Golden Visas in Europe: Which Country Offers the Best Value in 2025?

Getting a European residency through investment is still one of the smartest moves you can make in 2025.

If you're looking for a Plan B, better mobility, a tax-friendly base, or just a beautiful place to spend part of the year, Europe's Golden Visa programs remain highly attractive. But with so many changes across the continent and Golden Visa programs in general, knowing which country offers the best value right now isn’t always obvious.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Which European countries offer the best value Golden Visas in 2025
• How each program compares by cost, benefits, and citizenship pathways
• What to consider before choosing a residency-by-investment option

Without further ado, let’s jump right in!

First, What Are European Golden Visa Programs?

For a quick refresher, European Golden Visa programs are residency-by-investment schemes, not direct citizenship programs.

By making a qualifying investment, you and your family can obtain the right to live (and sometimes work or study) in that country. While most of these programs don’t offer citizenship upfront, several do provide a pathway to an EU passport after a certain number of years and if you meet certain criteria.

Key Criteria for Evaluating Value

Not all Golden Visa programs are created equal, and “value” means different things to different investors.

For some, it’s about getting the lowest possible entry price. For others, it’s about tax efficiency, lifestyle perks, or how quickly a second passport becomes possible. 

Below are the key things to weigh when deciding which residency-by-investment program fits your goals in 2025. We’ll also use the same criteria when evaluating four European Golden Visa programs in this guide.

• Minimum investment required: This is your starting point. Some programs start as low as €250,000, while others require upwards of €500,000, depending on the investment type (real estate, funds, government bonds, etc.).
• Speed of processing: How fast can you actually get residency? Some countries process applications in a few months, while others may take a year or more.
• Visa-free travel or Schengen access: Almost all EU Golden Visas give you access to the Schengen Zone. But it’s worth confirming what travel rights you and your family actually gain, and how soon.
• Pathway to citizenship: Some programs offer a direct path to EU citizenship within a few years (with or without physical presence requirements). Others are more complex, or offer no citizenship route at all.
• Tax advantages: This is a big one. Some countries offer tax residency perks or special regimes for foreign income. Others have minimal or no tax benefits, especially if you don't move there full-time.
• Real estate ROI or investment flexibility: Can your investment grow? Some programs allow you to invest in high-demand real estate markets or regulated funds with real return potential. Others are more restrictive or tied to fixed government bonds.
• Family inclusion & benefits: Can your spouse, kids, or even parents be included under one application? And do they gain access to the same healthcare, education, and travel rights?

Country-by-Country Overview (2025 Updates)

Golden Visa programs across Europe have evolved significantly. Some are getting stricter, others more competitive. Below, you'll find a concise description of each country's offer in 2025, followed by a breakdown using the seven key criteria from earlier.

🇵🇹 Portugal

Portugal continues to be a top destination for investors seeking European residency through investment. The country boasts a stable and growing economy, with a projected GDP growth of 2.4% in 2025, supported by strong domestic demand and a thriving tourism sector.

Portugal's commitment to safety and quality of life is evident, ranking as the 7th most peaceful country globally according to the 2024 Global Peace Index. These factors, combined with its strategic location and favorable climate, make Portugal an attractive option for residency.

Recently, Portugal has shifted away from residential real estate and now focuses on regulated investment funds, cultural contributions, and R&D. Despite policy shifts, it remains a top choice for those who want long-term EU access and a clear path to citizenship.

Evaluation criteria:

• Minimum investment required: from €250,000 to €500,000 (investment funds, cultural support, etc.)
• Speed of processing: 12–15 months (may vary based on demand and bureaucracy).
• Visa-free travel or Schengen access: Yes, full Schengen access from day one.
• Pathway to citizenship: Yes — after 5 years, minimal stay required,
• Tax advantages: Yes. You won’t become a tax resident unless you spend more than 183 days a year in the country. But even then, Portugal offers a competitive tax system.
• Real estate ROI: N/A, as there are currently real estate restrictions for Golden Visa applicants.
• Family inclusion & benefits: Strong, includes spouse, kids, and dependent parents

🇬🇷 Greece

Greece offers one of the most accessible Golden Visa programs in Europe, making it an attractive option for investors seeking residency through real estate investment. The country's economy is projected to grow by approximately 2.1% in 2025, driven by investment and robust domestic demand. Greece is also considered a safe destination for families.

Evaluation criteria:

• Minimum investment required: €250,000 in most areas; €800,000 in designated high-demand zones like central Athens and Thessaloniki.
• Speed of processing: Typically between 4 to 6 months, making it one of the fastest programs in Europe.
• Visa-free travel or Schengen access: Yes, immediate access to the Schengen Area upon residency approval.
• Pathway to citizenship: Yes, you become eligible for citizenship after 7 years of continuous residence, with physical presence and language proficiency requirements.
• Tax advantages: Limited. While Greece offers some tax incentives for new residents, they are less comprehensive compared to other EU countries.
• Real estate ROI: Potentially strong in tourist-heavy areas.
• Family inclusion & benefits: Yes, the program allows for the inclusion of spouses, children under 21, and dependent parents, providing them with the same residency rights.

🇭🇺 Hungary

Hungary is emerging as a strong contender in Europe’s residency-by-investment space with its newly reintroduced Guest Investor Residence Permit. Known for its rich cultural heritage, low cost of living, and one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU (9%), Hungary offers investors a stable and centrally located base with full access to the Schengen Area.

The country is also safe, family-friendly, and offers an excellent quality of life in cities like Budapest, which is gaining popularity among digital nomads and entrepreneurs.

Evaluation criteria:

• Minimum investment required: €250,000 into a real estate investment fund registered with the National Bank of Hungary. An alternative path requires a €1 million donation to a public education trust.
• Speed of processing: Estimated 4–6 months from visa application to residency approval. A Guest Investor Visa must be obtained first, followed by investment and a residence permit application within 93 days of entry.
• Visa-free travel or Schengen access: Yes, Hungary is part of the Schengen Zone, offering unrestricted travel across 27 European countries.
• Pathway to citizenship: Possible after 8 years of legal residence. Permanent residency is available after 3 years. Cultural integration is required, including a Hungarian language and civics exam starting in 2025.
• Tax advantages: Moderate. Hungary offers a flat 15% personal income tax and a 9% corporate tax, the lowest in the EU.
• Real estate ROI: High potential. Budapest’s real estate market remains undervalued compared to Western Europe, with solid rental yields and appreciation potential.
• Family inclusion & benefits: Strong. Spouses and children under 18 are included. Long-term residency permits are valid for 10 years and renewable with a maintained investment.

🇧🇬 Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a culturally rich, strategically located country in Southeast Europe and a member of the EU since 2007 and NATO since 2004. As of last year, Bulgaria has officially joined the Schengen Area, making it an even more compelling destination for investors seeking EU mobility. 

With a 10% flat income tax, no wealth tax, and a stable political environment, Bulgaria’s Investor Program for Permanent Residence offers a rare combination of speed, value, and long-term security in the European Union.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Minimum investment required: €520,000 in a licensed investment fund (regulated by the Bulgarian Financial Supervision Commission), held for 5 years. No donation required.
• Speed of processing: 6 to 9 months to receive permanent residence, which is faster than many competing EU programs.
• Visa-free travel or Schengen access: Yes, permanent residents can travel freely throughout the Schengen Zone.
• Pathway to citizenship: Possible after 5 years of permanent residency.
• Tax advantages: Yes, Bulgaria has the EU’s lowest personal and corporate income tax (10%). No inheritance or wealth tax.
• Real estate ROI: Not applicable for the program itself, as investment is fund-based. However, the Bulgarian property market (especially in Sofia and coastal areas) offers potential for independent real estate investments.
• Family inclusion & benefits: Strong. The program includes spouse, dependent children, and even financially dependent parents. PR status is lifelong and can be passed to future generations. Full access to healthcare, education, and EU benefits.

At-a-Glance Comparison Table

Best Value in 2025: Which European Residency-by-Investment Program Wins?

With so many strong options on the table, the real question isn’t which country is best, but which country is best for you.

Here’s how things shape up in 2025 based on different investor priorities:

Best for Speed and Simplicity: Greece

If your top priority is a quick approval process and low-cost entry, Greece remains unmatched. The real estate threshold is still just €250,000 in many regions, and there’s no requirement to live in the country. It’s ideal for lifestyle investors who want European access without uprooting their lives.

Best for Citizenship Without Relocation: Portugal

Portugal offers the clearest long-term value for investors interested in a future EU passport, without needing to move there. After 5 years and just minimal physical presence, you can apply for citizenship. The investment fund route makes this attractive for those who don’t want to manage property.

Best for Tax Optimization: Bulgaria

For investors focused on permanent residency rather than citizenship, Bulgaria offers a streamlined path with a fast timeline, no relocation, and strong tax benefits. A 10% flat tax, no wealth tax, and full PR in under a year make this a quiet frontrunner for those prioritizing long-term security and EU access.

Best Emerging Program: Hungary

Hungary’s Guest Investor Visa is gaining traction in 2025. With a €250K fund option and expected flexibility, it’s shaping up as a solid Central European hub. However, since the program is still new, it may take time to gain the same predictability and investor trust as more established options.

Ultimately, the “best value” depends on your personal priorities: cost, speed, lifestyle, tax planning, or legacy. Each country brings something different to the table.

Ready to make your European dreams come true?

In 2025, Europe continues to offer a range of residency-by-investment programs, each with its own balance of cost, benefits, and long-term potential.

Whichever path you choose, the key is aligning your investment with your long-term goals—whether that’s mobility, legacy planning, tax efficiency, or simply peace of mind.

At High Net Worth Immigration, we help high-net-worth individuals and families design second residency strategies tailored to their personal and financial goals. If you're considering a Golden Visa in 2025, we are here to simplify the process and help you invest with clarity and confidence.

Schedule your free consultation today!