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Global Golden Visa Index

Explore residency-by-investment programs worldwide, offering pathways to residency, visa-free travel, and citizenship through economic contributions.

Explore the Full Index

Finding Your Path to Global Mobility

Golden Visa programs have become increasingly popular for individuals seeking to expand their global mobility, secure alternative residency options, or establish a path to a second citizenship.

Our comprehensive Golden Visa Index helps you navigate through various residency-by-investment options across the globe, with detailed information on investment requirements, benefits, processing times, and current status updates.

Whether you're considering the popular Portugal Golden Visa program or exploring alternatives in Europe, North America, or beyond, our index provides the essential data you need to make informed decisions.

Need Legal Guidance?

Professional legal assistance is crucial for a successful Golden Visa application.

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Investment Options

Explore qualifying Portugal Golden Visa investment funds.

View Fund List

Compare Investment Programs

Country Program Name Min. Investment Benefits Region
Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program €250,000-€500,000 Schengen travel, citizenship after 5 years Europe
Greece Golden Visa Program €250,000-€800,000 Schengen travel, citizenship after 7 years Europe
Malta Permanent Residence Programme €150,000+ Schengen travel, permanent residency Europe
Canada Start-Up Visa Program Varies Permanent residency, citizenship path North America
UAE Golden Visa AED 2M 5-10 year residency, family sponsorship Middle East
Australia Significant Investor Visa AUD 5M (paused) Permanent residency path Oceania
New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa NZ$15M Residency after 4 years Oceania
Switzerland Swiss Residence Program CHF 250,000/year Schengen travel, citizenship after 10 years Europe
United States EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program $800,000-$1.05M Green card, citizenship path North America
View complete index

Key Benefits of Golden Visa Programs

Global Mobility

Visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area with European programs

Alternative Residence

Secure a second home in a stable country with high quality of life

Path to Citizenship

Clear route to obtaining full citizenship with minimal stay requirements

Investment Opportunity

Diversify portfolio while gaining residency in growing economies

Featured Program: Portugal Golden Visa

Program Details

Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program

Active Real Estate Option Removed in 2023 Fast Track Available

Investment Options:

  • €250,000+ in qualifying investment funds
  • €500,000 for job creation
  • €250,000+ for cultural/research projects

Key Benefits:

  • Travel within Schengen Area
  • Minimal stay requirement (14 days every 2 years)
  • Path to citizenship after 5 years
  • Family inclusion (spouse and dependents)

Processing Time: Approximately 12 months (backlogs reported)

Last Updated: April 2025

Need Support?

Navigating the Portugal Golden Visa process can be complex. Our resources can help:

Frequently Asked Questions

A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows individuals to obtain residence permits in a country by making a qualifying investment. These programs typically provide a path to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship.

The "best" program depends on your specific needs and goals. Portugal's Golden Visa has been historically popular due to its relatively low investment threshold and minimal stay requirements, while programs in Greece and Malta also offer compelling benefits for European residency. We recommend consulting with immigration specialists to determine which program aligns with your objectives.

While not always legally required, it's highly recommended to work with a specialized immigration lawyer when applying for a Golden Visa. They can navigate complex legal requirements, avoid potential pitfalls, and optimize your application strategy. For Portugal, we offer a guide on hiring the right Golden Visa lawyer and comparing top law firms.

Ready to Begin Your Global Mobility Journey?

Our comprehensive resources and expert guides can help you navigate the complex world of residency-by-investment programs.

Explore All Programs Portugal Golden Visa
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers to common questions about Golden Visas, residency programs, and investment opportunities
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What is a Golden Visa program?
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows individuals to obtain residency permits in a foreign country by making a qualifying investment. These programs typically offer visa-free travel within certain regions and potential pathways to permanent residency or citizenship.
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What types of investments qualify for Golden Visa programs?
Qualifying investments vary by country but commonly include real estate purchases, capital contributions to investment funds, business investments, job creation initiatives, and government bonds. Some countries also offer options for philanthropic donations or research funding.
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How long does the Golden Visa application process take?
Processing times vary significantly between countries. Some programs like Greece can be completed in 2-3 months, while others like Portugal may take 12+ months due to backlogs. The United States EB-5 program can take several years. We provide specific timelines for each country in our detailed program cards.
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Do I need to live in the country after receiving a Golden Visa?
Residency requirements vary widely. Some programs like Greece have no minimum stay requirements, while Portugal requires just 14 days every two years. Others may require more substantial physical presence, especially if you're pursuing citizenship. Always check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
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Can my family be included in my Golden Visa application?
Most Golden Visa programs allow you to include immediate family members (spouse and dependent children) in your application. Some countries also permit parents or other dependents. Family inclusion is a key benefit of these programs, allowing for multi-generational residency options.
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How long does a Golden Visa remain valid?
Initial validity periods range from 1-5 years depending on the country, with most allowing renewals provided you maintain your qualifying investment. Many programs offer pathways to permanent residency after 5 years, with potential citizenship options thereafter if you meet language and residency requirements.
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