EU Golden Visas Outshine U.S. $5 Million Residency Scheme – Expert Insights by Yusuf Boz

As the United States moves forward with its ambitious “Gold Card” residency plan—offering foreign investors U.S. residency in exchange for a $5 million contribution—immigration and investment experts are weighing in on its competitiveness. According to Yusuf Boz, international investment consultant and founder of NotteGlobal, the proposal may be bold in theory, but EU Golden Visas continue to lead the global market in both appeal and practicality.

“Europe offers a complete lifestyle package,” says Boz. “For a fraction of the U.S. price, you can live in a Schengen country, access healthcare and education, and move freely across 27 nations. The $5 million price tag in the U.S. simply doesn’t offer comparable flexibility or cultural integration.”

Why EU Golden Visas Remain the Smarter Choice

Countries such as Greece, Portugal, and Latvia are currently offering golden visa routes with minimum investment levels starting from as low as €250,000—making them far more accessible than the U.S. proposal. These programs allow investors and their families to obtain residency rights, and eventually citizenship, in a stable, secure, and culturally rich environment.

Unlike the U.S. plan, which has not yet provided full legal clarity or application procedures, EU programs are time-tested and highly structured.

“My clients are seeking reliability,” adds Boz. “The EU Golden Visa programs are predictable, well-regulated, and they come with strong legal backing. Investors know what they’re getting—and that’s essential when making a six- or seven-figure investment.”

The Schengen Advantage

One of the standout benefits of EU Golden Visas is visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, which includes many of Europe’s top business, education, and lifestyle destinations. For global entrepreneurs and families, this access represents a powerful opportunity to live, study, and work in various European nations with minimal bureaucracy.

Meanwhile, the proposed U.S. Gold Card, while potentially offering a path to green card status, is geographically limited to the United States and lacks the broader mobility perks available in Europe.

Value Beyond Capital

In Boz’s view, one of the most underestimated strengths of the European programs is cultural and generational value.

“When families invest in Portugal or Greece, they’re investing in their children’s future. They’re buying access to international education, EU universities, and long-term residence rights. It’s not just about real estate or tax advantages—it’s about legacy.”

In contrast, he argues, the American plan is still perceived as transactional, and lacking the emotional or cultural appeal that drives many high-net-worth individuals toward Europe.

What Investors Should Watch For in 2025

With global mobility and asset protection remaining top priorities for wealthy families and business owners, Yusuf Boz believes we’ll see continued demand for flexible, lower-cost, and Europe-based programs—particularly as EU countries like Greece adapt their offerings and streamline application procedures.

He also cautions that the U.S. will need to provide clarity on legal protections, tax implications, and procedural transparency before it can become a serious competitor.

“If the U.S. wants to compete with Europe,” Boz concludes, “it needs more than a flashy price tag. It needs to deliver security, simplicity, and a lifestyle worth relocating for.”

While the U.S. Gold Card is an intriguing new concept, especially for those seeking to enter the American market, the high cost and lack of program details leave many questions unanswered. Meanwhile, EU Golden Visas continue to prove their worth with well-established frameworks, family-friendly policies, and real lifestyle benefits.

For now, as investment advisors like Yusuf Boz continue guiding global investors, Europe remains the smart choice for residency-by-investment.