Residence by investment, explained simply
A golden visa is a national long-stay (Type D) route that offers residence in exchange for a qualifying investment in the destination country. It suits people who want a legal base in Europe — for relocation, family flexibility, business interests or longer stays beyond the 90-day Schengen limit — and who can meet a defined financial commitment.
These are not off-the-shelf products. Each country sets its own qualifying investment categories, minimum amounts, residence conditions and renewal rules, and those rules are amended or withdrawn from time to time. Several European countries have run investor residence programmes, including Portugal, Greece and Malta, but the details differ markedly and change periodically. Spain abolished its golden visa programme in April 2025. Portugal’s programme continues but the real estate investment route ended in October 2023; fund-based routes remain available. Greece’s programme remains open, though investment thresholds increased significantly in 2024. Always confirm the current terms against the official government source for your chosen country before committing funds.
Who this route suits
- Investors who want lawful residence and the flexibility to spend longer periods in Europe
- Families seeking a long-term base, often with options to include dependants
- People who can document the lawful source of the funds being invested
How we support your application
We are a consultancy in London. We do not give investment or tax advice and we do not make the decision — that sits with the relevant authority. What we do is help you prepare and present a complete, well-organised application for the route you have chosen.
What we help with:
- Clarifying which routes are currently open and the broad requirements of each
- Pre-checking your documents against the destination country’s published checklist
- Completing and reviewing application forms for accuracy and consistency
- Helping assemble proof of funds, identity and supporting paperwork
- Booking the relevant consular or in-country appointment
- Guiding you through each step so nothing is missed
What to prepare
- A valid passport and proof of identity
- Evidence of the investment and the lawful source of your funds
- Clean criminal-record and supporting personal documents (as required by the country)
- Details of any dependants you wish to include
Because these programmes shift, the first step is a short conversation about your destination and goals. Tell us the country you have in mind and your intended length of stay, and we will outline a realistic path. Ready to begin? Start your application.