency Programs
UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is one of the fastest-growing residency programs in the world. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have positioned themselves as global hubs for entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth families seeking a tax-free base with world-class infrastructure. Real estate investments of AED 2 million (~$545,000) qualify for a 5-year Golden Visa, while investments in approved public funds can qualify for a 10-year visa. (Source: UAE Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship, verified Feb 2026)
Why the UAE stands out: Zero personal income tax, zero capital gains tax, 1–3 month processing (among the fastest globally), and no minimum stay requirement. The UAE also offers a separate retirement visa (55+) and a remote worker visa for those who don't meet investment thresholds.
Thailand Privilege Visa
Thailand Privilege (formerly Thailand Elite) offers the simplest path to long-term Asian residency: pay a one-time membership fee, receive a multi-year visa with VIP airport fast-track services. No property purchase, fund investment, or business creation required. Entry-level Bronze membership costs ~650,000 THB (~$19,000) for 5 years. Higher tiers extend up to 20 years with premium perks including annual health check-ups and golf memberships.
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H)
Malaysia's MM2H was revised in 2024 with a new three-tier system. The 10-year renewable visa provides long-term certainty, and Malaysia maintains a territorial tax system — foreign-sourced income is not taxed even if you're physically present.
| MM2H Tier | Fixed Deposit | Offshore Income | Liquid Assets Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platinum | RM 1,000,000 | RM 1,000,000/year | RM 10,000,000 |
| Gold | RM 500,000 | RM 500,000/year | RM 5,000,000 |
| Silver | RM 150,000 | RM 40,000/year | RM 500,000 |
- Not tax advice: This guide provides general information only. Tax implications vary by individual circumstances and country of origin. Consult a qualified tax professional before making decisions based on any tax benefits mentioned.
- Dual citizenship: Some countries (including China, India, and the UAE) do not permit dual nationality. Acquiring a second passport may affect your existing citizenship status. Verify your home country's laws before proceeding.
- US persons: US citizens and green card holders remain subject to worldwide US taxation regardless of residency abroad. Golden visa status does not change US tax obligations.
- Investment thresholds: Program requirements change frequently and without notice. Always verify current thresholds with official government sources before making investment decisions.
Official Government Sources
| Country | Official Authority | Last Verified |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal | AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migrations and Asylum) | Feb 2026 |
| Greece | Greek Ministry of Migration & Asylum | Feb 2026 |
| Malta | Residency Malta Agency | Feb 2026 |
| Italy | Italian Ministry of Economic Development | Feb 2026 |
| UAE | Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security | Feb 2026 |
| USA (EB-5) | U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services | Feb 2026 |
| Dominica | Dominica Citizenship by Investment Unit | Feb 2026 |
| St. Kitts | St. Kitts & Nevis Citizenship Investment Unit | Feb 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which golden visa is the cheapest in Europe in 2026?
Latvia offers the cheapest European golden visa at €50,000 through business investment in a company with fewer than 50 employees. Hungary starts at €250,000 for investment funds. Greece still has a €250,000 option, but only for commercial-to-residential property conversions or historical restorations — standard residential properties now require €400,000–€800,000 depending on location. (Source: Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, verified Feb 2026)
Which golden visa has the lowest stay requirement?
Greece, Malta, Italy, Hungary, Latvia, and the UAE all require zero days of physical presence. You can maintain residency without ever visiting the country. Portugal requires just 7 days per year — the lowest among programs that have a stay requirement. Cyprus requires a visit once every 2 years.
Which golden visa programs are closed in 2026?
Four major programs have closed to new applications: Spain (closed April 2025), Ireland (closed February 2023), Australia (closed May 2024), and the United Kingdom (closed February 2022). Portugal's direct real estate route closed in October 2023, but the fund investment route remains fully open. Malta's citizenship-by-investment (MEIN) was also terminated in April 2025 after an EU Court of Justice ruling, though Malta's permanent residency program (MPRP) continues.
Can I include my parents in a golden visa application?
Yes — most European golden visa programs allow dependent parents. Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, and Malta all include parents as eligible dependants. Greece is the most generous, extending inclusion to parents AND in-laws of both the main applicant and spouse. Malta allows four generations (grandparents to grandchildren) on a single application. Caribbean CBI programs vary: Antigua and Grenada include parents, while Dominica has more limited family inclusion.
Can I rent my Greek golden visa property on Airbnb?
No. Greece banned short-term rentals (including Airbnb) for all Golden Visa properties as of August 2024. Violations carry a €50,000 fine and potential permit revocation. You can live in the property yourself or rent it on a long-term basis (12+ months), but short-term tourist rentals are strictly prohibited. (Source: Greek Ministry of Migration, Law 5100/2024)
How long does it take to get EU citizenship through a golden visa?
Portugal offers the fastest path at 5 years (though Note: A 10-year reform was vetoed in Dec 2025; this to 10 years). Greece requires 7 years with actual physical residence. Italy requires 10 years. Cyprus requires 7 years. Malta's citizenship-by-investment was terminated in April 2025 — only the residency program remains, and citizenship requires standard naturalisation after extended residence. All EU citizenship applications require passing a language test (typically A2–B1 level).
What is the difference between a golden visa and citizenship by investment?
A golden visa grants residency — the right to live in a country — with citizenship available after 5–10 years. Citizenship by investment (CBI) grants a passport immediately, typically within 3–6 months. European programs are golden visas (residency first). Caribbean programs (Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, Antigua) are CBI programs that provide immediate citizenship and a second passport without any prior residency requirement.
Do I need to speak the local language to get a golden visa?
No. No golden visa or CBI program requires language skills for the initial application. Language requirements only apply when you later apply for citizenship. Portugal requires A2 Portuguese for citizenship. Greece requires basic Greek. Italy requires B1 Italian. Some Caribbean CBI programs have no language requirement at all since they grant citizenship immediately.
Can I work in the country with a golden visa?
It depends on the country — work rights vary significantly between golden visa programs. Portugal and Malta grant full employment rights, allowing holders to work as employees or operate businesses. Italy's Investor Visa also permits employment. The UAE Golden Visa allows both employment and business activities. However, Greece's Golden Visa does not grant the right to be employed — holders may own businesses and act as company shareholders or directors, but paid employment requires a separate work permit or residence status. (Source: Greek Ministry of Migration & Asylum, Law 5100/2024) Cyprus similarly restricts employment for golden visa holders. Always verify employment rights for your specific program before making investment decisions.
What happens if a golden visa program closes after I apply?
Existing holders and pending applications are typically protected under grandfathering provisions. When Spain closed its golden visa in April 2025, all existing permit holders retained their residency rights and renewal eligibility. The same applied when Ireland closed its IIP and when Portugal removed the real estate route — existing investors were grandfathered. This is a strong reason to apply while programs are still open.
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