Thinking about a European base without giving up global mobility? This 2025 guide compares the main Golden Visa and investor residency options in Europe — and explains why regulated fund strategies in Portugal remain a reference point for global families.
Updated November 2025 • For informational purposes only. Always confirm current law before investing.
Golden Visa and residency-by-investment programs have shifted significantly since 2023. Real estate-heavy routes have tightened, scrutiny increased, and investors are more selective. In 2025, the right question is no longer “Where is it cheapest?” — it is “Which European framework gives my family stability, compliance and a credible path to long-term rights?”
Snapshot only. Thresholds, routes and timelines change — figures below are indicative and must be checked against official regulations at the time of application.
| Country | Typical Route | Min. Investment* | Stay Requirement* | Indicative Path to Citizenship* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portugal | CMVM-regulated investment funds & other compliant options | From ~€500,000 (funds) | Historically low; check updates | From 5+ years (subject to law) |
| Greece | Real estate & investment routes | From ~€250k-€800k (by region/type) | Limited/low | ~7 years (subject to conditions) |
| Spain | Real estate & other investment options | Around €500k+ | Low; mainly renewals | 10+ years usual |
| Italy | Investor Visa & lump-sum tax regimes | From ~€250k-€500k (company/startup/bonds etc.) | Full or majority presence for tax residency | 10+ years typical |
| Malta | Residency & naturalisation via contributions and stay | High (six-figure+) | Physical residence required | Accelerated in some frameworks (subject to reform) |
*Indicative only. Always confirm current rules and legal terms with qualified counsel before investing.
Among European options, Portugal’s regulated fund-based route continues to stand out for investors who value structure, oversight and lifestyle — rather than pure real estate speculation.
Important: European residency and citizenship frameworks are politically sensitive and frequently updated. This article is general and non-exhaustive. Before committing capital, obtain jurisdiction-specific legal, tax and regulatory advice and verify the latest rules from official government sources.
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André Bandeira
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Maria Campos Silva
mcs@explorerinvestments.com
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Get your complete, free guide to the Portuguese Golden Visa. Learn how to invest with confidence through Explorer Investments, the country's largest private equity fund.
André Bandeira
ab@explorerinvestments.comMaria Campos Silva
mcs@explorerinvestments.comCopyright © 2025 Explorer Investments
It is recommended to consult Chapter V of Decree-Law nº 162/2014, of October 31st, published in the Official Gazette, as well as its revision by Law nº 2/2020, of March 31st. The information included here is of a general nature, and therefore each potential investor should seek independent advice (e.g., legal, financial, tax, etc.)