Golden Visas: The Ultimate Insurance Policy for the Wealthy in 2025

In 2025, “golden” visas have seen unprecedented popularity among America’s wealthiest citizens. As Mo Bennis, associate vice president at global financial advisory firm Arton Capital, explains, these special residency programs have become “the ultimate insurance policy against uncertainty.” Many high-net-worth individuals are seeking secondary residency options that provide stability, tax advantages, and global mobility. This trend reflects growing concerns about political and economic volatility, with wealthy Americans increasingly viewing these programs as essential backup plans rather than luxury purchases. The appeal lies in their ability to provide immediate benefits while serving as long-term security for families. While critics argue these programs favor the wealthy, proponents point to the significant investments these individuals bring to host countries. Here’s a look at the five most popular golden visa destinations in 2025, each offering unique advantages for those with the means to invest.

Portugal continues to set the standard for golden visa programs despite lengthening processing times. Its LXL Ventures Fund offers non-EU nationals a five-year residence-by-investment program that permits holders to live, work, and study in Portugal while enjoying visa-free travel across the Schengen Area. “Portugal remains one of the most effortless ways to secure EU residency,” Bennis notes, “particularly through fund-based options with minimal physical presence requirements.” The program requires visa holders to spend just seven days per year in Portugal on average, making it particularly attractive for those who want European residency without relocating permanently. The appeal of Portugal’s program is evident in the statistics: Lisbon-based Vida Capital reported a staggering 571% increase in traffic from U.S. citizens during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Investors are drawn to Portugal’s stable economy, high quality of life, and the long-term pathway to citizenship that outweighs any temporary hurdles in the application process.

Greece has emerged as 2025’s breakout star in the golden visa landscape, offering what many consider the perfect combination of “clarity, speed, and lifestyle in one package,” according to Bennis. The country implements a two-tier investment system: approximately $600,000 for real estate in high-demand areas like Athens, or about $300,000 for properties in most other regions. This lower entry threshold compared to some other European programs has made Greece particularly attractive to investors seeking value without compromising on benefits. Processing times for Greek golden visas have become notably faster than competing programs, addressing a pain point that often frustrates wealthy applicants. Like Portugal, Greek golden visa holders enjoy visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area, accessing 27 European countries without border controls. The Mediterranean lifestyle, combined with Greece’s rich cultural heritage and improving economy, has positioned it as a compelling option for Americans seeking European residency through investment in 2025.

The United Arab Emirates has established itself as the leading non-European alternative for wealthy investors seeking residency benefits. “Many high-net-worth individuals are prioritizing long-term residency, tax efficiency, and stability over passports, and the UAE golden visa delivers all three with exceptional speed,” Bennis observes. Perhaps the most compelling advantage is the UAE’s 0% income tax policy for both corporations and employees, creating a powerful financial incentive for wealthy Americans concerned about tax obligations. To qualify for the UAE’s ten-year golden visa as an investor, applicants must make a substantial financial commitment of at least $545,000 in a UAE fund or business, or hold an equivalent ownership share in a company. Beyond tax advantages, the UAE offers political stability, world-class infrastructure, and exceptional global connectivity. The country’s passport has climbed in global rankings, with Arton Capital’s Passport Index rating the UAE as providing the most stable freedom of mobility among all nations in 2025, adding another layer of appeal for international investors seeking a strategic second residency.

Malta continues to draw wealthy families looking for premium European Union residency with robust legal protections. “One of its strongest advantages is the flexibility to include adult children as dependents, which is increasingly important for multi-generational planning,” says Bennis. This feature has made Malta particularly attractive for American families seeking to secure long-term options for their entire family unit. The Maltese program requires participants to either purchase property valued at minimum €410,000 (approximately $410,000) or rent a property for at least €14,000 (about $14,000) annually. Property investments must be maintained for a minimum of five years, and applicants must make direct government contributions—approximately $68,000 for those renting or $33,000 for property purchasers. Malta’s appeal extends beyond its residency benefits to include its Mediterranean climate, English-speaking population, excellent healthcare system, and strong educational institutions. The country’s EU membership provides golden visa holders with access to the European single market, making it an attractive destination for business-oriented investors seeking to expand their operations into Europe while securing residency rights for their families.

Looking toward the future, Botswana has emerged as a surprising contender in the golden visa landscape, signaling Africa’s rising prominence as a strategic destination for wealthy investors. Although the Botswana government hasn’t published a fixed minimum investment amount, interested parties must demonstrate genuine business investment in the country. “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 reveals. This surge in interest reflects Botswana’s growing appeal as a stable investment destination in Africa. Investors are attracted by the country’s political stability, strong governance record, transparent business environment, and the opportunity to participate early in what industry experts consider a credible, well-structured program. Botswana’s emergence highlights a broader trend of wealthy investors looking beyond traditional European and Middle Eastern markets to diversify their residency portfolios. The country’s strong economic fundamentals, natural resource wealth, and strategic location make it an increasingly attractive option for forward-thinking investors seeking early access to emerging opportunities in Africa while securing additional residency rights.