Golden visas remain one of the fastest ways to obtain a residence permit in Europe in 2026. Find out which countries still offer investment programs, how much it costs and what conditions need to be met

After several years of global instability and changes in migration policy, interest in “golden visas” in Europe is only growing. If earlier such programs were associated primarily with the purchase of holiday real estate, today they are increasingly seen as a tool for security, mobility and diversification of life.

In 2025-2026, a number of EU countries revised their programs: somewhere they were significantly limited, as in Spain, and somewhere they were adapted to new economic realities. At the same time, several states retained affordable options for obtaining a residence permit for investment - and it is they who are now forming a new market for “golden visas”.

Regardless of whether you are just planning to invest abroad or already have a business, legal support is the key to safe decisions. A personal business lawyer will help you assess the risks, correctly draw up documents and avoid costly mistakes. This is especially important in matters of international relocation and obtaining a residence permit through investment.

Contact a specialist today to build a business without risks!

Why is the demand for “golden visas” growing?

Among the key reasons are not only geopolitics, but also economic factors. For example, the cost of housing in the UK already exceeds 300,000 pounds sterling, which forces investors to look for more profitable alternatives.

However, it is important to understand: a “golden visa” is not just a real estate purchase or investment. It is a complex process that includes legal support, tax planning and a long-term residence strategy.

TOP-5 European countries with affordable “golden visas”

Hungary

In 2026, Hungary remains one of the most affordable options for obtaining a residence permit through investment. The Guest Investor Program (GIP) provides for a minimum threshold of 250,000 euros. These funds are invested in real estate funds regulated by the National Bank of the country.

The main advantage is flexibility. The visa holder is not required to permanently reside in the country, but at the same time receives a residence permit for 10 years with the possibility of extension.

In the future: PMP - after 3 years (subject to residence), citizenship - after 8 years.

An additional plus - the cost of living here is approximately 40% lower than in Western European countries.

Read more about the Hungarian golden visa program in this article.

Greece

Greece remains a popular destination, although the entry threshold has increased. In 2026, there are two key scenarios: investments from 400,000–800,000 euros in real estate or from 250,000 euros in the reconstruction of historical buildings or the transformation of commercial facilities into residential.

It is interesting that there are no minimum stay requirements, the visa is issued for 5 years with the possibility of extension, short-term rentals (such as Airbnb) are not allowed.

Citizenship is available after 7 years, but only subject to tax residency.

Cyprus

The Cyprus program is one of the most stable in the legal sense. To obtain a permanent residence permit, it is necessary to invest from 300,000 euros in real estate, investment funds or business.

Features:

- The status is immediately permanent.

- You need to visit the country at least once every 2 years.

- Income requirement – ​​from 50,000 euros per year.

Cyprus attracts not only with its climate, but also with its transparent legal system and favorable tax regime.

Comparison of the conditions of the “golden visa” program in Malta and Cyprus in 2026 at the link.

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Italy

Italy offers one of the most flexible “golden visa” models. The most affordable option: an investment of 250,000 euros in a startup.

Alternatives: 500,000 euros in business, 1 million euros in social projects and 2 million euros in government bonds.

The visa is issued for 2 years with extension, and the residence requirements are minimal. PMP can be obtained after 5 years, and citizenship after 10.

Portugal

Portugal significantly changed the rules back in 2023, removing real estate as an option. However, the program remains relevant thanks to the alternatives:

- from 250,000 euros - contribution to cultural projects;

- from 500,000 euros - investment in foundations or research.

Advantages: minimum stay - about 7 days per year, the opportunity to obtain citizenship after 5 years and high quality of life.

The current conditions of the Portuguese Golden Visa in 2026 and its strategic advantages in our previous material.

What is important for Golden Visa applicants to consider in 2026?

Despite the attractiveness of such programs, there are several critical nuances:

- The real cost is always higher than the declared minimum (taxes, lawyers, insurance)

- The rules can change, even after obtaining a visa

- Tax residency ≠ permanent residence permit – these are different statuses

That is why before investing, it is important to assess not only the amount, but also the legal risks.

Obtaining a “golden visa” is not just an investment, but a complex legal process that includes checking assets, tax planning and compliance with the requirements of a specific country. A personal lawyer for business accompanies each stage: from choosing a jurisdiction to opening a company or purchasing assets. He will help to correctly structure the investment, avoid double taxation and prepare documents for migration authorities.

This is especially important for entrepreneurs who plan not only to move, but also to scale their business in Europe.

Get professional advice and move without unnecessary risks

Let us remind you! The global real estate market is experiencing a large-scale redistribution of capital, and investors are increasingly looking for more stable jurisdictions. Why is interest in the Middle East gradually decreasing, and Southeast Asia is taking the lead? We have already talked about the most promising countries for investment in 2026 and why Indonesia has become a new “safe haven” for capital.

Photo – Freepik

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