Residence by investment - golden visas

Residence by investment: you invest in property, funds, a business or government bonds and gain the right to live in the country. Presence requirements are usually minimal, so many hold the status as a backup.

Partly. Spain closed its programme, Portugal removed property from the options and Greece raised thresholds. Active programmes remain, but terms tighten almost every year.

From 250,000 euro in some programmes to several million in Switzerland and the UK. On top come state fees, purchase taxes and legal costs.

Usually yes, after a minimum holding period: property is sold, fund units redeemed. Selling early or before permanent residence is granted can cost you the status.

Not directly. It is residence that can lead to permanent residence and naturalisation if you meet residence and language requirements. Programmes promising an EU passport outright are closed.

Only if you become tax resident there. The status alone does not create residency, but buying property triggers local ownership and rental income taxes.