Golden Visa programs in Europe provide an opportunity for non-EU citizens to gain residency by investment. EU golden visas for Americans offer significant advantages, from travel flexibility to potential tax benefits.
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, explores the most attractive EU Golden Visa programs for Americans, such as Golden Visa in Italy, and explains how they can secure European residency through investment.
What Are the EU Golden Visa Programs?
Golden Visa programs offer EU residency by investment for Americans and other nations. These programs are designed to attract foreign investors by offering them and their families the chance to reside in EU countries if they want.
To qualify for the golden visas US citizens can invest in different fields:
- real estate;
- government bonds;
- fund units;
- business ventures.
In addition to residency, Golden Visa holders in general gain the right to travel freely within the Schengen Area.
Many EU countries offer Golden Visas, but the most popular ones for American investors include Italy, Hungary, Portugal, Greece, and Cyprus. Each program has its own investment requirements, benefits, and application procedures, making it essential to understand which one suits your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.
Cyprus permanent residence permit is also available under the Golden Visa program and offers lifetime status without obligations to renew it.
Italy
Italy Golden Visa provides multiple investment options. US citizens can qualify for residency by investing in various sectors, including government bonds, shares in Italian companies, or philanthropic donations.
The minimum investment varies depending on the chosen option, with amounts starting from €250,000 for investments in innovative startups.
Italy offers an attractive mix of business opportunities, cultural experiences, and access to the European market. US investors can include their family members in the visa application, and after ten years of continuous residency, applicants may be eligible for Italian citizenship.
Hungary
Hungary Golden Visa offers affordability and access to the EU. Hungary has developed a residency-by-investment program that allows US citizens to gain residency by purchase of real estate fund units for at least $250,000.
Real estate purchases will be available in 2025 with minimum investment requirements of €500,000.
The entry point for this program is relatively affordable, making it appealing to investors who want EU residency without the high costs associated with other countries.
In addition to the lower cost of living, Hungary offers a strategic location in Central Europe. Its proximity to major European markets, combined with easy access to the Schengen Area, makes Hungary an excellent choice for US investors looking for business opportunities and a high quality of life.
Portugal
Portugal Golden Visa is a favourite among US investors. Portugal offers one of the most flexible and accessible Golden Visa programs in Europe, with investments starting at €250,000 for culture support.
Other investment options include fund units purchase, business and research projects, making this visa program highly adaptable to different investor profiles.
Portugal’s appeal lies in its blend of affordability, tax incentives, and fast track to citizenship. After five years of residency, Golden Visa holders may apply for Portuguese citizenship, which is the quickest pathway to EU citizenship.
Greece
Greece Golden Visa is one of the most cost-effective options. Greece’s Golden Visa program has one of the lowest entry points, with real estate investments starting at just €250,000. This makes it a popular choice for US investors seeking fast and affordable access to Europe.
In addition to the low investment threshold, Greece offers an excellent climate and easy access to other EU countries. Another advantage is that there is no minimum stay requirement, meaning you don’t need to live in Greece to maintain your residency status, which can be especially appealing for Americans who plan to split their time between continents.
Cyprus
Cyprus Golden Visa offers permanent residency in the country. It requires a real estate investment of at least €300,000. Cyprus is known for its favourable tax system for US investors seeking to optimise their tax strategies while enjoying Mediterranean living.
Cyprus offers a combination of tax advantages, low cost of living, and access to EU markets. It also has a strong financial sector and excellent transport links to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
How to Apply for EU Residency by Investment for Americans
Applying for EU residency by investment involves several steps. While each country’s process may vary slightly, the general outline is consistent across most Golden Visa programs.
- Choose the right program.Based on your financial situation and lifestyle preferences, select the country that best aligns with your goals.
- Prepare the necessary documents. You will need to provide proof of investment, valid identification, financial statements, and potentially health insurance documentation.
- Submit your application.Work with a legal advisor or an authorised agent in the country of your choice to ensure that your application is completed correctly and submitted on time.
- Receive your residency permit.Once approved, you will receive your residency permit, allowing you to live in the chosen EU country and travel throughout the Schengen Area.
Conclusion
EU Golden Visas US citizens are the great choice for those who seek opportunities in Europe. Golden Visa programs offer a clear path to residency and, eventually, citizenship. Countries like Italy, Hungary, Portugal, Greece, and Cyprus provide a range of options to suit different investment profiles. By understanding the requirements and following the application steps, US citizens can enjoy the benefits of EU residency.
