Investment migration opens up new opportunities for obtaining residency without moving. Find out which countries offer “golden visas” without residency requirements, what are the conditions and how to choose the best option in 2026

In a world where mobility is becoming the new form of security, “golden visas” have become a strategic planning tool. They are no longer just about moving – they are increasingly about creating an alternative. A second home. A backup plan.

In 2026, investors are increasingly looking for programs that allow them to obtain a residence permit without having to actually live in the country. And while some states have already tightened requirements or closed programs altogether, jurisdictions that offer residency through passive investment – ​​with zero or almost zero physical presence – remain on the global map.

Golden visas remain one of the fastest ways to obtain a residence permit in Europe in 2026. Countries that still offer investment programs in this article.

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Why is a “golden visa” more than just a status?

The idea of ​​such programs is simple: an investor invests in the country’s economy – and in return receives the right to reside. But the main advantage is freedom. You may not change your place of residence, tax residence or business structure, but at the same time have access to a new jurisdiction.

However, it is important to understand: not all “golden visas” are the same. Some of them require actual residence – from a few weeks to six months every year. That is why investors are increasingly choosing those programs that leave maximum flexibility.

Countries with zero physical presence requirement

Greece

The Greek “golden visa” remains one of the most attractive in Europe for real estate investors. After a one-time visit to provide biometric data, the permit holder may no longer return to the country, maintaining resident status. In 2024, the state switched to a zonal investment model: in popular regions, the threshold increased to 800,000 euros, while in others - to 400,000 euros. At the same time, alternative options are available from 250,000 euros, in particular for the reconstruction of historical sites or commercial real estate. The program also opens access to the Schengen zone and allows family members to be included in the application.

Hungary

The Hungarian investor program, launched in 2024, quickly became one of the new centers of attraction in Europe. It offers two main investment instruments - investing in a real estate fund or financing educational institutions. The minimum entry threshold is from 250,000 euros, which makes it competitive against the background of other EU countries. The residence permit is issued immediately for 10 years and does not require physical presence for renewal. An additional advantage is a clear tax system and quick access to Schengen.

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

Bulgaria

Bulgaria stands out among other programs in that it immediately grants permanent residence without an intermediate stage of temporary status. The investment threshold is about 512,000 euros, which are invested in specialized funds. It is important that the country has been part of the Schengen zone since 2025, and has switched to the euro since 2026, which significantly reduces currency risks. You do not need to live in the country to maintain the status, which makes the program as flexible as possible. At the same time, it offers one of the shortest paths to citizenship among similar programs.

Latvia

Latvia remains the most affordable “golden visa” in Europe with an entry threshold of 50,000 euros. The investor can choose between investing in business, real estate or banking instruments. There are no physical presence requirements at all, which makes the program convenient for those who do not plan to change their place of residence. The permit is issued for five years with the possibility of extension and opens access to the Schengen zone. Despite the fact that the path to citizenship is long, Latvia is ideal as a budget option for “plan B”.

Malta (MPRP)

The Maltese Permanent Residency Program is aimed at investors who value stability and family opportunities. It does not require a minimum stay in the country, which allows for flexibility in running a business and life. The investment model includes renting or buying real estate, as well as mandatory state contributions. The total cost of participation starts at around €150,000, depending on the composition of the family. A particular advantage is the ability to include multiple generations of the family in one application.

Italy

The Italian investor visa offers a wide range of investment opportunities - from startups to government bonds. The minimum entry threshold is €250,000, making it one of the more accessible programs among the major EU economies. Following the 2020 reforms, physical presence requirements were effectively abolished for investors. The application process is relatively fast and takes a few months. The program is particularly interesting for those who want to combine investment with access to the Italian market.

UAE

The UAE Golden Visa is one of the most flexible in the world. It does not require physical presence and also provides access to a jurisdiction without personal income tax. The main route is an investment in real estate of approximately 2 million dirhams. The visa is issued for 10 years with the possibility of extension, which ensures long-term stability. At the same time, the program does not provide for a standard path to citizenship, which should be taken into account when planning strategically.

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Programs with minimal physical presence

Portugal

Portugal offers one of the most flexible models in Europe - about 7 days of stay per year. The main investment route today is through foundations, cultural projects or business creation. The program retains a key advantage - the possibility of obtaining citizenship after 5 years. At the same time, legislative discussions are ongoing in the country regarding a possible extension of this period. Despite this, Portugal remains the most attractive option for those seeking an EU passport.

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

Cyprus

The Cyprus program provides for only one visit every two years to maintain status. The investment threshold is from 300,000 euros and can include real estate or business. The residence permit is granted immediately as permanent, which is a significant advantage. The application process is one of the fastest in Europe. However, the path to citizenship requires actual residence in the country.

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

Singapore

The Singapore GIP program is a premium segment of investment migration. It requires significant investments of $ 10 million, but offers immediate permanent residence. One day of stay per year is enough to maintain status. The country is known for its stable economy and strong passport. However, the lack of dual citizenship may be a limitation for some investors.

Hong Kong

The CIES program is aimed at wealthy investors who want to gain access to the financial center of Asia. It does not require physical presence to extend the visa if the investment is maintained. The minimum threshold is about 30 million Hong Kong dollars. The investor can distribute the funds between different financial instruments. However, to obtain permanent residency, it is necessary to actually live in the region.

Brazil

Brazil offers one of the most affordable programs among countries with a large market. Real estate investments start at about 170,000 dollars, making it competitive on a global level. Physical presence requirements are minimal, although there are some nuances depending on the stage of obtaining the status. The program opens the way to citizenship after just a few years. An additional advantage is access to the Mercosur market.

How to choose the best program?

Choosing a “golden visa” is always about strategy.

- If low cost is important - you should pay attention to Latvia or Hungary.

- If the goal is an EU passport - Portugal remains a key option.

- If you need a tax-free status - the UAE

- If a quick PMP is important - Bulgaria or Malta

At the same time, it is worth remembering: the rules of the game are changing. Programs can be closed or become more expensive in just a few months. Therefore, the right legal strategy is not an option, but a necessity.

Entering international markets, obtaining a “golden visa” or relocating a business are complex processes that require in-depth legal support. A personal lawyer for business helps not only with company registration or choosing a tax model, but also supports investment projects, visa processing and resolving disputes with partners.

It is especially important to have such a specialist if you plan to use investment programs as a tool for international expansion. He will ensure compliance with all requirements, minimize risks and help build an effective development strategy abroad.

Get a consultation now and open up new opportunities for your business without unnecessary risks!

Reminder! 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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