Top 5 ‘golden’visa destinations that elitists eyed for residency in 2025

Visas only require an average of seven days per year spent in Portugal, according to the program.(iStock)

“Portugal continues to be the benchmark for golden visas.Even with longer processing timelines, it remains one of the most effortless ways to secure EU residency,” said Bennis, “particularly through fund-based options with minimal physical presence requirements.For many investors, the long-term citizenship pathway far outweighs any short-term hurdles.”

LATEST GULF STATE LAUNCHES ‘GOLDEN RESIDENCY’ PROGRAM TO LURE WEALTHY AMERICANS

Visas require only an average of seven days per year spent in Portugal, per the program. 

Lisbon-based Vida Capital saw a 571% increase in traffic from the U.S.in the first half of 2025 compared to the first half of 2024, Forbes reported. 

Greece

Greece “clearly” has been a breakout “golden” visa story of 2025, said Bennis.

“Lower entry thresholds, faster processing and a straightforwardreal estate routehave made it especially attractive to investors who want clarity, speed and lifestyle in one package,” said Bennis.

Greece “golden” visa holders can travel visa-free across the Schengen Area.(istock)

Greece offers a two-tier system with a minimum real estate investment of about $600,000 in high-demand areas such as Athens and about $300,000 for most other regions, according to the law.

“Golden” visa holders can travel visa free across the Schengen Area.

AMERICA’S ELITE LEAD BOOM OF ‘GOLDEN’ VISA APPLICATIONS TO VACATION DESTINATION

United Arab Emirates

Bennis said the “UAE has firmly established itself as the leading non-European alternative.”

He added, “Many high-net-worth individuals are prioritizing long-term residency, tax efficiency and stability over passports, andthe UAEgolden visa delivers all three with exceptional speed.”

There is zero income tax imposed on corporations and employees in the UAE.(iStock)

There is a0% income taximposed on corporations and employees in the UAE.

Read More → Miami beats Ole Miss behind Carson Beck’s game-winning touchdown to reach CFP National Championship Game

To qualify for the UAE golden visa as an investor, you must make a substantial financial investment — such as placing at least $545,000 in a UAE fund or business, or holding an ownership share of similar value in a company. 

“Malta continues to attract families looking for a premium and legally robust EU residency,” said a global financial advisory expert.(Piotr Kurzyna)

Visa holders must eitherpurchase a propertyfor at least about $410,000 in Malta, or rent a property for about $14,000 per year in Malta.

Read More → Mamdani sides with tenants as New York landlords get crushed by rigged housing laws

Botswana governmentdoes not publish a fixed minimum investment amount, those interested must prove a real business investment.

“Botswana stands out as a clear signal of Africa’s rise as a strategic destination,” said one expert.(iStock)

“While the impact citizenship program is expected to open in Q1 of 2026, interest has already exceeded 1,000 applicants, with U.S.nationals now the largest group,” Bennis added.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

“Investors are drawn by political stability, strong governance and the appeal of being early in a credible, well-structured program.”

Ashley J.