Imagine buying a beachfront apartment—and gaining the right to live, work, or retire in a new country

In 2025, that’s exactly what many governments are offering through property-based residency programs. These Golden Visas or real estate-linked permits allow investors to unlock more than returns: they offer freedom, tax advantages, and international mobility.

This guide explores 10 countries where buying property can give you residency—some temporary, others permanent. We cover entry costs, legal pathways, key perks, and why each country stands out for investors in 2025.

1. Greece

• Residency Route: Permanent Residency by Investment
• Minimum Investment: €250,000–€800,000 (based on region)
• Key Advantages:
  • No minimum stay required
  • Full Schengen travel rights
  • Flat 7% tax regime for foreign pensioners
  • Well-developed real estate market
  • Learn more about this residency program

2. Turkey

• Residency Route: Citizenship by Investment
• Minimum Investment: $400,000
• Key Advantages:
  • Full citizenship within 6–8 months
  • Dual citizenship permitted
  • No property holding tax
  • Property resale allowed after 3 years
  • Start your residency journey here

3. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• Residency Route: 10-Year Property Visa
• Minimum Investment: AED 2 million (~$545,000)
• Key Advantages:
  • Long-term residency for property owners
  • No personal income or inheritance tax
  • Stable, business-friendly environment
  • Strong infrastructure and rental market
  • See if this country fits your goals

4. Thailand

• Residency Route: Long-Term Residence (LTR) Visa
• Minimum Investment: $250,000+ in property (combined with income or asset requirements)
• Key Advantages:
  • 10-year renewable visa for property investors
  • Exemption from Thai taxes on foreign income
  • Multiple-entry visa with fast-track services
  • Ideal for retirees and digital nomads
  • Request full details for this visa

5. Malta

• Residency Route: Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP)
• Minimum Investment: €300,000 + government fees & donation
• Key Advantages:
  • Permanent EU residency with no physical stay
  • Effective corporate tax rate of 5%
  • Access to Schengen zone
  • No property tax on transfer
  • Explore property-based residency here

6. St. Kitts and Nevis

• Residency Route: Citizenship by Investment (Real Estate)
• Minimum Investment: $400,000 (shared ownership allowed)
• Key Advantages:
  • Second passport within 4–6 months
  • No personal income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes
  • Visa-free travel to 150+ countries
  • Caribbean lifestyle with global mobility
  • Discover legal options for relocation

7. Antigua and Barbuda

• Residency Route: Citizenship by Investment (Real Estate)
• Minimum Investment: $200,000 (shared ownership)
• Key Advantages:
  • Only 5 days of stay in 5 years
  • No global tax reporting requirements
  • Visa-free access to UK, EU, Caribbean
  • Fast processing and family-friendly program
  • Unlock your residency rights today

8. Cyprus

• Residency Route: Permanent Residency via Property
• Minimum Investment: €300,000 (new developments only)
• Key Advantages:
  • Quick 2–3 month processing
  • English-speaking environment and common law system
  • Non-domicile tax status for 17 years
  • Low property taxes and high safety index
  • Talk to an expert about this program

9. Dominica

• Residency Route: Citizenship by Investment (Real Estate)
• Minimum Investment: $200,000
• Key Advantages:
  • Citizenship within 3–5 months
  • No tax on worldwide income
  • Government-backed projects for transparency
  • Visa-free access to 140+ countries (no longer UK)
  • Find out how to invest and stay

10. Italy

• Residency Route: Elective Residency Visa + tax incentives
• Minimum Investment: Real estate + passive income (€31,000+ per year)
• Key Advantages:
  • Attractive for retirees and remote professionals
  • Flat tax regime for new residents (€100,000/year on global income)
  • Elegant lifestyle and EU mobility
  • Accessible property markets in the south
  • Plan your move with expert guidance

Tips for Choosing the Right Country

1. Clarify Your Goals: Are you looking for tax optimization, better quality of life, a backup residency plan, or a path to a second passport? Each country offers different combinations—define your priorities early.
2. Study the Exit Plan: Can you resell the property without losing residency status? Some programs allow full recovery of capital, while others may have lock-in periods or resale restrictions.
3. Understand Bureaucracy: Expect legal steps like background checks, translated documents, certified bank statements, and property appraisals. Knowing what’s involved helps avoid delays or rejections.
4. Monitor Program Stability: Government policies shift—especially in high-demand programs. Track recent changes and act quickly if a program aligns with your needs, as thresholds or terms may tighten.

Turn Real Estate Into a Global Asset

In 2025, residency-by-investment isn’t just about return on capital—it’s about securing global access, tax flexibility, and peace of mind. If you're thinking about a move, don’t just buy a home—buy your place in the world.

Want expert help comparing your options?

VelesClub Int. helps investors and families choose the right residency program, evaluate markets, and handle the full application process. Leave a request to speak with an expert.