Golden Visa Countries: A Comprehensive Guide for 2026

Last updated: March 2026

Want a second home in a new country? Golden visa countries make it easily happen for investors. More than just granting residency, these programs, already available in more than 20 countries, open up a world of possibilities. This comprehensive guide explores various countries with golden visas, as well as the benefits and challenges that come with these programs.

Whether you are a business owner looking to expand your international footprint, a family seeking greater security, or an investor aiming to diversify your portfolio, a golden visa could be the most consequential financial and lifestyle decision you make this decade. At Mirabello Consultancy, we have guided hundreds of clients through this journey — and in this guide, we share everything you need to know for 2026.

What Is a Golden Visa? Understanding Residency by Investment

A golden visa — formally known as a residency by investment (RBI) programme — is an arrangement through which a foreign national obtains the legal right to live, work, and sometimes study in a country in exchange for a qualifying economic contribution. That contribution typically takes the form of real estate purchases, capital deposits, government bonds, or direct investment in local businesses.

Unlike a standard work or family visa, a golden visa does not require the holder to have a job offer, a local sponsor, or family ties in the host country. The investment itself is the qualifying criterion. Once granted, residency status is usually renewable as long as the investment is maintained, and most programmes include provisions for family members to be included on the same application.

It is important to distinguish a golden visa from citizenship by investment. A golden visa grants residency — the right to live in the country. Citizenship, with its accompanying passport, typically comes later, after a minimum period of physical presence or after holding residency for a defined number of years. Some countries, such as Portugal and Greece, operate a pathway to citizenship following five years of residency. Others, such as the UAE, do not automatically offer a route to naturalisation via their golden visa.

For a broader look at programmes that grant immediate citizenship, visit our guide to the best citizenship by investment programs.

The Best Golden Visa Countries in 2026: An Overview

The golden visa landscape has evolved considerably in recent years. Portugal reconfigured its programme in 2023, removing direct residential real estate as a qualifying route in many areas. Greece, Spain, and the UAE have all adjusted their thresholds. New entrants such as Greece's enhanced tier and Italy's updated Investor Visa have attracted fresh attention. Below is a comparative overview of the leading golden visa countries for 2026.

Portugal Golden Visa

Portugal remains one of the most sought-after golden visa destinations worldwide, even after its programme reforms. The current qualifying routes include investment fund contributions from €500,000, investment in qualifying real estate in low-density areas from €500,000, capital transfers of €1,500,000, and job creation requirements of a minimum of ten jobs. Portugal's golden visa is particularly attractive because it requires only seven days of physical presence per year to maintain residency status, and leads to eligibility for Portuguese citizenship — and therefore an EU passport — after five years. Learn more on our dedicated Portugal Golden Visa page.

Greece Golden Visa

Greece offers one of Europe's most competitively priced golden visa programmes, with real estate investment starting from €250,000 in lower-demand regions (rising to €800,000 in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini following 2024 threshold increases). There is no minimum stay requirement, making this an ideal option for investors who do not wish to relocate full-time but still want European residency. Greek golden visa holders can apply for citizenship after seven years. Explore details on our Greece Golden Visa page.

UAE Golden Visa

The United Arab Emirates' golden visa programme grants long-term residency of 5 or 10 years, renewable upon meeting ongoing investment criteria. Real estate investment of at least AED 2,000,000 (approximately $545,000) qualifies for a five-year visa, while investors, entrepreneurs, and specialised talents may qualify for a 10-year visa. The UAE golden visa is especially popular for its zero income tax environment, world-class infrastructure, and strategic location between Europe and Asia. Discover more on our UAE Golden Visa page.

Spain Golden Visa

Spain's golden visa, introduced in 2013, grants residency to investors who purchase real estate worth at least €500,000 (unencumbered by mortgage). However, as of early 2025, the Spanish government has announced intentions to phase out the real estate route in certain major cities. Investors should seek current advice before proceeding. Alternative qualifying routes include capital investment of €1,000,000 in Spanish companies or bank deposits, or €2,000,000 in Spanish government bonds. Spain grants access to the Schengen Area and a pathway to citizenship after ten years of residency.

Italy Investor Visa

Italy's Investor Visa offers residency in exchange for investments starting from €250,000 in innovative start-ups, €500,000 in existing Italian companies, €1,000,000 in philanthropic projects, or €2,000,000 in Italian government bonds. Italy also offers a highly attractive flat-tax regime for new residents — a lump sum of €100,000 per year on foreign-sourced income — making it a compelling choice for globally mobile HNW individuals.

Malta Permanent Residence Programme

Malta's programme grants permanent residency — not temporary residency — from the outset. Costs include a government contribution from €30,000, a property rental of at least €10,000 per year or purchase of at least €300,000, and a charity donation of €2,000. Malta is an EU member state, and permanent residents benefit from freedom of movement across the Schengen Area. Processing typically takes 4–6 months.

Other Notable Golden Visa Countries

Beyond the flagship programmes, several other jurisdictions deserve consideration in 2026:

• Hungary: Re-launched its guest investor programme in 2024, with real estate fund investment from €250,000 and property purchase from €500,000.
• New Zealand: The Active Investor Plus Visa requires investment from NZD 5,000,000 in qualifying New Zealand assets.
• Singapore: The Global Investor Programme requires investment of at least SGD 2,500,000 into business entities or qualifying funds.
• Turkey: Citizenship — not just residency — is available through real estate investment of at least $400,000, making it an attractive hybrid offering.
• Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have introduced or expanded residency-by-investment schemes, reflecting a growing trend across the Middle East and North Africa.

For a curated comparison of the most competitive programmes currently available, see our guide to the best golden visa investment programs.

Investment Options and Minimum Thresholds at a Glance

One of the most important factors when evaluating golden visa countries is the nature and size of the qualifying investment. Broadly speaking, there are five categories of qualifying investment found across most programmes:

1. Real estate purchase: Buying residential or commercial property above a minimum value threshold. Common in Greece (from €250,000), Portugal (from €500,000 in eligible areas), UAE (from AED 2,000,000), and Spain (from €500,000).
2. Investment funds: Subscribing to a government-approved fund. Portugal requires a minimum of €500,000. This route is growing in popularity as it offers portfolio diversification without the responsibilities of direct property ownership.
3. Capital transfer / bank deposit: Placing a defined sum in a local bank or government bond. Thresholds are generally higher — Portugal requires €1,500,000, and Spain requires €2,000,000 in government bonds.
4. Business investment and job creation: Investing directly in a local business or creating a set number of local jobs. Portugal offers this route with a requirement of ten jobs.
5. Philanthropy and donations: Some programmes, such as Malta, incorporate a non-refundable government contribution or charitable donation as part of the overall qualifying investment package.

When assessing total cost of a golden visa, investors should account not only for the qualifying investment but also for government fees (typically €5,000–€15,000), professional advisory fees, due diligence charges, and where applicable, property transfer taxes and legal fees. Portugal's total out-of-pocket fees, exclusive of the investment, are typically in the range of €15,000–€25,000 for a family application.

Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies for a Golden Visa?

While specific criteria vary by country, most golden visa programmes share a common set of baseline eligibility requirements:

• Age: Applicants must typically be 18 years of age or older.
• Clean criminal record: All adult applicants must provide police clearance certificates from their country of residence and country of origin.
• Source of funds: Applicants must demonstrate that the investment funds have been obtained through lawful means. Comprehensive documentation of wealth origin is required in virtually every jurisdiction.
• Health insurance: Most countries require applicants to hold valid health insurance covering the host country.
• No prior immigration violations: A history of visa overstays, deportation, or immigration fraud will typically disqualify an applicant.
• Minimum investment: The qualifying investment must meet the programme's current threshold and be made prior to, or concurrent with, the application.

Citizens of certain countries may face additional scrutiny or may be ineligible for specific programmes. For example, nationals of countries under EU sanctions have faced restrictions in some European programmes. It is essential to obtain current, jurisdiction-specific advice before investing. Contact our team for a personalised eligibility assessment.

The Application Process: Step by Step

While each golden visa country has its own administrative procedures, most applications follow a broadly similar sequence:

1. Initial consultation and programme selection: Identify the programme that best matches your lifestyle goals, budget, tax situation, and long-term citizenship aspirations.
2. Due diligence and background screening: Your advisory team conducts a preliminary background check to identify any issues that could affect your application. Reputable consultancies will not proceed unless they are satisfied the application is viable.
3. Document preparation: Gather all required documents — passport, birth certificates, marriage certificates, police clearances, proof of funds, bank statements, and tax records. Documents typically require notarisation and apostille.
4. Investment execution: Make the qualifying investment — whether through property purchase, fund subscription, or capital transfer. This step often requires opening a local bank account and engaging local legal counsel.
5. Application submission: Submit your completed application to the relevant government authority, along with supporting documentation and government fees.
6. Biometrics and interview (where required): Some countries require in-country attendance for biometric enrolment. Portugal, Greece, and Spain each require at least one in-country visit during the process.
7. Approval and residency card issuance: Upon approval, you receive your residency permit or golden visa card, typically valid for 2–5 years and renewable.
8. Renewal and pathway to citizenship: Maintain your investment and meet any minimum stay requirements to renew your residency. After the qualifying period, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Processing Times: What to Expect in 2026

Processing times for golden visa applications continue to be a significant consideration for investors with time-sensitive plans. Current typical timelines include:

• UAE: Among the fastest globally — approvals can be received in 1–2 months.
• Malta: Permanent residence approved in approximately 4–6 months.
• Greece: Historically 3–6 months, though backlogs have extended this to 12–18 months in some cases as of 2025–2026. Greek authorities have been actively working to clear the backlog.
• Portugal: Following programme restructuring, processing has improved but remains 12–24 months in many cases.
• Spain: Initial residency approvals typically take 3–6 months from submission.
• Italy: The Investor Visa process typically takes 3–4 months from the nulla osta (clearance) stage to visa issuance.

Working with an experienced advisory firm significantly reduces the risk of delays caused by incomplete documentation or procedural errors.

Benefits of Golden Visa Programmes: Why Investors Choose This Route

The popularity of golden visa countries is not simply a product of investment migration trends — it reflects tangible, life-changing benefits that resonate with globally mobile families and entrepreneurs:

• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel: A Portuguese residence permit, for example, grants access to all 26 Schengen Area countries. Portuguese citizenship — obtainable after five years — grants access to approximately 188 countries visa-free.
• Tax planning opportunities: Countries like Portugal (Non-Habitual Resident regime), Italy (flat tax), and the UAE (zero personal income tax) offer compelling tax environments for new residents.
• Education and healthcare access: Residents gain access to the public education and healthcare systems of the host country — an important consideration for families with children.
• Political and economic security: A second residency provides a genuine safety net, offering optionality in uncertain geopolitical climates.
• Real estate returns: In markets such as Greece and Portugal, qualifying property investments have delivered strong capital appreciation alongside residency benefits.
• Business expansion: EU residency facilitates trade, banking, and corporate operations across the European single market.

Family Inclusion: Bringing Your Loved Ones Along

One of the most compelling aspects of golden visa programmes is their generous approach to family reunification. In virtually every leading programme, the principal applicant may include dependants on the same application — typically without additional investment. Standard family members eligible for inclusion are:

• Spouse or legally recognised partner
• Dependent children under the age of 18 (and in some cases up to 26 if in full-time education)
• Dependent parents of the principal applicant and/or spouse (country-specific)

Portugal, Greece, and Spain all permit the inclusion of dependent parents. The UAE golden visa extends to first-degree relatives including parents and, in some categories, domestic staff. Family members included on the application enjoy the same residency rights as the principal applicant and are subject to the same renewal conditions.

If you are planning a family application, it is essential to begin gathering documents for all dependants early in the process, as family applications tend to be more document-intensive and can take longer to prepare. Our team at Mirabello Consultancy can help you map out the full family documentation requirements from your very first consultation. Speak to us today to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golden Visa Countries