In recent years, the term Golden Visa has become increasingly popular, especially among businesspeople, investors, and digital nomads who want to have access to live abroad. But what exactly is a Golden Visa? What are its benefits, what are the requirements, and which countries offer it? Check out the complete explanation below.
General Definition of a Golden Visa
A Golden Visa is a type of visa granted by several countries to foreigners who are willing to invest in that country, for example, by purchasing property, investing capital in local companies, or contributing funds to the government.
In return, holders of this visa can stay for a long period in that country, and in some cases, they can also apply for permanent residency or even citizenship.
This program is designed to attract foreigners to invest their money, thus helping the economic growth of the respective country. In addition, the program is also usually aimed at attracting highly skilled professionals or individuals with high net worth.
Usually, a Golden Visa is valid for several years and can be renewed. Moreover, visa holders can also bring their spouses and children to live with them.
Unlike regular visas, the Golden Visa offers more conveniences, ranging from flexible length of stay, access to public services, to the opportunity to move to other countries within certain regions. This program has become the choice of many people because it offers benefits both for the investors and the visa-issuing countries.
Benefits of a Golden Visa for Holders
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Long-Term Stay Permit
Golden Visa holders have the right to live in the destination country for a long period, usually ranging from 2 to 10 years, with the option of renewal. This provides legal certainty and flexibility to live without having to renew short-term visas regularly. -
Access to Public Services
Some countries provide access to public services such as education, healthcare systems, transportation facilities, and social insurance, depending on each country’s policies. -
International Mobility
In Europe, a Golden Visa allows free access in and out of Schengen countries. This is very beneficial for those who frequently travel for business or leisure without the need to apply for a visa repeatedly. -
Opportunity to Obtain Citizenship
In the long term, many Golden Visa programs offer a path to permanent residency status or even full citizenship, of course after meeting certain requirements such as length of stay or economic contributions. -
Benefits for Families
Almost all Golden Visa programs allow the main applicant to bring along immediate family members (spouse and children). They can also obtain the right to live and access the same facilities. -
Diversification of Residence and Assets
For people who have significant assets or wealth in various countries, a Golden Visa can be a safe way to have a backup residence. This is especially important if the political or security situation in the home country is unstable.
General Requirements for Applying for a Golden Visa
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Make a Minimum Investment
Usually, applicants must invest in the form of property, stocks, bonds, or government funds. The amount varies depending on the country. -
Valid Passport
Applicants must have an active and valid passport for international travel. -
Proof of Source of Investment Funds
They must be able to show that the funds used come from legal sources and not from illegal activities. -
No Criminal Record
Applicants are required to submit a police clearance certificate from their country of origin or previous place of residence. -
Have Health Insurance
Some countries require applicants to have international health insurance valid for their stay.
List of Countries Offering Golden Visas
Each country has different policies and minimum investment amounts regarding Golden Visas. Below are some countries known for offering the most popular Golden Visa programs, based on data from Henley & Partners:
United Kingdom
Although the UK does not use the term “Golden Visa,” it had a similar program called the Tier 1 Investor Visa (closed since 2022), which previously required a minimum investment of £2 million. Currently, options for long-term stays are available through the Skilled Worker visa or the Innovator Founder visa, which remain suitable for investors and global professionals.
United States
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa program allows foreign investors to obtain a Green Card with a minimum investment of USD 800,000 in specific employment areas. Visa holders can live, work, and study in the US and apply for citizenship after a certain period.
Portugal
Portugal became one of the pioneers of the European Golden Visa. Although the purchase of property for the Golden Visa has started to be restricted since 2023, investment options remain available through investment funds, research, and the cultural sector. After 5 years, visa holders can apply for citizenship without having to live full-time in Portugal.
Spain
Spain offers a Golden Visa requiring a minimum property investment of €500,000. This visa provides residency rights for the investor and their family and free access to the Schengen area. There is no obligation to live permanently to maintain the visa status.
Greece
Greece has one of the most affordable Golden Visas in Europe, requiring only a property investment of €250,000. This visa grants the right to reside in Greece and visa-free travel to Schengen countries.
Malta
The Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) and Malta Citizenship by Investment allow investors to obtain residency or citizenship through economic contributions starting from €100,000 (for residency) up to over €600,000 (for full citizenship).
Australia
Australia has the Significant Investor Visa (SIV) program requiring a minimum investment of AUD 5 million in government-approved funds. This program is designed for large investors and offers a path to permanent residency.
Canada
Canada does not offer a direct Golden Visa, but it has various investor and entrepreneur programs at the provincial level, such as the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (currently suspended) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) for business and investment.
Italy
Italy offers the Investor Visa for Italy for those who invest starting from €250,000 in innovative startups, €500,000 in Italian companies, or donations to cultural projects. The visa is valid for 2 years and can be renewed.
