Golden Visa Programs
Unlock EU residency and global mobility through strategic property investment. From €250,000, gain Schengen travel freedom and a pathway to European citizenship.
What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants you (and your family) the right to live, work, and travel in a country, and often across the entire Schengen zone, in exchange for a qualifying investment, typically in real estate.
Live and work in your chosen country with full residency rights for you and your family.
Travel freely across 27 Schengen countries without visas or border checks.
Spouse, dependent children, and sometimes parents can be included in your application.
After 5-10 years (varies by country), you may qualify for permanent residency or citizenship.
Country Comparison
| Country | Min. Investment | AUD Equivalent | Residency Req. | Citizenship | Work Rights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greece | €250,000 | ~$383,000 | None | 7 years | No |
| Spain | €500,000 | ~$766,000 | 1 day/year | 10 years | Yes |
| Portugal | €500,000 | ~$766,000 | 7 days/year | 5 years | Yes |
| Italy | €2,000,000 | ~$3,064,000 | Varies | 10 years | Yes |
| UAE (Dubai) | AED 750,000 | ~$306,000 | None | No path | Varies |
*Note: Portugal's Golden Visa program changed in 2023 to exclude residential real estate in most areas. Commercial property may still qualify. Always verify current requirements.
Program Details
Investment Requirements:
- • €250,000 minimum property investment
- • Can combine multiple properties
- • No upper limit
Benefits:
- Schengen travel freedom (27 countries)
- No minimum stay requirement
- Family inclusion (spouse, children under 21, parents)
- Renewable every 5 years
- Citizenship after 7 years
Limitations:
- • Cannot work in Greece on this visa
- • Must maintain property ownership
Investment Requirements:
- • €500,000 minimum property investment
- • Can combine multiple properties
- • Mortgage allowed (but full €500K must be equity)
Benefits:
- Schengen travel freedom
- Minimal stay (1 day/year)
- Can work and study
- Family inclusion
- Citizenship after 10 years
Advantages:
- • Can work in Spain
- • Quality of life and climate
- • Strong rental market
Investment Requirements (2023 Changes):
- • Residential real estate excluded in most areas
- • Commercial property: €500,000+
- • Alternative: €500,000 investment fund
Benefits:
- Fastest citizenship path (5 years)
- Minimal stay (7 days/year)
- Schengen travel freedom
- Can work and study
Note: Due to 2023 changes, this program is now more complex. Consult with a specialist advisor.
Typical Application Process
Property Purchase
Identify and purchase qualifying property. Ensure funds are transferred from overseas and properly documented. Work with a local lawyer to complete the transaction.
Document Preparation
Gather required documents: passport, proof of funds, property deed, health insurance, clean criminal record, and any other country-specific requirements.
Application Submission
Submit your Golden Visa application through the appropriate government channel. This may be done in-country or at an embassy/consulate.
Approval & Residency Card
Processing times vary (2-12 months). Once approved, you'll receive your residency permit/card. This grants you the right to live, work (if allowed), and travel in the Schengen zone.
Renewal & Citizenship Path
Renew your visa every 1-5 years (varies by country). After 5-10 years of residency, you may qualify for permanent residency or citizenship, subject to language and residency requirements.