5 typical criteria to qualify for a golden visa

Ever wonder why news about wealthy people moving to a new country makes headlines? Or how they seem to move around so easily?

The answer is simple: they often have a Golden Visa.

Golden visas (sometimes called golden cards) are a way for high-net-worth individuals to secure a residence permit and, in some cases, citizenship in another country.

The rules and requirements vary from country to country, but there are some common threads across all immigrant investor programs.

And as you’ll see, a golden visa isn’t just a ticket for the rich to show off their global mobility. It also has a significant impact on the country they move to.

In this article, we’ll break down what a golden visa is, why people go for it, why countries offer them, the typical qualifications, and how the application process works.

What is a golden visa?

The name “golden visa” might make you picture an actual gold card — but that’s not what it is.

A golden visa is really just an investment-based visa that lets wealthy foreigners become permanent residents in another country, often with the freedom to live, work, and travel there. Some programs even lead to citizenship over time.

To get one, you usually need to make a significant financial investment, like:

• Buying property

• Investing in a business

• Making a government-approved donation

While the exact requirements differ from country to country, the goal is the same: attract wealthy individuals to invest and contribute to the local economy.

Golden visas are becoming increasingly popular as countries compete to attract global investors. So, if you have some extra cash and are thinking about international mobility, a golden visa could be your ticket to permanent residency in a new country.

Why apply for golden visa program?

For many foreign nationals, a golden visa is about more than just moving to a new country. It offers flexibility, security, and global mobility for both individuals and their families. Here’s why it’s so appealing:

Visa-free travel

One of the biggest perks is the ability to travel more freely. Many golden visa programs grant a residence permit in countries that make it easier to access regional travel zones, like the Schengen Area in Europe.

A backup plan

Some see it as a long-term safety net. Being permanent residents in another country can provide stability if political, economic, or lifestyle changes happen at home. In other words, it’s a legal way to “buy your way out” if needed.

Education opportunities

Golden visas may allow family inclusion. That means dependent children can have access to better schools and universities in the host country.

Business & investment advantages

For entrepreneurs and investors, a golden visa can create opportunities to start businesses, expand operations, or invest internationally. It’s a legitimate way to grow and diversify your wealth.

Pathway to residency & citizenship

Many programs eventually offer main applicants the legal status for residency and citizenship. Some even allow dual citizenship, giving you a powerful passport and more long-term options for travel, work, and lifestyle flexibility.

In short: a golden visa gives individuals and families more freedom, opportunities, and security, whether for travel, business, education, or long-term planning.

Why do countries offer golden visa?

You might be thinking: “Golden visas sound great for wealthy foreigners, but what’s in it for the host country?”

It turns out, there’s plenty in it for them. Countries use golden visas to attract investment, talent, and economic activity. Instead of raising taxes or borrowing more money, governments invite wealthy individuals (and their families) to invest directly in the country in exchange for residency rights. Essentially, it’s a smart policy tool to bring in capital and boost economic growth.

Here’s how it benefits host countries:

To attract foreign investment

Golden visa programs encourage foreign investors to put money into the local economy. Foreign investments can go into:

• Real estate

• Local businesses or startups

• Government bonds or funds

• Infrastructure or development projects

This helps stimulate economic activity without adding to public debt and foreign investors gain residency or even citizenship in return.

2. To boost the property market

Many golden visa programs require real estate investment. It’s often the simplest way for foreign nationals to qualify. This helps governments:

• Revitalize struggling housing markets

• Fund new developments

• Increase demand in certain regions

Some golden visa countries even use these programs to develop underpopulated areas or regenerate cities. Just remember: residency requirements matter. Failing to meet them can affect your golden visa program status.

3. To create jobs

When foreign investors start businesses or relocate companies, they often hire local employees. For the host country, this means:

• More jobs for residents

• Higher wages and economic growth

• Stronger local business ecosystems

This, in turn, can attract even more foreign investment.

To increase government revenue

Even with tax incentives for investors, governments still gain revenue through:

• Visa application fees

• Property taxes

• Investment program fees

• Spending by new residents

It’s a win-win: new money enters the economy, and governments can reinvest it in infrastructure and public services.

To attract skilled talent and entrepreneurs

Some programs target innovators, founders, and professionals who can grow key industries like tech, finance, or research. These individuals often bring:

• Global networks

• Business expertise

• Innovation and new companies

This can help turn the golden visa countries into regional centers for growth and innovation.

To compete for global wealth

Countries are essentially competing to attract globally mobile high-net-worth individuals. Wealthy people often choose where to live based on:

• Tax environment

• Quality of life

• Education systems

• Safety and stability

Golden visas help countries position themselves as attractive destinations for foreign investors, creating a cycle of growth, talent, and opportunity.

Typical golden visa program qualifications

Now that we’ve covered why the golden visa program exists and how they benefit both the country and investors, let’s talk about what it takes to actually qualify. Sure, big investment programs can be the key, but there’s more to it than just putting money on the table.

Language competency

When most people think of golden visa program, they imagine luxurious mansions and private jets. But many programs come with practical requirements, and one of them is language skills.

Applicants often need to speak, listen, read, and write the language of the country where they want to set up permanent residence. This ensures you can communicate with officials, navigate daily life, and integrate more easily.

For example, in Austria, applicants must pass a language test. Accepted proofs of competency include:

• A diploma from the Goethe-Institut

• A TELC GmbH certificate

• An ÖSD language test

• An ÖIF test

In short, just having the funds to invest doesn’t mean you can skip the language part. Don’t forget, you are looking for a permanent residence. Being able to communicate is an essential part of qualifying for a golden visa.

Citizenship by investment  

There are several options for meeting the citizenship by investment requirements, including purchasing government bonds, investing in a local bank account, or purchasing shares in a locally based company.  

Real estate investment

Golden visas can be a fast track to residency in some countries, but yes, it comes at a price. Literally.

One of the most common ways to qualify is through real estate investment. This usually means purchasing property that meets a minimum value set by the country.

But here’s the catch: unlike a typical home purchase, you usually can’t rely on a mortgage. Most programs require you to pay for the property in full with your own funds.

After buying the property, some countries may also require you to stay in the country for a certain period before you’re eligible for permanent residency or renewal.

Location and property value matter too. For example, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the citizenship by investment program will require you to:

• Purchase a property worth at least AED 2 million, or

• Invest in one or more off-plan properties of the same value from approved developers

In short, real estate is one of the most straightforward paths to a golden visa as long as you’re ready to commit the investment funds upfront.

Business creation or move your business

Take Dyson’s move to Singapore as an example; it made headlines when the company relocated its headquarters from the UK. While it was a big vote of confidence in Singapore’s business environment, it also qualified the founder for a golden visa. Under Singapore’s scheme, foreign investors who make significant investments in the country can become permanent residents.

So, if you’re thinking about business creation or relocating your business, a golden visa could be your ticket.

Here’s what you generally need:

• A proven track record as a successful entrepreneur

• A business with a minimum turnover and a local office in the country

Don’t have an existing business yet? No worries! You can still qualify by showing:

• A solid business plan

• Company registration

• Proof that a local partner or company supports your start-up

In short, golden visas make it possible to grow your business and secure residency at the same time.

Invest in government bonds

This is also one of the easiest ways through citizenship by investment. All you need to do is put investment funds into government bonds.

Donation route

While property investment programs and starting a business are the most common ways to qualify for a golden visa, they’re not the only options. Some countries also offer a donation route.

This means you can qualify by contributing to government-approved causes, such as research, education, or cultural initiatives.

Take Italy, for example — golden visa program applicants can make donations towards areas like scientific research, cultural preservation, education, or immigration-related projects to meet the requirements.

So, if you’re not keen to purchase real estate or running a business, this can be a more straightforward alternative. It really comes down to doing a bit of research and finding the option that fits you best.

Other eligibility considerations

Beyond the investment opportunities, most golden visa programs also look at a few additional criteria:

• Age limits (some programs have restrictions for older applicants)

• A clean criminal record and background checks

• Health insurance or medical requirements

• Minimum stay or physical presence requirements in the country

At the end of the day, it’s not just about having the money. Governments want to ensure that applicants fit into the country’s policies and national security standards.

After all, the goal is to attract investment without putting pressure on public systems like healthcare services, housing, or infrastructure.

Typical golden visa application process

While golden visa programs vary from country to country, the overall process is surprisingly similar. Understanding the steps upfront helps you manage expectations around timelines, paperwork, and costs and avoid costly mistakes along the way.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Everything starts with an eligibility check. This means looking at factors like your nationality, investment budget, family members you want to include, and your long-term goal, whether that’s permanent residence or eventually citizenship.

Many applicants work with licensed immigration advisors or lawyers at this stage to make sure they qualify for the golden visa application before committing any funds. After all, the last thing you want is to invest a large sum only to find out you don’t meet the visa program requirements.

Step 2: Choose your investment route

Next, you’ll choose the investment option that fits you best. Depending on the country, this could include:

• Real estate

• Government-approved funds

• Business or startup investments

• Capital contributions

Every investment opportunity comes with its own qualifying investment amount, holding period, and exit conditions, so it’s an important decision that requires careful consideration.

Step 3: Prepare and legalise documents

This is where things get paperwork-heavy. You’ll need to gather documents like your valid passport, police clearance, proof of funds, bank statements, medical insurance, and civil documents such as birth or marriage certificates.

These usually need to be translated, notarised, and apostilled before submission. And it’s not just for you. If you’re including family members, their documents need to be prepared too.

Step 4: Make the investment

You might be wondering, didn’t we already talk about investment programs earlier?

In Step 2, you’re just choosing the route. This is the stage where you actually commit the funds.

Once your documents are ready, you’ll be making qualifying investment, whether that’s into an escrow account, approved fund, property, or business.

Some countries allow a conditional approval before full investment funds payment, while others require proof that the qualifying investment is already completed.

Step 5: Submit the application and pay fees

Next, you’ll formally submit your application to the immigration authorities, along with processing fees and due diligence costs.

At this stage, accuracy is key. Missing documents or small inconsistencies can delay your application for the visa program significantly.

Once submitted, it’s mostly a waiting game.

Step 6: Due diligence and background checks

This is usually the longest part of the process. Authorities will carry out thorough checks, including:

• Criminal background checks

• Verification of your source of funds

• Medical or health screenings

Depending on the country, this can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The goal is to ensure applicants meet legal and security standards and won’t place a strain on public systems.

Step 7: Approval and biometrics

Once you’re approved (or approved in principle), you may need to provide biometrics, such as fingerprints and photographs.

Some countries require a short in-person visit, while others allow this step to be done remotely.

Step 8: Receive your golden visa

After completing all the requirements, successful applicants will receive their golden visa or residency card.

Most programs grant residency for 2 to 10 years, and it can usually be renewed as long as you maintain your investment and meet the conditions. Family members included in your application will receive the same residency rights.

Step 9: Renewal and long-term options

To keep your golden visa, you’ll need to maintain your investment and meet any stay or renewal requirements.

After a certain period (typically around five years), many golden visa program allows you to apply for permanent residency or even obtain citizenship.

Tips for the application process

Here are some tips from successful applicants.

• Work with licensed immigration lawyers to avoid pitfalls.

• Verify that your investment project is approved by the immigration authority.

• Keep all documents, receipts, and proof of investment safe for renewals or inspections.

• Check family inclusion rules: spouse, children, and sometimes dependent parents.

• Understand long-term obligations like minimum stay requirements, reporting, and taxes.

List of golden visa countries

Looking to explore your options for a golden visa? Here’s a snapshot of some of the most popular programs that are not just in EU countries. Keep in mind, these are just a few examples, and each program has its own rules and updates over time.

Portugal

• Type: Residency by investment

• Eligibility:

  • €500,000+ in approved funds for private equity or venture capital

  • €250,000+ for cultural or artistic contributions

  • €500,000+ direct business investment creating at least 10 jobs

  • Qualifying scientific contributions

• Benefits: Family included, Schengen access, potential citizenship after ~5 years with minimal stay requirements

• Notes: Real estate no longer qualifies — focus is on productive/economic investments

Greece

• Type: Residency by investment

• Investment: €250,000–€800,000+ in real estate (higher thresholds in prime areas)

• Benefits: Schengen travel, family included, no minimum stay requirement

• Notes: Some regions have increased thresholds

Italy

• Type: Residence by investment

• Minimum investment in:

  • €250,000+ in innovative startups

  • €500,000–€2,000,000 in bonds or business investment

  • €1,000,000 philanthropic donation

• Benefits: Schengen access, family included, potential citizenship after long-term residence

• Notes: Flexible options beyond real estate

Cyprus golden visa

• Type: Residency by investment

• Investment requirements: ~€300,000 in real estate + proof of financial independence

• Benefits: Permanent residency, family included, possible path to citizenship

• Status: Active

Latvia

• Type: Residency by investment

• Minimum investment in:

  • ~€50,000+ (program-dependent)

  • €250,000 in property

  • €250,000 in government bonds

  • €280,000 in Latvian bank deposit

• Benefits: visa-free access to Schengen, family included

• Notes: One of the lower-cost European routes

Hungary

• Type: Residency by investment

• Minimum investment in:

  • €250,000 in fund investment

  • €1,000,000 in public trust fund

• Benefits: Residency, family included

• Notes: Program less active than other EU options

Turkey

• Type: Citizenship by investment

• Investment Options:

  • US$400,000 in real estate

  • US$500,000 in banks, bonds, investment funds, or private pension systems

  • Create 50 jobs

• Benefits: Full citizenship, travel rights as Turkish national

• Notes: Fastest citizenship routes

Saint Lucia

• Type: Citizenship by investment

• Investment requirements: US$240,000 via National Economic Fund

• Benefits: Visa-free travel to 158 countries

Dominica

• Type: Citizenship by investment

• Minimum investment amount: US$200,000 in Economic Diversification Fund

• Benefits: No restrictions on dual citizenship, no minimum stay

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

• Type: Long-term residency visa

• Minimum investment amount:

  • AED 2,000,000+ property

  • AED 250,000 annual taxes

  • Other business, talent, or humanitarian routes

• Benefits: 5–10 year renewable visa, family included, work rights, no sponsor, no personal income tax

• Notes: Includes professionals meeting salary thresholds

United States — EB-5 Visa

• Type: Investor Visa leading to Green Card

• Investment: US$800,000+ (targeted employment areas)

• Benefits: Permanent residency for investor & family, potential path to citizenship eligibility

• Notes: Pathway to Green Card, not the Green Card itself

New Zealand

• Type: Active Investor Plus Visa

• Investment: NZD 5,000,000–10,000,000 (Growth & Balance categories)

• Benefits: Residency for investors & family, flexible rules

• Notes: Maintaining residency between 63–105 days over multiple years

Thailand

• Type: Privilege Residence & Long-Term Resident Program

• Investment Options:

  • Privilege Residence: THB 650,000–5,000,000 depending on tier

  • Long-Term Residence: income or net worth thresholds

• Benefits: Up to 20-year residency (tier-dependent), family inclusion benefits vary

• Notes: Different tiers have different requirements

Golden visa: Is it worth it?

Golden visas might seem like the ultimate ticket to moving overseas, but the reality is they’re not always easy to get or even the right fit for everyone.

For many, the barriers to entry are high, from investment requirements to eligibility criteria. That said, there are plenty of other non-work visa options to explore if global mobility is your goal.

No matter which route you choose, one thing is certain: moving abroad is a big decision. And while you’re planning your next chapter, it’s worth making sure your money can move as freely as you do.

Let your money enjoy global mobility too

If you’ve decided to move overseas, consider using Instarem for your money transfers. Here’s why it makes life easier:

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Whether you’re sending money to or from your home country, Instarem makes it simple, fast, and secure.

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Frequently asked questions

Are family members automatically included in a golden visa?

Most programs extend the same residency rights to eligible family members as the main applicant. This usually include spouse, children, and sometimes dependent parents.

Is health insurance mandatory for golden visa holders?

Requirements vary by country, but many programs do require proof of health insurance for both the applicant and any family members included.

Is golden visa a way to obtain citizenship?

Yes, golden visas can provide a legal pathway to permanent residency and, eventually, acquire citizenship, depending on the country’s rules.

Are there any tax advantages for golden visa programs?

Tax benefits for golden visa holders vary depending on the country. Some countries offer low or no income tax for foreign residents, while others may provide exemptions on capital gains or inheritance. Because the rules differ so much, it’s always wise to consult a tax advisor before making any investments to fully understand the implications.

Is EB-5 Visa a green card?

Not exactly. The EB-5 visa is a pathway to obtaining a U.S. green card, rather than a green card itself.

Are there any differences between how golden visa programs work for non- eu nationals VS EU nationals in Europe?

Yes. For EU citizens, golden visas are less common because they own an EU passport and already enjoy freedom of movement and residency across European Union. As a result, golden visas are primarily used by non-EU citizens.

Are golden passports and golden visas the same thing?

No. Golden visas give you residency rights (temporary or permanent), while golden passports provide direct citizenship along with a new passport.