GOLDEN VISA

GS3 – INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 

A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants individuals and their families the right to reside in a foreign country in exchange for a substantial investment in that nation’s economy. Typically, this involves investments in real estate, government bonds, or other approved assets.

Key Features of Golden Visa Programs:

• Residency and Citizenship: Golden Visas provide a pathway to residency, and in some cases, citizenship, allowing holders to live, work, study, and access healthcare in the host country.
• Investment Requirements: Applicants must meet minimum investment thresholds, which vary by country and may include real estate purchases, business investments, or contributions to national development funds.
• Family Inclusion: These programs often extend benefits to immediate family members, including spouses and dependent children.
• Travel Benefits: Residency can offer visa-free or simplified travel within certain regions, such as the Schengen Area in Europe.

Popular Golden Visa Destinations:

• Portugal: Offers residency through various investment options, including real estate and capital transfers, with the possibility of citizenship after five years.
• Greece: Provides residency for real estate investments, granting access to the Schengen Area.
• United States: The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program grants U.S. residency for substantial investments that create jobs.

Considerations:

While Golden Visa programs offer benefits like residency rights and potential tax advantages, they have faced criticism for potentially inflating real estate markets and raising concerns about money laundering and security. Some countries have reformed or discontinued these programs in response to such issues.

Prospective applicants should conduct thorough research and seek professional advice to understand the specific requirements, benefits, and implications of each program.