Main Blog Minimum Investment for Golden Visa (2025): Countries and Thresholds

Minimum Investment for Golden Visa (2025): Countries and Thresholds

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9/23/2025

Minimum Investment for Golden Visa (2025): Countries and Thresholds

The golden visa remains one of the most popular ways to secure residency abroad. By investing in real estate, funds, or other approved assets, foreigners can obtain residence permits for themselves and their families. In 2025, minimum investment thresholds vary by country. This article compares the main programs, outlines benefits, and highlights compliance rules every applicant must follow.

Key terms in 20 seconds

Golden visa: residency permit granted in exchange for qualifying investments.
Threshold: minimum required investment amount (property, fund, or donation).
Eligible property: government-approved real estate that qualifies for the program.
Holding period: years you must keep the investment to maintain residency.

Golden visa thresholds — 2025 comparison

Country	Minimum investment	Type of investment	Processing time	Citizenship path
Greece	€250,000–€500,000	Property purchase in approved areas	2–3 months	Citizenship after 7 years residence
Spain	€500,000+	Property purchase	3–5 months	Citizenship after 10 years (2 for Ibero-Americans)
Portugal	€500,000+ (funds; limited property options)	Investment funds, select property projects	4–6 months	Citizenship after 5 years residence
Turkey	US$400,000+	Property purchase	6–8 months	Direct citizenship available
UAE	US$200,000+	Property purchase	1–3 months	No direct citizenship, renewable 10-year visas

Which golden visa is cheapest?

As of 2025, Greece remains the most affordable EU golden visa at €250,000, though some regions require €500,000. Outside the EU, the UAE offers entry at US$200,000, but it does not lead to citizenship.

Which program is fastest?

UAE: permits often issued in 1–2 months.
Greece: approvals typically within 3 months.
Turkey: longer process, but leads to direct citizenship in under a year.

Mini case #1 — Family in Greece

A family invests €280,000 in Athens property. In less than three months, all members receive golden visas. After seven years of residence, they become eligible for Greek citizenship.

Mini case #2 — Investor in Spain

An entrepreneur buys a €520,000 apartment in Madrid. Residency is granted in five months, renewable every two years. Citizenship becomes possible after 10 years of residence.

Mini case #3 — Turkey direct route

An investor purchases US$450,000 in Istanbul real estate. Within eight months, the family secures Turkish citizenship directly through the golden visa property track.

Advantages of golden visa programs

Mobility: EU golden visas grant Schengen travel rights.
Family coverage: spouse, children, and sometimes parents included.
Security: real estate ownership builds a tangible asset base.
Citizenship path: in some states, residency leads to a passport.
Lifestyle: access to healthcare, education, and improved relocation flexibility.

Risks and compliance

Governments can raise thresholds suddenly (e.g., Greece’s regional increases).
Properties must be government-approved to qualify.
Funds must meet official program rules (Portugal).
Source-of-funds must be transparent; MT103 receipts recommended.

Step-by-step application process

Confirm country rules and latest minimums.
Select government-approved property or qualifying fund.
Prepare documents: passports, property contracts, proof of funds, police records.
Transfer funds securely (escrow / bank transfer with MT103 narrative).
Submit golden visa application with biometrics.
Maintain investment for required holding period; renew permits.

Two expert notes

“Investors should balance low thresholds with liquidity and yield — not every €250k unit is a smart choice.” — Carrie, Head of Sales

“Governments demand strict compliance; only documented funds and approved assets qualify for golden visas.” — Daniel, Legal Counsel

Common mistakes (and quick fixes)

Buying non-approved property → always confirm eligibility lists. Expecting automatic citizenship → most programs require years of residence. Investing below thresholds → thresholds may rise before closing; lock early. Paying without escrow → use secure transfers with MT103 receipts.

FAQ

What is the cheapest golden visa in 2025? Greece (€250k) and UAE (US$200k, no citizenship path).
Which is fastest? UAE and Greece, often within 2–3 months.
Does every golden visa lead to citizenship? No — Turkey offers direct citizenship, Portugal after 5 years, Greece after 7 years, Spain after 10.
Are families included? Yes, most programs include spouse and dependent children, sometimes parents.

What this article answers

What is the minimum investment for golden visas in 2025?
Which countries have the lowest entry points?
How fast are applications processed?
Does a golden visa always lead to citizenship?
What risks and compliance checks apply?

For detailed comparisons and safe application support, explore our resources and review program insights. VelesClub Int. helps clients choose qualifying assets, manage secure transfers, and complete filings worldwide.