The World’s Most In-Demand Golden Visas for Global Investors

Golden visas—residency-by-investment programs—are now among the most coveted tools for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), and global investors seeking mobility, diversification, and lifestyle advantages. According to a recent CEOWORLD magazine survey in partnership with the Chief Economists magazine, UGGP News, and the CEO Policy Institute, the most in-demand European programs are from Greece, Italy, and Portugal, while globally, the UAE, Singapore, and the U.S. Residency by Investment program also top the list.

Prof. Dr. Amarendra Bhushan Dhiraj, CEO and Editorial Director of CEOWORLD magazine, notes that these programs are especially attractive to wealthy Americans diversifying their portfolios and securing alternative residency options amid economic and political uncertainty.

The Top 5 Golden Visas Worldwide

1. United Arab Emirates (UAE) – A global hub for business, tax efficiency, and lifestyle.
2. Greece – Offering EU residency with competitive investment requirements.
3. Italy – Known for its investor visa and flexible options across bonds, shares, and start-ups.
4. Singapore – Asia’s financial capital with a highly coveted residency pathway.
5. U.S. Residency by Investment (EB-5 Program) – Still a strong draw for foreign investors.

Why Golden Visas Are in Demand

Golden visas provide a fast-track residency option for foreign nationals who invest capital into a host country—typically through real estate, private equity funds, government bonds, or start-ups. In return, investors gain residency rights, access to local healthcare and education, and, in many cases, visa-free travel across major global regions like the European Union’s Schengen zone.

The growing demand is driven by:

1. Geopolitical instability, pushing investors to secure second residency as insurance.
2. Tax optimization opportunities in favorable jurisdictions.
3. Global mobility, providing seamless travel across regions.
4. Diversification, allowing access to new markets and currencies.

Greece Golden Visa Program

The Greece Golden Visa Program has rapidly become one of Europe’s most sought-after options. However, the government recently adjusted the program to address a housing crisis caused by foreign investment demand.

New Key Features:

• Higher Thresholds: In certain areas, the minimum investment requirement has been raised to €800,000.
• Start-up Investment Option: Foreign investors can now qualify with a €250,000 investment in Greek start-ups, aligning the program with the country’s push for innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Five-Year Residency: Investors gain a renewable five-year residence permit, granting EU mobility rights.

For HNWIs seeking access to Europe, Greece offers a balance of affordability, Mediterranean lifestyle, and long-term value.

Italy Golden Visa Program

Italy’s Investor Visa Program—often called the Italy Golden Visa—is renowned for its flexible investment structures and cultural appeal.

Investment Options Include:

• €2 million in Italian government bonds.
• €500,000 in corporate bonds or company shares.
• €250,000 in innovative start-ups, one of the lowest thresholds in Europe for entrepreneurial investors.

For wealthy Americans and global investors, Italy’s program offers not only residency but also access to a world-class lifestyle, a strong business ecosystem, and eligibility for EU travel rights.

Portugal’s Golden Visa Program

Though not expanded in detail in the survey excerpt, Portugal continues to be a favorite among American investors. Its program guarantees a five-year residency in exchange for investments ranging from €250,000 in cultural projects to €500,000 in private equity or venture capital funds.

With minimal stay requirements—just seven days per year in the first two years—Portugal has positioned itself as one of the most flexible and accessible golden visas globally. Recent regulatory adjustments have shifted investor interest away from real estate toward fund-based investments, increasing appeal for sophisticated U.S. investors.

Global Heavyweights: UAE, Singapore, and the U.S.

• United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE’s Golden Visa program offers up to 10 years of residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals. Combined with zero income tax, world-class infrastructure, and a business-friendly ecosystem, it remains the world’s top golden visa.
• Singapore: As Asia’s financial hub, Singapore attracts global capital with stability, strong governance, and connectivity. Its residency program is highly selective, reflecting the city-state’s premium brand.
• United States (EB-5 Program): Despite regulatory changes and long processing times, the EB-5 visa remains a leading option for wealthy foreign nationals seeking residency in the U.S., particularly due to its path to permanent residency and eventual citizenship.

Strategic Takeaways for Global Leaders

• Diversification of Residency: Wealthy individuals increasingly treat residency as part of portfolio strategy.
• Shift from Real Estate to Funds: Greece and Portugal show a clear pivot toward start-up and private equity pathways.
• American Surge Abroad: U.S. citizens now lead demand in Europe, reflecting both economic hedging and lifestyle migration.
• Policy Volatility: Governments are tightening rules to address housing pressures and public sentiment—investors must act quickly to secure favorable terms.
• Geopolitical Insurance: For HNWIs, golden visas are less about relocation and more about optionality in uncertain times.

Golden Visas as Strategic Assets

Golden visas are no longer niche products. They have become mainstream strategic assets for the world’s elite. Whether through Greece’s start-up pathway, Italy’s bond and equity options, Portugal’s fund structures, or the UAE’s tax-free advantages, these programs now serve as essential tools for mobility, wealth preservation, and risk management.

For CEOs, investors, and policymakers, the message is clear: the demand for golden visas reflects a new era of global wealth migration. Residency is no longer just about where one lives—it’s about where one hedges, invests, and secures the future.

Have you read?
Global Financial Centres Index.
World’s Richest People (Billionaires).
World’s Richest Royals. Richest Countries.