What Is a Golden Visa and Why It’s Gaining Global Attention in 2025?

As borders tighten and immigration policies grow stricter, one pathway continues to gain traction among high-net-worth individuals: the golden visa. In 2025, the global landscape for residency-by-investment has seen significant shifts, with both established programs evolving and new ones entering the scene—offering wealthy individuals a chance to secure not just a home, but a new life abroad.

What Is a Golden Visa?

A golden visa is a government-issued residency permit granted to foreign nationals who make significant financial investments in the host country. These investments typically take the form of real estate purchases, capital injections, government bonds, or job creation initiatives. Unlike traditional immigration routes, golden visas are fast-tracked and are designed to attract affluent investors who bring economic benefits to the country.

The allure of a golden visa lies not just in the legal right to live in a foreign country, but also in its benefits—like visa-free travel, access to healthcare and education, tax incentives, and in many cases, a pathway to citizenship.

Where Can You Still Get a Golden Visa in 2025?

Despite recent policy changes and increased scrutiny in some regions, several countries continue to offer attractive golden visa options:

• Portugal: Though real estate has been excluded, fund-based options are still thriving, especially those supporting culture and innovation.

• Greece: Still welcoming investors with rising interest, especially after Spain’s program was shut down.

• United Arab Emirates: Known for its 10-year golden residency, recently expanded to include digital creators and entrepreneurs.

• New Zealand: Its revamped program is attracting U.S. and EU investors looking for political and economic stability.

• Caribbean Nations (St. Kitts, Antigua, Grenada): Continue offering fast-track citizenship with minimal residency requirements.

• United States: The traditional EB-5 investor visa remains active, and former President Trump has proposed a new “$5 million gold card” for ultra-wealthy foreigners.

Trump’s “Gold Card” – The U.S. Version of a Golden Visa?

One of the most headline-grabbing updates this year came from former President Donald Trump, who announced a proposed $5 million “gold card”. This initiative, if passed, would grant foreign nationals the right to live and work in the U.S., with a clear path to citizenship. The goal? Raise funds for national debt reduction while boosting foreign investment.

While details remain limited, the plan would rival existing options like the EB-5 visa, appealing primarily to billionaires and ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking U.S. access.

Why Are Golden Visas So Popular in 2025?

The demand for golden visas is driven by:

• Geopolitical Instability: Investors seek safer environments amid conflict, inflation, and unpredictable governments.

• Tax Benefits: Countries like Portugal and UAE offer favorable regimes for retirees and entrepreneurs.

• Freedom of Movement: Golden visa holders often gain access to Schengen countries or regions with high travel mobility.

• Plan B Security: Economic elites use second residencies as insurance for future crises—political, financial, or environmental.

Who Typically Applies for Golden Visas?

According to international trends, golden visa applicants often come from:

• China and Russia: Driven by domestic restrictions and limited mobility.

• Middle Eastern countries: Seeking political neutrality and better education for children.

• United States and Europe: Wealthy individuals diversifying their assets and expanding global reach.

Interestingly, even investors from traditionally “safe” countries are increasingly applying for golden visas, signaling a global shift in wealth mobility strategy.

Potential Downsides and Criticisms

Golden visa programs are not without controversy. Critics argue they inflate property markets, contribute to inequality, and allow foreign money to influence local economies. As a result, some countries—like Spain, which officially ended its program in April 2025—are withdrawing or reforming their schemes.

Nonetheless, the global appetite for residency-by-investment has not declined. In fact, experts suggest a shift toward more transparent, fund-based, or philanthropic visa models is underway.

Should You Consider a Golden Visa?

If you’re a global investor, entrepreneur, or someone looking for better international mobility and lifestyle, a golden visa may offer both peace of mind and a profitable future. With evolving options and increasing competition between host countries, 2025 presents a unique moment to act.

As always, consult with legal professionals or migration advisors before committing to any program—rules change fast, and the stakes are high.