Note: This calculator provides estimates based on publicly available information. Actual costs may vary. Always consult with a legal professional specializing in immigration before making any decisions.
Find answers to common questions about Golden Visa programs
A Golden Visa is a residence permit that allows non-EU nationals to live, work, and study in European countries in exchange for making a qualifying investment. These programs typically offer a path to permanent residency and citizenship.
Investment requirements vary by country. Portugal starts at €250,000 for cultural investments, Greece at €250,000 for real estate, Malta at €150,000 for government bonds, and Spain at €500,000 for real estate.
Government fees vary significantly between countries. Portugal charges approximately €5,000-€6,000 for the main applicant plus €2,000-€3,000 per family member. Greece charges about €2,000 per adult applicant. Spain has fees around €3,000-€4,000 for the main applicant. Malta's fees are higher at approximately €40,000-€50,000 including contributions.
Yes, beyond the main investment, you should budget for: legal fees (€5,000-€15,000), property transaction costs (3-14% of property value), translation and document preparation (€1,000-€3,000), travel and accommodation during application (varies), health insurance premiums (€400-€1,000 per person annually), and renewal fees (€1,000-€5,000 every 2-5 years).
When purchasing property, expect to pay: transfer tax (3-10% depending on the country), property registration fees (0.5-3%), notary fees (0.5-1%), legal fees (1-2%), real estate agent commission (2-5%, usually paid by seller), VAT (applicable in some countries on new properties), and annual property taxes (varies by location and property value).
Legal fees typically range from €5,000 to €15,000 depending on the country, complexity of your case, and whether you're applying as an individual or with family members. Full-service packages that include investment guidance, property selection, application preparation, and representation through the entire process can cost €15,000-€30,000. Some firms offer success-based fees with partial refunds if the application is not approved.
For each family member, expect to pay: additional government application fees (€1,500-€3,000 per person), biometric data collection fees (€100-€200 per person), health insurance (€400-€1,000 annually per person), translation of additional documents (€300-€500 per person), and visa renewal fees (€500-€1,500 per person every 2-5 years depending on the country).
Citizenship timelines vary: Portugal offers citizenship after 5 years, Spain after 10 years, Greece after 7 years, and Malta between 1-3 years. Requirements typically include language proficiency and minimum stay periods.
Most Golden Visa investments are not directly refundable, but they can be liquidated after the required holding period (typically 5 years). Real estate investments may appreciate or depreciate based on market conditions. Investment funds typically have a fixed term (5-7 years). Government bonds and bank deposits may offer fixed returns but lower potential upside. Some programs like Malta's require non-refundable contributions to national development funds.
Yes, Golden Visa programs typically allow you to include your spouse, dependent children, and in some cases, dependent parents. Additional fees apply for family members, but no additional investment is required.
Stay requirements vary by country. Portugal requires 7 days per year, Cyprus requires one visit every two years, while Spain, Greece, and Malta have no minimum stay requirements for maintaining the residence permit.